Chapter 37

The Sterling mansion was shrouded in heavy silence.

Nathan sat rigidly on the leather sofa, his stormy expression unreadable. He hadn't spoken since returning from the police station after bailing Vanessa out.

Though he'd compensated for the boutique damages, Evelyn remained adamant about pressing charges. The destruction had been too extensive.

Vanessa faced at least three years in prison according to Nathan's legal team.

Eleanor had just woken from her medication-induced sleep. The news about her daughter's impending imprisonment sent her into hysterics.

"Nathan, listen to me!" Eleanor's voice trembled as she clutched his arm. "Your sister cannot go to prison! She's too delicate for that environment!"

Her manicured nails dug into his suit sleeve. "Go talk to Evelyn again. Flatter her if you must. Do whatever it takes to make her drop the charges!"

Nathan's jaw tightened. "She conspired with criminals to destroy private property. There are consequences for such actions."

Eleanor's face contorted. "She only acted out because that woman provoked her! This is all Evelyn's fault!"

When Nathan remained unmoved, Eleanor's desperation escalated dramatically.

She flung open the nearest window, hiking one leg over the sill. "If you won't help Vanessa, I'll jump right now! I swear I will!"

Isabella gasped, rushing to pull Eleanor back. "Nathan! Do something!"

"Enough!" Nathan's roar echoed through the grand hall, freezing both women in place.

Neither had ever seen him so furious. Eleanor quickly withdrew her leg, collapsing onto the chaise lounge while Isabella retreated to the corner.

Nathan had been simmering with rage since the disastrous gala. Now the dam had broken.