Ethan ended the call, his expression softening as his voice turned gentle. "Just wait a little while. Daniel will be here soon."

Isabella gave a slight nod, her gaze drifting toward the window as her thoughts churned.

She knew she had to contact Lucas. He was her final hope to escape this place.

Daniel's arrival might be her only opportunity.

Sophia's eyes flickered repeatedly between Isabella and Ethan.

Noticing the shift from tension to calm on Isabella's face, Sophia grew suspicious. Something felt off.

Her instincts screamed that Isabella was hiding something important from Ethan.

But what could it be?

Ethan's voice cut through her thoughts. "Sophia, you worked hard taking care of me last night. Why don't you get something to eat and freshen up?" His tone was deep and compelling.

A warm flutter passed through Sophia as her heart skipped a beat.

He actually cared about her!

It was unusual for Ethan to show such personal concern, making her wonder about his changed behavior today.

Doubt briefly surfaced but was quickly overwhelmed by satisfaction.

With a sideways glance at Isabella, Sophia responded, "I just did what needed to be done. Shall we go to the dining room together?"

Ethan nodded and began walking with Sophia toward the dining room.

He couldn't resist glancing back at Isabella, searching for any emotional reaction.

Finding none, he turned quickly and caught up with Sophia.

Upon entering the dining room, Ethan politely pulled out a chair for Sophia.

Caught off guard by the gesture, Sophia released a victorious smile.

She basked in the attention, feeling more like his rightful partner.

Isabella watched quietly from afar.

She felt no resentment, only deep weariness.

Turning away, she gently closed the master bedroom door, silencing the sounds from the dining room.

Everything finally became quiet.

Daniel rushed into the house carrying a medical kit, sweat dotting his forehead.

Spotting Ethan, he relaxed slightly and asked, "Where's Isabella?"

"Follow me," Ethan responded briefly.

Sophia quickly set her utensils aside, her eyes bright with eagerness. "Ethan, I want to come see Isabella because..." She trailed off, searching for words before continuing, "There are misunderstandings between us that need to be cleared up face-to-face."

Ethan didn't object, simply stating flatly, "Let's go."

He rose and led the way toward the master bedroom.

Sophia followed closely behind, a subtle smile of anticipation playing on her lips.

Spotting Sophia, Daniel froze momentarily before staring at Ethan in disbelief. "You've actually put Sophia and Isabella in the same house?"

Ethan stopped, giving Daniel a look of mild annoyance. "Why does it bother you? Isabella isn't bothered. She doesn't even care. Why are you so agitated?"

Daniel was momentarily speechless.

He inhaled deeply, paused, then shook his head and muttered, "Never mind. You're truly blind, Ethan. Just don't come to regret this."