Chapter 174

Hearing this, Grace was momentarily stunned, her lips parting slightly but no sound escaping.

Evelyn continued, her voice steady, "If it makes you feel better, then yes, Mom, I don’t blame you for any of this. Just focus on getting better and let go of these thoughts."

Grace’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment, her eyes flickering with guilt. Over the years, Evelyn had come to understand that Grace was inherently fragile—a woman who shied away from conflict, who always chose the path of least resistance. It wasn’t surprising. Evelyn had recognized this trait in her mother long ago.

What was the point of holding a grudge? This was simply who Grace was. And even if Evelyn did resent her, what would it change? Grace was still her mother, the woman who had raised her. Acceptance was the only choice she had.

"Evelyn…" Grace started, her voice trembling, but Evelyn cut her off gently.

"Let’s call it a night. You need rest. I’ll stay right here with you."

Evelyn finished wiping Grace’s fevered skin with a damp cloth, ensuring she was comfortable before tucking the blankets around her.

Grace didn’t argue. She simply nodded and closed her eyes.

That night, Evelyn kept vigil at Grace’s bedside, tending to her every need. It wasn’t until the first light of dawn that Grace’s fever finally broke.

When Grace awoke, Evelyn helped her sip a bowl of warm broth and made sure she took her medication. Only then did she allow herself to retreat to her own room for some much-needed sleep.

But by midday, Grace’s soft voice pulled her from her exhausted slumber.

Evelyn rubbed her bleary eyes and pushed herself up on one elbow. "What’s wrong? Are you feeling worse?"

Grace shook her head. "No, I’m better now. But your father… he’s back."

She hesitated before adding, "He wants to speak with you. He says it’s urgent."

Evelyn’s jaw tightened in irritation. "Didn’t you tell him I was up all night? Can’t this wait?"

The abrupt awakening had left her with a pounding headache.

Grace lowered her voice. "I told him, but he insisted. He has another commitment later and needs to speak with you now. He said you could go back to sleep afterward."

Evelyn’s frustration simmered dangerously close to the surface.

"Fine," she snapped. "Give me a minute."

Grace nodded. "He’s waiting in the study."

Then she slipped quietly out of the room.

Evelyn dragged herself out of bed, hastily pulling on a robe before heading toward the study. What could possibly be so urgent that Victor couldn’t wait until she’d had proper rest?

When she entered the study, the dark circles under her bloodshot eyes were impossible to miss.

Victor took in her exhausted appearance but remained impassive, gesturing toward the sofa with a detached air. "Sit down," he commanded.