Beneath The Surface
Just as Isabella resigned herself to this decision, a knock on her door interrupted her reverie. Isabella rolled her eyes, wondering why everyone seemed to gravitate toward her room.
With a hint of annoyance, she opened the door and found Duke Caius standing outside
'Did Clara already spill the beans to Lirio about that topic? What a snitch,' Isabella silently mused as she welcomed Duke Caius into her room.
They settled on opposite ends of the sofa, an unspoken tension between them. Isabella, though seemingly relaxed, couldn't help but anticipate Duke Caius's words, particularly regarding the sensitive topic of Mabel's biological father.
"I couldn't offer you tea or dessert; it's past afternoon tea time," Isabella quipped, trying to break the ice.
"I'm not here for tea," Duke Caius replied, his thoughts evidently elsewhere.
Isabella's impatience grew. "Alright, what do you want?" she cut to the chase.