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?

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

my friend a favor

clearly showed his anger. “That’s quite a convenient pattern of

Though fair warning – next

to Laurel. “I’m

Before he could respond, Ethan was already guiding me

in my mind. I stopped

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

and I had to explain to New York society why Blake Parker couldn’t honor a

was deliberate – let Blake make whatever assumptions he wanted. We

Laurel’s POV

disappeared down the corridor, something shifted in Blake’s expression. He took half a step forward, as if to

just enough. “The department head is

1/2

Chapter 58

schedule.

my condition… it should take precedence over her little performances, shouldn’t

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