Isabella saw through Vanessa's offer immediately. It was a trap disguised as kindness. The room felt suffocating. She needed to get out.

She tried to stand. Her legs wobbled. The world spun. She gripped the table edge. The drug was taking hold.

Panic surged through her. She had to leave now.

"I'm not feeling well," she whispered. Her voice trembled. She turned toward the door.

"Wait, Isabella! Don't go so soon!" A man blocked her path. His eyes were predatory. "The fun is just starting!"

She couldn't take it anymore. Her hand closed around a wine bottle. In one swift motion, she smashed it over his head. Glass shattered. He screamed. Blood streamed down his face.

Chaos exploded.

Isabella fought her way out. She injured several men in the process. Vanessa sat frozen in shock. She never expected such violence from the usually composed Isabella.

Isabella stumbled from the karaoke bar. Her stomach churned. Her vision blurred.

Her high heel caught on the pavement. She fell hard. Pain shot through her knee. She tried to get up. Her body refused. She curled on the ground, fighting nausea. She bit her lip hard. The pain helped her focus.

Suddenly, strong arms lifted her. A familiar scent surrounded her. Sandalwood and safety.

"Isabella, what happened?" Lucas's voice was thick with worry.

She looked up into his concerned face. The tears finally fell. "Lucas... they..." She choked on her sobs.

His heart ached seeing her like this. He removed his jacket. He wrapped it around her shoulders. He pulled her close. "I've got you. You're safe now," he murmured softly.

He lifted her into his arms. He carried her away from the chaos. She rested her head against his shoulder. Dizziness washed over her. But his presence was a comfort.

Back in the private room, chaos reigned. Broken glass. Spilled drinks. The metallic smell of blood mixed with alcohol. Men groaned, holding their injuries.

"What is the meaning of this?" A cold, authoritative voice cut through the noise. Ethan stood in the doorway. He was immaculate in a black suit. His presence commanded the room.

The men exchanged nervous glances.

Vanessa stepped forward. She forced a calm expression. "Mr. Blackwood, this was just a department gathering. We didn't expect—"

"A gathering?" Ethan's sharp gaze swept the bloody scene. "It looks like a war zone."

Vanessa's heart pounded. "It... it was an accident. Isabella fell, and then..."

"And then a man took her away?" Ethan interrupted, his voice icy.

Vanessa hesitated. Then she nodded quickly. "Yes. A man took her."