than the last. The idea of revenge, of taking down Seraphina, that Nathaniel had given her tormented her mind. Seraphina had been in charge of her for so long, with all the lies, the vio

rew. She didn't come here to waste time. What do I do first? Nathaniel walked up to a neighbouring bench and sat down with an air of planned ease. We're going to go after one of her smaller businesses first, something that won't get too much attention. I've already talked to a few people who work for her who are eager to help us mess up one of her businesses. Isabella leaned forward because she was interested. Which one? Nathaniel said, The Crystal Manor project, in a hushed voice. Seraphina's pet project. She has been putting a lot of money into it, but the finances aren't looking well. If we get things a bit messy there, she'll start to freak out. Isabella's lips slowly curled into a smile. I like this. It's not obvious. Nathaniel's eyes were black with purpose as he said, It's only the beginning. After we've messed up her business, we'll go after the real prize: her control over the estate. That's where her strength is. Isabella's heart raced. She felt like she had hope for the first time in years. They were planning to get rid of her stepmother. She stood up, her determination growing. Let's do it. The next few weeks were a jumble of secret meetings and quiet talks. Nathaniel showed that he was smart and constantly one step ahead, pulling the strings like a skilled strategist. Isabella never thought that a man like that could be so... productive. Every time they saw each other, their faith in each other rose, but slowly. Nathaniel didn't pressure her or make her do anything she wasn't ready for. Even though he acted tough and confident, it was clear that he respected her. She had to admit that he was different from anyone else she had ever met. One night, following a very difficult meeting with an insider, they sat together in a small, quiet café that was not on the estate. Isabella was drinking a glass of wine and tapping her fingers lightly on the stem as she watched Nathaniel go through a pile of papers. You make it look easy, she added, her voice full of respect. He didn't look up, but his lips turned up in a half-smile. It's not. But it has to be done. You will see. The more we press, the more Seraphina will show herself. Isabella looked at him for a moment, then turned away. And what do you get out of this? You need to have