Chapter 26

Isabelle's face went from pale to green in seconds. Her eyes darted, and then, out of nowhere, she broke into loud sobs. She cried like she'd been wronged by the whole world, her voice full of pitiful grievance. And before anyone could react, she dropped to her knees in front of Stella. "Stella, I know I messed up before by blaming you. You saved Olivia—how could I not want to make peace with you? I came here today honestly, just to talk about the music sheet. If you say no, I'll feel terrible, really." The sudden meltdown left Renee completely stunned. Her mouth hung open in disbelief—this smug woman suddenly bawling and kneeling? Totally unexpected. Stella looked down at her, expression icy. "Cut the act, Isabelle. Get up already. Charles might walk in any second and think I'm bullying you. You do remember there're cameras all over this studio, right? Don't even think about twisting the story later." Though she sounded like she was warning her, her words had sharp edges. When Renee h