Duke Caius and Isabella convened in the grand drawing room of Ashford Manor, the atmosphere tense with unresolved history and unspoken questions. The room's opulence contrasted sharply with the heaviness of their conversation.
"Why are you really here, Isabella?" Duke Caius inquired, taking a seat opposite her and fixing his gaze firmly on her.
Isabella's crimson hair cascaded around her like a fiery waterfall as she regarded him with a hint of amusement. "Is it so strange for me to visit an old friend, Lirio? Or should I call you Duke Caius now?"
Duke Caius remained unfazed by her attempt at levity. "Our relationship ended a long time ago, Isabella. Spare me the pleasantries."
Though he harbored a hint of sympathy toward her, the thought of rekindling their friendship was as distant as the memories of what she had inflicted upon Mabel's mother in the past.
