Twenty

Chapter 20

Isabella's footsteps felt heavy as she entered her parents' house. Usually, Isabella would run in with excitement, hugging Rose, Ben, and even Irene because she had just returned from a delightful trip after receiving her pay from writing. But this time, the burden felt heavy on her shoulders. Irene was still missing, while the contract marriage had to happen soon.

"Bella?" Ben opened the door, welcoming his daughter with a warm embrace, as they always did.

But this time, Isabella stood frozen, not returning her father's hug at all. Ben then stepped back, looking at his daughter's face, which was made up but still looked weary.

"Is everything okay, Bella?"

Isabella swallowed hard, feeling deeply anxious. But finally, she spoke up as she looked at her father with a guilty expression. "There's something I need to talk to both of you about."

Ben blinked; he had never seen Isabella this serious. The aging man then nodded his head, allowing Isabella to enter the house. They met