Chapter 240

Nathaniel didn't hesitate. He took the phone from Benjamin and strode out of the room to take the call.

Evelyn watched him leave, her brow arching in contemplation.

Dominic returned from arranging hospital transport. "The ambulance is on its way. Gabrielle will get proper treatment soon."

Benjamin squeezed Gabrielle's limp hand. "Did you hear that? Help's coming. You'll be fine!"

No response.

The doctor checked Gabrielle's pulse and massaged her temples. She stirred with a pained groan.

Though conscious now, her eyes held a hollow emptiness. "My dancing career is over. Why bother saving me? Just let me—"

"Don't say that," Benjamin interrupted. "You're Celeste's closest friend. She'd be devastated seeing you like this."

At the mention of Celeste, Gabrielle's eyes flickered with life before dimming again. "Celeste... the only one who ever truly cared."

Benjamin insisted, "We all care about you. Right, Dominic?"

Dominic offered a faint smile. "Absolutely. Focus on recovery first. With the right physical therapy, you could regain mobility. The ballet world still needs its star."

Gabrielle shook her head weakly. "Stop lying to me. The doctor said I'll never dance again."

Dominic fell silent, unequipped to handle such despair.

The door creaked open. Lucas entered.

"Miss Winslow," he announced formally, "after reconsideration, Mr. Grayson has postponed withdrawing his investment. The final decision will wait until next quarter's financial report. For now, focus on healing."

Color returned to Gabrielle's cheeks. "Truly?"

Lucas nodded. "Direct orders from Mr. Grayson himself."

Tears welled in Gabrielle's eyes. "I knew... I knew Nathaniel still valued our friendship. Please thank him for me. Tell him my family won't disappoint him when those reports come."

"Of course," Lucas acknowledged.

His gaze swept the room before landing on Evelyn, who'd positioned herself inconspicuously in the corner. Approaching her, he said respectfully, "Ms. Whitmore, Mr. Grayson instructed me to escort you and Miss Bennett home."

Evelyn met his eyes calmly. "What about him?"

"He's still occupied with the call. Someone requested he stay with Miss Winslow until treatment arrives. He said not to wait."

Still on the phone?