Gabriel stepped out of the house, adjusting his wristwatch, his expression unreadable. He had barely eaten breakfast, and though he had exchanged a few words with Isabella earlier, her calm tone still echoed in his mind.
He walked briskly down the steps toward his car, his mind already crowded with thoughts about work, his mother, and the growing storm between him and Isabella.
“Boss! Boss, wait up!” a familiar voice called from behind.
Gabriel stopped halfway to the car and turned. Andrea came running toward him, his tie flying over his shoulder, his expression both eager and nervous.
“What is it this time?” Gabriel asked, trying to keep his patience.
Andrea stopped to catch his breath, leaning slightly forward. “Your mother called,” he said quickly. “She wishes to know if you’re rea
