Chapter 167 The hospital room was now a solitary sanctuary for Elysia, the hum of the fluorescent lights above a steady companion. Blossom went to pick up the boys, a routine as familiar as the back of her hand. The police had come and gone, their questions and Elysia’s answers now just echo in the sterile space. When Keaton walked in, Elysia couldn’t help but furrow her brow in instinctive disapproval. Keaton, caught in an awkward moment, tried to break the ice with a sheepish grin. “Hey there.” Elysia eyed him warily, letting silence speak volumes. Clearing his throat to pierce the silence, Keaton set down an expensive–looking gift beside her bed and took a seat, resembling a child caught with his hand in the cookie jar. “Look, about today… I apologize. I had no idea Oriana could be such a drama queen! I messed up, and I’m sorry.” Elysia’s expression softened slightly at his seemingly sincere contrition. After all, it wasn’t his face that needed slapping–it was Oriana’s, and she wasn’t even here. Besides, Oriana was nothing more than Keaton’s ex–water under the bridge. If Keaton thought he was off the hook, Elysia wasn’t one to argue, especially considering the legalities. And there was something she needed from him. Her potential divorce from Tarquin might very well hinge on his assistance. So, with Keaton’s apology hanging in the air, Elysia offered her olive branch, “This mess isn’t your fault, it’s Oriana’s.” Keaton seized the truce eagerly, “You’re younger than me, so I’ll just call you Elysia, alright? You are, without a doubt, the most understanding and level–headed woman I’ve ever met. Not to mention beautiful. I really dig that about you.” Elysia shot back instantly, “Don’t go falling for me now.” Keaton’s face dropped, baffled by her mix of suspicion and distaste. He knew all too well the number of girls who would kill for his attention, but Elysia was out of his league–firstly, his sister would never have it, and secondly, Elysia was Tarquin’s territory. “I mean, I admire you, that’s all,” Keaton backpedaled, “With my sister breathing down my neck, I wouldn’t dare make a move on you.” Elysia’s lips twitched slightly, “I’ve reported today’s incident to the police. They’ve already taken statement. I hope you won’t cover for Oriana.” She was afraid Keaton might shield Oriana, allowing her to evade justice. “You have my word, I won’t cover for her,” Keaton pledged earnestly. my Silence reclaimed the room as Elysia pondered how to broach the subject of Tarquin, while Keaton wondered how to tell her about Elijah’s sudden craving for pastry. They both started to speak, then stopped, and Keaton, ever the gentleman, insisted, “You first, ladies first.” 1/2 09:57 Chapter 167 Not one to decline, Elysia cut to the chase, “I hear you know Tarquin Keaton looked puzzled. Of course, he knew Tarquin; she had seen them together. Why the sudden curiosity? “I need to meet him. Could you possibly arrange that?” Elysia requested. Now Keaton was utterly perplexed. Hadn’t she just been with Tarquin? Seeing his confusion, Elysia hastened to clarify, “Don’t get me wrong, I’m not into him. It’s strictly business. His status makes him hard to reach, and I’ve heard you’re close. I need your help to arrange a meeting.” Keaton’s interest was piqued as he asked, “Do you know who that good–looking guy was who brought you here?” “Elijah’s father?” Elysia replied, with a hint of intrigue, not fully grasping the depth of the man’s identity. 2/2