"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 with

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

"Why's it so bad

Cedric gave a bitter laugh. "I wish I

to visit her next

Cedric looked surprised.

address, but honestly, I don't think there's any deep-seated issue between you two-it's

hesitated. "When

"Wednesday."

silent for

over. If you decide to come with me, give me a call

"Alright."

stood. "I'll be

her for a moment, then suddenly stood too.

stopped and turned

Maynard-have you really decided to

put you up

Cedric explained, "He hasn't mentioned it at all—I

not with Maynard like that," Briony

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

help but laugh. "Give

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