Chapter 482

Evelyn's hands trembled as she pressed closer to Rosalind for support.

The sudden movement made Victoria narrow her eyes suspiciously. Without warning, Victoria reached forward to touch Evelyn's abdomen.

Evelyn gasped and twisted away instinctively.

Rosalind reacted immediately, stepping between them with protective fury. "Have you lost your mind?" she snapped, shoving Victoria back with surprising strength.

But Victoria kept advancing, her voice rising hysterically. "Is she carrying a child or not? Tell me the truth!"

The cafeteria fell silent as all eyes turned toward the confrontation. Victoria didn't care about the audience - she needed answers. Ever since Benjamin had helped Evelyn get Liam drunk that night, the suspicion had gnawed at her.

Rosalind pushed Victoria back with both hands, sending her stumbling. Victoria's glare remained locked on Evelyn's midsection, her jaw clenched tight.

Though Evelyn's oversized coat concealed her figure, Victoria noticed how carefully she moved - the cautious steps, the protective hand gestures. Just like an expecting mother.

Whispers spread through the gathered employees. Several women who'd experienced pregnancy themselves began studying Evelyn with knowing looks.

Rosalind's face flushed with anger. She pointed an accusing finger at Victoria. "You're completely deranged! What business is it of yours?"

Evelyn tugged gently at Rosalind's sleeve, silently pleading for de-escalation.

Understanding the unspoken request, Rosalind took Evelyn's hand firmly. "Let's get you back to your room. I'll bring your meal later," she said loudly for the crowd to hear.

Evelyn nodded meekly as they made their exit, leaving behind a storm of murmurs and speculative glances.

Victoria's fists shook at her sides. The hushed comments from nearby women only fueled her suspicions:

"That's definitely a pregnancy walk. Probably four months along at least."

"But you can't see a bump..."

"Some women barely show, especially slender ones. That coat could hide anything."

"And she's unmarried, isn't she? I wonder who the father is..."

As the executive meeting concluded upstairs, Liam remained slumped in his chair, eyes closed against his exhaustion.

Ryan stood quietly nearby, organizing documents while allowing his boss a moment's rest.

The door burst open as Victoria rushed in, breathless. "You're still here!" she gasped.

Liam rubbed his temples as he opened bloodshot eyes. "What is it?"

Victoria's words came in a frantic rush. "Cassandra can't be more than four months pregnant. That child isn't yours, is it?"

The color drained from Liam's face. Victoria pulled up a photo on her phone - a clear image of a six-month pregnancy belly. "See? This is what six months looks like. You've been so troubled lately... is it because the baby isn't yours?"

Ryan's jaw dropped. "Ms. Wright is pregnant?"

Victoria ignored him, her intense gaze fixed on Liam, waiting for his reaction.

Liam sat frozen, his expression unreadable but his knuckles white where they gripped the armrests. The silence stretched unbearably long.