"I'm not isolating. I'm just...." Isabella looked at her reflection again. "I'm just trying to move on."
Enzo was quiet for a moment.
Then: "If you need anything, if you need someone to talk to, someone to help....I'm here. Okay? Despite everything with Dimitri, despite the family politics, I'm here."
Something in Isabella's chest cracked.
When was the last time someone had offered help without wanting something in return?
When was the last time someone had actually cared about her wellbeing instead of her usefulness?
"Thank you," she whispered. "That means more than you know."
"I mean it. Call me if you need anything."
"I will."
She wouldn't. But it was nice to pretend.
They said goodbye.
Isabella set down her phone, looked at herself in the mirror one more time.
Enzo thought she was isolating.
He had no idea she was doing the opposite, desperately seeking connection, attention, touch from anyone who would give it to her.
