Chapter 76

A strange unease twisted in Harrison Caldwell’s stomach. He couldn’t explain the sudden dread.

Isabella Montgomery moved without warning. Her leg shot out in a sharp, controlled arc.

A crisp, crushing sound tore through the air.

The vibrant angel trumpets were instantly destroyed. Only broken stems remained in the bouquet Harrison still clutched. “We’re done here,” Isabella said coldly. “Leave. Now.”

She was once so gentle. So obedient. When did she become this fierce? This untamable?

Inside the car, Oliver Blackwood clapped his small hands. “Mommy is amazing! That was so cool! Daddy, you have to try harder! Go get her! Don’t let anyone else take her!”

Nathaniel Blackwood considered his son’s words. Pursue her? How? With Isabella’s fiery spirit, she’d likely dismiss him completely.

He glanced at Sebastian, irritation flaring. “Weren’t you the expert on romance? Why are you so quiet now?”

“I know nothing,” Sebastian replied quickly. “I’m just the driver. A very dedicated driver.”

Dedicated? Nathaniel’s mouth curved into a faint, humorless smile. “I have a plan,” he told Oliver. “Just follow my lead.”

The confrontation over, Isabella strode toward the parking lot. She swung a leg over her motorcycle, ready to depart.

“Mommy! Mommy!”

She turned. Nathaniel was walking toward her, Oliver perched high on his shoulders. The boy looked tiny and adorable up there. Nathaniel’s frame was solid and powerful. The contrast was striking. A handsome man. A precious child. It was a captivating image.

Isabella’s brow furrowed. “What are you doing here?” Her tone was sharp, unwelcoming. Nathaniel was accustomed to her coldness. “Last time, your advice was invaluable,” he stated calmly. “I remembered every word. Oliver’s school has a trip today. I took the day off. We’re going to the amusement park.”

Her expression softened slightly. She was surprised he was actually trying.

“However,” Nathaniel continued, his voice earnest, “this is my first time taking him out like this. It’s a crowded place. I’m concerned I won’t be able to manage him properly. That’s why I sought you out. For your guidance.”

“Well…” Isabella studied his serious face. She began instructing him in a firm tone. “He’s still small. Avoid extreme rides. No rollercoasters. No pendulum swings. The park will be packed. You must watch him constantly. It’s easy to get separated. Also—”

Suddenly, Oliver began to sob. Loud, dramatic tears. “I—I want Mommy to protect me! Daddy is a man! He’s not careful! He’s already lost me ninety-eight times!”

“Ninety-eight times?” Isabella gasped, horrified.

Oliver nodded pitifully. “Shopping. Work. Parties. Banquets. He always forgets me! I don’t feel safe! I don’t want to go with Daddy! I won’t go!”

“Oliver, be reasonable,” Nathaniel said patiently. “I’ll watch you closely this time. It’s a school trip. All your friends will be there. They’ll tease you if you don’t go.”

This only made Oliver cry harder. He was hysterical. “No! No! I’m not going! I refuse!”

He thrashed in Nathaniel’s arms, his small limbs flailing. In the struggle, he launched himself forward.

He landed squarely in Isabella’s embrace.