Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 85

"I never announced that Serena is the CEO's wife."

Frederick froze, bewildered. "?"

Aaron took a sip of his drink, and in fragmented sentences, recounted the events of the evening to Frederick.

Frederick listened, his mind in disarray. He was torn between chastising Aaron for once again leaving the celebration for Cynthia Lynwood and asking about Serena and William's situation.

"...So," Frederick pressed his aching temples, "what do you plan to do next?"

In Frederick's opinion, given how things had escalated, it was better to let Serena go. Otherwise, their relationship might become even more strained.

Aaron downed his drink silently. His deep eyes were fixed on the bar, and his long fingers clenched the glass so tightly that it shattered, yet he remained oblivious.

...

The next morning.

Serena got up and, not seeing Aaron downstairs, felt relieved as she headed to the dining room for breakfast. After eating, she didn't rush upstairs as usual. Instead, she sat on the couch and turned on the TV.

She had agreed to meet William at eleven. It was only a little after eight now, so she had over two hours to spare.

At that moment—

Her phone rang. It was an unfamiliar number.

Serena hesitated before answering.

"Is this Miss Sullivan? I'm Dr. Owens, the physician who treated you for your stomach issues during your last hospital visit. Do you remember me?"

"What can I do for you?"

"Here's the thing. I happened to come across your test results today, and your condition seems a bit complicated. Could you come to the hospital for another check-up?"

"But..."

"Miss Sullivan, this water is special, developed by our hospital. It not only quenches thirst but also nourishes the body. You should try it," the nurse suggested.

"No, thank you," Serena declined.

Again, the doctor and nurse exchanged a glance. This time, the nurse quietly moved to the door and closed it.

Hearing the door close, Serena turned, her instincts flaring up, but she remained composed. "Why did you close the door?"

"It's noisy outside," the nurse said, moving closer to Serena with her hands behind her back. She raised one hand to reveal a syringe glinting under the light.

Serena quickly dodged to the side, grabbing a chair as she moved. "What are you trying to do?"

She didn't recognize either the doctor or the nurse.

"Apologies," the doctor said, standing up and picking up a golf club. "This is on Mr. Vance's orders."