Chapter 597

Theodore's words pierced through Rosalind's consciousness like shards of ice. Lillian had been completely unaware until this moment. The revelation hit her with the force of a tidal wave, leaving her gasping for air.

Rosalind moved closer, placing a steadying hand on Lillian's trembling shoulder. "Lillian, breathe. Your mother's condition... it's been deteriorating for a while now."

There had been a time when Margaret had begged Rosalind to keep this from Everett and Lillian—especially with Lillian's final exams looming. The timing couldn't have been worse.

Tears spilled down Lillian's cheeks, hot and unchecked. The weight of the news crushed her. Her voice cracked as she choked out, "How? She was fine! She can't—she can't just leave us now. Not like this."

Rosalind pulled Lillian into a tight embrace, her own heart aching. "She didn't want you to suffer. That's why she kept it from you."

Lillian's sobs grew heavier. "Everett and I lost our father years ago. Mom raised us alone. Even blind, she never let us go without love. My friends pitied me for not having a father, but I never felt lacking—because of her. Because of Everett. And now..." Her voice broke. "Now she's leaving me too."

There were no words strong enough to mend such grief. Rosalind simply held her, one hand rubbing soothing circles on her back.

Theodore's voice was gentle but firm. "Ms. Fairchild, we've done everything medically possible. These next few days... just be with her."

With that, he quietly exited the room.

Lillian wiped her tears fiercely. She wouldn't let Margaret hear her cry. She had to be strong now.

"Thank you, Rosalind. You're always here when we need you."

Rosalind squeezed her hand. The Sinclair siblings had steel in their spines. Hardship only made them stronger.

"Has Everett arrived yet?"

Lillian shook her head. "I've called him repeatedly. No answer. He's been so distant lately, barely coming home."

She didn't know what Everett was wrapped up in.

Rosalind wouldn't be the one to tell her. "Let's go see your mother."

They stepped into the hospital room. Margaret lay still, her frail form neatly arranged against the stark white sheets, her face pale as moonlight.

"Mom, Rosalind is here."

Rosalind approached, taking Margaret's thin hand in hers. "Mrs. Sinclair, I came as soon as I could."

Margaret's lips curved weakly. "Rosalind. I thought I heard your voice. Thank you for coming."

Rosalind's eyes burned, but she blinked back the tears. "Of course. Don't worry about anything. Just rest. I've arranged everything here, and Lillian will stay with me. Her exams are in five days."

Lillian nodded quickly. "Five days."

Rosalind gave Margaret's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Oakwood High is right near my place. I'll take care of her like she's my own sister."

Margaret's breath hitched, emotion thickening her voice. There was no need for words—Rosalind already understood.

Rosalind made sure Margaret knew she had nothing left to fear.

Margaret gripped her hand tighter. "Thank you. Meeting you has—"