Isabella’s POV
“What’s the matter? Why are you still standing here and not outside?” Zachary’s brows furrowed, confusion flickering in his dark eyes.
I blinked, snapping out of my thoughts. “Huh? I was waiting for you. Let’s go outside now.” I forced a faint smile, hoping it looked natural. “Let’s go,” I added quickly, my voice a little unsteady.
As we stepped outside, my heart clenched for a brief moment—until I scanned the area and saw no sign of Asher. Relief flooded through me, though it did nothing to calm the nervous energy buzzing under my skin. We got into the car, and as Zachary drove to the hospital, I stared out the window, my fingers twisting together in my lap.
My heartbeat quickened the closer we got. How was I supposed to face my mom after all this time? What excuse coul
