I take my bag and leave my house. Walking with measured steps, I reach the lift and descend. Once in my building's car park, I momentarily consider taking my car. 'Don't do such a thing, Isabella,' I admonish myself promptly, certain that Luis has sent it around to search for me, reminiscent of the time I left him alone at the port.

Turning my back on my car, I walk out slowly. I'm not accustomed to high heels, although I manage reasonably well, thanks to the lessons Mum insisted upon. As I approach the gatehouse, the guard greets me with wide eyes—a look of admiration and recognition of my beauty,...