Divorce Him, Then Dazzle novel Chapter 81

The news left the couple completely stunned. Latonia didn’t waste a second, gently supporting Camilla as they walked away together.

Just by watching how her parents acted around her, anyone could guess what Camilla’s life had been like. She’d been a straight-A kid who earned her way forward, and still they’d never given her warmth. Having their own daughter there for comparison only made things worse.

And now she was married to Daniel, forced to go through this mess. It felt unfair, like every hardship the world could throw had ended up at her feet.

Latonia blinked hard, fighting the burn behind her eyes. She’d always been a strong, capable woman, tough enough to handle plenty of tough cases. But something about Camilla got to her, pulling at her heart in a way no one else had.

It wasn’t just the things Camilla had endured. It was Camilla herself.

At the police station, they went over all the necessary paperwork for the day. The same officer told Latonia they were moving forward with the domestic-violence and assault report—Daniel had been violent, and Camilla had visible injuries. No matter what, he wouldn’t get away with it. He would be held accountable.

After they left the station, Latonia brought Camilla straight to a private clinic. Camilla had no idea the doctor treating her was Galen, the same person who’d given her an IV on the yacht. Latonia didn’t realize the two had met before either. She’d just figured the hospital would mean endless red tape, while Galen was skilled and his clinic was quiet. That made things quicker, less stressful.

Camilla was burning up—102°F. She felt dazed and weak, falling straight asleep the second she lay on the hospital bed. Nurses moved around, quietly setting up her IV.

Latonia called Catheleen, asking her to come keep an eye on Camilla.

Meanwhile, Galen was in his office on the phone with Lambert. Before long, someone knocked softly on Camilla’s door.

Latonia thought Catheleen must’ve gotten there in record time. She walked over and opened the door. “Wow, you’re really…"

Her words stuck in her throat. Standing outside was Lambert.

Latonia quickly glanced at the bed—Camilla was still out cold. Lowering her voice, she asked, “You really just show up now? I don’t even need to make up an excuse for you anymore?”

Lambert’s gaze was serious. “How is she? Did she wake up?”

“Not yet,” Latonia answered, then cocked her head, catching on. “Did Galen call you?”

Latonia shrugged. “I don’t have much time anyway. I’ve got a case coming up and have to leave. That’s why I called Catheleen.”

“You think Catheleen can handle it?” Lambert didn’t bother hiding his skepticism.

“Come on, I’ve got a job too, you know. Besides, what makes you think I know more about taking care of people than Catheleen?”

“You’re older than her,” he pointed out.

Latonia rolled her eyes. “Doesn’t matter if I’m ten years older. Catheleen’s her friend. She’ll relax more with her around.”

Lambert finally seemed to settle down, his tense expression softening a little.

“While she’s still asleep, why not take another look?” Latonia said with a teasing smile. “I’m heading out.”