Chapter 49: The Scapegoat
Evelyn Carter rubbed her temples and closed the medical chart.
The hospital workload had surged recently, leaving her no time to dwell on anything else. The names Alexander Hamilton and Annabelle Taylor hadn’t crossed her mind in a long while.
“He chose his own path. If he thinks it’s worth it, then so be it.”
“Worth it?” Vivian Dempsey scoffed. “Alexander is drowning in regret. You have no idea—he’s become the laughingstock of our social circle…”
Evelyn raised a hand to stop her. “There are patients waiting outside. We’ll talk later.”
Vivian finally realized she’d overstayed her welcome and awkwardly stood. “I’ll wait in your office.”
It wasn’t until 7:30 PM that Evelyn dragged her exhausted body back to her office.
Vivian immediately approached. “Finally done?”
Evelyn pressed a hand to her lower back, her face pale. “Sorry to keep you waiting so long.”
“Since when do we stand on ceremony?” Vivian frowned, steadying her. “What’s wrong with your back?”
“…My period.”
Vivian’s eyes widened in realization. “Is this… the first one since the miscarriage?”
Evelyn gave a slight nod, her gaze dimming for a fleeting moment.
A heavy silence settled over the office.
“Weren’t you going to share some gossip?” Evelyn forced a smile, leaning back in her chair. “Go ahead. I’m listening.”
Vivian studied her with concern. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’m fine. It’s a good distraction.”
Only then did Vivian launch into her story.
“Hamilton Group lost another few million recently.”
Evelyn arched a brow. “Andy Taylor again?”
“This time it’s even more outrageous.” Vivian’s lips curled into a sardonic smile. “That idiot drove Alexander’s car drunk and killed a traffic officer.”
Evelyn bolted upright. “What?”
“And here’s the kicker,” Vivian lowered her voice, “Annabelle told Alexander to take the blame.”
Evelyn’s pupils constricted. “Is she insane?”
“The reasoning was even crazier.” Vivian mimicked Annabelle’s tone. “‘The car is registered under your name anyway—as the owner, you’re legally responsible. Besides, the Hamiltons have influence. If you confess, you might not even serve time. Just pay some fines and it’ll blow over.'”
Evelyn was speechless. “Alexander agreed to this?”
