Chapter 331
She waved her hand impatiently. "At least she still has some conscience this time."
"Can I speak with Dr. Carter alone?"
Vivian Dempsey crossed her arms. "Make it quick. Don't disturb Evelyn's rest."
"Understood."
Annabelle Taylor wheeled herself to the hospital bed.
Teresa Taylor's eyes welled up the moment she saw Evelyn lying pale and weak. Trembling, she grasped Evelyn's hand. "My child, you've suffered so much."
Evelyn's gaze flickered between Teresa and Annabelle.
Alexander Hamilton stepped closer but maintained a respectful distance.
Evelyn handed his phone back.
He took it. "Done using it?"
She shook Vivian's phone instead.
Alexander was silent for a moment. "I'll have Emily bring you a new one."
Teresa suddenly turned. "Annabelle."
"Yes, Mom?"
"Give me your hand."
She placed Annabelle's hand over Evelyn's, clasping them tightly. "Even your names are so similar—it's fate. From now on, you must treat Dr. Carter as your own sister. Do you understand?"
Annabelle nodded obediently. "I will."
"Dr. Carter," Teresa pleaded, "Annabelle and Alexander's engagement will be called off. They'll just be siblings now. You and Alexander should focus on your marriage. I only want you both to be happy—"
Evelyn yanked her hand away.
Teresa froze. "You still resent us?"
Evelyn locked eyes with Annabelle, her lips curling into a cold smile.
Annabelle's gaze wavered, but she forced a smile. "Mom, Dr. Carter has every right to be angry. I'll prove myself through actions."
"Good girl." Teresa nodded in relief. "My greatest wish in life has come true. But... a mother's love is torn between her children."
"Mom, what do you mean?"
"Remember, Dr. Carter is your sister now. Even if she and Alexander have conflicts, you must stand by her side."
Annabelle nodded solemnly. "I'll remember."
Vivian suddenly let out a derisive laugh. "Spare us the sisterly act. Evelyn already has a real sister—she doesn't need this fake affection. Besides, she's already divorced Alexander. Isn't this arrangement a bit presumptuous?"