Chapter 267
A small hospital near the film set was Paisley’s destination. “Minor stitching,” she’d told the paramedics, but Dominick’s injured hand paled beside her head wound. The paramedic hesitated. Small hospitals lacked the resources for serious head injuries. Paisley signed a waiver, leaving them no choice.
In the treatment room, two doctors worked separately. Paisley and Dominick remained calm amidst the doctors’ nervous energy. Once patched up, Paisley called Maria. "Rest, sweetheart. I'll be home soon," she soothed Serena, unusually clingy. She hung up, noticing repeated missed calls from an unknown number. A message arrived – a photo from Sheela.
The picture showed a man in work clothes near the fallen stage light, his actions unclear. Paisley recognized him – the man who’d awkwardly claimed to be "passing by" before filming. Suspicion flared. She called Sheela back; she answered instantly. "Ms. Sutton, are you okay?"
"Fine," Paisley replied. "Why the suspicion?"
Sheela’s voice tightened. "I saw him up on the rigging after everyone left. Right above where you were sitting." A chill ran down Paisley’s spine. Had the light fallen then, it would have struck her. She'd been moved from her usual seat near Gary. She hadn't noticed until now.
"Ms. Sutton," Sheela’s voice was grave, "This was an attempt to harm you."
Paisley remained calm. "I'll handle this. Don't do anything rash." This was bigger than Sheela needed to be involved.
"I understand," Sheela agreed. "I'll support you."
Paisley hung up, just as Gary and the crew arrived, panicked. Dominick emerged from the treatment room, fixing Gary with a lethal glare. Gary stammered, "Ms. Vaire, are you alright?"
"Fine," she said, knowing his fear. A serious injury would halt production, ending Gary's career.
Relieved they were unharmed, Gary pleaded, "Please, let's drop this." Dominick's unspoken threat hung heavy. The production couldn't afford another delay. Gary promised full insurance coverage for both Paisley and Dominick.
Dominick, unconcerned with money, was furious. The accident – or was it? – gnawed at him. He couldn't simply let it go.