Unpleasant call

Ever sat beside Isla's hospital bed, gently stroking her daughter's fingers as she slept. The rhythmic beeping of the monitor was the only sound in the room. She hadn't moved for hours, afraid to leave Isla's side.

Just as she reached for a glass of water, her phone vibrated on the bedside table. She sighed, expecting it to be Claire checking in on Leo, but instead, an unknown number flashed on the screen.

Frowning, she hesitated before answering. "Hello?"

A cold, smooth voice greeted her. "Ever. It's been a while."

Her heart stopped. She recognized that voice instantly. Madam Wales.

"Madam Wales," she repeated slowly, gripping the phone tighter. "Why are you calling me?"

The older woman chuckled softly, the sound sending a chill down Ever's spine. "I didn't call to chat, dear. I called to tell you that I just paid a visit to Natalia."

Ever's breath hitched. "What?"