“This situation between you two helps no one,” Daniel stated, his voice firm and resolute. “If a divorce is what you want, why postpone it?”

Ethan’s reply was thick with disdain. “Divorce? Who mentioned divorce?”

He stepped closer, his gaze sharp and penetrating. “Do you have feelings for her?”

Daniel stiffened, his tone turning defensive. “That’s ridiculous. I’m just saying this isn’t fair to her.”

“Fair?” Ethan’s voice dripped with sarcasm. “This has nothing to do with you.”

“I was only trying to—” Daniel began, but Ethan cut him off coldly.

“Consider this your last visit to Hawthorne Residence. Don’t come back.”

His words hung heavily as he turned and strode up the stairs, leaving Daniel standing frozen, frustration clear on his face.

Watching Ethan leave, Daniel felt a wave of powerlessness.

He pulled out his phone, fingers trembling slightly, and typed a message to Isabella. “I tried everything.”

After sending it, he pocketed the device and walked away, each step weighed down by defeat.

Isabella stared at the message on her screen, a hollow feeling spreading through her.

She was pulled from her thoughts by a sudden knock at the door.

Startled, she quickly hid her phone and smoothed her expression before answering.

Ethan stood in the doorway, his presence dominating the space. His voice was flat, detached. “Already tired of staying here?”

A bitter laugh escaped her. “Tired? Mr. Blackwood, do you think being confined here is enjoyable?”

“I’m a person, not your prisoner,” Isabella said, anger tightening her voice. “What gives you the right to take away my freedom?”

Ethan’s eyes narrowed, studying her defiance with a cold intensity.

“Answer the question,” he demanded, his tone heavy.

In her heart, Isabella clung to a sliver of hope for release.

“I want out,” she declared boldly. “So, Mr. Blackwood, will you let me go?”

“Tomorrow is the Oakridge Industries CEO’s anniversary celebration,” Ethan said. “As Mrs. Blackwood, you will accompany me as my wife.”

A spark of determination lit her eyes.

“Fine,” she agreed quickly, urgency in her voice.

Ethan watched her for another moment before turning and leaving. As the door closed behind him, Isabella released a tense breath, her shoulders slumping slightly.

She moved to the window, gazing out at the sky, her emotions in turmoil.

Just then, Sophia approached with a sly smile.

“It was my idea to let you attend the party,” she said proudly. “You should thank me.”

Suspicion flickered in Isabella’s eyes, a tremor of unease stirring within. “What do you want?”