Ethan watched Isabella’s pale face and the stubborn defiance in her eyes. His frustration mounted instantly.

He gripped her shoulders firmly. His voice was sharp, urgent. “Isabella, stop this. If you weren’t feeling well, why did you meet Alexander?”

Trapped by his hold, she stopped resisting.

A bitter laugh escaped her. It was full of self-mockery. “What difference does it make now? My bonus was already slashed. Today was a waste of effort. So tell me, are you satisfied?”

Ethan saw the deep resentment in her gaze. Without thinking, his grip tightened. His tone turned icy. “Is this desperate rush for money because you’re eager to divorce?”

Pain shot through Isabella’s heart. She looked into the eyes of the man she once loved. Now he was confronting her so harshly. It felt like needles stabbing her repeatedly.

Could his anger mean he didn’t want the divorce? Unlikely. Sophia was waiting anxiously to become his wife. How could Ethan disappoint the woman he truly loved?

As these thoughts swirled, any lingering hope inside Isabella shattered completely.

She let out another bitter chuckle. Tears welled in her eyes but didn’t fall. She forcefully removed Ethan’s hands.

Her voice was steady, resolute. Each word was pushed through gritted teeth. “Why lie to yourself? You want this divorce just as much. Here’s your chance, right in front of you.”

The certainty in her eyes stabbed at Ethan. It ignited an inexplicable irritation within him.

“Stop the car,” Isabella commanded. Her tone wasn’t loud, but it was firm.

The driver checked the rearview mirror. Ethan gave no objection. He pulled over immediately.

Isabella didn’t hesitate. She opened the door and stepped out.

“Isabella!” Ethan called out, watching her determined departure. Anger surged inside him.

She didn’t look back. With quick, sure steps, she reached the curb. She hailed a taxi smoothly and got in without a backward glance.

As the taxi merged into the traffic, Ethan’s expression darkened considerably. He had expected her to plead softly like she used to. But this time, she didn’t.

The car grew cold. Ethan’s chilling aura made everyone uneasy.

In the passenger seat, Benjamin sat rigidly. He knew any word could provoke Ethan’s wrath.

Silence hung heavily until Benjamin spoke tentatively. “Mr. Blackwood, shall we proceed to Oakridge Industries? The appointment with Mr. King is confirmed.”

Ethan felt a throbbing in his temples. He gave a brief nod. “Drive.”

Benjamin breathed a quiet sigh of relief. He signaled the driver to move on.

Meanwhile, Isabella didn’t want to worry Eleanor. She returned to her own apartment.

As soon as she stepped out of the taxi, a wave of nausea hit her hard. Her head spun.

Her sickness felt more intense today. Her light lunch had probably upset the baby.

Leaning against the wall, she retched several times. Nothing came up. Only painful cramps gripped her stomach.

Slowly, she regained some balance. She walked weakly toward her apartment.