Isabella makes the call

Emiko picked up on the second ring, her voice a low purr in Isabella's ear. "Bella?" she greeted.

Isabella's heart clenched at the pet name. She could almost imagine her mother's arms wrapped around her, her body pressed close. But she swallowed hard, forcing herself to focus on her mother's voice.

"Mother, I have decided where I need your help most," Isabella said.

"Of course, Bella. What do you need?"

Isabella paused, weighing her words.