Chapter 617

Theodore's lips parted as if attempting speech.

Only incoherent murmurs escaped his throat, unintelligible to everyone present.

"Why can't Theodore speak yet?" Margaret turned to Harrison, her voice quivering with concern.

Victoria, who had been tense, felt some relief wash over her. She'd feared Theodore might suddenly regain his voice and reveal everything, but apparently, he remained unable to form words.

Seizing the moment, she rushed forward and grasped Theodore's hand.

"Darling, what is it? Do you need to tell me something? I'm right here. You can speak to me."

Harrison studied Theodore with a solemn expression. "I've already used acupuncture to revive him, but his speech hasn't returned yet. Recovery will take time."

Margaret could only offer reassurance. "Theodore, don't push yourself too hard. You'll regain your strength gradually, I'm certain."

Theodore's bloodshot eyes remained locked on Victoria, burning with silent fury, yet his lips remained sealed.

At that moment, the maid hurried into the room, breathless with excitement. "Mrs. Margaret, wonderful news!"

Margaret looked up. "What is it?"

The maid beamed. "Ms. Isabella has awakened!"

What? Isabella was awake?

Victoria's face brightened instantly. "Really? She's conscious? That's marvelous!"

Margaret also exhaled in relief. After all, Isabella was the daughter of the world's wealthiest man. Her well-being was crucial to the Whitmore family's power and prestige. "Prepare the car immediately! I must see Isabella at once!"

Harrison frowned. She hadn't yet finished the antidote, yet Isabella had woken up on her own.

How... interesting.

In the bedroom, Isabella was already sitting up in bed. Though pale, her gaze was sharp and alert.

Henry, ever attentive, hovered by her side. "How are you feeling?"

Despite her pallor, Isabella radiated confidence. Now that she was the heiress to unimaginable wealth, she held all the cards. She leaned into Henry and pouted. "Daddy, I'm still a little dizzy."

"Should I call the doctor?"

"No. Just having you here is enough."

Just then, Harrison, Margaret, and Victoria entered.

Victoria rushed forward, relief evident in her voice. "Isabella, you're awake! How did you get poisoned? You terrified us!"

"We're so relieved," Margaret added warmly. "You're Mr. Lancaster's beloved daughter. Had anything happened to you, how could we ever face him?"

Isabella smirked, her lips curling with smug satisfaction.

Harrison observed her closely. Isabella appeared to have fully recovered from the poisoning.

"Daddy, someone tried to kill me!" Isabella declared dramatically.

Margaret and Victoria gasped in unison. "Who would dare harm the Lancaster heiress? Such audacity!"

Henry immediately soothed her. "Who poisoned you?"

Isabella pointed directly at Harrison. "It was her!"

Harrison didn't flinch. She'd anticipated this accusation.

All eyes turned to her.

Victoria was the first to react, jumping to her feet. "So it was you all along! Mr. Lancaster, I told you she was responsible, but you didn't believe me. Now that Isabella has named her, surely you see the truth?"

Henry's brow furrowed, but he remained silent.

Harrison stepped forward, meeting Isabella's gaze unflinchingly. "Do you have any proof to support your claim?"

"We spoke that day, and right after, I was poisoned. It had to be you!" Isabella retorted confidently.

Harrison arched an eyebrow.

"Let me clarify," she said, her tone calm yet razor-sharp. "You're making accusations based solely on conjecture? Courts require evidence. Continue slandering me without proof, and I'll have no choice but to sue for defamation."