To Love a Shadow, To Be the Sun novel Chapter 46

Summer realized she was already planning her steps toward divorce.

She was doing everything she could to distance herself from Brian—protecting herself from any retaliation he might unleash when the time came.

Such a loyal friend. If only she'd pushed her sooner, maybe they wouldn't have lost touch for those four long years.

As soon as Elara disappeared into the lab, Summer pulled out her phone and made a call.

It rang several times before someone finally picked up.

"I'm busy. Make it quick," came the curt greeting.

"I need a small favor."

...

On her first day back at work, Elara eased into her surroundings with surprising speed.

Despite her four-year absence from the lab, she'd kept up with the field—every new research report, every breakthrough, she absorbed like a sponge.

She felt sharp and energized at work, but the moment she stepped back into Platinum Bay, a dull ache started behind her eyes.

One look at the car in the driveway, and she knew Brian was home too.

No business dinner tonight?

He's back this early?

She stepped inside and caught him just as he was coming downstairs. He'd just showered, a crisp scent of cedar lingering on his clothes.

"Change clothes after dinner. You're coming with me to the hospital."

That was all he said before heading straight for the dining room.

Brian was always like this when he was busy: direct, no time for small talk.

Mrs. Archer, though, greeted her with a beaming smile. "How was your first day, dear? Did you enjoy yourself?"

Elara straightened up, managing a tired smile. "It was good."

Mrs. Archer's smile widened. She lowered her voice conspiratorially, "To celebrate your first day, I made a few extra dishes. You have to eat plenty tonight."

A sudden warmth flickered in Elara's chest.

Who would have thought that in this cold, empty house, the only person who truly cared for her was the housekeeper—and not her own husband…

A wave of bitterness threatened to rise, but Elara forced it back with a wry, internal laugh.

He never loved you, she reminded herself. So what exactly are you hoping for?

In the dining room, Brian looked genuinely surprised by the spread of dishes.

But Elara's tension didn't ease. "How long will it take, at the latest?"

Brian assumed she was just worried about her grandfather's health.

He thought for a moment. "Within a week, most likely."

A week wouldn't interfere with her plans for separation.

"Thanks," she said quietly, dropping her gaze to her plate.

She didn't know why, but her distance suddenly made Brian lose his appetite.

After dinner, the air was heavy and warm. Elara changed into a simple, sand-colored linen dress, and they drove to the hospital together.

"Nanette's been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Her surgery is being scheduled. As family, we should go see her. If you're uncomfortable, you don't need to say anything—leave it to me."

Elara heard the warning in his tone and nodded obediently.

When they got out of the car, Brian popped the trunk and pulled out several boxes of the usual get-well gifts, then a small jewelry bag.

The familiar Tiffany logo gleamed on the bag.

Jewelry, as a hospital gift?

Elara forced herself not to speculate and looked away.