Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 368

His grandfather wasn’t giving them a single cent of the Judson fortune. And it was all because they had been deceived by Honora, because they had abandoned his sister, Larissa.

And now, the architect of their downfall was standing right here, feigning concern. The hypocrisy was nauseating.

Leopold tried to scream at her, but his voice came out as a hoarse, garbled mess. “Honora… you…”

Finley, who had started walking toward them, froze when he saw the look of pure loathing on his brother’s face. Why would Leopold look at Honora like that the moment he woke up? He suddenly remembered what Larissa had told him—that Leopold’s mind had been awake the whole time. And who had been by his side at the hospital? His mother… and Honora.

Had something happened while Honora was “caring” for him?

“Mom…” Leopold’s voice trembled with urgency. He looked at his mother, who was lost in her own grief. “Help… help me… up!”

Vivica snapped back to reality. “Of course!”

She carefully took his arms and helped him sit up.

The effort was immense, and Leopold slumped back against the sofa, catching his breath. “Mom… a glass of water… I’m so thirsty…”

Vivica started to get up, but Finley stepped in. “I’ll get it, Mom.”

He swallowed his questions, shot a quick glance at Larissa, and hurried to the water cooler. Honora turned and reached for the glass as he returned. “I’ll give it to him. He’s just woken up, he must still be weak…”

“No,” Leopold cut her off sharply. “I’ll do it myself.”

Honora froze, slowly retracting her hand.

Vivica fell silent. “Okay, Leopold. I’m listening. It’s been so long since I’ve heard your voice.”

Leopold turned to Larissa, his eyes filled with guilt. “Sis…”

The word sent a shockwave through the room. Paxton, Vivica, and Finley all stared at him in disbelief.

“Leopold, what’s wrong with you?” Vivica couldn’t help herself. “Did the crash damage your brain? Have you forgotten we disowned that girl? Why are you calling the person who did this to you ‘sis’?”

Honora now knew for certain: Leopold hated her.

Leopold’s gaze remained fixed on Larissa’s impassive face. He shook his head, his voice choked with regret. “No, Mom, I was wrong. We were all wrong… We were deceived by Honora.”