Chapter 404

Kieran Blackwood frowned. "He's never visited the office?"

"Not once," a coworker confirmed. "That's why most of us assume Ms. Sinclair is divorced. It's been over six months, and she hasn't mentioned a husband even in passing."

"Exactly."

The logic was sound.

If Isabella Sinclair were still married, would Sebastian Ashford dare to pursue her so openly?

Yet Kieran couldn't shake his unease. The idea that Isabella had ever been married had never crossed his mind.

As he sat lost in thought, Isabella approached. "Is something wrong?"

He wanted to ask, Is it true you were married?

But this was the workplace. Personal questions—especially to a superior—were inappropriate. One slip might be forgiven, but pushing further would cross a line.

Snapping back to reality, he forced a smile. "Nothing. Just thinking."

That afternoon, Isabella's phone rang.

After hanging up, she informed Nathaniel Graves before leaving. "I might not be in until tomorrow afternoon. Can you cover the morning meeting?"

"Of course." He studied her. "Everything alright?"

"My mother has a medical appointment. I want to accompany her."

Nathaniel, unaware of Evelyn Sinclair's declining health, assumed it was routine. "Go ahead. I'll handle things here."

Isabella nodded and left.

The next morning, Isabella arrived at the hospital with Margaret and Caroline Sinclair.

Even there, they kept their distance, careful not to let Evelyn spot them.

During the examinations, Evelyn grew increasingly agitated, thrashing like a wild animal. Multiple nurses had to restrain her for each procedure.

After ten grueling tests, Evelyn finally left with the care home staff.

Margaret, exhausted herself, departed soon after. Isabella stayed behind with the doctor to await results.

Most reports wouldn't be ready until afternoon—some not until tomorrow. But the preliminary findings were concerning.

Isabella's stomach dropped as the doctor explained.

She thanked him and turned to leave. But as she stepped into the hospital lobby, a child's voice called out:

"Mommy!"

Isabella froze. Her fingers clenched around her purse strap.

She considered pretending not to hear—until Sophia Whitmore dashed over and wrapped her arms around Isabella's waist.

"Mommy!"

Isabella turned slightly. She opened her mouth—then spotted Alexander Whitmore watching from the crowd.

She looked away, focusing on Sophia. Hearing the girl cough, she asked softly, "Are you sick?"

Sophia nodded, coughing again before looking up. "Mommy, why are you here? Are you sick?"

"No, sweetheart." Isabella touched her forehead. "Do you have a fever?"

"Last night, but it's gone now." Without waiting, Sophia hugged her tighter and glanced at Alexander approaching. She pouted. "I wanted to call you to come with us, but Daddy said you were busy."

Isabella kept her eyes averted from Alexander.

"I am busy. But I'm glad you're feeling better." She hesitated. "Why come to the hospital? What about Dr. Whitmore?"

For minor illnesses, their family doctor usually sufficed.

Alexander spoke up then. "We're here for comprehensive checkups."

Isabella didn't ask why.

Sophia clung to her excitedly. "Mommy, I don't have school today! Can I visit Grandma with you?"