Chapter 186

The doctor's footsteps faded down the corridor. Cassandra pressed a hand against her flat stomach, her lips twisting in disgust. "Pathetic," she hissed. "Even with the Blackwood bloodline, you're defective. Might as well make yourself useful before you die."

The medical report couldn't be clearer. This fetus wouldn't survive birth regardless.

Better to orchestrate a tragic accident than face the humiliation of a stillbirth. At least this way, she could weaponize its demise.

Her nails dug into the hospital gown as a plan crystallized. That sanctimonious Isabella Lockhart had been begging for a confrontation. What if the stress caused a miscarriage?

Nathaniel would destroy the woman who killed his brother's heir.

Cassandra's mouth curved into a satisfied smile. Her fingers traced gentle circles where life flickered weakly. "Do this last favor for Mommy, darling. Make your death count."

A sharp knock interrupted her thoughts. "Cassandra Delacroix? Visitor."

Her pulse jumped. Nathaniel had finally come!

She smoothed her hair with trembling hands, pasting on her most vulnerable expression as the door swung open.

The stranger in the doorway wasn't her lover.

Cassandra's smile died. "Who the hell are you?"

"Evelyn Whitmore." The older woman offered a polite nod. "I serve the Lockhart family."

Isabella's spy. Cassandra's spine stiffened. "Did that bitch send you to gloat?"

"I came alone." Evelyn's gaze dropped meaningfully to Cassandra's abdomen. "To discuss your... situation. Mr. Blackwood and Miss Lockhart belong together. Continuing this charade helps no one."

A servant daring to lecture her? Cassandra nearly laughed. Then inspiration struck.

Her shoulders slumped in feigned defeat. "You think I want this? The man hates me." Her hand fluttered over her stomach. "But this child ties me to him. If only..."

"If only what?" Evelyn leaned forward.

"If only I could end it." Cassandra let tears well up. "Nathaniel has me watched. No clinic will touch me."

The nanny's expression shifted. After a long pause, she murmured, "There might be another way."