Part 2: Justice and Daggers

This chapter reveals the true scope of the threat against Isabella. Ethan’s family has been systematically planning to exploit her pharmaceutical wealth, making Julian’s drugging seem almost protective by comparison. The contrast between Alexander’s desire for public justice and Julian’s preference for “discrete” handling shows their different approaches to problem-solving. Julian slipping that ceremonial dagger into Isabella’s bag is ominous—it suggests he’s expecting violence despite his assurances. Marcus’s surveillance revelations show just how sophisticated the threat against Isabella has become, and her decision to let Julian “handle it” could have dangerous consequences.