Chapter 344

Julian Roscente lay motionless on the hospital bed, his breathing shallow, his face an unnatural shade of gray. The doctors were at a loss—they confirmed he'd been poisoned but couldn't identify the antidote.

Isabella Langley sat by the window scrolling through a livestream on her phone. A cold smirk curled her lips as she watched Evelyn Roland being escorted into a police car. This is what happens when you cross me.

"Adrian, how could Evelyn be so cruel? Why would she hurt Julian?" Isabella set her phone aside and approached Adrian Valentine with feigned concern.

Adrian remained silent, his gaze dark and unreadable.

The door swung open abruptly. Gabrielle Flores strode in wearing a white coat, her eyes flashing with disdain when she spotted Adrian and Isabella.

"Out. I need to examine the patient."

Adrian looked up, recognizing Gabrielle—Evelyn's friend and Sophia's mother.

Isabella frowned. "You're not Julian's attending physician." She distinctly remembered a middle-aged male doctor.

Gabrielle arched a brow. "How would you know?"

"I visit Julian every day. Of course I know." Her tone was confident.

Gabrielle nodded thoughtfully. "Then everyone who entered this room yesterday is a suspect."

Before Isabella could react, Gabrielle pulled out her phone and dialed.

"Officer, I'd like to report a crime. Everyone who accessed Julian Roscente's room yesterday is a potential suspect."

Isabella and Adrian froze simultaneously.

Gabrielle continued, "Two people are here now, plus six men from yesterday. Their whereabouts are already tracked. Come quickly—I'll help you apprehend them."

Isabella's face paled.

"Who are you?" Her voice rose sharply, the gentle facade crumbling.

Ignoring her, Gabrielle focused on Julian's condition. Odd—the poisoning symptoms were mild.

"Tsk." She frowned. "Not severe. He'll wake by tomorrow."

Isabella's pupils constricted. Impossible! That poison was lethal upon contact—how could he—

"You're not hospital staff!" she hissed.

Gabrielle tilted her head. "Your brother's fine. Aren't you happy? Why so agitated—guilty conscience?"

Isabella faltered, realizing this seemingly naive woman had a razor-sharp tongue.

"Did Evelyn send you?" she forced out, struggling to maintain composure.

Adrian spoke suddenly. "Dr. Flores, will Julian really be alright?"

"Of course." Gabrielle produced a pill from her bag. "I can wake him right now."

Isabella shot to her feet. If Julian woke, her entire scheme would collapse.

"What are you giving him? If something happens, it's on you!" Her voice trembled.