A Caged Songbird's Escape: Into the Arms of a Predator novel Chapter 477

Or rather, she just wasn't very eager to have too much private interaction with a man like Sean Cross.

During their last encounter, he had intentionally or unintentionally probed for information, which had kept her on guard ever since.

"Alright."

Cliff could vaguely guess her reservations and didn't try to guilt-trip her into doing it as a favor.

However, he did share what little he knew. "I found a chance to ask my parents about it recently. Sean Cross is indeed an old friend of theirs. Even though he's been abroad all these years, they've kept in touch regularly."

As he spoke, Cliff pushed a plate of sweet and sour ribs—Elissa's favorite—closer to her.

Elissa smiled, feeling her internal tension ease slightly. "That's good to hear."

"I'm only telling you this so you don't overthink it and stress yourself out."

Cliff added a gentle reminder, "But still, it's always best to be careful."

His words grounded Elissa. She let out a light laugh. "You don't mind that I'm not doing this favor for your parents?"

"What are you talking about?"

Cliff chuckled. "You're the doctor, and he's the patient. Unless it's an extreme emergency, your comfort and willingness always come first."

House calls were entirely outside of Elissa's professional obligations.

If she agreed, it was a favor.

If she refused, it was perfectly justified.

What Elissa hadn't expected, however, was that even though she refused, Sean Cross would take the initiative to find her himself.

After lunch, she drove to Zephyr Manor.

Suzanne Jensen knew she was coming and was already waiting in the yard, taking the opportunity to get some sun as instructed by her doctor.

They had barely made it through the door and were heading for the elevator when a commotion erupted near the entryway.

"Mom!"

Before they even turned around, two voices called out in unison.

Elissa turned the wheelchair, only to see Marcia and Maya Wilkinson walking in one after the other.

When Marcia looked at Elissa, there wasn't a trace of provocation on her face—only deep apology and guilt. "Elissa, I was blinded by greed in the past. I know no amount of apologizing can ever make up for what I did."

"How about this: whatever you want, just name it, and I will do everything in my power to make it up to you."

"Or... you can hit me! I'll even get on my knees and beg for your forgiveness!"

It sounded like an apology, but it was a calculated move meant to make Elissa look unforgiving and cruel in front of Suzanne.

Elissa's brow furrowed coldly, but before she could speak, Suzanne's brow tightened in severe disapproval. "Is this the method you came up with to make amends? Kneeling? Is your pride worth more than someone else's life? That car crash almost killed her."