"That twisted?" Cedric Clarke whistled, shaking his head. "Isn't that just your clone?"

Stewart shot him a withering look, brow furrowing.

He instinctively glanced at Briony.

Briony's expression was calm and composed. "Since the kid's alright, I'll be heading out."

Stewart jumped in, "Let me drive you."

"No need. Stay here and look after the child." Briony turned to Cedric Clarke. "Dr. Clarke, if you're free, could we have a word?"

Cedric Clarke scratched the bridge of his nose, already knowing what she wanted to discuss-Stella.

"Sure," he replied.

Outside the hospital, in a small park, Briony and Cedric Clarke sat together in a gazebo.

Cedric handed her a bottle of water.

She took it with a polite "Thanks."

He twisted open his own bottle, took a long swig, and let out a heavy sigh.

Briony studied him in the clear sunlight, noticing for the first time how much weight he'd lost and the dark circles under his eyes.

contact

my number. I tried calling from a different phone, but as soon as she heard

"Why's it so bad

asking me?" Cedric gave a bitter laugh.

to visit her

Cedric looked surprised.

more than once not to give you her address, but honestly, I don't think there's any

hesitated. "When are

"Wednesday."

frowned, silent

continued, "Think it over. If you decide to come with me, give me

"Alright."

stood. "I'll

her for a moment,

stopped and

and Maynard-have you really decided

you up

Cedric explained, "He hasn't mentioned it

Maynard like that,"

you'd rush into something for the kid's sake and

but laugh.

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255