Chapter 110

Hospital security barred the Sullivans’ access to Paul Vanderbilt’s floor. They took the stairs, only to be confronted by two guards.

“You can’t be here,” one guard stated flatly.

Gregory Sullivan, puffing out his chest, retorted, “We’re the Sullivans. I’m Gregory, and this is my wife and daughter. We’re here to see Mr. Vanderbilt.”

The guards remained impassive. “Without Mr. Dominick Vanderbilt’s permission, no one enters.”

Brittany’s eyes lit up. “Tell Mr. Dominick Vanderbilt that Brittany Sullivan is here with her parents. He’ll let us in.”

Christina added, waving a dismissive hand, “Tell him now, or face the consequences.”

One guard reluctantly went for Dominick; the other stayed put.

Inside, Grayson slept, tears staining his cheeks. Dominick watched him, his face a mask. Marissa fussed over Paul.

“Grandpa Paul, are you feeling unwell?” she asked solicitously.

Paul turned away, his dislike palpable. He’d always distrusted Marissa, sensing a hidden agenda beneath her sweetness. He blamed her for Paisley leaving years ago, a wound still raw. His intended generosity towards the Prescotts, thwarted by Lauren’s insistence on raising Marissa, fueled his resentment.

“Don’t talk to me,” Paul muttered, feigning sleep.

“You old geezer…” Marissa seethed silently. A knock sounded.

“What is it?” Dominick asked.

“Three people claiming to be the Sullivan family, including a Ms. Brittany, wish to see Mr. Paul Vanderbilt,” the guard reported.

Marissa frowned. “The Sullivans? Brittany?” The name meant nothing.

Dominick felt a pang of something, quickly suppressed. “We won’t see them,” he said curtly. The Sullivans were Paisley’s family—a painful reminder. He’d spent four years searching for Paisley, learning she’d left her family long ago. He’d only helped them because of Paisley.

The guard left. Marissa smirked. Another opportunistic family trying to latch onto the Vanderbilts.

The guard slammed the stairwell door in the Sullivans’ faces. Gregory pounded on it. “What’s going on?”

“Mr. Dominick Vanderbilt refuses to see you. Leave,” the guard responded coldly.

Brittany’s jaw dropped. “Did you mention I was here?” The guards’ silence left them stranded.