After the meeting, Jasper secretly talked with Michael. They conversed in hushed tones.
"Where is Madam Maria?" Jasper asked.
"She has been taken away to a safe place," Michael replied. "Don't worry about her. Samuel will take care of her."
Jasper nodded. He trusted Samuel's ability to keep her safe. But he was restless, as he had been worried about Abigail's well-being ever since he had heard about the attack. He wanted to rush to the hospital and check on her, but the issues here kept him from doing so.
"And what about Miss Barbe?" he asked, worry clouding his face. "Where is she now?"
"She had a heart attack. Her condition is critical, and she is still in the ICU… not regained consciousness yet."
Jasper's worry deepened at the news. He clenched his fists, his mind consumed by thoughts of Abigail's condition. The desire to see her, to be by her side during her vulnerable state, grew stronger within him.
