Chapter 609

Everett Sinclair staggered forward, blood dripping from his wound onto the pavement. Lawrence grabbed his arm firmly.

"You're bleeding out, kid! That stab wound needs medical attention now!"

Everett shook his head violently. "Can't stop. Not yet."

With sudden determination, he broke free and sprinted down the street.

"Everett!" Lawrence shouted after him, but the young man had already disappeared around the corner.

That stubborn boy would be the death of him one day.

Everett's first thought was the examination hall. His little sister Lillian should be finishing her exams today. With everything that had happened between him and Rosalind, who would be there for her?

When he arrived, the gates stood empty. The three-day examination period had concluded.

A proctor noticed his frantic appearance. "Looking for someone, young man?"

"Is the exam over?" Everett panted.

"Finished an hour ago. All students have been collected by their families."

"Lillian Sinclair - was she picked up?"

Two girls in school uniforms approached, recognizing him immediately. "Mr. Sinclair!"

They were Lillian's classmates. Everett had visited campus before, and his striking features made him memorable.

"Have you seen my sister?"

The taller girl nodded. "Miss Fairchild came for her."

Everett's stomach clenched. "Rosalind?"

"Yes! She was here every day during exams," the other girl chimed in. "We just saw them leave in a black Bentley. Lillian looked really happy!"

So Rosalind had kept her promise.

Despite walking out on their wedding. Despite her angry words. Despite everything - she'd still come for Lillian.

That realization sent warmth flooding through Everett's chest. "Thank you."

He hailed the first available taxi. "Whitmore Estate. Fast."

Thirty minutes later, the cab pulled up to the wrought iron gates. Everett moved painfully toward the entrance.

Through the bars, he saw them. Rosalind stood on the manicured lawn with Lillian, Alistair Whitmore beside them.

Rosalind had her arm draped protectively around Lillian's shoulders. "So? Now that it's over, how do you feel?"

Alistair chuckled. "Based on her mock results, I'd say we're looking at a state topper. The essay portion might be subjective, but the rest?" He winked at Lillian.

A proud smile curved Rosalind's lips as she tousled Lillian's hair. "You crushed it, little genius."

Then she turned to Alistair. "Father, remember how you always wanted another daughter? Why not make it official? I'd love having Lillian as my sister."

Lillian stiffened. "Oh no, I couldn't! You've already done so much letting me stay here. Once high school starts, I can board at campus. I've calculated everything - math competition prizes will cover my tuition. I'll be fine."

The girl's humility broke Everett's heart. She still didn't believe she belonged.

Rosalind's expression softened. "Sweetheart, I know you're brilliant enough to support yourself. But wouldn't it be nicer having a sister to spoil you? A godfather to open doors? A real home?"

Alistair beamed. "Consider it done! Even without Rosalind's suggestion, I'd planned to make this official. Talent like yours is rare. If we couldn't keep your brother, we're certainly keeping you!" He clapped his hands decisively. "Next week, we'll host a gala to announce your place in the Whitmore family!"