That stab was far too vicious, a hair's breadth from taking Imogen's life. Stephan shuddered, unwilling to dwell on what might have happened had things gone even slightly worse. He glanced at his phone, a new message easing his tension. He pocketed the phone.
Meanwhile, a cab stopped outside the hospital. A slender figure paid the fare and stepped out. Her head was bowed, the brim of her oversized hat shadowing her face, revealing only a delicate chin. She walked purposefully into the hospital.
Her gaze was steady as she moved with familiarity. Passing a doctor's office, she casually took a white lab coat, removed her hat, and donned a mask. It was Felicia.
The bustling hospital presented no obstacle. A patient asked for directions; Felicia, possessing a sharp memory, recalled a hospital map she'd glimpsed and readily guided the patient.
“That way. Turn right; there’s an elevator.”
“Thank you,” the patient said.
“No problem,” Felicia replied, slipping her hands into her coat pockets.
As expected, guards stood at the ICU entrance. Felicia checked her reflection in a nearby ward's window; her disguised appearance—mask and wig—was inconspicuous. Approaching calmly, she raised no suspicion. The guards gave her a cursory glance. She swiped her access card, about to enter, when she heard footsteps. The guards straightened, bowing slightly, announcing, “Mr. Russell.”
Felicia didn't look back. Her movements were composed as she entered, changed into sterile shoes, and let the door close automatically. As it clicked shut, Stephan’s gaze lingered on her retreating figure.
Felicia's heart pounded. For a moment, she felt that gaze—sharp, heavy, oppressive—holding her in place, stealing her breath. She almost believed Stephan recognized her. But she slipped by unnoticed.
Relieved, Felicia followed Stanley's directions, easily finding Imogen in an ICU ward. The monitors showed stable vitals; the surgery had been successful. Maurice's knife, though deadly, had missed a vital spot by two inches, giving Imogen a chance.
Seeing Imogen safe, Felicia felt at ease. Turning to leave quietly, she bumped into something solid—a wall of muscle. A familiar scent filled her senses. Before she could react, an arm encircled her waist.
Felicia's heart leaped as she looked up into Stephan's deep, dark, unfathomable eyes.