“Good morning, Mr. Blackwood. How may I assist you?” Henry entered promptly, standing respectfully beside the bed.

Ethan fastened the last button on his shirt. His voice was icy. “Who brought me home last night?”

“It was… Miss Tremblay,” Henry answered after a brief hesitation.

Ethan’s movements stilled. His expression darkened. “Did she say anything?”

“Miss Tremblay mentioned you had far too much to drink. She instructed me to ensure you were properly cared for,” Henry replied, keeping his gaze lowered.

“Far too much to drink?” Ethan’s laugh was sharp and dismissive. “Send a clear message to the Tremblay family. They should not mistake our kindness for weakness.”

“Understood, Mr. Blackwood.” Henry gave a quick nod and left the room.

Ethan finished dressing and walked to the window. The morning sun was brilliant, but his eyes held a storm.

Several days passed.

Isabella sat at her workstation, her focus drifting from the design on her screen. She had been consciously avoiding Ethan. The memory of that night was a heavy weight. Facing him felt impossible.

At Blackwood Enterprises, in the CEO’s office.

“Enter,” Ethan’s voice was tired as he glanced up.

Benjamin stepped inside, a folder in his hand.

“Mr. Blackwood, the report you requested,” Benjamin said, presenting the file.

Ethan took it, his brow furrowing as he scanned the contents. “This concerns the joint venture with Grant Group. Is there a problem?” His tone was flat, revealing nothing.

“Yes, sir,” Benjamin confirmed. “A shipment from Grant Group was flagged for substandard quality. It’s currently held by customs.”

“Is that so?” Ethan’s eyebrow lifted. “And how does Grant Group explain such a significant failure?”

“They are alleging sabotage,” Benjamin’s voice was cautious.

“Sabotage?” Ethan’s scoff was cold. He dropped the file onto his desk. “You have a certain familiarity with the Grant family, do you not?”

Benjamin stiffened slightly. “Mr. Blackwood, since they are our partners, perhaps a private settlement is preferable to a public lawsuit.”

“A private settlement?” Ethan’s tone turned glacial. “Benjamin, have you forgotten the protocols of this company?”

“Sir, I merely—” Benjamin started, but Ethan cut him off.

“This matter is being referred to legal. Standard procedure will be followed.” His voice left no room for argument.

“Yes, Mr. Blackwood.” Benjamin bowed his head and retreated.

Isabella returned to the residence well after eight.

The living room was quiet and empty.

“Where is Liam?” she asked Henry.

“Liam… Mr. Blackwood took him out,” Henry’s voice was unsteady.

“Took him out?” Her heart clenched. “Did he say when they would return?”

“No, ma’am. He did not.” Henry shook his head.

The color drained from Isabella’s face. She grabbed her phone to call Ethan, but it rang unanswered.

Suddenly, the doorbell chimed, slicing through her rising panic. She jumped from the sofa and ran to the door.