Before Isabella could respond, her father cut in, his face reddening with anger. "Have you lost your mind, girl? After everything we told you, you dare to ignore our orders and parade around town?” Isabella felt a familiar wave of anxiety wash over her, the old instinct to shrink and apologize rising within her. As she looked at Seth standing next to her she felt a new ironclad determination that hardened her gut. “I am having dinner with my lawyer,” Isabella said firmly, even though her hands were shaking. James laughed outright and settled back in his chair, grinning. "Your lawyer? Is that what they're calling it these days? How much did you pay him to be seen with you in public?" Seth leaned closer to Isabella, speaking in a low voice, "Isabella, who are these people?" Isabella's face tightened with tension as she whispered back, "They're my family.” Seth's eyebrows raised slightly, but he maintained his composure. Addressing the group, he said, "Good evening. I'm Seth Donovan
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