As they drove to Elise’s apartment, Marian felt a familiar tension creep into her chest—but it wasn’t as sharp as it used to be.
There was a time when this drive felt like walking into a battlefield. When every visit felt like a silent comparison. A test. A reminder of five years ago.
But tonight felt different.
This wasn’t about competition.
It wasn’t about who loved Daniel more.
It wasn’t about who had been there first or who had made mistakes.
It was about stability.
For Isabella.
Marian glanced at Daniel as he drove. His jaw was set, but not tight. Focused. Steady. She reached over and placed her hand on his thigh.
“We’re just saying goodbye,” she murmured softly.
Daniel nodded. “Yeah. Just goodbye for three weeks.”
He parked, and for a moment they both sat in silence. Then
