Ethan stood rigidly outside the door, his expression stormy and unyielding.

Inside, Isabella leaned heavily against the door, her heart pounding.

She slid down slowly, pressing her forehead against the cool wood.

She couldn't bear to look at him anymore.

She refused to hear another word from him.

Tonight, she would escape through the window.

The thought filled her with restless energy.

She had observed the security routine for days.

There was a brief gap in patrols around nine each night during the guard change.

It was her best chance.

She took a deep, steadying breath.

Pushing herself up, she moved silently toward the window.

She cracked it open just enough to peer into the darkness below.

Meanwhile, Ethan entered the dining room.

The atmosphere was thick with tension.

Victoria and Sophia sat at the table, their postures stiff.

Victoria slammed her fork down as Ethan approached.

Her voice was sharp with disapproval. “Ethan, if you’re divorcing that girl, make her leave. Why is she still here?”

Her words hung in the air, heavy with resentment.

Ethan’s jaw tightened, his patience visibly thinning.

“Stay out of it,” he snapped coldly.

Victoria recoiled, anger flashing in her eyes.

“Then when will you announce your engagement to Sophia?” she demanded, turning to Sophia expectantly.

Ethan’s expression darkened instantly.

His gaze narrowed dangerously. “I never said I was engaging to her.”

Sophia quickly interjected with a placating smile. “Victoria, Ethan just needs space. We shouldn’t rush things.”

Her tone was soothing, meant to defuse the situation.

But Victoria had reached her limit.

Furious, she shoved her chair back and stood. “I’ve had enough of both of you!”

She stormed out of the dining room without another glance.

An uncomfortable silence settled in her wake.

Sophia reached out delicately, her fingers brushing Ethan’s sleeve.

Tears glistened in her eyes as she spoke softly. “Ethan, she only wants what’s best for you. Please don’t be upset. We can take our time.”

She looked at him pleadingly, her expression vulnerable.

Ethan pulled his arm away, irritation clear in his eyes. “I’m not hungry.”

He turned abruptly and headed for the stairs.

Sophia watched him leave, her smile fading for a brief second.

She quickly masked her disappointment and hurried after him.

Her cheerful tone returned effortlessly. “Since you’re not eating, let’s try that new place downtown. The food is exceptional.”

She paused, then added casually, “Why not invite Isabella? She barely touched her lunch. She must be starving.”

Beneath her friendly suggestion, a plan was forming.

She needed to ensure Isabella didn’t slip away unnoticed.