“I brought her with me,” Grace said firmly, her voice carrying the calm authority of a mother. “Why should she eat alone in her room while we all sit here together? Killian, she is part of this family, and she will eat here—with her family.”
Isabella’s eyes shifted to her mother-in-law when she heard the word her family. Her family. Overcome with emotions, she lowered her gaze before anyone could notice the moisture in her eyes.
“But, Mother…” Killian began, his green eyes flashing.
“No, Killian! I won’t hear another word about this. If you have a problem, you can leave the table,” Grace scolded gently.
Isabella’s eyes widened with fear as she looked between Grace and Killian. But to her surprise, Killian didn’t snap back at his step-mother, despite his reputation for being harsh and e
