Emma’s hands trembled as she gripped her coffee cup, her eyes darting to the door of the café. She had arrived early, both to steady her nerves and to mentally prepare for what she might learn.
The name Isabelle Laurent had haunted her thoughts all night. Meeting the woman who had once been at the center of Alexander’s life—and betrayal—felt like stepping into uncharted territory.
The bell above the café door jingled, pulling Emma’s attention. A tall, elegant woman in her mid-thirties walked in. Isabelle’s presence was commanding, her tailored coat and confident stride making heads turn. She spotted Emma immediately and approached with a small, enigmatic smile.
“Emma, I presume?” Isabelle’s voice was smooth, almost disarming, as she took the seat across from her.
“Yes,” Emma replied, h
