Isabella! I'm so relieved you're here!

Victoria leaned heavily against the doorframe, her breathing ragged. Sweat glistened on her brow, evidence of her frantic rush.

Seeing her obvious distress, Isabella immediately moved to support her, concern etching her features.

What's wrong, Victoria? What happened? Why are you in such a state? You're drenched.

Victoria took several gulping breaths before she could form words. Last night... Sophia... she demanded to see me...

Sophia? Isabella's expression instantly sharpened. What did she want? Her voice turned cold, suspicion lacing every syllable.

Victoria finally steadied her breathing and lowered her voice to a whisper. She was asking questions... probing about something...

About what? Isabella pressed, her focus absolute.

Victoria swallowed hard, her voice barely a breath. She mentioned a major problem... with the joint venture between Grant Group and Blackwood Enterprises... Mr. Blackwood... is apparently blaming Grant Group...

What? Is that accurate? Isabella's face paled, her eyes widening with alarm. She wasn't directly involved in the project's operations, but she knew its immense importance. It was a colossal undertaking, critical to both families. Lucas was notoriously meticulous. How could something have gone so wrong?

And Ethan wasn't the type to turn on an ally without compelling reason. There had to be more to this.

A wave of anxiety crashed over Isabella, leaving her deeply unsettled. She drew a sharp breath, pulled out her phone, and dialed Lucas.

Beep... beep... beep...

The line rang incessantly, meeting only silence. With each unanswered ring, Isabella's heart sank further. A dark, cold dread wrapped around her, squeezing her chest with icy fingers.

If Lucas wasn't answering, it almost certainly meant trouble.

Grabbing her bag, she said, Victoria, hold down the studio for me. I need to get to Grant Group. Now.

You're going to Grant Group? Victoria's voice was thick with worry. But... Is that a good idea right now? What if you...

Victoria's words trailed off, her hesitation clear. She feared Isabella would be walking directly into the escalating conflict between the Blackwood and Grant families.

Though she understood Victoria's fear, Isabella couldn't hesitate. Lucas was her friend. She wouldn't stand by if he was in trouble.

It's fine. Don't worry, I'll be careful, Isabella reassured her, giving Victoria's shoulder a quick, firm squeeze. You're in charge here. Call me if anything comes up.

Without another word, Isabella turned and strode out, her steps quick and determined.

Isabella... Victoria called after her, but Isabella didn't look back.

Victoria could only watch, her worry mounting, as Isabella disappeared from view. She knew Isabella felt a powerful sense of loyalty to those she cared about. Once her mind was set, nothing could change it.

Grant Group.

Isabella stood in the lavish lobby, her stomach knotting as she watched employees move with purpose. She marched straight to the reception desk.

Hello, she said, her tone urgent. Is Mr. Lucas Grant available? My name is Isabella Scott. I have an appointment with him.