Chapter 2

The Plan

Isabella's Pov

(Five Years Later)

I’ve never been good at hiding my nerves. No matter how much I practice my smile or straighten my posture, my body always finds a way to betray me, shaky fingers, restless breathing, a heartbeat that feels too loud in my chest.

This morning was no different.

It didn't help that I was about to go face to face with the monster that ordered the massacre of my entire family. I knew I would get the job. For five years, I've worked hard just to reach this level.

I stood in front of the mirror, dressed in my best charcoal blazer and pencil skirt. The white blouse beneath was crisp, almost stiff, like it understood the seriousness of today. My black heels added two inches to my height and a little too much pressure to my toes, but they made me feel… capable.

My fiery red hair was pulled into a low bun, neat enough to look professional, yet still allowing a few loose strands to frame my face. I wished they’d behave, but they never did, just like me.