Chapter 239

Adrian's grip tightened around Vivian's shoulder as Richard Dawson's face turned crimson with humiliation. "Mr. Blackwood, Vivian is still my daughter. As her father, I have every right—"

Before he could finish, Adrian released his wrist with a sharp flick. "Father?" His voice dripped with disdain. "Do you deserve that title?"

Richard staggered backward, collapsing onto the hospital corridor bench with a thud.

Daphne rushed to his side, shooting Adrian a venomous glare after ensuring Richard was unharmed. "The police are right here. Do you think you're above the law, Mr. Blackwood?"

Adrian methodically wiped his fingers with a sanitizing wipe, his nose wrinkling as if touching something foul.

He tossed the used wipe into the nearest bin with deliberate precision. "He was about to strike my wife. I was merely protecting her." His glacial gaze locked onto Daphne. "But if you're suggesting I could act without restraint..." A dangerous smile played on his lips. "That could be arranged."

Daphne's face went ashen, her trembling lips unable to form a response.

One of the officers cleared his throat. "We've briefed Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood. As the victim, Vivian not only has the right to case updates but must assist our investigation." Their disapproving glances toward Richard spoke volumes.

Watching Adrian's controlled demeanor, the officers saw no need to intervene.

Daphne dabbed at dry eyes with a tissue. "Victim? More like perpetrator! Everyone knows Maxwell Sterling was once her fiancé. She was supposed to marry into the Sterling family years ago—God knows how she tricked her way into the Blackwoods instead. And now we hear she's been sneaking around Emberglow County reconnecting with Maxwell?" Her voice turned shrill. "My daughter lies unconscious because of her scheming!"

The blatant accusation hung in the sterile hospital air.

Richard's expression twisted with undisguised loathing—not a trace of paternal concern for Vivian remained.

Even bystanders couldn't help but pity the young woman caught in this toxic family dynamic.

Adrian's arm around Vivian tightened protectively, his silent support as tangible as armor.

Vivian met Daphne's gaze unflinchingly. "We haven't spoken in years. How would you know about Emberglow County? Or my supposed contact with Maxwell?"

Adrian studied his wife's poised demeanor, marveling at how far she'd come from the broken woman who'd first sought his help.

Daphne's eyes darted away. "A... a friend's child from Emberglow saw everything. They told us."

Vivian's lips curved into a knowing smile. "You and Father cut ties with everyone from our hometown years ago. Since when do you have 'close friends' in a place like Emberglow County?"

Beads of sweat formed on Daphne's forehead—she looked more rattled than during any police questioning.