Chapter 3 My Beating Heart

Isa woke up to the warm rays of the sun gently kissing her face. As she turned over, she saw Ethan, his peaceful features bathed in the morning light. The tenderness and care he had shown her the night before contrasted sharply with the harshness she had experienced with Mark. Memories of their intimate moments filled her with a profound sense of gratitude, making her blush as she reflected on how different things felt now.

However, as she attempted to move, a sharp headache and lingering anxiety from the previous night's events hit her with full force. The turmoil with Mark and the upheaval had left her feeling unsettled, worried not only about her own safety but also about the well-being of her family and friends. Despite her best efforts to focus on the present, her thoughts were clouded with concern and residual tension.

Ethan stirred beside her, sensing her distress. His eyes fluttered open, immediately filled with concern. "Isa, are you okay?" he asked, his voice laced with genuine worry.

Isa hesitated before answering, trying to mask her discomfort. "I'm really anxious about everything that happened last night. My head is pounding, and I can't stop worrying about what might have happened to my family and friends."

Ethan gently took her hand, his gaze steady and reassuring. "Isa, you don't need to worry about that anymore. I've taken care of everything. Your family and friends are safe now. What you need to focus on is yourself. Let me handle the rest."

Isa looked at him with eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and guilt. "But I feel so guilty. You went through so much because of me."

Ethan shook his head, his expression firm yet soothing. "No, don't think like that. I'm here because I want to be. You don't need to repay me. Just let yourself heal and feel safe."

Tears of gratitude welled up in Isa's eyes, and she felt a deep sense of relief. "Thank you, Ethan. I don't know how to express how much this means to me."

Ethan offered a warm smile, his eyes soft with affection. "You don't need to say anything. I'm just glad I could be here for you. Let's focus on making today a good day. We have a lot to look forward to."

With Ethan's comforting presence, Isa felt a glimmer of hope. They slowly got out of bed and made their way downstairs. As they descended the elegant staircase, Isa was struck by the sheer grandeur of the mansion. A multitude of maids and guards greeted them with a synchronized bow and said, "Good morning, sir."

Ethan turned to the staff and instructed, "Say good morning to Isa too."

The staff turned to Isa, and in unison, greeted her, "Good morning, ma'am."

Isa felt a bit uneasy with the formal address and the bowing. "Oh, please don't bow or call me ma'am. Just call me Isa."

She couldn't help but be awed by the opulence surrounding her. The mansion was a marvel of luxury: marble floors gleamed under the chandeliers, and rich wood paneling adorned the walls. The grand foyer was filled with elegant artwork and plush furnishings, while intricate carpets softened each step. Every corner of the house radiated sophistication and wealth.

Ethan led her to the dining area, where a lavish breakfast awaited. The table was a feast for the eyes: freshly baked pastries, gourmet cheeses, an assortment of fruits, perfectly cooked eggs, and an array of juices and coffees. Isa's eyes widened at the sight of such abundance.

"Are others joining us?" Isa asked, her voice tinged with confusion.

Ethan chuckled, a hint of amusement in his tone. "Why do you ask?"

"Because there's so much food here. I thought maybe we were expecting guests," she replied, taking in the sheer volume of the spread.

Ethan laughed softly. "You really are something. Just dig in."

Isa began sampling the breakfast, and the variety of flavors bursting in her mouth was nothing short of delightful. Each bite was a new experience, and she couldn't help but express her satisfaction. "This is absolutely delicious. Thank you," she said, directing her thanks to both Ethan and the maid who had served them.

After they finished breakfast, Isa insisted on helping the maids clean up, despite Ethan's protests. She felt a strong need to contribute and show her appreciation for everything that had been done for her.

Once the kitchen was tidied up, Ethan suggested they go shopping for some office clothes. Isa was excited but also nervous about her upcoming job interview. Ethan took her to several luxury stores, including Calvin Klein, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. He picked out a stunning outfit for her interview and other items she had never imagined owning. Isa was overwhelmed by the generosity and couldn't stop thanking him.

As they walked through the final boutique, Isa looked at Ethan with heartfelt gratitude. "Thank you so much for everything. I'm truly grateful for your kindness and support."

Ethan smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting the depth of his affection. "You deserve all of this and more, Isa. I'm just glad I could be here for you."

As they made their way back to the mansion, Isa felt a renewed sense of hope and excitement about the future. With Ethan by her side, she knew she could face whatever lay ahead with confidence and optimism.