A Caged Songbird's Escape: Into the Arms of a Predator novel Chapter 30

Chapter 30

Carmela was as collected as ever, though her expression had grown noticeably colder. “You’re still officially part of the Atwater family. The Murphys will show us at least a little respect, don’t you think?”

Elissa’s fingers clenched tightly at her side. When she met Carmela’s gaze, a flicker of confusion crossed her face.

“If Matriarch Paige Murphy really cared about you, why did she sabotage your job at St. Jude’s Hospital back then?”

Carmela didn’t wait for an answer. “I’ve seen you come back from Murphy Manor more than once, barely able to walk straight.”

Elissa froze, her entire body tensing. Her eyes drifted slowly toward Edna, who was hovering not far away.

gaze darted away, guilt written all over her face.

Edna’s gaze

In that moment, everything clicked for Elissa. All those years she’d tried to put on a brave front–Carmela had seen right through it. But clever people like Carmela never call out the truth until the moment’s absolutely necessary.

Elissa’s face went pale. She released her clenched fists and, almost out of spite, found herself pushing back. “How long is this ‘temporary‘ arrangement you mentioned supposed to last?”

“I’ll arrange it as soon as possible.”

“Five hundred thousand.”

“What did you say?”

Elissa, ignoring Carmela’s shock, replied in a calm, even voice. “Both houses on Juniper Road. And five hundred thousand in cash.”

Elissa got up to see her out. “And the divorce papers…?”

“I’ll have someone bring them over when they’re ready.”

Carmela, still fuming, tossed the words over her shoulder and clicked out the door in her

heels.

Elissa let out a long breath of relief. When she turned around, she found Frank looking at her, confusion written on his face.

“Divorce papers?”