“That’s not what I want.” Isabel answers, her eyes shining as she looks toward the child in question. James raises his head as if he senses her gaze, frowning when he sees her sorrowful features.
“Do you want to tell me why you’re so opposed to taking her in, when you obviously love her?” I prompt, sensing that I already know the answer.
“I don’t love her!” Isabel snaps defensively. “It’s not the same… I can’t…” She bites down on her lip, then glares at me. “Why are you doing this?”
“I’m trying to do what’s best for everyone – you included.” I share, “I want to see you happy, Isabel. I know that feels impossible right now–”
“Shut up!” She cries, interrupting me and stomping her foot in fury.
A gasp goes around the pups, and the little one perched on my hip whispers, “She said a bad
