Chapter 441

The moment the call connected, Dominic relayed Sophia's condition in clipped tones. "Is it true she can recover without additional surgery?"

On the other end, the family physician hesitated. "It's promising, but I can't guarantee full recovery. What I can say is that another operation would cause irreversible damage."

Dominic already knew that. After Zoe Montgomery's two failed craniotomies, he'd taken Sophia to every specialist in Ravenshore. Each procedure had left her weaker. Now, he stood at a crossroads.

"Mr. Blackwood," the doctor ventured, "have you consulted Dr. Ashford?"

"No."

A pause. "Well... if you're not continuing with Dr. Ashford, perhaps consider Evelyn Thorne. I reviewed Eric Montclair's case—his vocal recovery is nothing short of miraculous. He's performing nearly at pre-accident levels."

The doctor didn't know about Dominic's history with Evelyn.

Dominic's grip tightened on the phone. He'd asked Evelyn once. Her refusal had been absolute—I wouldn't treat Sophia if she were the last patient on earth. That merciless woman would never help.

Meanwhile, in a gilded European mansion, Zoe lingered after dinner—unusual for her. Margaret Thorne's plan had faltered.

Margaret had banked on Eric's scandal destroying his career. Instead, his heartfelt social media post had only solidified his fanbase. New followers flocked to him; his latest single broke streaming records.

Zoe set down her teacup with a clink. "Aunt Margaret, Thornfield Industries' quarterly profits just doubled. Their drones sell for ten times our products' price. At this rate—"

"Patience, Zoe," Margaret drawled. "Eric's fans can't prop up Evelyn forever. Trends fade."

Zoe's eyes darkened. "I want her suffering."

Margaret smiled. "Oh, I have a new move prepared."

Zoe's father frowned. "Zoe, Margaret is managing multiple ventures. Show respect."

Zoe whirled on him. "I'm her largest investor. If you can't secure another 300 million, stay out of it!" She stormed out, heels clicking like gunshots.

April's end arrived swiftly.

On the eve of Sophie Mercer and Adrian Vaughn's wedding festivities, they arrived at Mooncrest Manor at dawn to collect Evelyn.

Adrian blinked at her. "Evelyn, you're... different. Are you unwell?"

Sophie elbowed him. "Shut it! She looks stunning—just slimmer!"

Truthfully, pregnancy had stolen three kilograms from Evelyn. Surviving on broth and fruit left her ethereal but fragile, like glass under too much light.