Chapter 62

The emergency room buzzed with quiet urgency. The attending physician pressed gently on Evelyn's lower abdomen, watching her reaction.

"Any localized pain?" he asked before signaling the nurse to call for a second opinion.

An elderly doctor arrived, his brow furrowing as he examined her. He turned to Nathaniel, who stood nearby, arms crossed. "Has she been consuming excessive supplements?"

Nathaniel rarely spent time at home, so he had no clue about Evelyn's diet. Lucas stepped in. "Sir, the housekeeper mentioned the old madam has been preparing various medicinal soups for Miss Evelyn. She's been consuming them daily, along with some rare herbs collected over the years. Could that be the issue?"

The doctor shook his head disapprovingly. "Young and healthy—why overload with supplements? Excessive intake causes internal heat, hormonal imbalances, and irregular cycles. The nosebleeds and cramps are clear signs of overstimulation."

Nathaniel's expression darkened. "How do we treat this?"

The doctor scribbled a prescription. "Simple. Stop the supplements immediately. Take these painkillers, drink plenty of water, and return to a normal diet."

Lucas retrieved the medication while Evelyn struggled to sit up on the hospital bed. Her limbs felt weak as she reached for her shoes.

She fumbled, fingers uncooperative.

Nathaniel arched a brow, lips quirking. "Need help, sunshine?"

Evelyn didn’t look up. "I’ve got it."

Yet her hands refused to cooperate.

A strong, elegant hand suddenly swatted hers aside in mild irritation. He adjusted the shoe opening, lifting the heel slightly to slide her foot in smoothly. Then he repeated the motion with the other.

Evelyn blinked up at him, stunned.

Since when did he grow a conscience?

Lucas returned just in time to witness Nathaniel Grayson—ruthless CEO, feared negotiator—kneeling to put shoes on someone.

His hands were firm yet careful, cradling her small, cold feet. For a fleeting second, Nathaniel wondered if her feet were too tiny or his hands too large.

His expression soured. "Did you really eat everything Grandma forced on you? No backbone?"

Evelyn scowled. "She meant well! How could I refuse her effort? If you bothered coming home for dinner, we could’ve split the burden!"

Nathaniel’s gaze sharpened. "Were you hoping I’d come home more often?"

She considered it, then shook her head. "Actually, no. Dealing with Grandma alone is easier. If you were around, I’d have to pretend affection for an old man like you—just the thought makes me queasy."

His grip on her foot tightened before he abruptly released her. "Walk by yourself, then."

Evelyn gaped. What’s his problem? I’m literally a patient right now!

Back at the Grayson estate, Margaret met them with guilt-ridden eyes. "This is my fault. I thought the supplements would help, not harm you."

Evelyn leaned against the headboard, offering a tired smile. "It’s alright, Grandma."