Chapter 036

Aftermath

Across the police station, overhead fluorescent lights pulsed steadily, a very sharp contrast to the violent storm raging within Isabelle. She sat stiffly on an uncomfortable plastic chair, hands protectively cradling her swollen belly, playing in her head events of the last couple of hours—a nightmarish cycle that she just simply could not break out of.

Morris preened back and forth across the room; his countenance darkened to barely restrained fury. His eyes met Isabelle's from time to time, and he would soften his hard features in concern. Whatever be, he just could not help but feel for her and the unborn child she carried within.

Detective Sarah Chen was a petite, no-nonsense woman in a sharp pantsuit. Clicking across the linoleum floor in practical heels, she held two cups of steaming coffee. She offered one to Isabelle with a sympathetic smile.

"How're you holding up?" Detective Chen asked, her tone softening her professional voice.

Isabelle took the proffered cup in