Isabella watched Ethan's stern expression soften.

Her racing heart began to calm.

What power did Sophia hold over him?

She clenched her fists, deciding to shift the topic.

"I need to visit Silverwood Estate tomorrow to discuss a project with Ms. Sterling," she said hesitantly. She bit her lip, tears pooling in her eyes once more. "But she refuses to meet with me. I don't know what to do."

She lifted her gaze to Ethan, her eyes pleading, her voice barely audible. "Would you come with me?"

Ethan paused briefly. He knew the Silverwood Estate project. It was minor, the branch office's final project of the year, with negligible impact on overall profits. Olivia Sterling was notoriously difficult, known throughout the industry for her tough demeanor. Isabella's involvement seemed strategic, a move to solidify her position. Or so it appeared.

After a moment of consideration, he responded professionally. "What time?"

Relief washed over Isabella. "Ten in the morning."

Ethan nodded in agreement.

She managed a grateful smile. "Thank you, Ethan."

He left the room and headed to his study. Lighting a cigarette, smoke curled around him. The tip glowed faintly in the dim light.

Isabella's hesitant voice echoed in his mind. "I don't know..." He took a deep drag before stubbing it out in a crystal ashtray.

Agitated, he loosened his tie.

In her bedroom, only the bedside lamp provided light. Isabella lay awake, lost in thought. She stared at the ceiling, contemplating her next move. Shouldn't she let Ethan go?

They had shared years together, yet it ended in divorce. Letting go seemed right. His heart belonged to Sophia, not her.

A sad smile touched her lips as silent tears streaked down her face, dampening the silk pillowcase. She turned, pressing her face into the pillow.

Light rain continued through the night and into dawn. Clouds blanketed the sky, leaving the roads wet and glistening.

Emily arrived early. Isabella asked her to care for Liam as she prepared to leave. She had an important task today. Dressed in a dark trench coat, her hair loosely tied back, strands framed her finely shaped face. Clutching the business card Charlotte had given her, her expression was resolute.

"Take me to Silverwood Estate, please," she told the cab driver.

The driver hesitated, peering through the windshield at the blurry mountain road. "The road is dangerous, especially with this rain. If we encounter trouble..."

"I'll pay extra," Isabella responded promptly.