Chapter 197

Madeline Kingsley staggered back half a step.

"This..."

"The young mistress should return home," the maid whispered. "All women have soft hearts. If the man takes initiative, who could refuse? Besides, she must worry about Lord Alex straying during her pregnancy..."

Madeline's brows furrowed.

"Fine," she sighed heavily. "I'll play the villain."

The maid quickly added, "You're doing this for the Kingsley family. Lord Alex and the young mistress will understand eventually."

The next morning.

Madeline blocked Evelyn Sinclair's doorway.

"Evelyn, come home with Grandma." She grasped Evelyn's hand. "No more tonic. Just rest for the baby."

Evelyn's fingertips turned cold.

"Grandmother," Alexander Kingsley stepped between them. "We're in a hurry."

"Is work more important than your child?" Madeline persisted.

"The doctor said moderate work benefits the fetus." Alexander guided Evelyn into the car.

In the rearview mirror, Madeline's figure grew distant.

"Angry?" Alexander asked.

Evelyn stared out the window. "Next time, I won't guarantee respecting my elders."

Ice crystallized in her eyes.

The grandmother who once doted on her was long gone.

"She's just your grandmother." Evelyn's voice was flat. "Don't blame me if I show no mercy next time."

Alexander's gaze darkened.

The car stopped near Horizon Media.

"Follow her closely," Alexander ordered his men.

Nathan Carter reported, "We found the Winslows, but Isabella's whereabouts remain unknown."

"Keep searching." Alexander tapped the armrest absently.

Evelyn entered Horizon's building.

Julian Ashford waited for her.

"Feeling alright?" His eyes dropped to her abdomen.

Evelyn averted her gaze. "Fine."

"The Financial Summit is starting soon." Julian's voice tightened. "You're going to the frontlines?"

"Yes."

Julian clenched his fists. "Be careful."

After the door closed, he punched the wall violently.

He should have stopped her.

But selfishness kept him silent.

Julian shut his eyes in anguish.

He knew whose child Evelyn carried.

He knew Isabella lurked in the shadows.

Yet he chose to stand aside.

In the conference room, Melissa Lee smiled meaningfully.

"Editor Sinclair, you'll handle Mr. Strauss's interview."

Tammy Tan pulled Evelyn aside. "The quote is absurdly high, but Melissa gave us peanuts for budget."

Evelyn chuckled. "I'll handle it."

Her hand rested on her stomach.

Melissa Lee, you should never have laid a finger on my baby.