CHAPTER SIXTY - The Treasure Within the Mystery

"Oh, come now, Lucas," Isabella cajoled. "For old times' sake? I promise it won't be boring. You know I never throw a dull party." Ella, sensing Lucas's indecision, made a split-second decision. "We'd love to come," she said, plastering on a smile. "Wouldn't we, honey?" Lucas looked at her, surprise evident on his face. "Are you sure? We don't have to-" "No, it'll be fun," Ella insisted, though her heart was pounding. "We could use a night out, don't you think?" Isabella clapped her hands together, her smile triumphant. "Wonderful! I'll see you both tonight then. Eight o'clock, don't be late!" As Isabella sauntered away, Ella turned to Lucas, searching his face for... she wasn't sure what. "So... an old friend from college, huh?" Lucas ran a hand through his hair, a nervous habit Ella knew well. "Ella, I-" "It's okay," Ella interrupted, not sure if she was reassuring him or herself. "We all have a past, right? I'm looking forward to getting to know your... friend." Lucas pulled