“Lucas has too much free time lately,” Ethan’s voice was low, edged with a subtle chill.

Benjamin understood immediately. “I’ll handle it.”

“Good,” Ethan’s tone was sharp. “Make sure nothing leads back to us.”

He ended the call, a ruthless glint in his eyes. Yet beneath the cold exterior, conflict stirred. He didn’t want Isabella to find happiness elsewhere. He also didn’t want her anywhere near danger. This contradiction left him restless, even agitated.

The design department was unusually quiet the next day. Only the occasional clatter of keyboards broke the silence. Isabella sat outside Vanessa’s office, holding a steaming cup of coffee. She wore a sharp black suit, her composure unshakable.

Vanessa arrived late. Her high heels clicked sharply against the floor as she strode in, projecting false confidence. Her makeup was flawless. A smug look lingered in her eyes, as if yesterday’s events never happened.

“Isabella? What are you doing here?” Vanessa feigned surprise, her voice laced with impatience.

Isabella rose slowly. A cold smile touched her lips. “I’m here to have a real conversation with you.”

Vanessa’s heart skipped a beat. She glanced at the coffee in Isabella’s hand. A wave of unease washed over her. She thought she had covered up the karaoke bar incident. But a nagging doubt remained.

She forced calmness, pushing open her office door. “If you have something to say, let’s talk inside.”

Isabella followed her in. She shut the door quietly. The click echoed sharply in the room.

Vanessa opened her mouth to speak. Isabella acted first. She threw the hot coffee directly onto Vanessa’s light-colored suit.

Vanessa screamed, jumping back in shock and anger. The expensive silk blouse was instantly stained. Isabella watched, her expression unreadable.

“I’ll be at Blackwood Enterprises for two weeks at most. Stay out of my way during that time,” Isabella stated. Her voice was quiet but carried a clear warning.

Vanessa stood frozen, momentarily cowed. She was at a loss for words.

Isabella continued firmly. “You know what kind of person I am. I’d rather break than bend. Cross me again, and you will regret it.”

The memory of Isabella’s formidable reputation sent a shiver down Vanessa’s spine. Isabella was absolutely capable of following through on her threats.

Isabella held Vanessa’s frightened gaze a moment longer. Her lips curled into a scornful smile. “And tell the person behind you not to worry. After I leave Blackwood Enterprises, I want nothing more to do with any of you.”

With that, Isabella turned and walked out. She left Vanessa trembling and disheveled.

Vanessa watched Isabella’s retreating figure. Her makeup couldn’t mask the fear in her eyes. Isabella exited the office. The design department was silent. Colleagues averted their gazes, too intimidated to speak.

She headed straight for her own office, her demeanor composed yet stern.

Just then, Chloe stepped out of the break room with two cups of coffee. She noticed Isabella and looked startled.

“Isabella, are you… alright?” Chloe asked, concern evident in her voice.

Isabella paused, turning to face her. A bitter smile briefly crossed her lips. “What could possibly be wrong?”