Chapter 304

Evelyn Whitmore rested against the headboard, eyes shut, when a sharp knock interrupted the silence.

The door creaked open, revealing an unfamiliar woman in her forties.

"Who are you looking for?" Evelyn's eyes snapped open, instantly alert. Why would the police allow a stranger in?

The woman bowed slightly. "Miss Evelyn, I'm Eleanor. Mister Lucas Sinclair sent me to assist you. Please let me know if you need anything."

Evelyn arched a brow. "Lucas? Lucas Sinclair?"

Eleanor nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

A frown tugged at Evelyn's lips. Why would he send a nurse now? Did Nathaniel leave? The thought stung more than she cared to admit. Not that I should be surprised. We were never anything real, no matter what sweet words he whispered.

A commotion erupted outside before she could dwell on it.

"Let me through! That's my aunt in there!" Sophia Bennett's voice rang out, sharp with frustration.

Evelyn sighed. "Eleanor, tell them to let her in. She's family."

Eleanor obliged, returning moments later with Sophia in tow. The girl clutched a thermos, her expression stormy.

"This is ridiculous! One day away, and everything falls apart!" Sophia huffed, setting the thermos down with a thud.

Evelyn eyed it. "What’s in there?"

"Chicken soup. Mom made it special." Sophia lifted the lid, steam curling into the air. "They say it heals everything."

A faint smile touched Evelyn's lips. "Perfect timing. I could use some."

Eleanor stepped forward, taking the thermos to pour a bowl.

Sophia's gaze flicked to the handcuffs securing Evelyn's wrists and ankles. Her jaw tightened. "You're just letting them do this?"

Evelyn shrugged. "Standard procedure for suspects."

"Suspect? Please!" Sophia scoffed. "You'd never hurt anyone. This is so unfair!"

The raw conviction in Sophia's voice caught Evelyn off guard. She barely knows me, yet she believes me without question. Meanwhile, Nathaniel...

She shoved the thought aside. No use dwelling on him now.

But Sophia wasn't done. "And Uncle Nathaniel—" She cut herself off, biting her lip.

Evelyn's curiosity flared. "What about him?"

Sophia hesitated, then shook her head. "Never mind."

The evasion only sharpened Evelyn's interest. "Tell me."

Sophia exhaled sharply. "Fine. He’s being impossible. Even now, he’s—"

The door swung open again, cutting her off.

Evelyn leaned forward. "He’s what?"

But Sophia just pressed her lips together, worry flashing in her eyes.

The silence stretched, heavy with unspoken words.