Chapter 154

At Evelyn's words, Grace's eyes widened in shock, a flicker of disbelief crossing her delicate features. "Eleanor, you... You..."

But after a stunned silence, Grace quickly composed herself, her voice softening like silk. "Eleanor, I told you there was no need for that. Just do what feels right to you."

Evelyn's expression remained as cool as winter frost, unwavering. "I've made my decision, and I won't go back on it." She paused, the weight of her words settling between them before continuing, her tone steady. "You got what you wanted. Whether we finish this meal or not doesn't matter anymore. I'm heading back to the hospital now. You can stay and enjoy your lunch."

With that, she stood, her movements sharp and decisive.

"Eleanor!" Grace's voice cracked as she reached out, her fingers wrapping around Evelyn's wrist. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she pleaded, "I've missed you so much. Please, stay. Have lunch with me."

Evelyn didn’t spare her a glance.

Her face remained impassive as she replied coolly, "No. I'm not in the mood for this. I need time alone."

She effortlessly freed her wrist from Grace's grasp, picked up her designer handbag, and turned on her heel.

"Eleanor—" Grace's voice trembled, but Evelyn didn’t look back. Her resolve was steel. Staying would only make things worse for both of them.

Once inside her car, Evelyn sank into the leather seat, tilting her head back against the headrest. She closed her eyes, the weight of the day pressing down on her like a storm cloud. She couldn’t quite name the emotions churning inside her—anger, resentment, but also something softer, something that ached.

Despite everything Grace had done, despite the years of betrayal and pain, Evelyn could never bring herself to truly hate the woman who had given her life. Memories of Grace’s rare moments of tenderness surfaced, dulling the sharp edges of her bitterness.

Then, her phone rang, shattering the silence.

Evelyn glanced at the caller ID, and instantly, her expression brightened. She answered without hesitation.

"Eleanor."

A warm, melodic voice greeted her.

"Grandma!" Evelyn's face lit up, her voice brimming with joy. "When are you coming to Owathe? You've been traveling forever. Are you back in the country?"

When Evelyn had first returned, she’d called Eleanor Sinclair, her beloved grandmother, offering to bring her to Owathe. But Eleanor had been on an extended trip with close friends, and the reunion had been delayed.

"Yes, darling, I'm back! Just arrived today," Eleanor replied cheerfully.

"I'll come pick you up," Evelyn said eagerly.

"No need, my dear. Isabelle will accompany me. I’ll head to Owathe after resting for a few days."

Evelyn hesitated. "With Isabelle there, I do feel better... but I still want to see you. I’ve missed you so much."

Eleanor’s voice softened, laced with affection. "You don’t need to trouble yourself, sweetheart. I know how busy you are. Isabelle will take good care of me. Just wait for me patiently."