Rayleigh gently took Isabelle's hand, the warmth of her touch a soothing balm after the charged atmosphere of the family dinner. "Belle, do you want to take a walk for a while?" she said, her voice soft yet resolute. "Let's just stroll around the garden."
"Okay, let's go." Isabelle said, smiling as she took Rayleigh's hand into hers.
The others, sensing the need for Rayleigh and Isabelle to have some time to themselves, graciously provided them the space and opportunity to escape the dining room. As the couple stepped out into the expansive gardens of the MacKenzie estate, the weight of the earlier conversation seemed to lift from Rayleigh's shoulders.
The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow across the meticulously manicured lawns. The fragrant blossoms of spring filled the air, their sweet scent mingling with the crisp evening breeze. Rayleigh inhaled deeply, feeling the calming influence of nature wash over her.
