Chapter 7 - THE MAN WHO CALLED HIMSELF FAMILY
Vincent Blackwood arrived at Adrian's estate the following evening.
He wore a charcoal suit and a smile that had opened doors across Chicago.
"Adrian."
He embraced his cousin.
Adrian remained still.
"Vincent."
Vincent looked toward Elise.
"And who is this?"
"Elise Marwood."
Vincent smiled.
"The famous nurse."
Elise didn't smile back.
Vincent continued.
"I hear you saved my cousin's life."
"I was part of the emergency response."
"Modest."
"Accurate."
Vincent's smile tightened.
Adrian noticed.
They sat in the library.
Adrian asked about the payments to Dr. Sloane.
Vincent denied knowledge.
He claimed the transfers were legitimate medical expenses.
Then he suggested Adrian was becoming paranoid.
Elise watched Adrian's expression.
He didn't react.
Instead, he asked:
"Why did Daniel's condition worsen every time you visited?"
Vincent froze.
For one second, the charm disappeared.
Then he laughed.
"That's ridiculous."
Adrian leaned forward.
"Is it?"
Vincent stood.
"I won't be interrogated in my own family's home."
Adrian's voice remained calm.
"Then answer the question."
Vincent looked toward Elise.
"She's filling your head with nonsense."
Elise stood.
"I haven't diagnosed anyone. I asked for independent medical review."
Vincent's expression hardened.
"Stay out of family business."
Adrian rose.
"Don't speak to her that way."
The room went silent.
Vincent stared.
Then smiled coldly.
"So that's what this is."
He looked at Elise.
"Be careful, nurse."
Adrian stepped forward.
"Leave."
Vincent laughed.
"You're making a mistake."
Adrian's eyes narrowed.
"Then it's mine to make."
Vincent walked out.
But before he reached the door, he turned.
"You should ask Marcus what happened the night Daniel first collapsed."
The door slammed.
May you like
Adrian looked toward Marcus.
Marcus's face had gone pale.
