Chapter 334

Isabella's words had barely left her lips when Evelyn ended the call abruptly.

Her vision blurred as she sank into deep thought.

Though Isabella wasn’t entirely reliable, the fact that Nathaniel had left for the company at dawn and Beatrice had gone back to sleep seemed far too coincidental. Evelyn pressed her lips into a tight line and immediately stood from her desk.

She quickly briefed Gabrielle on the afternoon’s tasks before driving straight to Martin Group headquarters.

She needed answers about Beatrice’s condition—otherwise, she wouldn’t be able to focus on anything else.

As for Isabella’s accusation that she was neglecting her grandmother for the sake of her pregnancy, it was absurd.

When Evelyn arrived, Nathaniel was already seated at his desk, having been informed of her visit.

He studied her with a calm gaze. "What brings you here this time?" Their interactions had been sparse lately, so her sudden appearance wasn’t without reason. But Nathaniel’s composure gave nothing away.

Evelyn met his eyes directly. "Nathaniel, I need to ask you something. Have you been keeping things from me?"

His brow furrowed slightly. "Why would you think that? Who told you something?"

"Just answer me. Have you been hiding anything?"

"No." His response was firm, his gaze steady.

A cold smirk twisted Evelyn’s lips. "Really?"

Nathaniel didn’t flinch. "Evelyn, what exactly do you want to know?"

Her chest tightened.

He knew exactly what she was asking—yet he refused to be honest.

"Did you take Grandma to the hospital today?"

His silence was confirmation enough.

Her expression turned icy. "You knew her condition was worsening, but you didn’t tell me. Is it because you’re afraid worrying about her would harm the baby?"

Nathaniel’s face darkened. "Evelyn, do you really think so little of me? Do you believe I can’t prioritize what matters?"

She stared at him, an unfamiliar ache spreading through her chest.

He exhaled sharply. "Yes, I went with Beatrice today. She told me about this when we first arrived in Marseille, but Dr. Harrison’s schedule delayed the appointment. Her condition isn’t good, but she insists on conservative treatment—she’s too old for surgery and doesn’t want you worrying. But Evelyn, I’m not the heartless man you’re making me out to be. I would never force you to choose between our child and your grandmother."

Evelyn’s shoulders slumped, the fight draining from her.

After a long pause, she whispered, "I’m sorry."

Nathaniel’s anger softened at her defeated tone.

He stepped closer, pulling her into his arms. His voice was low, almost pleading. "Just trust me a little, okay?"

Tears glistened in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall.

"I want Grandma to have the surgery. I don’t want to give up."

"Then we won’t." His grip tightened. "As long as you’re sure, I’m with you."

She looked up, their gazes locking.

For the first time in days, she let herself lean into him.