Chapter 304

"Grandfather, you're awake!" Victoria rushed forward and clutched Archibald's arm. Forcing tears into her eyes, she exclaimed dramatically, "Grandfather, you've finally woken up! This is wonderful news."

Evelyn and Rosalind remained composed. Archibald gazed affectionately at Evelyn before instructing Victoria, "Help me to the sofa."

Victoria wiped her crocodile tears and assisted him. Evelyn and Rosalind followed silently behind.

Thirty minutes later, Julian burst through the doors. His face paled when he saw Archibald seated comfortably, guilt flashing across his features. Archibald sipped his tea calmly, refusing to even glance at his son.

Margaret arrived shortly after, her hands trembling visibly. Tears streamed down her wrinkled cheeks as she approached. "Archibald! Oh Archibald, you're awake at last. How are you feeling?" she cried. "Thank heavens you've recovered."

When Margaret reached to touch him, Archibald brushed her away impatiently. "Enough. Sit down."

Julian inhaled sharply before taking a seat. "Father," he said with feigned enthusiasm, "we're all so relieved you're awake."

Archibald responded with a noncommittal grunt. Julian's eyes darted between elegant Evelyn and unassuming Rosalind.

Once everyone was settled, Victoria pointed an accusing finger at Evelyn. "Grandfather, you must give me justice! This woman is despicable. Liam promised to marry me, but she somehow manipulated him!"

"She's even using our engagement to blackmail Grandmother into letting her stay here. You must help me!"

Archibald regarded Victoria with barely concealed disdain before turning to Evelyn. "Ms. Carter," he asked gently, "might I inquire why you've taken residence at Wright Manor?"

Evelyn answered calmly, "After divorcing Liam, I was left with nothing. Since Dr. Whitmore is my ex and Ms. Dawson contributed to our separation, I decided to move here."

Archibald feigned surprise. "Ah, so you were involved with Julian."

Victoria exploded. "Left with nothing? That's absurd! Grandmother offered her money and property, but she refused everything just to stay here. She's clearly scheming something!"

"Archibald, you should listen to Victoria. Both women seem highly suspicious," Margaret interjected.

"What possible conspiracy could two women be plotting?" Archibald demanded sternly.

"Have you gone senile? It's obvious! She rejects our generous offers yet insists on staying in our home. She's Victoria's romantic rival, for heaven's sake!" Margaret blurted out.

"How curious." Archibald turned to Evelyn. "Ms. Carter, were you perhaps so heartbroken after your divorce that you wished to reconcile with Julian and make amends?"

Rosalind nearly gasped. Only Archibald could concoct such a theory. Evelyn smiled and nodded. "Mr. Wright, you've discovered my true intentions."

Julian gaped in disbelief.

Margaret shot to her feet. "This is outrageous! I won't allow it!"