Chapter 1 A New Game The morning air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of rain as Isla stepped out of the cab. The towering glass facade of Whitmore Enterprises reflected the sunlight, a stark reminder of the world she once belonged to but no longer recognized. She straightened her blazer, inhaling deeply to steel herself. Today marked the beginning of a new chapter one she would write on her own terms. As she entered the building, familiar faces greeted her with whispers and stolen glances. She knew what they were thinking. The abandoned wife, the woman scorned, returning as if she had anything left to prove. Let them talk. She was here for herself now, not for the approval of those who had once turned their backs on her. Miss Turner, a voice interrupted her thoughts. Isla turned to find a young receptionist staring at her hesitantly. Whitmore is expecting you. His office is on the top floor. A small smirk played on Islas lips. Of course, he was expecting her. Nolan was never one for surprises, he liked to control every situation. But he had no idea that she was no longer the naive woman he had once discarded. The elevator ride felt endless. With each floor she ascended, her resolve solidified. The doors opened with a soft chime, revealing the familiar mahogany desk and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the city. And there he was, seated in his leather chair, looking as pristine as ever in his tailored suit. His voice was calm, measured. She met his gaze with unwavering confidence. For a moment, silence stretched between them, heavy with unspoken words. He leaned back, studying her as though she were a puzzle he couldnt quite solve. You look well, he remarked, his tone unreadable. And you look the same, she replied coolly, stepping further into the office. Though I suppose change has never been your strong suit. A flicker of something crossed his face, annoyance, perhaps. Let him feel the discomfort for once. I assume you know why youre here, he said, motioning to the chair across from him. Isla didnt sit. I know why I agreed to be here. But lets be clear, Nolan, Im not the woman you left behind. If you think you can manipulate me into submission again, youre in for a surprise. His lips twitched as if suppressing a smirk. Is that so? She folded her arms. You need me. Otherwise, you wouldnt have called. So lets skip the pleasantries and get to the point. What do you want, Nolan? The game had changed. And this time, Isla was the one in control. Five-year-old Annie, who can understand animals, saved Landon Hawthorne, a wealthy businessman, from suicide. Now she's his whole world and he's her legal cheat-code against every villain fate throws ...