peak, but her voice came

ear... just a

sh, a violent fit of

ambulance!" Is

mergency services. Isabella's heart pounded as she supported her

ics rushed in, swiftly lifting Mrs. Hernando onto a stretcher. Isabella clung to her mothe

the emergency room, still in her damp joggers, her hands clasp

s, the doctor finally eme

u her d

d quickly, standing

dition has worsened. She's been under a lot of stress. Any emotional strain

t of ice water. She'd known her mot

ed her hand. "She's going to be

intly, but guilt g

of me? Because I

nd worry written across her face. Isabella was seated beside her m

placing a gentle hand on Isabella's

bella murmured. Her voice was

came from the

er mother. "Mom?" She leaned for

ez greeted warmly. "

ghtly and smiled weakly. "Better

rtez said, setting the basket down. "

thoughtful. After a pause, she

, "there's something I w

ws knitted. "W

rs. "Bella, I... I hope you'll consider marryi

errupted quickly, her voice

ar from her daughter's cheek. Slowly, she sat up

I just worry... if I'm no longer here and you're still

blade. She leaned forward, wrapping her

. I promise. Please

Bella, but if something happens to me, I'd rest easier knowing you're not alone. Miguel's a go

spered, torn between

ou, sweetheart. Just think about it. Treat it as my wish

steady beep of the heart monitor. Isabella lowered h

it as

z added gently. "She only wants to see you marr

lip, a knot formi

e. I don't have a boyfriend, and if this

w about this?" s

said with a reassuring sm

please, talk to Miguel first. I don't want so

orcing a faint smile. "If this m

lief. Mrs. Martez smiled too, the te

h-fragile but genuine. For the firs

Martez to the hospital lobby and waited u

hat Miguel looks like. But if this ma