Chapter 308

Jaden’s POV

When she finally agreed to meet me, I knew I had her. The café was a calculated choice…public enough to seem innocent, private enough for a serious conversation.

I could tell she was nervous when she walked in, but there was a spark in her eyes, a curiosity that told me she was already considering the possibilities.

Now, sitting across from her, I watched her reactions carefully. She was guarded, but not entirely closed off.

“So,” I said, leaning back in my chair, “how’s life treating you?”

Actually I knew what the answer will be but I still decided to ask.

She shrugged, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. “It’s...fine.”

“Fine?” I raised an eyebrow. “Come on, Isabella. You can do better than that.”

She laughed, but it was a little forced. “Okay, maybe not fine. But it’s...complicated.”

“Complicated how?” I pressed, keeping my tone light but curious.

She hesitated, then waved a hand dismissive