Chapter 560

The air crackled with tension as Henry Lancaster's voice sliced through the silence. "Is this how you treat your own flesh and blood?"

Victoria froze, her breath catching in her throat. "I—I..."

Her words faltered under the crushing weight of the world's most powerful man's presence. Every syllable risked exposing the truth she desperately wanted to hide.

Margaret stepped forward smoothly. "Isabella's father was adopted into our family. Over the years, Victoria has grown close to Isabella, treating her as her own."

Her explanation was delivered with practiced ease.

Henry didn't respond immediately. His piercing gaze shifted to Harrison. "For now, I'll take your word for it."

Harrison gave a slight nod. "Thank you."

"But you will cure Isabella."

Harrison arched an eyebrow. "You just said you believe me. If I didn't poison her, why should I be the one to cure her?"

"Mr. Lancaster is giving you a chance!" Victoria snapped, her nails digging into her palms. "Don't throw it away!"

"Mind your tone," Margaret added sharply. "No one speaks to Mr. Lancaster like that."

Harrison ignored them both, her cool gaze locked on Henry. "I have no obligation to help. Are you asking me for a favor?"

A spark of amusement flickered in Henry's eyes. This girl had nerve. No one dared challenge him—yet here she was, unflinching.

He inclined his head. "Yes. I'm asking. Please heal my daughter."

Victoria's face twisted with barely contained rage. How could Henry indulge this insolent girl? Was this the power of blood ties?

Harrison tilted her head, her voice like ice. "Is that how one properly requests a favor?"

Henry's lips quirked. "What would you have me do?"

Harrison considered. "I'll need a promise. When I decide what I want, you'll honor it."

Margaret and Victoria paled. A promise from Henry Lancaster? The implications were staggering.

Victoria interjected frantically, "Mr. Lancaster, you can't agree! What if her demand is outrageous?"

Margaret nodded vigorously. "Your word is law. Don't bind yourself to her whims."

Harrison shrugged. "No agreement, no cure. I'll be leaving then."

She turned toward the door.

Henry moved swiftly, blocking her path. "Very well. I agree."

The words sent shockwaves through the room.

Victoria and Margaret looked as if they might combust. "Mr. Lancaster!"

Harrison's lips curved into a triumphant smile, her eyes gleaming like a fox who'd outwitted the hunter. "Perfect."

Against all odds, Henry found himself mirroring her smile. There was something undeniably captivating about her cunning.

"Now, will you heal my daughter?"

Harrison nodded. "Lead the way."

Henry guided her to Isabella's bedside. The girl lay deathly still, her skin pallid, lips tinged blue—undeniable signs of poisoning.

Harrison examined her briefly. "She's been poisoned."

Victoria scoffed. "Obviously! The finest doctors couldn't help her. What makes you think you can?"

Henry's voice was grave. "Can you save her?"