Serena stirred awake as Evan entered the room, carrying a bowl of congee.
"Awake? Here, have some congee," Evan said, gently placing the dish down beside her.
"Evan?" Serena was surprised to find him there, remembering the four of them growing up together, with Evan remaining a constant.
"Thank you," Serena murmured, stirring the congee absently, her thoughts in turmoil.
Just as Evan was about to speak, his phone rang. A glance at the screen caused a subtle change in his expression. "Excuse me, I need to answer the call outside."
Evan must have a girlfriend, Serena thought, noticing the fleeting tenderness in his expression even though he left swiftly. Her fingers paused mid-stir, wondering if Evan's affection was also directed at Amelia.
She could sense a hint of hostility from Evan, but she owed him for his help. Serena pressed her lips together, deciding to avoid further contact if necessary.
Her bedside phone rang, and she answered hesitantly, "Hello? What... What did you say?"
Color drained from Serena's face, her breathing ragged. "I understand... I'll be right there."
After hanging up, she remained frozen, unable to process the news of her mother's stroke.
How could this be... She was fine yesterday.
Her heart felt as though struck by a sudden sandstorm, sweeping away all in its wake, shattering into countless pieces, scattered across the ground, irretrievable and impossible to piece back together.
Evan re-entered to find Serena in distress, pausing in surprise. "Serena, what's wrong?"
Wiping away tears, Serena forced a smile through choked sobs, "I'm okay, really. Did you pay for the medical bills? I'll transfer it to you later. I have to go now, we'll talk another time."
"Serena!" Evan held her steady. "Don't worry about the bills. Tell me what's happened. At least, eat something first."
Her phone rang again, this time Phoenix on the line. His cool voice carried a trace of fatigue, "You know the room number. Come here now. I'm with your mother. When you arrive, control your temper and know what you should do."
"Phoenix! What do you want?" Serena broke down, sobbing uncontrollably. "Please spare Nightingale Corporation. If you won't help, at least don't sabotage us. I promise never to bother you again, please!"
"Serena..." Evan frowned, his heart aching for her.
A cold laugh sounded from the phone. "Found yourself a boyfriend? I see. No wonder you gave up the engagement so easily. Get here now, or I can't guarantee how long Nightingale Corporation will last."
"Phoenix, how could you!"
The call ended abruptly.
Serena wanted to throw the phone, but considering her financial state, she refrained from that.
Taking a deep breath, she regained composure, "Evan, you know Nightingale's situation. My mother had a stroke. I need to see her. Thank you for today, I'll treat you next time."
Her detachment was chilling, causing Evan to frown. When he came to sense, Serena was gone, leaving behind untouched congee.
Surveying the empty room, Evan pulled out his phone, his cold voice echoing starkly, "Increase the pressure on Nightingale Corporation, spread negative media coverage. I want Nightingale to crumble, and fast!"
His icy demeanor contrasted starkly with the warm-hearted youth from moments ago.
