Three entire years had passed without resolution.

Ethan’s expression shifted almost imperceptibly. Surprise flickered briefly in his eyes before his features hardened. His jaw tightened. His voice carried an unreadable edge. “Are you in such a hurry to go?”

Isabella almost laughed. Was he serious?

He had been the one to demand the divorce. Now he was acting like this? Did he not hear his own contradiction?

“What’s this, Mr. Blackwood?” Her tone was lightly mocking. “Having second thoughts about letting me leave?”

Ethan stood slowly, deliberately. He moved toward her, his tall frame dominating the space. Isabella’s breath caught. Instinct made her step back.

“What are you doing? Ethan—don’t do anything rash.”

His gaze was intense, probing. “Why are you so desperate to escape me?”

Her heart skipped. She met his eyes, hands clenched. “You know exactly what happened three years ago. There’s nothing left between us.”

Suddenly, the office door burst open.

Victoria Blackwood swept inside, elegant and furious.

Her flawless makeup couldn’t conceal her rage as she glared at Isabella. “You little temptress! A walking curse! How dare you show your face here? What poison have you poured into my son’s ear?”

Isabella remained still, her expression cool and detached. She had grown immune to Victoria’s venom three years ago.

Now, the words were just noise. Meaningless. Easily ignored.

She suppressed a sigh and turned to leave.

The action stunned Victoria.

Such audacity!

Three years ago, Isabella had been timid and compliant in her presence.

Now she didn’t even wait for her to finish speaking!

Rage boiled over.

Victoria reached out, intent on grabbing Isabella and putting her in her place. Sensing the movement, Isabella quickened her pace.

She wanted no further entanglement with the Blackwood family.

Watching the exchange, Ethan’s expression darkened. He moved swiftly, catching Isabella’s wrist and pulling her firmly out of the office.

Isabella winced at his grip but didn’t resist.

Struggling would only make a scene.

Victoria stood speechless, watching Ethan lead Isabella away. She was too shocked to react immediately.

“Benjamin, ensure my mother returns to Blackwood Estate,” Ethan instructed without turning back.

Recovering, Victoria pointed at his retreating back and shrieked, “Ethan! Have you lost your mind? You’re choosing her over your own mother?!”

Ethan ignored her outburst, guiding Isabella decisively toward the elevator.