A Widow's Poison, A Wife's Rebellion novel Chapter 232

The dial tone droned in Brinley's ear as she gnawed on her lip, nearly drawing blood. The maid, Sally, handed her a glass of water. "Here, Miss."

Brinley took the glass, her eyes falling on the woman Harriet had sent to her before leaving.

Sally was from the Seabrook family, not the Yelchins. Her mother had known that with her business in trouble, her standing in the Yelchin family would be precarious. It was true; Darleen's attitude toward her had cooled considerably ever since the bad news from Yoran Country broke.

Brinley took a sip of water. "Should I give the baby to Starla now?" she asked.

Sally shook her head slightly. "Wait a little longer."

"I don't think we need to. As long as she and Fairfax get divorced, that's all that matters."

"Plenty of couples get divorced and then remarry," Sally reminded her.

Brinley's face hardened.

"You've taken a huge risk this time, Miss," Sally continued. "The goal isn't just their divorce. It's to ensure they can never get back together."

"That's right," Brinley agreed. "They can't be allowed to reconcile."

"Fairfax already believes Starla took the child. That has already driven a huge wedge between them," Sally pointed out. This was different from their previous squabbles. By believing Starla capable of kidnapping a baby, Fairfax was branding her as a cruel and vicious woman.

At the mention of her child's condition, a flicker of pain crossed Brinley's face. Why did both of them have to suffer? Her son's health had already worn her down, and now her daughter…

"We've received word that Fairfax has given an ultimatum," Sally added. "If he doesn't see the baby by morning, he's going to call the police himself. That's why Starla's so desperate."

The news that Fairfax was prepared to involve the police sent a thrill of triumph through Brinley, chasing away her momentary sorrow. It seemed Fairfax was finally ready to give up on Starla. Gambling with her own child had been the right move after all.

...

Meanwhile, Fairfax had arrived at the hospital. The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, and he stepped out, his expression imperious. Gabriel followed a respectful step behind as they walked towards Brinley's room.