Chapter 41

Lila's voice softened as she continued, "Evelyn, I know you're still hurting because of me. Three years ago, I thought you were the one who pushed me down the stairs. I realized later it was an accident, but by then, it was too late. I tried to convince Father, but he wouldn’t listen. I’m sorry you suffered because of my mistake. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me, just this once?"

Despite Lila’s remorseful tone, Evelyn’s expression remained cold and unreadable. The memory of Lila’s shrill accusation—"Evelyn, why did you push me?"—still echoed in her mind. Though Lila had quickly taken back her words when she saw their father’s wrath, the damage had been done.

Evelyn’s lips curled slightly as she met Lila’s gaze. "Did you really invite me here just to dredge up the past?"

Lila shook her head, her face turning serious. "There’s something more important."

Without hesitation, she leaned in. "While you were away, I kept an eye on Nathan for you. His ex, Serena, has been circling him like a vulture these past three years. Now that you’re back, you can’t let her get away with this. She’s shamelessly trying to ruin your marriage—it’s unacceptable. You need to put her in her place and make sure she never comes near Nathan again."

She clenched her fists, her eyes burning with righteous indignation, as if she were ready to fight Evelyn’s battles for her.

Evelyn’s gaze flickered with quiet amusement. How had she never noticed before just how invested Lila was in Nathan’s affairs?

With a faint, knowing smile, Evelyn tilted her head. "Isn’t it a little odd for my sister to be so involved in my marriage? People might start wondering if you have… ulterior motives regarding your brother-in-law."

Lila’s face paled for a fraction of a second before she quickly schooled her expression into one of wounded innocence. "Evelyn, I’m only worried about you. I know how difficult the Black family can be. That’s why I’ve been watching Nathan for you. It hurts that you’d think I have anything but your best interests at heart."

Evelyn’s response was cool and measured. "I appreciate your concern, Lila. But my relationship with Nathan is my business. I’d prefer if you stayed out of it."

A brief silence fell between them. Lila’s mask slipped for just a moment—gone was the sister who used to manipulate Evelyn with ease. In the past, Evelyn would have immediately apologized for doubting her. But now…

Lila quickly recovered, though her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. She had always known how to pull Evelyn’s strings, but something had changed.

Then, as if remembering something, Lila perked up. "Now that you’re back, have you thought about your career? What about joining me at Sterling General Hospital?"

At the mention of the hospital, Evelyn’s brows furrowed slightly.