Jack was finally punished, his agonized writhing a sight that should have pleased Isabella. However, lost in her own anguish, she walked away from the scene, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. As she drifted through the grounds, her eyes fell upon Annie, who was sitting on a garden bench, staring blankly ahead, her posture tense, as if the weight of her own thoughts was too much to bear.

Isabella felt a pang of sorrow for Annie and couldn't resist moving closer. She softly rested her hand on Annie's shoulder.

"Ahh..." Annie gasped, startled out of her reverie. She recoiled at the sight of Isabella and bowed her head,...