Chapter 124

Evelyn Carter followed Alistair Delaney to the hospital's rooftop garden.

The crisp autumn air carried the scent of disinfectant from below. "What's this about, Mr. Delaney? If it's regarding Isabella's unfortunate accident, I believe we have nothing to discuss."

Alistair's piercing gaze studied her before speaking. "My team has reviewed the bar's surveillance footage."

"Interesting how the crucial moment wasn't captured. If Isabella maintains her accusation, how do you plan to disprove it?"

A wry smile touched Evelyn's lips.

"Truth has a way of surfacing. Though I see the Delaney influence still holds weight in certain circles." Her voice carried subtle derision.

Alistair straightened his tie. "The Kingsleys may dominate Frenda. But in Pamore? When the Delaneys want something done..."

He let the implication hang between them. "However, I didn't summon you here for confrontation. I propose a resolution beneficial to both parties."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Do enlighten me, Mr. Delaney."

"One billion dollars. Consider it compensation, and we'll drop all charges."

The audacity made Evelyn's pulse spike. A billion? The man had no shame.

"That's daylight robbery. Or should I take this as confirmation the Delaney empire is crumbling?" Her retort sliced through the tense air.

Alistair's grip tightened on his cane. "Merely compensation for my damaged heirloom ring."

Evelyn spread her hands in mock surrender. "How unfortunate. But no. I intend to see Isabella answer for her actions in court."

Her stance was unequivocal.

"So you choose war?" Alistair's voice turned glacial.

"I choose justice. We both know what truly happened that night. Isabella's misfortune was self-inflicted."

"Your word against hers. Without evidence, her testimony stands."

Evelyn turned to leave, pausing at the doorway. "Who says I lack evidence?"

The door clicked shut behind her. Alistair's knuckles whitened around his cane, his expression darkening.

Back in the private suite, he found Isabella weeping alone, Nathan Sterling conspicuously absent.

"Grandfather! I want that Kingsley bitch destroyed!" Isabella's tear-streaked face twisted with venom.

Alistair's voice dropped to a whisper. "Then we strike where she's vulnerable."

"Tell me how!"

The old man's eyes gleamed with calculated malice. A plan was already forming.

By afternoon, police returned for follow-up questioning. Isabella maintained her accusation with theatrical sobs.

Somehow, the scandal broke online. Within hours, #KingsleyHeiressScandal trended nationwide.

"OMG! The Kingsley princess pushed a pregnant woman? Even if it was an affair, that's cold!"

"A life is a life! That embryo deserved a chance. Disgusting behavior from high society."

"Homewrecker or not, violence against pregnant women is unforgivable. Evelyn Carter should face consequences!"

"Are you kidding? Cheaters' spawn don't deserve sympathy! Good riddance!"

The digital maelstrom grew fiercer by the minute.