“Mommy will fix this for you,” Isabella murmured, her voice trembling with unshed tears.

She understood Sophia’s intentions perfectly. Sophia wanted her gone from Ethan’s life, and she would stop at nothing to make it happen. So Isabella would leave. Nothing was more important than Liam’s survival.

She picked up her phone, her hand surprisingly steady despite the storm inside her. She dialed Sophia’s number, each ring echoing the frantic beat of her heart.

The call connected. Sophia’s voice was smooth and triumphant. “Isabella. Have you finally decided to be reasonable?”

Isabella kept her tone even, devoid of any emotion. “We need to talk.”

A light, mocking laugh traveled through the line. “Very well. Meet me tomorrow morning. The café next to the hospital.” The line went dead before Isabella could respond.

She set the phone down slowly, her eyes returning to Liam’s small, sleeping form. The decision sat heavily on her shoulders, a burden she would carry forever. But for her son, she would bear it. She would bear anything.

The next morning, Isabella stood before the mirror, straightening her coat. She took a steadying breath. One last look at Liam, and she walked out of the hospital room.

The hallway was quiet, her footsteps the only sound. The elevator ride down was silent. A strange sense of calm settled over her. She was ready.

The café was warm and smelled of coffee. Isabella barely noticed. She chose a table by the window and waited.

Sophia arrived late, making an entrance. Her black suit was expensive and sharp. Her makeup was perfect. She carried a Hermes Birkin, a blatant display of her status. She sat across from Isabella, her posture radiating superiority.

“Well?” Sophia prompted. “What’s your answer?”

Isabella met her gaze without flinching. “I’m leaving Ethan. For good.”

Sophia’s eyebrow arched. A flicker of doubt crossed her face. “For good?” she repeated, skepticism dripping from the words.

Isabella’s voice was cool and final. “I’m moving abroad. I won’t come back. Ethan already believes Liam isn’t his. You have nothing to worry about anymore.”

Sophia studied her, eyes narrowed, searching for a lie.

After a tense silence, a small, victorious smile touched Sophia’s lips. “It’s about time you saw sense. You should have made this choice long ago.”

Isabella looked down at her hands.

“Remember your promise.” Sophia took a sip of her coffee, leaving a red lipstick stain on the rim.

Isabella said nothing. Her face was a mask of quiet resolve.

Finally, she gave a slight nod and stood to leave, her movements stiff.

Just as she stepped outside, a voice called out to her.

“Isabella!”

She froze, lifting her gaze slowly.

Lucas was there, his face etched with deep concern. He hurried over, his eyes immediately taking in her pale complexion. Worry was clear in his expression.

“Hey, are you okay? You look…” He reached out as if to touch her cheek, but stopped himself.

Isabella sidestepped his gesture, forcing a weak smile. “I’m fine, Lucas. Really.”