Chapter 97

Lauren’s smile froze. "Paisley?"

Heads snapped towards the elevator. A stunning woman, jeans and t-shirt, backpack slung over a high ponytail, stepped out. Sharp features, smooth skin, eyes both defiant and detached.

"Paisley! What are you doing here?" Kayla's voice exploded. She looked ready to lose it.

Only a few of the Vanderbilts knew Paisley, Dominick's ex-wife. Some knew he'd been married; others knew nothing.

Marissa froze. This was the last thing she expected. What's she doing here? she thought. Did she find out about Paul? This was supposed to be a secret.

Fighting panic, Marissa hissed at Kayla, "Keep it down! This is a hospital!" We can't let Dom see her, she thought.

"But seriously," Kayla whispered, jabbing a finger at Paisley, "what's she doing here?"

Reginald watched Paisley with narrowed eyes, assessing her.

Marissa, confirming Dom hadn't heard, plastered on a smile. "Ms. Sutton," she purred, "are you lost? The general ward is on a different floor."

"I'm here to see someone." Paisley brushed past her, heading for the consultation rooms. This was the floor Charles had mentioned. She usually had Charles pick her up, but he was old. This time, she'd come alone. She hadn't expected to run into the Vanderbilts. Is someone here critically ill? she wondered.

Marissa's heart sank as Paisley headed towards Paul's room. She blocked Paisley's path. "Who are you here to see? Because I'm pretty sure no one's here for you."

"For crying out loud, Paisley, just leave!" Lauren's contempt was palpable. "You and my son are divorced!"

Paisley rubbed her temples. She tried to sidestep them.

"Hold it right there!" Kayla roared, ignoring Marissa's warning.

"What's all the noise?" Dominick emerged, radiating fury. "This is a hospital! Take your drama outside."

Chapter 98