“Apologies, Mr. Blackwood. I have a prior engagement.”

Ethan’s sharp eyes studied her, searching for any hint of deception. “With whom?”

Isabella met his gaze coolly. “That’s personal. Our relationship is strictly professional. My private affairs are my own.”

His expression hardened. “Isabella, we’re negotiating a major partnership. Do you understand what aligning with Blackwood Enterprises could do for your studio? Are you really going to throw that away over a simple lunch?” His tone carried a clear threat.

She clenched her hands. He was using their business deal to control her.

Isabella took a sharp breath, realizing she had little choice. “Fine. I’ll join you.”

A smug smile touched Ethan’s lips. He turned and headed toward the elevator. Silently, Isabella followed, feeling the weight of his dominance. As the elevator doors slid open, Sophia stepped out.

Sophia’s face brightened when she saw Ethan, completely ignoring Isabella. She quickly linked her arm with his.

“Ethan, let’s have lunch. I reserved a table at your favorite restaurant.”

He detached his arm casually. “Not today.” Sophia’s smile faltered, and only then did she seem to notice Isabella standing behind him. Her eyes turned cold before she forced a gracious smile.

“Very well. Isabella, you can borrow him for now.” She emphasized the word “borrow” with clear disdain.

Isabella remained expressionless, uninterested in Sophia’s petty games. She stepped into the elevator without a word. Sophia’s smile tightened. She hadn’t expected such indifference. Anger simmered inside her. She wouldn’t let that wretched woman win Ethan over.

The elevator doors closed, blocking Sophia’s resentful stare. Inside, Isabella took another deep breath.

They reached the underground parking lot. Ethan exited first, with Isabella following closely. The air between them was thick with unspoken tension.

Ethan’s sleek black Maybach stood out among the other cars. He opened the passenger door for her. Isabella settled into the comfortable leather seat. The engine purred to life, and they drove away.

They stopped at an upscale bistro. Ethan escorted her inside. The restaurant was elegant, with soft lighting and a cozy atmosphere. A server led them to a table by the window.

Ethan ordered without looking at the menu, choosing dishes Isabella once loved. Seeing the familiar food stirred a storm of emotions inside her. Sweet memories now felt bitter and ironic.

“You…” Isabella began, her voice hesitant. “When can we finalize the divorce?”

Ethan’s fork paused mid-air. He looked up, his gaze locking onto her calm face.

“Why the hurry?” he asked, a mocking smile on his lips. “Are you eager to marry Lucas?”

Disappointment washed over her. She hadn’t expected him to think so little of her.

A phone rang abruptly, cutting through the tension. Frowning slightly, Ethan pulled his phone from his pocket and checked the caller ID. Isabella watched the shifting emotions on his face, feelings she couldn’t name swirling within her.