Chapter One Hundred and Seventeen

Isabella’s POV

I sat in the car, tapping my fingers on the driving wheel with mounting frustration. Glancing at my phone, I checked the time and sighed. Ava was meant to meet me here, but she seemed to be taking longer than planned. I decided to give her a call, and frustration was clear in the way I dialed the number.

As the phone rang, my impatience rose. Ring after ring went, and just when I was going to discontinue the call, Ava finally picked up.

"Where are you?" I asked, my tone a mix of concern and frustration.

Ava's voice came through the phone: "Hey, Isabella. I'm sorry; I got held up a bit. I'm nearby, and I'll be there shortly."

I couldn't hide my impatience. "You should've been here by now. We need to get going, and I can't wait forever."

Ava said, "I know, Isabella. I'm on my way. Just a couple more minutes, okay?"

I sighed, "Fine, but be speedy. We don't have all day."

As I waited for Ava, I glanced out of the car window, watching the passing automobiles and pedestrians