Chapter 8

After that day, Isabella's birthday came quickly. Charlie and Lilian spared no expense. They booked an entire cruise ship for her birthday party, even inviting Antonio and Norah to join the celebration. They had completely forgotten that Norah's birthday was on the same day. But Norah had grown used to it. On the day she received the invitation, Antonio hesitated to confirm their attendance. "That day is also your birthday. Maybe we should skip it." Norah could tell that he actually wanted to attend, but he had to force himself to play along in front of her. She took in his hesitation and decided to go along with his wishes. "We should go. It wouldn't be right not to." His relief was palpable, though he quickly masked it. He pulled her into an embrace and apologized, "I'm sorry I can't spend your birthday with you this year. I'll make it up to you next year." Norah chuckled at his promise. Next year? There wouldn't be a next year for them. In just a few days, she would completely disappear from their world. At the birthday party, Isabella wore the latest custom-made dress and was surrounded by everyone. Compliments poured in non-stop. She looked every bit like the center of attention. Sheldon, who had been away on business, had also finally returned. Dressed in a sharp suit, he stood beside Isabella. They looked like the perfect match. As the gift-giving segment began, everyone presented their carefully prepared gifts. Charlie, Lilian, and Sheldon, being the closest to her, naturally had their gifts draw the most attention. They didn't disappoint either—they gifted her either lavish jewelry or a limited-edition sports car. When it was Antonio's turn, he took out a certificate. Just as the crowd was puzzled, he opened it to reveal a beautiful image of a rose-hued nebula. "Isa, you already have everything you could want. I thought long and hard, and this seemed perfect for you. You can name this nebula." His gesture sparked gasps and murmurs of surprise. "You can actually buy the naming rights to a nebula? Looks like Mr. Emerson really put a lot of thought into this gift." "Mr. Emerson truly loves Ms. Sandoval. He even extends that love to her sister, going all out with such a lavish birthday gift." The words of admiration around them were deafening, but only Norah knew the truth. The gift he had prepared so thoughtfully wasn't because of some extended affection. It was because Isabella was his true love. Not wanting to stay in the crowded hall, Norah stepped out onto the deck for some fresh air. The sea breeze tousled her hair, and for the first time in a while, she felt a little lighter. It was at that moment that Isabella appeared behind her. Her voice dripped with condescension as she said, "What should I do, Norah? Not only does Sheldon like me, but it seems Tony does too." Norah didn't get it. Isabella had taken everything from her—her parents' favoritism, her friends, the man she loved, and now even her fiancé. Why couldn't Isabella spare her? Why did she have to rub it in her face? With this thought in mind, she voiced her question aloud. Upon hearing it, Isabella didn't bother to act. She smirked and replied, "No reason, really. I just enjoy watching you suffer. And I'm thrilled. Soon, I'll get to see it all over again." A frown creased Norah's brow as she tried to process the meaning behind Isabella's words. But before she could ask more, Isabella suddenly grabbed her hand and pulled her into the sea. The cold water surged over Norah's mouth and nose. She instinctively tried to scream, but the water choked her. The freezing sensation invaded her senses, and the terror of drowning overwhelmed her mind. As she struggled in the water, she saw that someone had noticed the commotion. Soon, she heard the splash of three bodies hitting the water. Charlie, Sheldon, and Antonio all dove in without hesitation. But they swam straight toward Isabella. Norah could hear Lilian's frantic voice screaming from the deck, "Save Isa! Save Isa!" At that moment, Norah felt the crushing weight of abandonment. She closed her eyes in hopeless despair, waiting for death to come. But then, she heard the sound of someone swimming closer. Weakly, she opened her eyes. When her eyes finally focused on that face, she froze completely. It was Sheldon.