Chapter 426

Before the physician could reply, a junior nurse nearby interjected with the answer to Camille's inquiry.

"The patient in Suite 1003 is an elderly woman. She collapsed yesterday from hypertension. Diagnostic tests revealed no critical conditions."

"She could've been released immediately, but her relatives insisted on a 48-hour observation period."

"Quite particular too - refused standard accommodations and demanded VIP quarters. Her family was rather... persistent."

"Our premium suites have been at capacity recently, but they leveraged some influential connections."

"After a few phone calls from someone important, they simply commandeered a reserved room..."

The nurse continued her animated explanation until the attending physician discreetly cleared his throat, casting a cautious glance down the corridor.

The young nurse immediately fell silent.

So they'd be vacating tomorrow?

This news brought Camille some relief. At least the chances of Audrey encountering any Lancasters or their associates would decrease.

Yet...

Her deeper concern remained that certain individuals might deliberately seek to agitate her mother.

Frowning, Camille turned back to the medical staff. "My mother's psychological state remains fragile - she can't withstand emotional disturbances."

"Please monitor all visitors to her suite meticulously. Beyond authorized medical personnel and immediate family, no unauthorized persons are permitted entry."

"Additionally, should anyone inquire about her condition, I must be notified immediately."

The physician nodded. "Understood, Ms. Hartwell. You have our assurance."

Despite professional reassurances, Camille's tension didn't dissipate.

Just as she'd been investigating the Lancasters, they were undoubtedly doing the same regarding her family's situation.

The worst possibility? They already knew precisely why she and Marianne were here.

Nora Lancaster had been hospitalized.

Gabriel had prior commitments, so after a brief visit, he departed.

Exactly as Camille predicted, once Gabriel left, Sabrina immediately informed Nora about spotting Camille and Marianne in the hallway earlier.

Both women deduced the patient must be Audrey. But regarding the exact nature of Audrey's condition...

To confirm, Sabrina specifically questioned Nora's nurse. "We noticed Dr. Harrington earlier. For someone of her caliber to be consulted, the patient must be quite significant. Might you know the diagnosis?"

"Multiple organ failure. Quite severe," the nurse replied.

Sabrina and Nora exchanged knowing smiles.

To their understanding, multiple organ failure rarely ended favorably. In other words, Audrey might be...

Still, Sabrina pressed further. "The family looked familiar. Would the surname be Hartwell? The patient - Audrey perhaps?"

"Indeed. You're acquainted?"

Sabrina's lips curved. "Oh yes, quite intimately. We go way back." She added casually, "With multiple organ failure, I imagine time is rather limited?"

"Normally, yes. But they've considerable resources and connections. They secured Dr. Harrington - she works miracles. The prognosis has improved significantly."

The smiles on both women's faces dimmed slightly.

After the nurse exited, Sabrina sneered, "They're getting away far too easily."

She muttered under her breath, "That little gold-digger certainly profited from latching onto Gabriel."

Had Camille not ensnared Gabriel, Audrey might have already...

Helena remained silent, but her brow gradually furrowed in contemplation.