A Caged Songbird's Escape: Into the Arms of a Predator novel Chapter 585

Suzanne immediately understood. Her daughter didn't just want to shatter Carmela's dreams; she wanted to publicly humiliate her.

Though Suzanne was usually mild-mannered, she wasn't a pushover. She simply cautioned, "Just make sure Elissa doesn't get dragged into it."

Carmela was a spiteful woman who might lash out at Elissa when pushed into a corner.

Laurel nodded confidently. "Don't worry about that."

Suzanne remained anxious. "Any news on Jesse's DNA test?"

"I'll tell you the second I hear anything."

Laurel knew her mother was desperate for the results. She was anxious too, but international shipping took time. Coincidentally, the lab had estimated the results would arrive on the day of the Gala.

If everything aligned perfectly, they could handle the revenge and the reunion all at once. Her sister would come home in absolute glory.

Dawn was just breaking when Elissa bolted awake, her mind plagued by thoughts of Jacqueline's poisoning.

Finding the space beside her empty, she glanced at the time. Hearing a faint sound from the bathroom, she exhaled, relieved. She had almost thought Rowan hadn't slept at all.

She pushed the curtains open just as Rowan stepped out of the bathroom, looking refreshed. "Sleep okay?"

"Not bad," she nodded. "Is it okay if I go see Mr. Whitman at the institute today?"

"Of course. I need to head to the office anyway, so we'll go together." He placed a tie in her hands, affectionately ruffling her hair. "Help me with this?"

Elissa didn't refuse, though it had been so long since she had tied a man's tie that her mind went blank.

Rowan leaned down, his gaze softening as he guided her hands, looping the fabric. "Forgot? I'll show you."

"Okay."

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