Isabella Hawthorne
This was no longer just a political game, not with Elijah Hearts himself gracing this… whatever this was, with his presence. Sending Capitol representatives was one thing, but the President? It screamed of something far more serious, far more dangerous than I ever dared to imagine.
My mind raced, searching for questions, for answers, but the words wouldn't come. I felt frozen, trapped in the plush interior of the car, the weight of the President's presence a physical burden.
Mayor Caldwell, ever the smooth operator, cleared his throat. "Quite an unexpected turn, isn't it, Isabella? A testament to the Capitol's deep concern for your well-being."
"But why?" The question finally escaped, hoarse and strangled. "Why is President Hearts here?"
His smile remained fixed, ye
