Soon, all the dessert dishes have been picked clean, and the mood at the table almost cheerful. Isabella smiled a bit, at least Madelyn’s mother wasn't there to sour the moment. Isabella announced she was leaving, in the process of getting up, Madelyn spoke. “Hey, my love. Why don’t we all go get some ice cream, that’s if you all still have room for it.” Ethan looks at Isabella, but she doesn't meet his eyes.?
“I think I’ll hang back. I don’t think I can fit in anything again now. Besides, I've got paperwork to finish up before our morning meeting.” Madelyn swallowed her anger and smiled. “Then I'll just meet you two at the estate. See you later.” Madelyn winks at Isabella as she leaves with the others.?
Isabella looked away, not knowing how she felt about it. But she tries to push aside all thoughts of Madelyn as she turned to look at Ethan. “You didn't have to stay with me, you know. You could’ve gone with them.”