A Caged Songbird's Escape: Into the Arms of a Predator novel Chapter 261

"That's right,"

Janice said thoughtfully, choosing her words with care. "My grandson, I’m not sure what’s gotten into him, but he’d really like to meet you. He hasn’t told me the details, but do you think you could come by my house in a couple of days if you have time?"

Maybe sensing Elissa’s hesitation, she quickly added, "Don’t worry, he’s not the fickle type. I think he just wants to get to know you, that’s all."

This actually didn’t bother Elissa. She’d always believed in leading by example.

Mrs. Garrett was a truly good woman—there was no way her grandson would turn out poorly.

Still, right now, her own situation was beyond her control. "Mrs. Garrett, I’m not sure if I’ll have time to drop by. How about I get in touch after things settle down on my end?"

"Of course, dear."

Janice agreed immediately, but her concern lingered. "Elissa, is everything all right? If you’re in any trouble, you must let me know."

Elissa felt a warmth in her chest. "Really, I’m fine. You don’t need to worry."

She could tell Janice came from a wealthy family, but in Vistapeak City, only Rowan could keep Frank’s influence in check.

She didn’t want to drag anyone else into the mess.

Finally reassured, Janice was willing to end the call. "Well, I’ll let you go then. But whenever you’re free, you’re always welcome at my place."

"Thank you."

Elissa had barely finished replying when someone knocked on her bedroom door—a sudden interruption. As she crossed the room, Edna’s voice called from the other side, "Ma’am, it’s me—Edna. Not Mr. Frank."

Elissa paused for a moment, then opened the door. "You know, I divorced Frank a long time ago. You can just call me Elissa."

Edna had been present the first time she and Carmela had come to an agreement about this.

"...All right."

Edna hesitated, then offered her a glass of warm milk and a slice of strawberry cake. "Mr. Frank said you probably didn’t eat enough tonight. He knows you don’t want to see him, so he asked me to bring this up for you."

"Even if you’re upset, you shouldn’t take it out on your health," Edna added, unable to hold back her concern.

Elissa didn’t bother answering. "Can I go out today?"

She was planning to visit Rivercross Residence to figure out what was going on.

"You can," Frank replied.

He stepped closer, gently tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. "I’ve arranged lunch with Bradley Wheeler and some others. You should come along."

"I have other plans," Elissa replied coolly, shutting him down.

Frank didn’t seem the least bit annoyed. As if he hadn’t even heard her refusal, he nodded toward the dining room. "Let’s have breakfast first."

Elissa felt a wave of frustration, like throwing a punch into a pillow.

She decided there was no point in being polite anymore. Angry, she said, "I told you, I have something else to do. Frank, if you keep this up, I don’t mind calling Rowan right now..."

In truth, she wasn’t sure anyone would even answer, but she figured Frank would at least be wary of the threat.