Chapter 113
Evelyn returned to the hospital that day. Not for her own injuries, but to visit Eleanor Kingsley.
The festive spirit of the approaching new year had even permeated the sterile hospital corridors. Twinkling lights adorned the nurses' station, casting a warm glow.
Pulling her scarf higher over her face, Evelyn paused at the florist stand by the entrance. Her fingers hovered over various blooms before selecting delicate pink carnations.
From her purse, she produced a small notecard. With careful strokes, she wrote: "To Mrs. Eleanor Kingsley - Wishing you swift healing and good health." She tucked it securely among the petals.
At the reception desk, Evelyn inquired about Eleanor's room number. The VIP wing, of course.
Yet when she stood before the ornate door, her hand froze mid-air.
No one would welcome her here. This visit would only bring more pain.
Still, some invisible force compelled her to see Eleanor with her own eyes.
Laughter spilled from the room as she hesitated.
"Eleanor, look how our darling girl dotes on you," William Montgomery's proud voice carried through the door. "Her blood saved your life."
Evelyn stiffened. Daughter?
Victoria's saccharine voice chimed in. "Mother Margaret always says I have a giving heart. I donate regularly at the blood bank. When my real mother needed me, how could I hesitate?"
The pieces clicked into place. Of course Victoria had claimed credit for the blood donation.
"What a blessing you are, my dear," Eleanor cooed.
Evelyn's grip tightened around the flowers. A sharp ache pierced her chest, her vision blurring with unshed tears.
"Mother, I'd give my last breath for you," Victoria simpered. "Shall we take some air in the garden?"
"Perfect, darling."
Hearing movement inside, Evelyn spun away. Through her peripheral vision, she caught sight of Victoria pushing Eleanor's wheelchair. The sight burned her eyes.
Once the hallway cleared, Evelyn slipped inside. She placed the bouquet on the bedside table and turned to leave.
Fate had other plans.
Victoria wheeled Eleanor back in unexpectedly. "Evelyn?" Victoria's voice dripped false concern. "Why are you sneaking around Mother's room in disguise?"
She positioned herself protectively before Eleanor. "If you have issues with me, take them up directly. Leave my family out of this."
Evelyn nearly laughed at the theatrics. "I meant no harm. Just wanted to check on Mrs. Kingsley's recovery."
"Evelyn Sinclair, spare us your false concern!" Eleanor spat. "Whether I live or die is none of your business!"
The words lanced through Evelyn's heart, though Eleanor's strong voice at least confirmed her improving health.
As Evelyn turned to leave, Eleanor surged forward in sudden fury. She ripped away Evelyn's scarf and struck her bandaged cheek with shocking force.
"You venomous creature!" Eleanor shrieked. "Victoria may not share my blood, but she's my true daughter in every way that matters! Come at me if you dare scheme again!"
The blow sent Evelyn reeling. Her weakened body collided with the wall, dislodging the gold pendant hidden beneath her sweater. The engraved name "Sophia" glinted in the light as it clattered to the floor—