A Caged Songbird's Escape: Into the Arms of a Predator novel Chapter 318

On the other end of the line, the person was so furious they hurled their phone across the room.

Matriarch Paige Murphy slammed her hand on the dining table with a thunderous bang, her jaw clenched so tightly her knuckles turned white. “Rowan throws her a little celebration for her so-called accomplishment, and now she thinks she’s already some bigshot inventor?”

“She doesn’t even bother to answer my calls anymore?!”

That very morning, she’d received confirmation that Elissa was finally divorced from Frank.

That wretched girl had actually managed to fool her last time.

Seething with rage, Paige had wasted no time in contacting the Crest family, arranging for Elissa to meet their fourth son over lunch today—determined to marry her off as soon as possible.

But who could have predicted that not only did Elissa hang up on Butler Murphy, she even rejected Paige’s own call!

Where did she get that kind of nerve?

Butler Murphy was just as baffled by Elissa’s sudden rebellion. After a moment’s thought, he ventured, “Maybe the eldest young master is backing her up now, that’s why she—”

“Rowan? Supporting her?” Paige sneered, her voice dripping with scorn. “She’s divorced! Rowan tossed her aside before; do you really believe he’d care for a divorced woman now?”

Besides, all she wanted was to arrange a marriage for Elissa. It’s not like she was sending her to the gallows.

Butler Murphy hesitated. “Should I try calling her again—?”

“Don’t bother!” Paige’s eyes flashed coldly. “Find out where she is.”

As long as they could track Elissa down before noon, this marriage would be set in stone.

—

Elissa had just finished breakfast and changed her clothes when her phone rang. It was Jesse.

Elissa parked at the gate and was about to ring the bell when Rex opened the door and stepped out.

She greeted him with a warm nod. “Rex.”

“I’m heading to the hospital for a bit,” he said, clearly trusting her skills. “My mother’s in your hands.”

“Dr. Drummond’s here?” Jesse had noticed the arrival and came out to welcome her with practiced courtesy. “Please, come in. I’ve prepared everything you mentioned on the phone.”

Earlier, Elissa had told him what was needed for acupuncture: a sunny room, a small bed, and some cotton balls soaked in alcohol for sterilization.

“Perfect,” she nodded, following him inside.

As they reached the foyer, Elissa overheard Suzanne softly instructing the housekeeper, “Besides the fruit platter, bring out some pastries too. Young ladies usually like those.”

A gentle warmth filled Elissa’s heart. If her own mother hadn’t died in that accident, maybe she’d be fretting over what treats her daughter liked to eat, too.