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Chapter 48–Awkward Affections 
Isabel’s POV 
The room buzzed with the low murmur of conversation and clinking glasses. I sat there, feeling like an unwel e quest at my own high school reunion. The laughter and chatter seemed to grow louder as the evening wore on. The event had taken quite the unexpected turn with the arrival of Emerson, Lilith and Robert. 
The question hung in the air. My heart raced, a mix of panic and dread flooding my senses. What was Robert going to say? How was Emerson going to react? The tension in the room was thick, suffocating. I felt trapped between these two men who, in their own ways, had such a hold on my life. 

My old classmate looked at Robert with a teasing smile. His tone was laced with curiosity. He was obviously unaware of the tension between Robert and Emerson. I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment. Emerson’s gaze darkened and rested on me, waiting for my reply. 
“Oh, no,” I stammered, waving my hands in a dismissive gesture. “We’re just friends. Please don’t make jokes like that.” 
I turned to Robert apologetically, hoping this situation would not embarrass him. He was one of my best friends. He had been so good to me despite the mess my life had become. 
“I’m sorry, Robert,” I said, my heart racing, “if it troubles you, I- 

“Don’t worry, Isabel.” Robert interrupted my apology and offered me a calm and reassuring smile. 

“Isabel is one of the kindest and strongest women I know,” he said to everyone present, his voice rich with sincerity. His words were gentle but carried a weight that made me pause. 
“We have known each other since childhood. I know how amazing she is. She deserves the best things in the world, including the best love. So, I believe whoever wins her heart, would be the luckiest man in the world.” Robert continued gently. His eyes were full of honesty. 
His words hung in the air. A soft, heartfelt declaration. Everyone was shocked by his high opinion of me. Their curiosity was piqued by Robert’s unexpected sentiment. Some of my old classmates exchanged wide grins and teased that I was so lucky to make friends ya gentleman like Robert. 
I appreciated his kindness, even though it left me feeling a bit confused. For a moment, I found myself lost in his eyes, trying to decipher his true intentions. 
Tonight, he looked exceptionally handsome. His blonde hair was neatly styled, though his curls added a hint of untamed charm. His tailored suit highlighted his strong yet gentle presence. His brown eyes. sparkled with a warmth that sharply contrasted with Emerson’s dark features and icy blue eyes. I deeply knew that no one would refuse such a charming man, except for me. With all the heartbreak in my life, there was no room in my heart for loving another man. 

Emma, always quick to jump into a conversation, decided to add her own twist. “Well, since you’re here, Robert,” she said with a teasing grin, “why don’t you introduce Isabel to a good boyfriend? It’s about time she gets some action.” 
“Hey!