The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 173

“Right away. I'll contact Dr. Ashford immediately,” David’s voice was a pillar of reliability. “Get packed. We’ll stay in touch on the road.”

“Thank you.”

Ending the call, Evelyn packed with ruthless efficiency. The manila folder went into her carry-on backpack, the laptop was snapped shut, and a few basic clothes and toiletries were shoved into a small suitcase. Her movements were sharp and entirely devoid of wasted energy.

She took one last look around the safe house bedroom. Outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, the African savanna was bathed in glorious sunlight. But all she could picture was the glaring red light above an ICU door at St. Jude’s Medical Center.

Dragging her suitcase, Evelyn opened the door.

The hallway was so quiet she could hear her own footsteps. As she hurried toward the elevator, she nearly collided with someone rounding the corner.

“Dr. Rose?” Kamal stepped aside, eyeing her suitcase in surprise. “Are you...? The opening ceremony doesn't conclude until this afternoon. Dr. Ashford just called to say he hoped to have dinner with you tonight...”

“Family emergency. I have to fly back to New York immediately,” Evelyn explained briefly. “I apologize for the sudden departure. I don't have time for a proper goodbye. Please give Dr. Ashford my apologies and thank him for his hospitality these past few days.”

Kamal immediately stood taller. “You are too kind. Dr. Ashford will certainly understand.” He picked up on the severe chill in her expression and asked carefully, “Do you need us to arrange transport to the airport? Is there anything else we can do?”

“No, my car is already on its way,” Evelyn shook her head, her voice calm but issuing clear instructions. “If anyone asks where I went, tell them I left for a family emergency. Do not disclose my destination. It’s not directed at anyone specifically—just a critical situation that doesn't need to be publicized.”

Kamal clearly understood the implication and nodded. “Understood. I will handle it. Have a safe journey, and I hope your family recovers swiftly.”

“Thank you.”

The elevator doors chimed open, and Evelyn stepped inside, giving Kamal a brief nod. The metal doors slid shut, cutting off the last sliver of hallway light.

---

Outside the main building of the safe house, the familiar dark gray SUV was waiting.

The driver's door popped open, and David hurried out. He was still wearing that slightly faded khaki jacket, his face stoic, his eyes radiating quiet competence.

“Ms. Sullivan.” He took her suitcase. “Dr. Ashford has everything sorted. There’s a direct flight from Savannah Hub to New York taking off in an hour. He pulled some heavy strings with the global aviation network to secure a premium cabin seat. Commercial flights are totally booked solid right now.”

“I owe Dr. Ashford,” Evelyn said, slipping into the passenger seat. “And thank you for this, David.”

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