The Colonel’s Claim: After the Divorce novel Chapter 9

Returning to the ward, Clara informed her parents about the hospital transfer.

Caleb hesitated, not wanting to be a burden to his daughter.

He knew perfectly well that her life with her in-laws over the past few years had been far from easy.

"Clara..."

Sarah chimed in, "Let's forget the transfer. Your dad is doing just fine here..."

How could Clara not see right through them?

Drowning in guilt, she stepped forward. "I've already contacted the doctors. It's decided, so please don't worry about me."

"You stubborn girl..." Sarah mumbled complaints, but her heart swelled with a bittersweet warmth.

...

The next day.

Shortly past ten in the morning.

Clara packed their belongings, handled the discharge paperwork, and took her parents to the airport.

What she never expected, however,

Was to run into Dominic, Stella, and Scarlett's entire entourage right outside the terminal.

The group stepped out of a stretched limousine. Dominic stood protectively beside Scarlett and Stella, shielding them from the flow of traffic with textbook chivalry.

It was an impossibly glamorous sight, drawing envious stares and whispered gasps from every passerby.

"What an aristocratic family. I'm so jealous."

"Right? That man is so incredibly attentive. He must be the perfect husband!"

"Totally agree. Look how elegant his wife and daughter are! You can just tell they are drowning in love."

"..."

A painful lump formed in Clara's throat. She dug her nails into her palms as she watched them stride toward the private jet terminal.

It was glaringly obvious that they were also flying back to New York City.

She should have guessed.

Dominic was so obsessed with Scarlett; how could he possibly let her grandmother suffer through the agony of illness?

He would undoubtedly secure the finest medical resources money could buy for Martha!

But as for Clara...

Stella hesitated and cast another glance toward the entrance. No one was there.

She must have imagined it.

She instantly relaxed. "I probably just saw it wrong!"

She had spent the entire night hanging out with Scarlett, eating amazing food and having the time of her life. She had completely forgotten the sting of not receiving a text from Clara.

She was actually thrilled Clara hadn't messaged her. Otherwise, Clara would have interrogated her about what she was doing and nagged her endlessly about spending time with Scarlett.

However...

When she woke up this morning without Clara there to wait on her hand and foot, she did feel a bit out of sorts.

But compared to being with Scarlett, she could easily endure the minor inconveniences.

After all, she could have her mom wait on her anytime, but hanging out with Scarlett was a rare treat!

At that thought, Stella beamed brightly once more.

"Dad, let's go!"

"Alright."

Dominic's elegant hand gently ruffled her hair.