252

Isabella

Enveloped by a heavy silence punctuated only by the sound of my own racing heart, Natalia's piercing gaze bore into mine, her eyes ablaze with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine. Beside me, Ava stood tall and unwavering, her presence a comforting reminder of the strength and resilience that flowed through my veins.

"Natalia, this needs to stop," I said, my voice trembling with a mixture of fear and defiance. "I will not leave Damien for you, no matter how many times you ask."

Natalia's lips curled into a disdainful sneer as she took a step closer, her every movement radiating a dangerous sense of determination. "You're making a mistake, Isabella," she spat, her words laced with venom. "Damien belongs with me, and you know it."

I felt a surge of anger rise within me at her audacity, at her blatant disregard for the sanctity of my marriage and the depth of my love for Damien. "You have no right to dictate who Damien belongs with," I shot back, my voice ringing with r