Six figures occupied the living room with unsettling comfort, including Margaret Keller, Dominic’s father Leonard, Dominic’s sister Vanessa, Vanessa’s husband Paul, Dominic himself, and the mistress, Celeste Warren. Celeste sat poised, elegantly dressed, one hand resting deliberately upon her stomach as if emphasizing legitimacy. Isabella stood frozen near the doorway, her bag still clutched tightly, absorbing the surreal cruelty of the scene.
Margaret spoke first, her voice layered with authority rather than empathy.
“Isabella, reality must be accepted gracefully. Celeste is carrying our grandchild. Conflict benefits no one. You should step aside peacefully.”
Vanessa leaned forward, reinforcing the pressure.
“You have no children yet. Please do not complicate matters unnecessarily. A dignified divorce preserves everyone’s future.”
Celeste lowered her eyes modestly before speaking with rehearsed gentleness.
“I never wished to hurt you. Dominic and I love each other sincerely. I hope you understand.”
Something inside Isabella shifted with startling clarity.
She smiled slowly, walked calmly into the kitchen, poured a glass of water, and returned with deliberate composure.