Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem ( Elysia and Tarquin) novel Chapter 801

Elysia Thorne and Tarquin Bradford were leaving the island in three days, rounding off a week-long escape from the hustle and bustle of their lives.

Just as they stepped into the hospital, Tarquin's phone buzzed with a call from Axel. Whatever Axel said, it cast a shadow over Tarquin's face, his expression darkening in an instant.

"…I got it. We'll talk face to face in a bit," Tarquin muttered before hanging up. He paused, furrowing his brows in thought before composing himself and returning to the hospital room.

Elysia was surrounded by their children, cherishing the reunion after a week apart. Elliot lay on the hospital bed, a gentle smile on his face. Elijah sat beside him, stoic yet with eyes sparkling as he looked at Elysia. Emmett was nestled in Elysia's arms, being his charming self. Evan stood beside her, animatedly sharing the week's adventures, his hands flying as he spoke.

Tarquin approached, feigning nonchalance, "Kids, stick with mom; I've got to swing by the office."

Elysia looked up, concerned, "Something wrong at work?"

"Just need to sort out some work stuff; it's nothing to worry about. I'll be back soon."

Elysia didn't press further, "Alright, just call if you're not back for dinner."

"Will do."

With a quick peck on Elysia's forehead and a ruffle of Emmett's hair, Tarquin was out the door, his demeanor shifting the moment he stepped out of the room.

Axel was waiting downstairs. As soon as Tarquin got into the car, he asked, "When did it happen?"

"Any leads on who it might be?" Tarquin pressed, his voice tight.

"Keith."

Tarquin's expression darkened at the mention of the name. Axel explained, "Declan left a voice message before he died, mentioning Keith."

He played the message. Declan's voice filled the car, urgent and breathless, "Boss, tell Tarquin I stumbled upon Keith's secret. Keith, he's got a girl—"

The message cut off abruptly. Axel sighed, "Declan wanted to make amends, went after Keith alone to uncover his secrets. It's unclear if he meant a girlfriend or a daughter, but if it's the latter, Keith could very well be our prime suspect."