Isabella struggled to contain the storm inside her.

She forced a smile. “Liam, what are you playing with?”

The little boy dropped his toy the moment he saw her.

He ran straight into her arms. “Mommy!”

He glanced over at Ethan, his wide eyes full of childish curiosity. “Mommy, is he—”

Isabella gently covered his mouth before he could finish.

Liam blinked up at her, confused. His small hands tried to pull hers away.

“Liam,” she said softly but firmly. “He is not your daddy.”

The boy hesitated, clearly wanting to argue. One look at her stern expression made him fall silent.

His gaze, however, kept drifting back to the man standing nearby.

Ethan remained crouched. His sharp eyes were locked on Isabella, searching her face for answers.

She suppressed the turmoil within her.

She straightened her posture. Her voice was measured and calm. “Mr. Blackwood, we need to talk. Outside.”

She refused to have this conversation in front of her son. Liam didn't need to witness the tension brewing between them.

Ethan stood. His tall frame cast a long shadow across the room.

He followed her out without a word.

The door clicked shut behind them.

Isabella’s carefully constructed composure shattered instantly.

“Ethan, what exactly are you trying to do?”

All the warmth she had shown moments ago was gone. Her tone was cold and detached once more.

Ethan’s brows furrowed in confusion. “Why did Liam call me Dad?” His voice was laced with genuine concern.

Isabella paused. A mocking laugh escaped her lips. “Mr. Blackwood, children say the strangest things. Why overthink it? Is this another one of your mind games?”

His expression turned somber. He remained calm. “Isabella, I am asking for the truth.” His voice was firm.

“The truth?” Her voice dripped with derision. “What truth could you possibly want from me, Mr. Blackwood? Remember, we are divorced. My affairs are none of your business anymore.”

She turned to walk away.

Ethan reached out. His grasp was firm on her wrist. “Isabella, don’t push me away.” His voice was quiet, but carried a dangerous edge.

She jerked her arm free. Her eyes flashed with anger. “Please, Mr. Blackwood, keep your hands to yourself.”

She didn't look back. She walked straight back into the hospital room.

Liam was playing with his toys cheerfully. He looked up and gave her a bright smile.

Ethan stood alone in the deserted corridor. A tumult of emotions churned behind his intense gaze.

He pulled out his phone. He made a call. “I need to know everything about Liam’s condition.”

The response came swiftly. The news was grave. “Mr. Blackwood, Liam has been diagnosed with leukemia. He urgently needs a bone marrow transplant. The most likely match would be his biological father…”

Ethan’s jaw clenched. A flicker of concern crossed his face. He thought of Lucas. What was Lucas thinking?

The next day, Isabella was the picture of professionalism.

She wore a tailored beige suit. Her demeanor was calm and poised.

Her car pulled up in front of the towering Sterling Industries building.

She stepped out gracefully.

“Miss Scott, it’s been a while.” William Sterling’s secretary was waiting for her at the entrance. His smile was warm and welcoming.

Isabella returned the gesture. Her expression was calm yet cordial. “Hello.”