The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1940

Laurel's voice was flat. "Even if he kills me, I'm going to tell you everything I know. If even you can't figure out a way to save him, then nobody else stands a chance."

Stella said softly, "I don't want to just give up on Joshua."

Laurel corrected her. "It's not giving up. It's saving him."

Stella fell silent.

Naturally, Laurel understood her inner turmoil. Softening her tone, she tried to offer a shred of comfort.

"We still have three months. If we can actually find another way, maybe..."

Always rational and clear-headed, Laurel found herself unable to finish the sentence. The chances of finding a cure were abysmally thin.

A while later, Dr. Winter arrived.

Seeing Laurel, Joshua didn't say a word. Stella had already given him a heads-up that she wanted Laurel to observe as well.

Laurel exchanged a few words with Dr. Winter and quickly realized the woman was genuinely professional and skilled.

Whenever Dr. Winter conducted a session, Stella usually stepped out to avoid distracting her. Laurel followed Stella out of the room.

Inside, Joshua sat in his chair, watching Dr. Winter prep her equipment. Suddenly, he spoke up. "Dr. Winter, have we met before?"

The pen in Dr. Winter's hand paused. She looked up, her blue eyes meeting his with a confused expression.

"I don't have any recollection of you, Mr. Gardner."

Joshua leaned back in his chair, his tone dangerously casual.

"I know exactly what you're capable of, better than anyone. You're just in this for the fame and the money, and I don't mind playing along for a few acts."

He narrowed his dark eyes, a faint, predatory smile playing on his lips.

"Instinct," Joshua said simply.

Dr. Winter looked intrigued. "Instinct?"

"I may not have any hard evidence, but my instincts have never been wrong."

Dr. Winter nodded, showing not a trace of anger or surprise.

"Many patients struggle to trust their doctors. It's a completely normal phenomenon."

Joshua didn't bother arguing with her. His only goal was to put her on notice—he had his eyes on her, and she needed to watch her step.

...

Meanwhile, shortly after Joshua's session began, Stella turned to Laurel. "Ms. Quinn, I left something in my room. I'm going to run up and grab it. Could you keep an eye on things here for a moment? I'll be right back."