Chapter 296

"Olivia didn't admit anything—"

Dominic Harrington continued, "I simply believe, knowing your character, you wouldn't stoop to such actions. First, you lack motive. Second, it's beneath you."

Vivian Lockhart scoffed. "Exactly. No motive and beneath me. Even you can see that, yet Nathaniel Blackwood remains blind."

"Nathaniel's naive. He doesn't grasp the complexities of human nature."

"Like a complete fool."

Their shared laughter spoke volumes without words.

Nathan Prescott lay immobilized on the hospital bed, one leg suspended in sterile traction. Agitation radiated from him like heat waves.

When Dominic and Vivian entered, his eyes lit up like a castaway spotting land. "Finally! Get me out of this prison. I can't take another minute."

Dominic frowned. "You fractured your femur. Calm down."

"Impossible!"

Nathan slammed his fist against the mattress. "Strangers feed me, bathe me, even help me piss. And when I tried gaming? The nurse confiscated my controller. This isn't living!"

"I'm leaving. No negotiations."

"But—"

Dominic hesitated. He knew Nathan's stubbornness firsthand. Once decided, no force could sway him.

"Don't you dare move!"

Vivian's command sliced through the tension.

The rebellious patient froze mid-gesture, blinking at her like a chastened child.

She filled a water glass with deliberate movements. "You're a grown man. If independence matters, I'll assist you."

The glass touched his lips as she ordered, "Drink. You're dehydrated."

Nathan's expression twisted with conflict. The room held its breath.

Dominic wiped his brow. These two were combustible together. Any spark could ignite warfare.

Then—miraculously—Nathan bent forward and sipped. "Thanks. I... needed that."

Vivian gazed down like royalty. "More theatrics?"

"No."

"Still leaving?"

"No."

"Good."

She nodded to the hovering nurse. "Proceed with his anti-inflammatory injection."

The same man who'd raged against treatment moments ago now submitted silently. Dominic gaped.

"How?" he whispered. "He obeys only his father. What sorcery is this?"

Vivian flicked her hair. "Charisma, darling."

Post-injection, she turned to Nathan. "Rest now. No arguments."