Chapter 225

The morning sunlight streamed through the hospital windows.

Evelyn Carter had just stepped through the entrance when she spotted Vivian Dempsey waiting on the steps.

"You're here early?"

Dark circles shadowed Vivian's eyes. "I didn't sleep last night."

Evelyn led her into the office and handed her a glass of water.

Vivian's knuckles whitened around the cup. "I've been thinking all night. We need to deal with Simon Stapleton."

Evelyn sat across from her, listening quietly.

"He targets naive girls from wealthy families. First me, now Natalie Stapleton. Even Lora Hardy—that fresh graduate from the Hardy family—isn't safe." Vivian clenched her teeth. "If this continues, more girls will suffer."

Evelyn tapped the desk lightly. "I understand."

"Then why wait?" Vivian shot to her feet. "If we delay, that naive Hardy girl will end up like Natalie!"

"Calm down."

"How can I?" Vivian's eyes reddened. "Natalie's pregnant. If Simon succeeds again, what happens to her? That child will be tied to a monster!"

Evelyn sighed. "I've advised her many times."

"She refused?"

"Yes." Evelyn lowered her gaze. "She loves this baby."

Vivian tugged at her hair in frustration. "It's just an embryo. Is it worth it?"

"You wouldn't understand." Evelyn's voice softened. "What it feels like to be a mother."

Silence filled the office.

Vivian studied Evelyn for a long moment before speaking. "Back then, you—"

"That's in the past." Evelyn cut her off. "Right now, we need to focus on helping Natalie."

Vivian slumped back into the chair. "You're right. But what can just the two of us do?"

Evelyn lifted her head, resolve hardening her gaze. "We need someone's help."

"Who?"

"Alexander Hamilton."

Vivian blinked, then realization dawned. "Of course! Why didn't I think of him?"