Isabel’s POV “Ma’am, Ma’am.” Christine’s voice cuts through my thoughts, her tone soft but insistent. I blink, shaking off the haze, and lean back in my chair with a sigh. “Is everything alright? You seemed lost for a moment.” She leans in slightly, her brows knitting with concern. I don’t respond right away. Instead, I exhale deeply, letting my shoulders slump. How do I even begin to explain the strange feeling this unknown number stirs in me? Christine straightens, recognizing my silence. “You’ve got a packed schedule today, ma’am. I suggest we get started.” She places an iPad on my desk. I glance at the screen but remain quiet. My thoughts keep drifting back to the countless times that number has called. What if it’s an emergency? I sit up abruptly and reach for my phone. Or what

