Sophia fixed her with a hard stare. “I’ve said what I needed to say. Stay away from Ethan,” she warned, her tone icy. “If you ignore me, I will ruin everything you’re planning.”

A cold shiver ran down Isabella’s spine. She knew Sophia wasn’t bluffing. Her jaw tightened. “I’m leaving the country. I’ll go somewhere far.”

A smug smile touched Sophia’s lips. “Perfect.”

As soon as Sophia left, Isabella drew a shaky breath. She fought to steady her racing heart. Picking up her phone, she called Lucas.

“Lucas, can you book me a flight? I need to leave tomorrow night, after the Oakridge Industries CEO’s anniversary event,” she said, forcing her voice to remain even.

“The anniversary event? What time does it start? Where is it held?” Lucas asked.

“Eight o’clock. At The Grand Plaza Hotel,” Isabella answered quickly, her mind already racing ahead.

“I’ll handle it. Be careful,” Lucas replied, his voice laced with worry.

“I will,” Isabella said before ending the call. A sense of relief washed over her. She had an escape plan.

The next day, Ethan came home earlier than usual. A maid came upstairs to inform Isabella that she was needed downstairs.

Isabella didn’t argue. She felt strangely calm.

With every hour that passed, her resolve grew stronger.

She descended the stairs slowly. Her steps were light but firm. In the living room, Ethan sat on the sofa, a document in his hand. He looked tired.

Two elegantly wrapped gift boxes lay on the dining table. Their expensive packaging hinted at luxury.

Isabella approached the table. Her eyes fell on the boxes, confusion clouding her thoughts.

“What is this?” she asked softly.

Ethan looked up. His expression was complex, unreadable.

“A dress and shoes for you,” he explained, his voice steady. “Wear them later.” He paused. “Don’t embarrass the Blackwood family.”

Without protest, Isabella picked up the boxes and turned toward the stairs.

Ethan watched from below as her slender figure disappeared around the staircase. A knot of unease tightened in his chest.

This wasn’t like Isabella. She was too calm today. Sophia approached, her heels clicking confidently. She linked her arm with his, a seductive smile on her lips.

“Ethan,” she cooed. “I’d love to go with you to the anniversary tonight.”

Ethan responded absently. “Hmm.” His thoughts were still on Isabella.

“Will you come help me pick a dress?” Sophia pleaded, tugging his sleeve.

Irritated, he replied, “I’ll have the driver take you.”

Sophia paused, surprised, but nodded.

She knew about the dress Ethan had bought for Isabella.

But after tonight, Isabella would be gone.

Then, no one would stand in her way.

Watching Sophia leave, Ethan rubbed his temples and headed to his study.

Isabella changed into the outfit Ethan had provided. She studied herself in the mirror.

The deep red gown made her skin glow. Its elegant cut accentuated her figure.