Chapter 426

Before the physician could reply, a junior nurse nearby interjected with the answer to Isabella's inquiry.

"The patient in Suite 1003 is an elderly woman. She collapsed yesterday from hypertension. Diagnostic tests revealed no critical conditions."

"She could've been released immediately, but her relatives insisted on a 48-hour observation period."

"Quite particular too - refused standard accommodations and demanded VIP quarters. Her family was rather... persistent."

"Our premium suites have been at capacity recently, but they leveraged some influential connections."

"After a few phone calls from someone important, they simply commandeered a reserved room..."

The nurse continued her animated explanation until the attending physician discreetly cleared his throat, casting a cautious glance down the corridor.

The young nurse immediately fell silent.

So they'd be vacating tomorrow?

This news brought Isabella some relief. At least the chances of Evelyn encountering any Kensingtons or their associates would decrease.

Yet...

Her deeper concern remained that certain individuals might deliberately seek to agitate her mother.

Frowning, Isabella turned back to the medical staff. "My mother's psychological state remains fragile - she can't withstand emotional disturbances."

"Please monitor all visitors to her suite meticulously. Beyond authorized medical personnel and immediate family, no unauthorized persons are permitted entry."

"Additionally, should anyone inquire about her condition, I must be notified immediately."

The physician nodded. "Understood, Ms. Sinclair. You have our assurance."

Despite professional reassurances, Isabella's tension didn't dissipate.

Just as she'd been investigating the Kensingtons, they were undoubtedly doing the same regarding her family's situation.

The worst possibility? They already knew precisely why she and Margaret were here.

Diana Kensington had been hospitalized.

Nathaniel had prior commitments, so after a brief visit, he departed.

Exactly as Isabella predicted, once Nathaniel left, Penelope immediately informed Diana about spotting Isabella and Margaret in the hallway earlier.

Both women deduced the patient must be Evelyn. But regarding the exact nature of Evelyn's condition...

To confirm, Penelope specifically questioned Diana's nurse. "We noticed Dr. Whitmore earlier. For someone of her caliber to be consulted, the patient must be quite significant. Might you know the diagnosis?"

"Multiple organ failure. Quite severe," the nurse replied.

Penelope and Diana exchanged knowing smiles.

To their understanding, multiple organ failure rarely ended favorably. In other words, Evelyn might be...

Still, Penelope pressed further. "The family looked familiar. Would the surname be Sinclair? The patient - Evelyn perhaps?"

"Indeed. You're acquainted?"

Penelope's lips curved. "Oh yes, quite intimately. We go way back." She added casually, "With multiple organ failure, I imagine time is rather limited?"

"Normally, yes. But they've considerable resources and connections. They secured Dr. Whitmore - she works miracles. The prognosis has improved significantly."

The smiles on both women's faces dimmed slightly.

After the nurse exited, Penelope sneered, "They're getting away far too easily."

She muttered under her breath, "That little gold-digger certainly profited from latching onto Nathaniel."

Had Isabella not ensnared Nathaniel, Evelyn might have already...

Eleanor remained silent, but her brow gradually furrowed in contemplation.