A sudden wave of nausea washed over Isabella.

She placed a gentle hand on her stomach, whispering softly to her unborn child. "It's okay, sweetheart. Mommy's here. I'll always protect you. With or without your father, you are my greatest blessing. I promise you a beautiful life."

She had sold the expensive gifts Ethan had given her to cover Eleanor's medical bills.

Now, every penny needed to be saved for the baby.

Raising a child alone required a stable income.

The restaurant was intimate, filled with soft music and low lighting.

Isabella took a steadying breath and looked across the table at Lucas. "Lucas, I need to discuss the project with Mr. King. Can you arrange a meeting soon?" Her voice was quiet but firm, her eyes determined.

Lucas understood her need for financial independence, a crucial step in breaking free from Ethan.

"Tomorrow. I'll organize a dinner and ensure he attends," Lucas replied smoothly. "Alexander won't refuse a family friend."

A grateful smile touched Isabella's lips. "Thank you, Lucas. That means everything." She reached for the wine glass, but Lucas stopped her.

"Remember, you're pregnant. No alcohol," he cautioned gently.

Isabella's hand stilled, her expression flickering.

Lucas signaled a waiter. "We'll have fresh orange juice, please."

The juice arrived shortly. Isabella sipped the tangy liquid. It was refreshing but did little to ease the heaviness in her heart.

She raised her glass of juice in a toast. "Thank you, truly." Lucas smiled warmly, raising his own wine glass and finishing it in one go, admiring her quiet strength.

Later, Lucas drove Isabella back to the guesthouse. After parking, he turned to her.

"Ethan wants you to come back. Will you?"

Isabella shook her head firmly. "I prefer it here. Please don't tell him where I am."

Respecting her decision, Lucas simply nodded.

Walking away from the guesthouse, Lucas felt unusually light. Despite her weariness, Isabella had a resilient glow tonight. He admired her strength, like a flower standing strong after a storm.

"Young man!" called out Olivia Bennett, the innkeeper. She was pleasantly plump and moved with surprising agility. She greeted him with a knowing smirk. Lucas stopped and gave a polite nod. "What can I do for you, Olivia?"

With a playful yet serious look, she asked, "So, you're sweet on that young lady, aren't you?"

Lucas quickly glanced back, relieved the night hid his expression and that Isabella was inside.

"Just helping a friend," he said quickly, avoiding her gaze.

Olivia chuckled knowingly. "Just a friend? Then why did you pay triple to have the previous guests cancel their booking?"

Lucas felt his cheeks warm under her teasing, his expression turning sheepish.

He cleared his throat, eager to change the subject. "Anyway, I'm arranging a banquet for tomorrow. I'll invite Alexander."

"Alexander? Alexander King from Oakridge Industries?" Olivia's voice was full of surprise and disbelief.