Chapter 185

"Isabella just called me. She's really worried about you. Now that you're awake, wanna call her back?" James tried to sound casual, but clearly the kids were what he really meant. Maria's first instinct was to say no, but the thought of Ethan and Ella made her heart skip. She glanced down, trying to hide the rush of emotion, coughed lightly, and said, "Yeah, hand me my phone." James opened the drawer and passed her the phone. The screen lit up—dozens of missed calls. From Isabella, David, Daniel, even Victoria had tried to reach her. "I'm out of water. I'll go fill this." James grabbed the kettle and headed out, obviously giving her space on purpose. Maria didn't think much of it and quickly dialed Isabella. Isabella had just showered and was lying on the bed. Seeing "Maria" on her screen jolted her upright, and her fingers trembled as she hit answer. "Girl, you scared the hell outta me! Finally, some news!" "Just woke up. I'm okay, nothing too serious," Maria kept her voice down and g