The truth pierced her heart like a shard of glass.

She twisted in his arms, fighting to break free.

“Release me! I can manage on my own!” Her voice was sharp, edged with defiance.

Her struggling only made Ethan tighten his hold.

“And let you injure yourself further?” His tone was low, a mix of sternness and care.

Isabella stilled, her resistance crumbling.

Ethan’s eyes softened as he studied her delicate features.

A storm of emotion churned inside him.

He gently set her down on the sofa.

Then he knelt to inspect her swollen ankle.

His skilled fingers brushed her skin with surprising tenderness.

Isabella looked down at the top of his head, lost in thought.

These rare moments of kindness from Ethan always disarmed her.

Every touch, every gesture, resonated deep within her soul.

Once satisfied her ankle was fine, he carefully propped her feet up.

He draped a soft blanket over her legs.

“You haven’t eaten. I’ll make some clam chowder.” His voice was warm with concern.

A flutter of warmth spread through Isabella’s chest.

She lifted her gaze to his striking face, speechless.

She meant to refuse, but he cut her off.

“Just rest,” he said firmly, heading to the kitchen.

The open layout allowed her to watch him work.

He rolled up his sleeves, revealing strong forearms.

His movements were fluid, precise, almost artistic.

Isabella’s mind raced with confusion.

They were nearing divorce. Why was he still so attentive?

Why did these small acts leave her so unsettled?

Before she could dwell further, he returned with a steaming bowl.

The rich aroma of clam chowder filled the air.

But instead of appetizing, it turned her stomach.

She clapped a hand over her mouth, eyes wide.

A wave of nausea hit her hard.

Ethan’s brow furrowed. “What’s wrong?”

She shook her head, forcing a weak smile. “Not hungry.”

She hoped she sounded convincing.

She wanted to hide her discomfort from him.

His expression remained concerned. “Isabella, you know your stomach. If you skip meals, you’ll pay for it later.”

His words were firm, layered with genuine worry.

Suddenly, her eyes welled up.

Tears spilled down her cheeks.

Memories flooded back.

Years ago, when she first joined his company.

Countless nights working late, skipping meals, desperate to earn his approval.

One night, the neglect caught up with her.

Her stomach condition flared violently.

She collapsed on the floor, curled in agony.

Pain clouded her vision.

In her haze, she remembered being lifted.

Carried with a steadiness that felt like safety.