Audrey’s POV
Blake’s expression immediately darkened, but before he could respond, I pressed on. “Blake, I missed the court appointment because I had a severe stomach attack last night. My friend was worried and brought me to the hospital.”
I forced myself to maintain eye contact, even as memories of last night’s pain threatened to overwhelm me. “The doctors insist on a 24–hour observation period before discharge. That’s why I couldn’t make it to court this morning.”
I took a careful breath, steadying myself. “I won’t drag out the divorce. Any day this week works for me. Just set a time.” A bitter smile touched my lips as I added, “If I’m still alive, I’ll be there.”
At those words, Blake’s eyes narrowed slightly, his harsh expression softening almost imperceptibly. For a moment, I thought I caught a glimpse of concern in his features – that familiar look from years past when he actually cared about my wellbeing. But before I could be sure, the moment passed.
Laurel, who had been watching our exchange with barely concealed satisfaction, let out a delicate laugh. “Miss Sinclair, was eating such spicy Southern food last night a calculated move? Knowing you had the divorce appointment today?” She rose her hand to cover her mouth in mock concern. “I wonder what method you’ll use to land yourself in the hospital next time?”
*Could you not make such unpleasant insinuations?” Ethan’s voice cut through the tension as he stepped forward from behind me. “What do you mean by ‘calculated move? If she really wanted to avoid the divorce, she has a hundred ways to stall. She wouldn’t need to resort to harming herself!*
Blake’s attention snapped to Ethan, his brows furrowing dangerously. “The dancer from The Underground?” His gaze flickered between us, something dark flashing in his expression. “I thought having James Collins at your apartment late last night was bad enough. Now another one shows up.”
He let out a harsh laugh. “Audrey Sinclair, you look quite popular, huh?”
I felt my heart skip a beat, finding these cruel words momentarily stole my breath. After our three years of marriage, this was what he thought of me?
Watch your mouth,” Ethan’s voice carried a hint of steel beneath its casual tone. “Mr. Parker, perhaps we got off on the wrong foot. I’m just a college student trying to make ends meet with part–time work.”
“And I’m here to do my friend a favor and take care of Miss Sinclair.”
“First The Underground, now here.” Blake’s voice clearly showed his anger. “That’s quite a convenient pattern of running into my wife.”
“The glamorous life of a student, Ethan’s laugh held a hint of challenge. “We show up wherever the money is. Though fair warning – next time you spot me, I might be delivering your lunch order to Parker Group.” His casual tone made the subtle dig even sharper.
His hand found my elbow with gentle pressure. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, we have some pressing matters to handle. His gaze flickered meaningfully to Laurel. “I’m sure you’re eager to get back to your… patient. Whatever mysterious condition brought this beauty to Mayo Clinic must be terribly serious.”
I could see Blake’s hands into fists. Before he could respond, Ethan was already guiding me past them.
We’d only made it a few steps when something clicked in my mind. I stopped abruptly, turning back to face them.
I studied Blake’s features for a moment before speaking up, “One more thing, Mr. Parker.” My voice was cold. “Breaking and entering is a serious offense. Even for you. And don’t forget about our little wager at the race track.”
‘It would be such a shame, I added softly, “if Astrid and I had to explain to New York society why Blake Parker couldn’t honor a simple bet.”
Without waiting for his response, I reached back to grasp Ethan’s arm. The gesture was deliberate – let Blake make whatever assumptions he wanted. We walked away, our footsteps echoing in perfect sync down the hospital corridor.
Laurel’s POV
The moment Audrey disappeared down the corridor, something shifted in Blake’s expression. He took half a step forward, as if to follow, and I felt a flutter of panic in my chest as I quickly found his arm.
‘Blake darling, don’t let them bother you.” I let my voice tremble just enough. “The department head is waiting, and you know how particular he is about his
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schedule.
I gazed up at him. After all, my condition… it should take precedence over her little performances, shouldn’t it?”
After hearing my words, he halted his steps and led me into the elevator. All the way, Blake remained silent, something I couldn’t read in his expression.
Seeing him like this, I recalled the look on his face in the morning. When he mentioned that Audrey didn’t show up in court and was reluctant to divorce, there was a sigh, yet also a sense of relief. Now, looking at his current state…
I clenched my fists so tightly that my fingernails dug into the palms of my hands.
Could it be that Blake isn’t as eager for this divorce as he claims?
The department head’s summons came the moment we reached the oncology floor, drawing Blake into his office with talk of test results and treatment protocol, while I walked toward Dr. Evans‘ desk.
“Dr. Evans.” I pitched my voice low. “About our discussion regarding that particular patient…”
Dr. Evans‘ response was cold and professional. “Yes, I spoke with her.” The barely concealed disgust in her tone made it clear exactly what she thought of my request.
“And is she still here? Actually, I’d so appreciate the chance to meet her.” My eyes flickered toward Blake’s silhouette in the department head’s office before returning to Evans.
“To see firsthand what someone in the final stages of gastric cancer experiences.”
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