Chapter 238

After settling the asset division, Evelyn Carter immediately scheduled an abortion procedure for Natalie Stapleton.

But Natalie's physical condition was too fragile. Considering the risks, Evelyn postponed the surgery for a week.

News of Natalie's hospitalization quickly reached the hospital director.

When the elderly director rushed into the ward, he barely recognized the emaciated girl on the bed as his beloved daughter.

"Dad, I was wrong..." Natalie burst into tears before she could finish.

The sixty-year-old man's eyes reddened instantly. He stumbled forward, nearly collapsing.

Gregory Wilson swiftly steadied him.

Father and daughter embraced tightly. Natalie sobbed uncontrollably, while the director held her gently, afraid of hurting her frail body.

Olivia Lightfoot wiped her tears discreetly.

Evelyn patted her shoulder. "Let them have some privacy."

The three returned to the office, and Gregory closed the door behind them.

Olivia sniffled. "Dr. Carter, what happened to Natalie? This isn't just shedding a layer—it's like she's been skinned alive..."

Natalie never spoke of her ordeal in the Stapleton family's hometown.

But that experience must have been unbearable.

A pregnant woman fleeing the countryside alone to return to Hudson City—the hardship was unimaginable.

Even Gregory sighed. "Marrying the wrong person can ruin a lifetime."

Evelyn glanced at him, unsure if there was hidden meaning in his words.

Olivia mused, "Now I understand why people say 'marry your equal.' I used to think it was outdated, but there's wisdom in it."

"It's about the person," Gregory said, his gaze lingering on Evelyn. "Even equals can't save you from a bad match."

Olivia nodded vigorously. "Right, character matters most."

Gregory abruptly changed the subject. "When are you going to break up?"

Evelyn froze. "Our families are close. I'll let it fade naturally."

"If you see a problem, you should act decisively."

She knew he was right.

Perhaps Simon Stapleton's actions had served as a warning. Lately, Peter Harrison's behavior felt calculated and eerily familiar.

"...Maybe I'm overthinking it."

At the end of her shift, Peter was waiting at the hospital entrance.

He eagerly opened the passenger door. "Bad day?"

"Did I seem off?"

"Work stress?"

"Not really."

"In a hurry to get home?"

Evelyn met his eyes. "Did you have plans?"

Peter smiled warmly. "Remember the team-building event I mentioned? It's tonight. My boss insisted on having our VIP guest—you."