Page 87 of Cause and Effect

I could feel my lungs opening as it became easier to breathe. My heart rate began to slow, and a feeling of fatigue washed over me.

“I need to go home,” I told her as I opened the car door and vomited on the concrete.

“That’s exactly where I’m taking you. I will pick up the girls from school and take them home with me. I’ll tell them you aren’t feeling well and bring them home later.”

“Thank you, Morgan.” I lay my head on her shoulder.

“Don’t mention it, sweetie.”

Chapter Thirty-Four

Julian

“Where the hell is Laurel?” I asked Melinda.

“Have you tried calling her?” she asked.

“Yes, and she rejected my call.”

Melinda snickered.

“It isn’t funny! I need to speak with her about a case.”

“Relax your boxer briefs, Julian,” Morgan said, walking toward me. “Let’s go into your office.”

“What is going on?” I asked her.

“Laurel and I went to lunch. Shortly after, she became ill, so I took her home so she could rest.”

“She’s sick? What’s wrong with her?”

“Headache, stomachache, dizzy. It’s probably the flu or something.”

“Thanks for letting me know, Morgan.”

“You’re welcome.” She left my office.

I grabbed my suit coat and told Melinda I was leaving for the day. “I don’t want to be disturbed. Whatever comes up can wait until tomorrow morning,” I said.

I climbed into my car and headed to Laurel’s since itwas Sam’s day off. Hearing that she was ill worried me. I stepped onto the porch and knocked on the door. Placing my hands in my pants pockets, I waited.

“Laurel, I know you’re in there. Morgan told me she drove you home.” I pounded on the door.

“Jesus Christ, Julian.” She opened the door. “Knock it off.”

I looked at her, noticing her chaotic state. Her eyes were puffy and bloodshot, and her hair lacked its usual flawless appearance.

“What are you doing here?” she asked.

“Have you been crying?” I pushed past her and stepped inside.

“No. What are you doing here, Julian?” Her tone was adamant.

“Morgan told me you were sick. I wanted to check on you.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know.” I shrugged.

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