Chapter 18

Harrison stood motionless, her piercing gaze silently absorbing Victoria's panicked expression.

Victoria froze completely.

Theodore rushed forward immediately, bowing obsequiously. "Ms. Whitmore."

With deliberate slowness, Harrison pulled a fountain pen from her pocket and tossed it into the pool. "Dr. Gregory, I seem to have dropped something."

"Right away, Ms. Whitmore!"

Without hesitation, Theodore plunged into the chilly autumn waters.

Victoria watched in stunned silence as he emerged moments later, clutching the pen like sacred treasure. "Your pen, Ms. Whitmore!"

Harrison's lips curled into a knowing smirk. "Surprised?"

Victoria's mind reeled. What power did Harrison wield to command such obedience?

"Frankly," Harrison continued, stepping closer, "I've never understood your hatred. You stole my father's estate, seized his company, abandoned his daughter, even poisoned the wine he left me."

Her voice dropped to a dangerous whisper. "Consider this a warning. The Harrison you knew is gone. Cross me again at your peril."

Victoria recoiled from the icy darkness in Harrison's once-bright eyes - now fathomless pits promising retribution.

Outside, a Rolls-Royce pulled up just as Harrison reached the lawn. Nathaniel had returned with Isabella.

Dressed in an impeccable black suit, Nathaniel exuded power. Isabella glowed in crimson silk beside him, the perfect couple.

Harrison's breath caught. Last night's betrayal flooded back - Nathaniel leaving her to find another man. The fresh wound tore open again.

"Harrison!" Victoria called mockingly. "Isabella didn't come home last night. She stayed at Rosewood Manor until morning."

The implication struck like a blade - Nathaniel's private estate where Harrison had never been welcome.

Victoria laughed cruelly. "Nathaniel doesn't love you. What does sabotaging Dr. Gregory matter? For Isabella, he'll simply get Dr. Sinclair!"

Harrison arched a brow. "Will he now?"

Just then, Nathaniel and Isabella approached. "Harrison?" Isabella feigned surprise, clinging to Nathaniel's arm. "You're not upset about last night, are you?"

Victoria smirked, awaiting Harrison's humiliation.

Harrison straightened, her smile razor-sharp. "Darling, I wouldn't waste anger on such... inadequate kissing."