Never Again Yours (Isadora and Magnus) novel Chapter 20

Magnus frowned, the word “breakup” grating on his nerves. He hated hearing her say it.

If she hadn’t brought it up that day during that ridiculous "kidnapping" game, maybe he wouldn’t have acted so coldly since.

He let out a short, contemptuous laugh. “If it weren’t for me just now, Pearl would’ve had you right where she wanted. Tell me, Isadora—how is it you’re so quick-witted and sharp-tongued with me, but when it comes to the Vaughans, you suddenly turn into a shrinking violet? Or is your temper only reserved for me?”

Five years together, and Magnus knew exactly how to cut her down.

But this time, Isadora didn’t snap back. Instead, she smiled—a casual, distant smile, the kind you give a stranger. “Oh, I almost forgot to thank you for earlier. I devoted myself to you for five years—let’s just call this your severance pay.”

There was nothing but cold indifference on her face as she looked at him, and Magnus’ frown deepened.

He didn’t believe for a second that Isadora actually wanted to break up. If she wanted to keep her place in the Vaughan family, she’d need his status to keep Richard and Eleanor at bay. This must just be her way of protesting the wedding he was throwing for Elise.

With that thought, Magnus stepped forward, his tone softening just a bit. “You’ve been giving me the silent treatment for days now. Even that whole kidnapping stunt was just another one of your ploys. Alright, Isadora, let’s not dwell on these things.”

“The wedding for Elise—it’s just to give her closure, to grant her one last wish. If it matters so much to you, I promise our wedding will be grander than anything you can imagine.”

The way he said it—so lofty, as if he were bestowing a favor—made it sound like he was making the biggest compromise of his life.

Isadora just found it laughable.