Chapter 290

"Mrs. Valentine, don't worry. I'm young and strong enough to take care of Adrian. You should go home and rest—your back injury hasn't fully healed yet."

Isabella gently supported Margaret's arm.

Margaret frowned. Her chronic back pain had plagued her for years, and only Evelyn's touch had ever brought relief. But pride kept her from begging that girl for help.

Now she relied on painkillers. As long as she avoided strenuous activity, she could endure it.

The memory of Evelyn's healing hands left a bitter taste in her mouth.

"Fine. You young people should spend time together. Isabella, I'll inform Julian's family about his condition."

Isabella nodded sweetly. "Let me walk you downstairs, Mrs. Valentine."

"Such a thoughtful girl." Margaret patted her hand approvingly. "If only Adrian would marry someone like you."

Adrian's cold voice cut in. "Everyone leave. Victor stays."

"Adrian—"

"You have filming tomorrow. Don't neglect your work." His tone brooked no argument. "Victor knows my routines better."

Victor stepped forward. "Don't worry, Ms. Langley. I'll take care of the CEO."

Isabella was exhausted. Dark circles wouldn't suit her on camera tomorrow.

"Rest well, Adrian. I'll visit after filming."

Adrian gave a noncommittal hum.

Margaret paused at the door. "Remember, Adrian—that Evelyn conspired against our family. Don't you dare soften toward her."

Silence.

Margaret's eyes gleamed with grim satisfaction. She knew exactly how much her son had loved Evelyn.

Now he would taste the same agony she'd endured.

As she left, Isabella discreetly planted a surveillance bug on the doorframe.

Once alone, Adrian spoke. "Call Mr. Roscente."

Victor understood. "Right away."

In the hallway, Victor dialed the Roscente residence.

Adrian lay facedown, memories flooding back—Evelyn tending his wounds, her gentle hands. Even Sebastian Orlando knew her childhood nickname, while her own husband remained ignorant.

"CEO, what really happened?" Victor returned, voice tight. "Why were you both injured?"

Adrian's eyes snapped open. "Someone tried to kill Julian."

Victor inhaled sharply. "Who would dare?"

The Roscente family had suffered heavy losses these past years. Even their shrewd patriarch had stumbled in his twilight years.

A cold smile curled Adrian's lips. "I'd very much like to know who's so eager for his death."