William leaned forward slightly, his eyes twinkling as though he was far more entertained than anyone else in the room. "Isabella, good, good…" he laughed warmly, his voice carrying enough weight to make people nearby turn their heads in curiosity.
"So, Bella," he asked casually, though his gaze was far from casual, "what's your education?"
Bella straightened her back, forcing her voice steady. "School graduate," she said simply, and then—quick as lightning—her eyes flicked to William, sending a silent signal. Please pretend like everything is normal. Don't expose me.
The old man caught it. And if anything, his amused smile only widened.
"And what's your age?" he asked, the question landing heavier than it seemed.
"N-nineteen," Bella answered, her lips curving into a small, nervous smile.
