The funds from those transactions were transferred directly into Eleanor's medical account. Isabella felt no remorse. She considered it rightful compensation for all she had endured.

On the morning of her discharge, Lucas was already waiting in her room when she awoke.

He had handled all the necessary paperwork. A bouquet of lilies rested in his arms, their delicate scent lightly perfuming the air.

"Congratulations on your release," Lucas said, his voice warm with relief as he offered her the flowers.

Isabella accepted them, a soft smile touching her lips. "Thank you," she whispered.

"Where will you stay now?" Lucas asked, concern evident in his gaze.

Isabella's voice wavered slightly. "My apartment was terminated by him. I have nowhere to go at the moment."

Lucas paused, thinking. "A friend of mine owns a charming guesthouse not far from here. It's comfortable and affordable. I could speak to her about a discount for you."

The idea of a discreet location, somewhere Ethan wouldn't think to search, appealed to Isabella.

She nodded slowly. "Alright," she said quietly. "Could you provide the address? I'd prefer to go alone, to avoid causing you any more trouble."

Lucas smiled warmly, his expression gentle. "Don't worry about that. It's practically next door to my place—we're heading in the same direction anyway."

Isabella hesitated, her lips parting slightly.

She had intended to refuse, uneasy about being so close to Lucas. The proximity felt complicated. But with no other options—every hotel or guesthouse she contacted appeared to be under Ethan's control, ready to deny her at his command—she found herself cornered.

"Well..." she faltered, the word lingering between them.

Lucas, perceptive as always, noticed her hesitation and asked softly, "Is something wrong?"

Isabella bit her lower lip, her resolve crumbling. "It's nothing," she replied, forcing a strained smile. "Thank you for your kindness."

She decided she would stay at the guesthouse Lucas recommended only until she found a more permanent solution.

With the owner's laid-back attitude and fair pricing, Isabella easily reached an agreement.

Sunlight poured through the window, filling the room with the warm scent of polished wood. Isabella took a deep breath, feeling the tension in her shoulders begin to ease.

She turned to Lucas, her expression softening with genuine gratitude. "Lucas, I truly appreciate all your support through this difficult time," she said.

Lucas's smile was tender, his gaze holding a silent promise of protection. "It's really no trouble," he replied, his tone soothing and reassuring.

Reflecting on how Lucas had been her steadfast support, Isabella felt a wave of warmth spread through her.

"There's a highly-rated restaurant nearby. Are you free? My treat," Isabella offered.

Lucas hesitated briefly. "Your doctor advised a light diet for now—no seafood, among other restrictions," he reminded her.

His eyes held a flicker of concern as he watched her.