No Escape from Love novel Chapter 223

Elena smiled slightly, then casually pulled two hundred-dollar bills from her bag and discreetly slipped them into Felicia's hand. "Here's the thing—we received a tip that Madam Burke's sudden illness was caused by family conflicts. We would love to learn more details."

Felicia's fingers clenched tightly around the bills, her gaze flickering.

"Family conflicts? Well… it's complicated. Besides, we have a train to catch…"

Elena upped the ante, pulling out another two hundred-dollar bills and handing them to Shirley.

"I also heard that Madam Burke's daughter has a complicated relationship with the heir of the Hastings family. Is that true?"

Shirley's eyes lit up as she quickly grabbed the money, and her tone softened considerably. "Ah, every family has their troubles! To be honest, Nicole is really unreliable…"

Elena covered her mouth in feigned shock. "Really? Can you tell me more? What were they arguing about? Was there a third party involved?"

Shirley and Felicia exchanged a glance, greed flickering in their eyes.

"Well…" Shirley deliberately dragged out her words, her gaze drifting toward Elena's bag. She expected more "compensation" for her insights.

Catching on immediately, Elena pulled out a few more bills. "As long as you cooperate with this interview, I promise it'll be worth your while."

Felicia eagerly snatched the money, her wrinkled face breaking into a wide grin. "Alright! Ask whatever you want! We'll tell you everything!"

Elena led them to a café near the hospital. A large promotional stand for YS Media was prominently displayed at the entrance.

Two people were stationed inside with professional camera equipment while another stood nearby holding a recording device and adjusting it. Felicia and Shirley were clearly overwhelmed by the setup, their faces beaming with excitement.

"Oh my! This is quite the production!" Felicia squinted her eyes with delight as she clung tightly to Elena's arm as if afraid Elena would slip away.

Meanwhile, back at the hospital, the sharp smell of disinfectant made Mom frown slightly as she slowly regained consciousness.

When she opened her eyes, she saw me resting her head against the bedside, fast asleep. The dark circles under her eyes and her pale complexion tugged at her heart.

"She must have stayed up all night again," she thought.

Mom gently moved her fingers, hoping to adjust me into a more comfortable position. However, the slight movement accidentally woke me up.

"Mom, you're awake!" I jerked upright, my eyes brimming with relief. "How are you feeling? Do you feel uncomfortable anywhere?"

Mom shook her head, forcing a weak smile. "I'm fine, just a little tired. You stayed here all night, didn't you? Go get some rest."

I busied myself, pouring her a cup of warm water and adjusting the bed to a more comfortable position. Finally, I sat beside her with a deep sigh. "Mom, let's move out of the Hastings residence."