The phone buzzed in Isabella’s hand. The noise cutting through the quiet of Victor’s study. His back was to her. Shoulders broad and still as he stared out the window, lost in thought. She answered before the second ring.“Mama?” Her voice sounded strained. Fear prickled at the back of her neck.“Isabella.” Her mother’s voice was tight. Thin. Like a wire pulled too tight. Not her usual calm tone. This was fear. The kind Isabella hadn’t heard in years. Not since the funeral.“What’s wrong?” Isabella pressed. Her heart started pounding.“A man came today,” her mother whispered, rushing the words. “To the facility. He said he was from the insurance company. For your employer.”Isabella’s blood ran cold. “What did he want? Did you tell him anything?” Her eyes went to Victor. But he hadn’t moved. He couldn’t hear her from here.“No, no, nothing real. He had papers, Isabella. Looked official. Asked small questions. About your work. Your… marriage.” Her mother paused on the last word. “
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