Twenty Three

As Isabella walked down the next aisle with the hope that she hadn't filled her cart with more than she could afford, her eyes caught the wine rack.

Wine suddenly reminded her of Charles. He preferred whiskey on a good day, but he never turned down good wine either.

As she stopped and scanned the shelf, she began to realize she might have to return some things. His favorite - well, if it still was- had just caught her eye and she knew she had to get it.

As she grabbed the bottle and made for the beverage section to return the tea packs, she heard a voice from behind say, "Alberto Shade."

Isabella froze.

"Hello Isabella," the voice greeted with no so much excitement within.

She turned, sighed lightly then returned, "Mrs. Oxford."

Isabella then wondered how she knew her father or rather, about her father.

The classy woman in front of her wore a little scorn as her eyes scanned Isabella's hands. "Considering that you are latching