“My decision is final, Lucas.” Isabella’s tone was gentle, yet unyielding. “I’m restarting my career. I need to build something better for Liam. A future he can truly be proud of.”

A long, quiet sigh escaped Lucas’s lips. For a moment, he seemed poised to argue, to try and change her mind. Instead, he simply nodded, stepping back. “Alright,” he conceded. “I respect your choice.” Then, with quiet devotion, he added, “But if you need anything… anything at all, just say the word.”

A small, grateful smile touched Isabella’s lips. “Thank you, Lucas.”

Days later, Isabella sat by the hospital bed, her gaze fixed on Liam’s peaceful, sleeping face. A soft smile played on her lips.

“He’s improved significantly and can be discharged today,” Daniel announced as he entered, his face breaking into a warm smile. “Just ensure he gets plenty of rest. Don’t let him overexert himself.”

Isabella stood, her voice filled with relief. “Thank you for everything, Dr. Brooks.”

Liam’s rapid recovery was a direct result of the exceptional care he’d received.

Gently stroking Liam’s soft cheek, Isabella whispered excitedly, “Sweetheart, we’re going home today!”

Liam’s eyes fluttered open. A radiant smile instantly lit up his face upon seeing his mother. “Mommy, let’s go home!” he exclaimed.

The pure joy in his voice melted Isabella’s heart.

She scooped him into her arms, planting a soft kiss on his cheek. “Alright, let’s get you out of here.”

With the discharge paperwork complete, Isabella carried her son out of the hospital.

Back home, she carefully set Liam down. He immediately scurried off, his little legs carrying him unsteadily toward his waiting toys.

Turning to Emily, Isabella outlined the necessary precautions. “Liam just got home. Keep his meals light, nothing heavy or spicy. And no rough play for a while. His safety is the top priority, please.”

Emily nodded emphatically. “Don’t worry, Miss Scott. I’ll take excellent care of Liam.”

Watching her son play with such pure joy filled Isabella’s heart with warmth.

The next morning, Isabella dressed in a crisp, off-white suit that accentuated her slim figure. Her long hair was pulled back into a neat bun, showcasing her graceful neckline.

Her makeup was subtle yet effective, masking any lingering tiredness and highlighting her soft features and poised demeanor.

As the elevator ascended, a flutter of nervousness stirred in Isabella’s chest.

Ding—

The doors slid open. Isabella stepped out.

She had just approached the design department’s entrance when a familiar figure rushed toward her, linking arms in an excited gesture.

“Isabella! You’re back!” Chloe exclaimed, her face alight with enthusiasm as she pulled Isabella into the department. “So much has happened here—it’s like a real-life soap opera!”

Chloe tugged Isabella along, forcing her to quicken her pace to keep up.

“What happened? Explain it to me, but slowly,” Isabella urged.

In a quieter corner, Chloe leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “You won’t believe this—Sophia’s been fired!”

Isabella froze at the news.

Her perfectly arched brows knitted together slightly, astonishment flickering in her eyes. “Fired? Why?”