Chapter 25

"Congenital defects," Isabella explained, pausing, "meaning developmental problems. It's indeed difficult to treat."

Hope died in Shawn's eyes. He slumped, as if drained of life. "Ah, I knew it. This must be heaven's punishment for me!"

Isabella frowned slightly at his reaction. "It's difficult, yes, but not impossible. Why are you giving up so easily?" She hadn't even finished before he interrupted.

Shawn straightened, his eyes lighting up. "Dr. Lovett, can it really be treated?"

Isabella nodded. "The treatment will be challenging, slow, and mentally and physically exhausting. You should ask him if he can endure the hardship and pain. If he can, I can cure him."

Her tone was casual, yet certain.

Shawn rushed forward, grabbing her arm. "If you can cure him, I'll agree to anything! I'd even give you my life!"

Over the years, Shawn had tirelessly sought treatment for his only son, the heir to the Cooper name.

Isabella winced at his grip. George intervened, pulling Shawn away. He chuckled, "Come on, we don't need your life, Mr. Cooper. You're overreacting."

Relieved, Isabella sighed as her wrist was freed. Payment wasn't her concern; that was George's domain.

Standing, she addressed them softly, "You two talk. I'm going to the restroom." Another deal closed. Admiring her reflection, Isabella smiled. But at the door, she froze.

A man in a black-and-white tracksuit, about six foot three, stood there. Even masked, his striking good looks were undeniable. It was Jayden.

Her good mood vanished. She'd longed to see him daily, but since deciding she never wanted to see him again, their encounters felt relentless—fate's cruel joke or punishment?

Jayden spotted her. Even casually dressed, she stood out, more poised and alluring than before. He couldn't understand why she was here, suspecting she'd followed him.

A mocking smile touched his lips. Isabella keeps saying our relationship is over, but she's just playing hard to get. Does she really think I can't see through her little tricks?

As he turned to leave, Isabella unexpectedly walked past him. She had no intention of speaking.

Jayden blocked her path, irritated. "Why did you follow me here? Don't you know my status doesn't allow for this kind of behavior? You still don't know how to act appropriately!"

Isabella instinctively stepped back, avoiding contact. She met his gaze coldly, a mocking smile on her lips. "You're full of yourself."

Reflecting later, she realized his arrogance was partly her fault. She'd clung to him, terrified of losing him. But she'd learned some things can't be held, no matter how hard you try.

Jayden was stunned. "Isabella, you–!" Disappointment filled his gaze. He'd believed she could change.

A few days earlier, Ivana had called, accusing Isabella of impersonating Queenie. He'd initially dismissed it, but discovered Xavier had suffered an attack, reverting to his bloodthirsty state, and the Cox family desperately sought help. He never imagined Isabella capable of such a thing.

Unbeknownst to him, the Cox family had hidden their situation, and Isabella had sought to avoid entanglement. It was a mutually beneficial arrangement, leading to the false rumors.

Jayden steadied himself. His cold eyes locked on Isabella. "Since that's how it is, we'll never contact each other again."

Isabella laughed coldly, turned, and walked away.

Jayden watched her go, his brow furrowed. He'd expected fear, not indifference. He clenched and unclenched his fists. This is just another game, he thought sarcastically, she'll be back.

When Isabella returned, George was chatting enthusiastically with Shawn. The payment details were settled.

She sat down. Shawn approached her, tentatively smiling. "Dr. Lovett, when can we go?"

He rubbed his hands nervously.

Isabella took a sip of coffee. "No rush."

Shawn froze. His anxiety deepened.

Isabella reassured him gently, "Being anxious won't help. I need time to prepare."

His nerves eased slightly. "Then, Dr. Lovett, when do you think?"

"Three days," Isabella interrupted. Standing, she added, "George will be in touch. Be patient."

She understood his urgency, but this couldn't be rushed.

George patted Shawn's shoulder reassuringly. "Mr. Cooper, don't worry. If Queenie says she can cure him, she will!"

Shawn nodded, bowing slightly. "Thank you, Dr. Lovett." Three more days wouldn't hurt.

George tucked the cigarette Shawn gave him behind his ear and smiled. "No big deal."

He waved to Shawn and turned to Isabella. "Shall we?"

She nodded, and they left. Shawn hurried after them, calling, "Dr. Lovett, take care!"

Several people in the lobby watched, curious about Isabella.

The garage was deserted. As Isabella settled into the driver's seat, she was startled.