Chapter 476

At first, Gabrielle considered sending Evelyn to fetch the water.

But suspicion gnawed at her. What if Evelyn tampered with Ethan's drink?

Disgust twisted Gabrielle's features. She snatched her purse and stormed off to buy it herself.

Minutes later, Amelia emerged from the doctor's office, cradling Ethan.

No trace of maternal concern darkened Amelia's flawless face. Instead, a saccharine smile curved her lips as she addressed Evelyn.

"Impressive, Evelyn. I orchestrated today's little drama perfectly, yet you slipped right through my fingers."

The mask had dropped. Evelyn wasn't surprised—just enlightened.

She'd always known Amelia was manipulative. But now she saw the truth: this delicate-looking woman was far more dangerous than she'd imagined.

Using her own speechless toddler's health as a weapon? Amelia had no limits.

Evelyn's lips curled in a cold smirk. "Flattery won't work on me, Amelia. I could never match your cruelty. Doesn't Ethan's father deserve to know?"

Amelia's smile never wavered. "He'll never find out. The doctor confirmed Ethan has allergies—just like you. Those bruises? Allergic reaction to unknown substances. That's the official diagnosis, no matter who asks."

Understanding dawned. Amelia had sent Gabrielle away to bribe the physician.

Evelyn's gaze dropped to the unnaturally docile child in Amelia's arms. Poor boy. What kind of mother did this?

"He's your son. How can you live with yourself?"

Amelia adjusted Ethan's blanket, unfazed. "Save your concern, Evelyn. My family matters don't concern you. You should leave. Nathaniel will be here soon."

Evelyn's chest constricted at Nathaniel's name.

She inhaled sharply, pushing the feeling aside. "Mr. Sinclair assigned me to ensure your safety. I'll leave after confirming Mr. Grayson's arrival."

Amelia's eyes narrowed. "I thought you wanted to avoid Nathaniel. Changed your mind? Planning to throw yourself at him?"

A humorless laugh escaped Evelyn. "Relax. He won't even see me. I just need to report back to Mr. Sinclair."

Skepticism darkened Amelia's gaze. She opened her mouth—

"Amelia!" Gabrielle's voice cut through the tension as she returned with a water bottle. "What did the doctor say?"

Amelia's expression instantly morphed into wide-eyed innocence. "Just allergies, Gabrielle. No abuse."

Gabrielle handed over the water. "Allergies? To what? We need to identify the trigger."

"The nurse will draw blood for testing soon."

"What's the treatment plan?"

"Hospitalization for IV fluids."

Evelyn's stomach turned. That child didn't need intravenous treatment—he wasn't actually allergic. What kind of mother would subject her son to unnecessary medical procedures?