Chapter 186

Evelyn studied Victoria's face with narrowed eyes. "You're absolutely certain about this?"

Victoria threw back her head with manic laughter. "Did you honestly believe I wouldn't know whose child I carried? You've miscalculated terribly if you thought to use this against me, Evelyn! Cassandra is Gregory's daughter! Hahahaha!"

A flicker of irritation crossed Evelyn's features. "But how? Why would Vincent claim another man's child as his own?"

At the mention of Vincent, Victoria's expression shifted. She sneered dismissively. "That's far beyond what a little schemer like you deserves to know! Not that it matters now. Your father will crucify you when those test results come back! Cassandra and I will only gain more sympathy and affection from him!"

The ward door burst open with violent force. Vincent stormed in, face dark with fury. "It was all lies then, Victoria. Cassandra isn't my daughter at all!"

Victoria froze at the sight of her former lover. The color drained from her face. "Vincent? What are you doing here?"

Vincent's lip curled in disgust. "You texted me saying you were injured and wanted me to visit. I rushed here sick with worry!"

Victoria shook her head frantically. "I—I never— When did I— My phone— Where's my phone?" She patted her pockets in growing panic, realizing her cell was missing.

As her distress mounted, Evelyn stepped forward, holding out the device with feigned innocence. "You dropped it during the ambulance ride. I kept it safe for you. No thanks necessary."

Victoria's eyes widened in realization. "You! You're the one who texted Vincent!"

Evelyn's smile was deceptively sweet. "Think nothing of it."

"You little—" Victoria seethed.

Vincent cut in bitterly, "To think I believed your lies about secretly bearing my child all these years!"

Victoria scrambled to explain. "Vincent, listen— Cassandra is—"

The door swung open again as Cassandra and Gregory returned from giving DNA samples. Both froze at the unexpected scene.

Cassandra gasped. "Godfather? What are you doing here?"

Gregory's expression darkened as he glared at his wife. "Why is he here?"

Victoria swallowed hard, guilt flashing across her face. "He— Well— You see—"

Vincent, though furious, maintained his public persona. The practiced smile of a celebrity slid into place. "Mr. Gregory, isn't it? I came to check on my goddaughter's mother after hearing about her accident."

Gregory's hostility was palpable. "Unnecessary. My wife and daughter are my responsibility."

Vincent's smile turned icy. "Then I'll take my leave." He turned sharply toward the door.

Something in Vincent's demeanor unsettled Cassandra. Without hesitation, she hurried after him.