I clenched my fists tightly as I set my jaws. "I know her tricks. And I know she'll do whatever it takes to ruin anyone who threatens her. But we've got something she doesn't."
Michael raised an eyebrow. "Which is?"
"Truth. And purpose," i said with a fierceness that surprised even me. "For Vanessa, this is all a game. For us… it's personal."
Michael gave a slight nod, acknowledging my point. "You're right. She's grown too accustomed to getting her way through manipulation and threats. It's time she meets someone who won't back down."
A quiet determination passed between us. For the first time since all of this began, Isabella felt like they had a real chance.
"So," i continued, shifting my stance, "what's the first step?"
