Isabella imagined shoving Sophia out of the moving car right then.

The Maybach finally came to a smooth stop before the intricate iron gates of Silverwood Estate.

Rain continued to pour heavily, drumming a steady rhythm against the windows.

Benjamin swiftly stepped out, opening a large black umbrella before politely holding the door for Ethan and Sophia.

Ethan emerged, his tall frame clad in a sharp black suit. He looked striking yet completely detached.

Sophia, dressed in an elegant white gown, clung tightly to Ethan's arm. Her makeup was flawless.

Isabella exited the vehicle from the opposite side, managing her own umbrella.

The estate's butler was already waiting. He stepped forward with a respectful bow upon seeing Ethan and Sophia. "Mr. Blackwood, Miss Reed, welcome."

Noticing Isabella, drenched from the rain, the butler's expression flickered with surprise before he composed himself. "And... who might this lady be?"

Ethan shot Isabella an icy glance and said nothing.

As Sophia, still linked to Ethan, opened her mouth to speak, Isabella quickly cut in. "Hello, I'm Isabella Scott. I was referred by Mrs. Charlotte Sterling of Sterling Industries. I'm here to see Ms. Sterling."

The butler's confusion cleared. He offered Isabella an apologetic smile. "Ah, Miss Scott. You're soaked through—it's easy to catch a chill like that. Please, come inside and change into something dry."

Isabella hesitated for a brief moment before nodding in agreement.

The butler continued, "Mr. Blackwood, a servant will escort you and Miss Reed to the gazebo. I will inform Ms. Sterling immediately."

After one last look at Isabella, Ethan turned and walked away in the opposite direction.

The butler led Isabella through an opulently decorated hall, arriving at a warm guest room filled with the soothing scent of lavender.

"Please make yourself comfortable, Miss Scott. I will fetch some dry clothing for you," he said before exiting.

Exhausted, Isabella grabbed a towel from the bathroom and sank into the soft sofa to dry her hair.

The butler had seemed familiar with Ethan and Sophia earlier. They were likely here for business too. But why would Ethan be interested in collaborating with Olivia?

Soon, the butler returned with a set of clothes—a cream cashmere sweater and light gray trousers.

"These belong to Ms. Sterling, miss. They should fit you for now," he said politely.

Isabella thanked him, and he left.

Slipping into the borrowed clothes, Isabella felt the cashmere's gentle warmth against her skin. It did little to melt the coldness settling in her heart.

Even knowing her studio was no match for the might of Blackwood Enterprises, Isabella was determined not to back down now that she was here.

She was just smoothing the oversized sleeves when Sophia entered. Her heels clicked authoritatively on the floor, radiating an air of dominance. Her face was twisted into a mocking sneer.