Isabelle’s POV

Brian’s words hung in the air like a challenge I wasn’t ready to face. His hopeful gaze, the slight curve of his lips as he waited for my response—it all felt like too much. My heart raced as I opened my mouth to reply, but before I could say a word, my phone buzzed loudly on the table.

I frowned, glancing at the screen. Aunt Rita’s name flashed across it, and my stomach tightened. She never called unless it was urgent.

“Sorry,” I said to Brian, forcing a tight ...