The Plan

Breakfast was pretty calm, but every time I looked at Isabella, there was this strong feeling between us—it was like I wanted to take care of her.

I made sure she ate well and stayed close enough to notice every bite, every little sigh, and even those moments when my fingers brushed against her arm.

I didn't just want her to be here—I wanted her feeling safe with me. That no one would touch her without me kno── I meant… she's mine now. She soon will be.

After clearing the plates myself—no one else was going to be around her—I motioned toward the sitting room. "Come," I said softly, guiding her with my hand on her back.

Once we were on the couch, I rested my forehead against hers, letting the quiet say everything that needed to be said. She didn't resist when I tangled her fingers with mine.

The clock ticked on too fast.