Elias could see the bitter self-mockery and weariness in Jarrod’s expression. For a man like him to look that defeated—it spoke volumes.
Jarrod’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he clenched his fists, head bowed, his whole body seeming to buckle under exhaustion and the force of what had happened.
Every breath he drew felt like glass stabbing his chest.
He lowered his eyes, lips twisting into a silent, self-deprecating smile.
There was a dull, hopeless ache in his gaze, as if the last spark had been snuffed out.
He didn’t say a word.
A suffocating aura radiated from him, so cold and sharp it made the air hard to breathe.
But Esmeralda’s mind was racing.
She didn’t bother explaining anything to Jarrod. Instead, she walked straight up to Elias. Jarrod was lost in his own world by then, oblivious to everyone and everything around him.
“Dr. Warwick, could I ask you for a favor…” She met Elias’s eyes, her meaning unmistakable.
Elias understood immediately.
Esmeralda didn’t want him involved in Elodie’s affairs—didn’t want him telling Jarrod anything about her condition.
He nodded slightly.
After all, this was Elodie’s business. He had no intention of interfering in someone else’s private matters.
He checked his watch. “I have another surgery scheduled. If Elodie wakes up, come find me anytime.”
He’d already disposed of the syringe he’d taken from Elodie.
The contents had been confirmed.
It was extremely dangerous for a pregnant woman.
Once Elodie was out, he’d need to talk to her.
He still didn’t know the situation in the exam room, but the hospital had been notified and it was now in their hands. All that remained was to wait for the outcome.
“Thank you,” Esmeralda replied, her feelings mixed and heavy.
They hadn’t planned to operate today. None of this was expected.
Elias hurried off.
Esmeralda turned and caught sight of Jarrod, silent and unmoving across the room.
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