Chapter 3

Isabelle hadn't recognized me at first, thinking Marcus was just being a chivalrous Samaritan.

The moment she saw my face, she was stunned for a split second. Then, her regret became painfully obvious.

She cautiously glanced at Marcus, but didn't respond to me.

I dared not look at Marcus.

But even without looking, I could feel his gaze, sharp as a blade.

His stare made my skin crawl, my scalp tighten. I didn't dare to look his way.

And he, very quickly, noticed the small figure hidden behind me.

Leo was already curious about Marcus.

To a child, an adult who could lift them high, tossing them into the air for a game, was practically a superhero.

The immediate tension had subsided. He rubbed away his tears, secretly poking his little head out to look up.

And his eyes met Marcus's.

In that moment, my heart hammered, a frantic drumbeat in my chest. I felt lightheaded.

This was it.