Isabella felt like a spectator to her own life, a storm of emotions raging silently within her.

Ethan’s voice was flat, devoid of warmth. “Let’s leave the past where it belongs.”

Sophia clung to his words as if they were a pardon.

She turned to Isabella with wide, questioning eyes. “Isabella… you don’t mind, do you?”

Startled by the direct address, Isabella drew a sharp breath to steady herself.

“I…”

Her fists clenched, nails biting into her palms. Her voice trembled slightly as she fought for control.

“Thank you for your consideration, Mr. Blackwood. I won’t trouble you further.”

A flash of victory shone in Sophia’s eyes before she masked it with feigned concern.

“Isabella, what’s wrong? Did I say something to upset you? Please, don’t take it the wrong way. I only meant…”

“There is no misunderstanding,” Isabella cut in, her tone firm.

She forced a tight smile toward Ethan.

“Mr. Blackwood, I’ve booked a flight home for tonight. Liam’s trip concludes soon. I need to collect him.”

Ethan’s expression darkened, a flicker of displeasure crossing his features.

“Why the rush tonight? Tomorrow is perfectly suitable.”

“I must leave now,” Isabella insisted, her voice unwavering. “There are matters requiring my attention.”

Staying felt intolerable. Each second was more suffocating than the last.

Sophia’s presence was a blade twisting in her side.

Sophia reached out, gently grasping Ethan’s arm. Her eyes welled with tears.

“Ethan, is Isabella still angry with me? I know this is my fault. I never should have…”

Ethan’s focus remained on Isabella.

“I’ll return with you.”

“No.” The refusal was swift and sharp. “I can manage alone.”

She needed escape. Distance from this crushing weight.

“Isabella…” Ethan began.

She interrupted, her tone icy. “Mr. Blackwood, respect my decision.”

Without another word, she turned and walked away. Her steps were quick and decisive.

Ethan watched her go, his face a complex mask of simmering frustration.

Sophia seized the moment, leaning closer. Her voice was a whisper.

“Ethan, don’t be angry with her. It’s likely because of me…”

“Enough!” He snapped, pushing her away abruptly. His voice was cold. “Do not speak of this again.”

He turned and left her standing alone, her face pale with shock.

Back in her room, Isabella swiftly gathered her belongings. Her mind was set on immediate departure.

She called Victoria.

“Victoria, please book me a flight home for tonight. Thank you.”

“Is everything alright, Isabella? You sound distressed.” Victoria’s concern was evident.

“It’s nothing. I simply need to return ahead of schedule,” Isabella replied, straining to keep her emotions in check. “Liam’s break is starting. I want to be there for him.”