Chapter 728

Henry Lancaster studied the tears shimmering on Isabella's cheeks.

"You're weeping like this when nothing even happened between me and that woman," he murmured. "What would you do if something actually occurred? Drown in your own tears?"

Isabella scoffed, wiping her face roughly. "Don't flatter yourself. These aren't for you. Let go—I'm closing the door!"

She yanked at her wrist, but his grip was iron.

The car door refused to budge.

In one swift motion, Henry hauled her out and shoved her into the backseat.

"What the hell—let me go!"

He climbed in after her, slamming the door shut. Before she could protest, he pulled her onto his lap.

"Stop squirming."

She twisted, trying to escape. "We're in a car, you lunatic!"

Henry smirked, tilting her chin up. "We've done worse in here. Don't pretend you didn't enjoy it."

Her retort died when she bit his lip—hard.

A metallic tang filled his mouth. He touched the blood, then cupped her face gently. "I've been drugged. Are you really going to let me suffer?"

Isabella hesitated.

"You'd let me die?" His voice dropped. "After I nearly sacrificed myself to break your curse?"

Guilt twisted her stomach. "That's not the same—"

Henry released her, slumping back. "Fine. Watch me die, then."

Her resolve shattered.

She hooked her arms around his neck. "You manipulative bastard."

His gaze burned into hers. "So? Will you save me or not?"

Isabella exhaled sharply. "If you'd save me, then yes."

A slow, dangerous smile curved his lips. "Then take the lead."

Her eyes widened.

He wanted her to make the first move?

She glared.

Henry ripped her blouse open. "What's wrong? I thought you liked being in control."

Furious, Isabella silenced him with a searing kiss.

Meanwhile, Harrison lounged on the velvet sofa in the Lancaster estate, sipping tea as the maid gushed.

"Ms. Whitmore, you're a miracle worker! Mr. and Mrs. Lancaster have been at each other's throats for years—yet after one dinner with you, they're suddenly inseparable!"

Harrison smiled into her cup. "I merely reminded them of what they'd forgotten."

The maid beamed.

Just then, the woman Isabella had brought in earlier descended the stairs, her face ashen.

Harrison dismissed her with a wave. "Your services won't be needed tonight. Don't worry—you'll still be paid."

The woman's jaw clenched. Money wasn't what she wanted.

Henry had abandoned her the moment Isabella stormed out.

It had all been an act.

A performance staged solely to provoke Isabella.

Bitter tears welled as she stepped outside—only to freeze at the sight of the luxury car rocking violently on the lawn.

She fled, heart splintering.