Isabella’s heart raced as Claire Kensington’s icy gaze bore into hers. The crowd around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two women locked in a silent battle of wills. Claire’s hand remained firmly on Isabella’s arm, her grip deceptively light but impossible to ignore.
“What do you want, Claire?” Isabella asked, her voice steady despite the unease curling in her stomach.
“To talk,” Claire replied, her smile sharp. “But not here. Follow me.”
Isabella hesitated, her eyes darting around the room in search of Damien. The idea of leaving the safety of the crowd, of walking into whatever trap Claire had planned, sent a chill down her spine. But her curiosity—and her need to protect Damien—propelled her forward.
“Fine,” Isabella said, her tone laced with defiance. “Lead the way.”
Cl
