Chapter 331
Evelyn froze when she spotted Victoria across the hospital corridor.
Why was Victoria still here? Eleanor's surgery had concluded hours ago.
A nagging suspicion crept into Evelyn's mind. Was Victoria's hospital visit genuine concern, or just another calculated performance?
The air between them grew thick with tension.
Julian's pulse quickened at the sight of Victoria. What was she doing here?
If Victoria approached them now, it would undoubtedly trigger a catastrophic scene!
Julian's mind raced for damage control options.
Seeing Evelyn standing so close to Julian, Victoria's jealousy flared like wildfire. How dare that orphan girl cling to Julian!
Bitter regret washed over Victoria. She never should have allowed Evelyn to attend her engagement party.
Without that invitation, Evelyn wouldn't have gotten so many opportunities to worm her way into Julian's life.
Someone of Evelyn's lowly status would never normally cross paths with a Montgomery heir.
Victoria's face darkened with determination. Today, she would expose Evelyn's true colors.
She would make sure Evelyn understood the unbridgeable chasm between their social standings!
As Victoria marched forward in her designer heels, Evelyn's eyes flashed with alarm. She knew any confrontation would force Julian to defend her.
Julian had only recently established his reputation at this hospital. Offending Victoria meant crossing her powerful brother, the renowned surgeon Alexander Montgomery.
Such a scandal could ruin Julian's promising career.
Scenarios played out rapidly in Evelyn's mind. Though she was learning to stand her ground, she couldn't let personal drama jeopardize Julian's future.
In a split-second decision, Evelyn acted.
As Victoria reached them, Evelyn suddenly pulled her into an embrace. "What brings you here? Grandma Eleanor's been moved to ICU."
"The surgery went well. Come, I'll take you to see her." Maintaining the hug, Evelyn steered Victoria toward the elevators.
Victoria stiffened in shock, completely thrown by Evelyn's unexpected move.
The elevator doors slid open. Still holding Victoria, Evelyn guided them both inside.
Only when the doors closed did Evelyn exhale in relief - Julian couldn't follow them now.
Glancing at Victoria still trapped in her arms, Evelyn blinked rapidly.
Their eyes met briefly before both women quickly separated. Evelyn cleared her throat, remaining silent.
Victoria adjusted her dress with sharp, irritated movements. "Evelyn, what was that about? Why did you hug me?"
"I saw the elevator coming and didn't want to miss it," Evelyn replied smoothly, keeping her true motives hidden.
Victoria scoffed derisively. "You're clearly guilty about something. Don't think I don't see through your little act!"
"I was simply helping you visit Eleanor. Don't read too much into it," Evelyn countered.
As the doors opened, Evelyn stepped out quickly.
Victoria's venomous words followed her: "You're afraid of what I'll say to him, aren't you? That's why you dragged me away!"