"Noelle," Isabella quickly grasped her arm, "it's fine. Mr. Morozov is probably tired."
Then she turned back to Noelle, patting her shoulder reassuringly. "Oh, didn't you have something to give me?"
Noelle clearly froze, her brow creasing. "What?"
"That necklace you mentioned!" Isabella reminded her. "You said it would suit me perfectly and wanted to give it to me. It's in your room, remember?"
Noelle caught on quickly. "Oh! Right, how silly of me—I nearly forgot. I'll go get it right now."
She shot me a look brimming with displeasure, then glanced worriedly at Isabella, as if ensuring I wouldn't mistreat her friend.
Only after receiving Isabella's reassuring nod did she turn and leave the greenhouse.
Once her footsteps faded, only the two of us remained.
Isabella stood there awkwardly, fingers twisting the fabric of her skirt.
"Mr. Morozov," she began softly, obvious nervousness in her voice, "I'm sorry. I just... I was so worried about Noelle."
I walked to the tea service and poured myself a cup. The liquid cascaded down, creating ripples in the porcelain.
"She's here. There's nothing to worry about."
"I know." Isabella nodded hastily. "This is certainly the safest place. It's just... Noelle has such a stubborn nature. I worry she can't adapt to the Morozov family's way of life. After all, the difference between the Morozov and Bellucci families..."
She stopped mid-sentence, as if realizing she'd said something inappropriate.
I offered no response, simply lifted my teacup and sipped slowly.
"Actually, Noelle is wonderful," she continued cautiously. "Kind and intelligent, just a bit headstrong. With some patience, she'll make an excellent wife. We grew up together—I know her so well..."
"I have no interest in hearing this." I cut her off.
I didn't need to learn about Noelle from someone else.
Isabella choked on my abrupt interruption, embarrassment flickering across her features. She opened her mouth as if to speak, then thought better of it.
"Then... Mr. Morozov," she asked carefully, "may I tidy up my things first?"
I gestured toward the scattered items on the tea table.
Isabella exhaled in relief and crouched down to collect her belongings.
She picked up her phone first, then her lipstick, movements somewhat frantic. When she reached for her handbag, she seemed to lose her balance, toppling forward.
The bag hit the floor, its clasp springing open and spilling contents everywhere.
Compact mirror, keys, business cards, and—
A bracelet.
Platinum chain adorned with emerald-carved Christmas holly leaves and ruby berries.
My breath caught.
Isabella frantically dropped to her knees, desperately trying to gather everything, her movements rushed and panicked.
"Wait." My voice sliced through the silence.
