Chapter 188

Mrs. Dashiell shook her head, trying to wipe away her tears. "It's nothing, dear. I'm fine, don't you worry."

Latisha didn't believe her for a second. Lying here alone, with Preston nowhere in sight and no one to even pay her medical bills—how could she possibly be fine?

Mrs. Dashiell whispered, "Shouldn't you be at home? The master... he'll be angry, won't he?"

Latisha couldn't worry about that now. If she hadn't come, Mrs. Dashiell might have...

She shook her head, offering a reassuring look. *It's okay. Don't worry about me.*

How could it be okay? Clifford's threat echoed in her mind, and she knew he was capable of carrying it out.

*I'll leave after your IV is done,* she signed. *I'll find a caregiver for you.*

Mrs. Dashiell shook her head frantically. "No, no, don't waste your money. I'm an old woman. Just seeing you is more than enough."

"I was just thinking," she murmured, "that if I died without seeing you one last time, I wouldn't be able to rest in peace. But now... now I can let go."

Tears welled in Latisha's eyes. Though they shared no blood, in that moment, they felt more like grandmother and granddaughter than strangers. They were both people without a family, connected by a bond that ran deeper than blood. Only those without a home could truly understand each other's sorrow.

"There now, Latisha, don't cry," Mrs. Dashiell said, trying to lift a hand to wipe her tears. "I'm so happy to see you. You should be happy too."

Latisha sniffled and wiped her own tears away, forcing a smile.

Mrs. Dashiell smiled back. "Such a good child."

But both of their smiles were strained, tinged with a deep bitterness.

Latisha shook her head. *I'm not a good child. If I were, you wouldn't be lying here. I'm so sorry, Mrs. Dashiell.*

"Don't say that. You've done more than enough. I'm truly so happy." The old woman's words were both a whisper and a promise. Latisha you will find happiness. Twill watch over you."

Latisha's tears flowed faster. She shook her head desperately. *I don't want you to

watch over me. I just want you to get better.*

Mrs. Dashiell only offered a sad smile, unable to give her that promise.

Their hands were clasped tightly together, but Latisha knew she had to leave. Wiping her tears she stood and poured a glass of water for Mrs. Dashiell. Then, she went to find a caregiver, the only thing shecould do for her now.

After paying the hire fee, she succinctly explained the situation to the chosen

woman.

"Don't you worry, dear. I'll take good care of her," the caregiver assured her.

Latisha felt a small measure of relief. She smiled gratefully at the woman, but as she turned, her heart stopped.

Clifford was walking through the

hospital entrance. He moved with a

purpose that seemed to create its

own wind, and even from a distance, she could feel the icy chill radiating from him.

Latisha's hands clenched into fists. She stood frozen, watching as he strode directly toward her.

He stopped in front of her, his towering presence casting a shadow over her. He said nothing, but the fury in his eyes was unmistakable.