Chapter 204

Evelyn had no patience for another lecture. She cut straight to the chase, her voice sharp. "Just tell me why you really called."

Hearing her blunt tone, Victor didn't bother with pleasantries. "Your Aunt Victoria has already apologized to your mother. Now, it's your turn to apologize to her."

Evelyn's eyes widened for a fraction of a second before she tipped her head back and laughed—hard.

She nearly doubled over, the absurdity of his demand hitting her like a slap. Apologize to Victoria? Was he serious? What next—should she grovel at her feet too?

Victor frowned at her reaction, irritation flickering across his face. "There's a clear distinction here. Yes, your aunt was wrong in how she treated your mother, but she's made amends. You, on the other hand, threw coffee in her face. She's your elder, Evelyn. Where's your respect?"

His voice dripped with self-righteous conviction.

"She deserved it," Evelyn shot back. "My elder? Please. Does she act like one? You actually expect me to apologize to someone like her? What kind of delusional world are you living in, Dad?"

Victor opened his mouth to argue, but Evelyn cut him off. "If that's all you called for, we're done here. I have better things to do." She ended the call before he could respond.

Seconds later, her phone buzzed again—Victor calling back, no doubt furious. She ignored it. Arguing with him was a waste of breath.

Time flew, and soon, the day of the long-awaited competition between Evelyn and Lila arrived. The hospital was electric with anticipation.

Every doctor and nurse not on duty crowded into the auditorium. The massive split-screen at the front displayed two live feeds—one of Evelyn in the neurosurgery simulation pod, the other of Lila in cardiac surgery.

"Who do you think will win?"

Whispers erupted instantly.

"Lila, obviously. Dr. Pierce has been training her nonstop. She stays late every night practicing."

"Exactly. Meanwhile, Evelyn clocks out right on time. Mr. Holloway hasn’t given her any special coaching. Hard work beats talent, and Lila’s put in the hours."

Dylan sat in the back row, a smirk playing on his lips as he listened. He’d brought Serena specifically to watch Evelyn crash and burn. That arrogant woman always thought she was untouchable. He couldn’t wait to see her humiliated—losing the competition and getting kicked out of Grand Oaks General.

Pulling out his phone, he started a live stream and shared the link in his group chat.