ISABEL'S POV

“Isabel darling, where are you off to now?” my mom’s voice called out just as I reached the last step of the staircase.

I was already irritated, and hearing her voice only made it worse. I didn’t want to answer. I didn’t want a conversation. I didn’t want questions. All I wanted was to leave this house before my mood got any uglier than it already was. Still, I forced myself to stop and turn around, pasting a small grin on my face.

“To see a friend,” I said casually, like nothing was wrong. Without waiting for her reply, I turned back and continued toward the door.

“Hold...