Chapter 104

Vivian cast one last lingering glance at Eleanor before stepping out of the hospital room, following Dr. Harrison down the sterile hallway.

Her fingers twisted nervously around her purse strap as she entered his office. "Doctor," she began with visible hesitation, "would it be possible to extend the payment deadline by just a few days? My paycheck clears this Friday."

Dr. Harrison's brow furrowed as he adjusted his glasses. "Ms. Hartley, while I sympathize with your situation, this isn't a charity hospital."

"The treatments we're providing are cutting-edge and expensive. We simply can't operate on delayed payments."

Their conversation was abruptly cut short by an all-too-familiar voice from the doorway. "Vivian? What a coincidence seeing you here."

Vivian spun around to face Richard and Daphne standing in the threshold like unwelcome specters. Her body tensed as she took a protective step forward. "How did you find this place?" she demanded, her voice sharp as broken glass.

Years ago, Vivian had lived in constant fear that Richard might use Eleanor as leverage against her. She'd secretly arranged with Adrian to transfer her grandmother to this undisclosed medical facility. For two blissful years, the Dawsons had remained oblivious to Eleanor's whereabouts - until now. Their sudden appearance sent icy tendrils of dread coiling through her stomach.

Daphne offered a saccharine smile that didn't reach her cold eyes. "We came to visit your dear grandmother, of course. We even brought her fresh peaches yesterday."

The pieces clicked together in Vivian's mind - Eleanor's unusual quietness earlier, the way she'd avoided mentioning Adrian entirely. Now she understood. These vipers had undoubtedly revealed her impending divorce, sending Eleanor into distress that worsened her fragile condition.

Vivian's hands clenched into fists at her sides. "Stay away from my grandmother," she hissed, green eyes blazing. "If anything happens to her, I swear I'll drag you both down with me. I have nothing left to lose."

Richard barked out a humorless laugh. "Is that any way to speak to your father? You sound like some back-alley criminal."

Daphne placed a restraining hand on Richard's arm before stepping forward. "Darling, what a terrible thing to suggest! Your father cares for Eleanor deeply." Her gaze flicked meaningfully to Dr. Harrison. "We couldn't help overhearing about your... financial difficulties. Why didn't you come to us?"

"I have everything under control," Vivian said through gritted teeth, gesturing toward the door. "Now if you'll excuse us-"

Richard's voice turned dangerously smooth. "Such devotion to your grandmother. Pity if she suffered because you couldn't pay her medical bills."

"Don't let pride cloud your judgment, dear," Daphne purred, moving closer. "We come bearing good news. Maxwell has offered to cover all expenses. His uncle isn't just any doctor - he's a renowned specialist in geriatric care. This could be Eleanor's best chance."

Vivian's blood ran cold as she recognized the trap being laid before her. The walls seemed to close in as she realized how thoroughly they'd cornered her.