The Queen They Buried

Chapter 204

The three had little education and barely understood the lawyers‘ jargon. But they were cooperative, doing exactly as Aubree instructed without question.

Birgitte arranged their accommodations per Aubree’s orders and scheduled a media interview for them.

After handling Logan’s family, Aubree headed to her therapy clinic.

This was her final session. The underground garage incident no longer haunted her, and her doctor had recommended one last evaluation to confirm her

recovery.

Her therapist was running late today. The nurse gestured for her to wait in the consultation room.

Feeling a bit thirsty, Aubree wanted to ask a passing nurse where she could get some water.

“Even with Christmas approaching, Dr. Wilson’s schedule stays packed.”

Two physicians chatted in the break room.

“Psychiatrists are still doctors. Holidays don’t mean much in our field.”

Daxton was her primary therapist. Aubree had no interest in eavesdropping, but just as she was about to step into the break room for some water, she overheard…

“Yeah, sometimes I wonder why I ever chose this field. Most people might find these odd cases fascinating, but for us, it’s just another day. We see them all the time.”

Perhaps thinking they were alone, the two doctors spoke rather indiscreetly.

“At least these people really have psychological issues. Remember that woman from years ago? Always came in covered head–to–toe?”

“How could I forget? She seemed perfectly normal. I never understood why Dr. Bender diagnosed her with severe PTSD, cognitive impairment, and all.

Wonder if she’s better now or…”

The doctor spoke with a hint of regret.

herself. The woman was all covered up, suffering

Could it be…

If Alice

breath and

came. She was totally fine. She just paid Dr. Bender off for

make themselves

she was probably some lady from Rithol’s elite circles. You know how twisted those wealthy families can be. Why else do you think Dr. Bender left the clinic the very next year? He was on track

woman be Alice?‘ Aubree

since realizing Alice had likely faked her breakdown, Aubree and Bowen had devoted considerable resources to investigating,

concrete.

Tue, 15

Chapter 204

the break room door. “Excuse

case?”

Aubree’s sudden intrusion. Patient confidentiality was crucial, and being caught gossiping made them instantly defensive. “Sorry, we really don’t know what

to her office?”

Why can’t I keep my mouth shut? If the director finds out

for.”

them. Pressing further would only make them shut

Dr. Bender…

filled her water cup, and returned to the consultation

incident no longer affects you.” Daxton,

brows, her face devoid

“What’s wrong, Miss Miller?”

“may I ask you

for a

become so affected that they can’t even recognize the people closest to

case

lost her daughter and developed PTSD, then adopted another girl, mistaking her for her lost child? Would she become so protective of the adopted daughter that, when her biological child is

didn’t know

as she, of course, realized who the story was about. After a thoughtful pause, she said, “While theoretically possible, my professional opinion leans against it. The mother’s trauma stems from losing her biological daughter. The adopted child would only ever be an emotional placeholder. When the real daughter returns, maternal instinct

was traumatic enough to cause such a breakdown, no substitute could ever compare to the real

she said, “there’s something else I’d like to ask. Do you know a Dr. Bender at this hospital? The one who nearly