There was a brief pause on the other end of the line, followed by a note of concern in his mother’s voice. “Oh dear, is she alright? What’s the matter?”
“She’s just feeling a bit under the weather,” Enrico replied, glancing at Isabella, who was listening intently, her fingers nervously fidgeting in her lap. “Nothing serious, but I don’t want to take any chances.”
Gabriella (His mother’s) response was immediate and filled with maternal sympathy. “Of course, don’t even think about the meeting,” she said gently. Gabriella’s voice softened even more over the line. “Enrico, before you go, may I speak to Isabella? Just for a moment?”
Enrico glanced over at Isabella, his brow lifting in a silent question. She gave a small nod, her lips curving into a faint, reassuring smile. He handed her the
