A Caged Songbird's Escape: Into the Arms of a Predator novel Chapter 314

Despite his words, there was no trace of arrogance in Jesse’s tone—just genuine gratitude.

At that moment, Tristan seized on Jesse’s suggestion. “Why don’t you two just exchange WhatsApp info? That way, it'll be easier to keep in touch about your mother’s condition.”

Elissa didn’t seem to mind. She glanced at Jesse, unconcerned.

Jesse wasn’t fond of adding strangers to his WhatsApp list, but seeing there was no polite way out, he took out his phone and said courteously, “Ms. Drummond, would you mind?”

Elissa smiled. “Of course not.”

Once their phones were connected, Elissa exchanged a look with Aaron, then pressed her lips together and said, “We’ll step outside for now. Mr. Jesse, just reach out to me when you’re settled.”

“Ms. Drummond—”

Suzanne’s hands were clenched tightly around the arms of her wheelchair. She couldn’t help but blurt out, “Did you grow up here in Vistapeak City?”

The question caught everyone in the lounge off guard.

Elissa’s answer was noncommittal. “More or less.”

She had only arrived in Vistapeak City at the age of five. By most reckoning, that counted as growing up here.

Jesse, worried his mother might ask something even more intrusive, quickly interjected, “Ms. Drummond, I’ll walk you out.”

“Alright.”

Elissa had wanted a word with him anyway. Once they were out in the hallway, she turned to Jesse. “Mr. Jesse, Mrs. Wilkinson’s legs—were her injuries the result of a serious fall?”

She didn’t say it outright, but she knew.

Back in the lounge, it was obvious: Tristan and Suzanne had a strong marriage, and none of their four children seemed reckless or troublesome. So why would Suzanne be driven to such despair?

Jesse studied her for a moment, then promised in a clear, steady voice, “You’ll still take your fee. And as for what you want to investigate—so long as it’s nothing illegal or immoral, I’ll help you.”

Elissa was a little startled by his candor and straightforwardness, but she didn’t protest further. “Thank you, Mr. Jesse.”

Once Elissa and her companions were gone, Jesse turned back into the lounge.

Inside, Suzanne had dissolved into tears again. Tristan wrapped an arm around her shoulders, murmuring soothing words. “Suzanne, I know that seeing a girl about our youngest’s age always brings back memories for you.”

“If you’d like, I can talk to Dr. Blaine again—have him treat you himself, alright?”

“No!”

Suzanne jerked her head up, her sobs wracking her frame. “I want her to help me, Tristan. Don’t you think she looks so much like our Vera?”