"I know, and he doesn't deserve someone like me."
"Why do you say that?"
"Because he deserves a woman who can make him happy."
"And why can't you be that woman?"
"Because I’m not capable of loving. I was raised in boarding school and around the world because my father wanted it that way. My parents have never loved me, and I’m empty. I have nothing to offer Nathan."
"It's a story you've seen, honey. You can grow together. Complement each other,” she says as she hugs me. “No one other than you would be able to fill Nate's life and make him happy. Believe me."
"Are you ready, Izy?" he asks. “Oh, hi, Alice. I'm sorry, but we won't be here for dinner."
"It's not a problem, Nathan. Go."
Chapter Eight
Nathan
Seeing her so helpless makes me sick. The car ride is silent. She’s looking out the window, lost in thought.
I knew that his request for me to come home was hiding something. Dad never does anything by accident, but I didn't expect all this. Seeing her fight makes me feel proud of her. I want to hug her and protect her. She was braver than me in facing everyone. Too bad we’ll be forced to get married.
Knowing my father, he has bet on our future at a game, either golf or poker. It isn’t worth getting angry. Unfortunately, whatever Dad says or decides is done. He doesn't take no for an answer and it won't be different now. Izy is a strong girl but I think this news has hurt her a lot and I can't stand seeing her like that.
The guards stop us in front of her gate, but they let me through when they see Isabel.
Going along the tree-lined avenue to the villa makes my stomach ache. I don't want to part with her.
"Thanks for the ride, Nate."
I jump out of the car and walk toward her. I stop her before she goes up the stairs.
"Izy...”
She pivots, and I know she’s on the verge of a crying fit. I approach and hug her.
"I'm sorry," I whisper to her as she holds me tight.
"What are you sorry for?” she says, raising her beautiful eyes to look at me.
"For these!" I tell her, wiping her tears, losing myself in that beautiful sea.
"Nate ... Can I ask you for another favor?"
"Whatever you want."
"Take me away from here."
"Take you away, where?"
"Anywhere, but far from here. I want to disappear for a couple of days. I need to think."
"Okay. Go get what you need. I'll make a couple of calls to see if we can go somewhere."
She nods and goes into the house.
I have the ideal place in mind, and I hope that Alex is available to take us there.
