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Chapter 21: Drive to her past
Last Updated:
2024-12-22 00:18:36
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Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 22: The Childhood Home
The drive to her childhood home was too quiet. Isabelle gripped the steering wheel tightly, her knuckles white as memories of the past surfaced with every mile closer to her childhood home. Estella sat beside her, staying quiet unlike her character, stealing glances at Isabelle as if trying to find out what she was feeling and thinking.The neighborhood had changed a little bit since Isabelle had left—old houses with chipped paint were now remodelled into finer houses, the narrow streets was littered with her memories, both fond and painful. But the house… her childhood home loomed at the end of the road, a relic of her childhood and the place where so much had gone wrong.As Isabelle slowed to a stop, flashes of her childhood came rushing back.She remembered the days when her mother was still alive, a soft and loving presence who filled the house with warmth and light. Her father had been different then—kind and attentive, always ready with a smile and an encouraging word. They’d h
Last Updated : 2024-12-25Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 23: The River’s Scheme
The Rivers family’s living room was dimly lit, the curtains drawn to block out the midday sun. Estella sat comfortably on the couch, scrolling through her phone, while Sarah, Isabelle's stepmother paced anxiously, muttering some words to herself.The creak of a door made them look up. Mr. Rivers walked out of his room, stretching his arms and looking perfectly healthy. He glanced at them with a raised brow.“Well? Has she called yet? It's been days now, we need to get that money from her quickly.” he asked, his voice carrying an edge of impatience.Sarah scoffed, crossing her arms. “No, not yet. She's probably still thinking about it. Can you just give her some time? She's not going to throw money at us just because a father that doesn't care about her is sick.”“Still thinking about it? Why didn't you persuade her better? She thinks she's all good now and nowhere near our level, you should act lowly and get her help. That Isabelle brat! After everything I did for her.” “Look, you sh
Last Updated : 2024-12-26Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 24: The Truth is Out
The Rivers house was unusually quiet that afternoon. Mr. Rivers sat slumped in his chair, flipping through a newspaper, while Sarah paced the living room, muttering complaints under her breath. Estella wasn’t home, having gone out to “run the errand” of convincing Isabelle and having her give money to the family. The sharp ring of the doorbell interrupted the silence.“Get that,” Mr. Rivers said, not bothering to look up.Sarah shot him a glare. “Why don’t you get it? You’ve been sitting there all day doing nothing. You're not even sick at all. It’s probably just the delivery man with the pizza.”With a grunt, Mr. Rivers moved himself out of the chair and shuffled toward the door, he was tired of arguing with Sarah over every little thing. “Fine, fine. You were the one who wanted me to act sick, now I can't?” he muttered under his breath.Reaching the door, he opened it with a sigh. “Delivery?”The words barely left his mouth before he froze, his eyes widening in shock.Isabelle stoo
Last Updated : 2024-12-26Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 25: A Moment of Vulnerability
Liam arrived home later than usual, he was very tired from all the work he did today. As he stepped into the house, he immediately noticed something was off. The entire house was dark, save for the faint glow of moonlight filtering through the windows.“Isabelle?” he called, his voice echoing in the quietness.No response. His worry deepened. Isabelle wasn’t the type to leave the house without saying something, and she certainly wouldn’t sit in the dark, doing nothing. He set his briefcase down and walked through the living room, flipping on the lights as he went.When he reached her bedroom door, he hesitated. The faint sound of muffled crying reached his ears. His chest tightened, and he knocked gently.“Isabelle? Are you in there?”There was a rustling sound, hurried and frantic. After a moment, the door creaked open, and Isabelle stood there, her eyes red and swollen, her hair slightly disheveled. The faint scent of alcohol wafted past her, and Liam’s eyes flicked down to see her
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It had been two months since Liam and Isabelle's chaotic wedding and the Richard incident, and the whispers and baseless rumors had finally died down. The tabloids and paparazzi had moved on, speculating about other power couples, and some people even believed that Liam Anderson was still a bachelor, since Isabelle's face was never revealed properly. Liam had them all taken down because people might look at her weirdly and make her feel uncomfortable, some believed that Liam chased the bride away after hearing about her past. The incomplete wedding had also left an air of mystery around Liam Anderson's marital status, much to Isabelle’s relief.For Isabelle, the past month had been one of healing and meditation. She had spent days reflecting on her life, setting goals for herself, and finally mustering the courage to take her first step toward independence.She applied to lots of PR companies but almost all of them required some years of experience, which she didn't have. Luckily, she
Last Updated : 2025-01-01Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 27: The First Project
It had been a week since Isabelle started working at PR Horizon, and today was her first major project assignment. She had spent the previous days quietly observing, learning, and doing her best to navigate the unfamiliar but interesting world of public relations.Isabelle sat in the conference room with her colleagues for a meeting. A sense of nervousness filled the air. They had all been told that a very important news is coming their way and today was that day. Mark, their manager, entered, he looked very enthusiastic and pumped up for work, followed closely by Allison Simeone, their confident and mysterious CEO.“Good morning, everyone,” Mark began, his smile warm. “As I've informed everyone before, big news is coming our way and that big news is here. We've been trying to get a PR project with companies and we've been seeking partnership too, finally we’ve secured a fantastic opportunity. Our new client, Elle Luxe, is launching a new eco-conscious clothing line called the Rebirth
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Allison Simeone stood outside the towering glass structure of Anderson Corp, her reflection staring back at her with a confident smirk. Her heels clicked loudly against the polished and tilted floor as she entered the building, her mind already racing with how to handle the man she once knew so well.Frank Payne was the first to spot her at the reception desk. His eyes widened as he recognized her. “ Miss Allison Simeone?” he asked, his tone a mix of surprise and disbelief." Why are you being so formal, huh?" Allison said with a slight smile on her face."I was just surprised to see you.... what are you doing in the company?"“Hello, Frank, it's nice to see you too after three years.” she replied smoothly, her smile disarming. “I need to see Liam, is he in?”Frank blinked, taken aback. “I'm sorry. It's nice to see you too but it’s been years since…”“Yes, it has,” she interrupted, her tone casual but firm. “I’m sure Liam will want to see me. Please let him know I’m here. I'll wait.”
Last Updated : 2025-01-02Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 29: An Unwelcome Assignment
The air in the PR Horizon conference room was thick with the sound of tapping keyboards and shuffling papers. Employees gathered around the large table, their focus sharp as they waited for Allison Simeone to speak. Isabelle sat quietly near the corner, scribbling notes as Ethan handed out printed lists to everyone.“All right,” Allison began, her sharp voice slicing through the murmurs. “We’re here to finalize the ambassadors for Elle Luxe’s Rebirth Collection campaign. Ethan, what do you have for us?”Ethan stood, his usual friendly demeanor laced with professionalism. “I’ve compiled a list of potential ambassadors based on the campaign’s theme and Isabelle's idea. These individuals have compelling personal stories of overcoming hardships, aligning with the idea of rebirth and transformation. Their stories are relatable, and they have active followings across various platforms.”Allison took the list from Ethan and scanned it. Her expression betrayed nothing, but her sharp eyes dart
Last Updated : 2025-01-02
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Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 78: The Breaking Point
The next morning, Isabelle walked into the office with a heavy heart, her mind racing with worst-case scenarios. She knew Laura wouldn’t take the news about Taylor Monroe lightly, but she hadn’t anticipated just how explosive the situation would become. As she stepped off the elevator, Isabelle spotted Laura pacing near her desk, a stormy expression on her face. Before Isabelle could even greet her, Laura rushed over, her voice tight with urgency. “Isabelle! Did you hear back from Taylor?” Isabelle hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “Yes, I did.” “And? What did she say? Why didn't you report back to me?” Laura pressed, leaning in expectantly. “She’s adamant about one condition,” Isabelle replied cautiously. “Taylor won’t participate unless Celeste Laurent is removed from the guest list.” Laura’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. “That’s it? That’s all she said?” Isabelle nodded, avoiding eye contact. She couldn’t bring herself to tell Laura that Taylor had already agreed
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 77: Taylor's Agreement
The email from Taylor Monroe pinged into Ethan’s inbox. He read it twice to be sure—she'd agreed to work with Allison's team for the online campaign. The news was a victory, but Ethan knew delivering it to Isabelle wouldn’t feel like one. He found her still awake in their rented cottage, staring at her laptop screen like it held all the answers to life’s toughest questions. She glanced up when he walked in, her expression calm but weary. “Taylor?” she asked before he could say anything. Ethan nodded slowly. “Yeah. She picked us.” Isabelle let out a long breath, leaning back in her chair. “Figured as much. With Celeste Laurent involved, there wasn’t much I could’ve done differently.” “You don’t sound upset,” Ethan noted, surprised by her lack of frustration. “I am,” she admitted with a wry smile, “but not because I lost. This isn’t about winning or losing—it’s about doing what’s best for the project. And honestly? If anyone can pull off something amazing with Taylor, it’s A
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 76: The Battle for Taylor Monroe
The drive to Taylor Monroe’s estate was a long one, the city skyline shrinking behind them as Isabelle and Ethan drove further into the secluded hills where the celebrity resided.Seated in the passenger seat, Isabelle checked her notes one last time. “You think she’ll even consider this?”Ethan, focused on the road, smirked. “Taylor Monroe doesn’t do anything unless it benefits her. We just have to make it sound like we’re offering her the deal of the century.”Isabelle sighed, closing the file in her hands. “Laura is expecting me to bring her back on our side, but Monroe is known for rejecting events like this. She's doesn't attend events physically.”Ethan scoffed. “Well, Allison doesn’t even want her at the event. She just wants her digital presence. So, for once, I might have the easier job here.”The car slowed as they approached massive iron gates. A security guard stepped out of the small booth nearby, eyeing the unfamiliar vehicle.Ethan rolled down the window. “We have a mee
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 75: The Race for Taylor Monroe
The office buzzed with activity, but in Laura’s corner, tension simmered beneath the surface. She sat at her desk, drumming her manicured nails against the table, a usual habit of hers, deep in thought. It had only been a day since the Valmont Luxe project officially began, and already, Allison was making moves.Laura had overheard her team’s discussion earlier—they were planning to secure Taylor Monroe for an exclusive online campaign. It was a strong move, one that could give Allison an edge.That can’t happen.Her gaze flickered toward Isabelle, who was engrossed in work. A small smirk played on Laura’s lips as she formulated a plan.“Isabelle,” she called, her voice smooth but firm.Isabelle looked up, slightly surprised. “Yes?”“Follow me. We have an important task.”Laura led Isabelle into a private meeting room, shutting the door behind them. She turned, arms crossed, her expression unreadable.“There’s an opportunity we can’t afford to miss,” Laura began. “Taylor Monroe—she’s
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 74: Rivalries
The office was quiet as the evening settled in, the hum of fluorescent lights casting a soft glow over the dimming workspace. Laura and Isabelle sat side by side at one of the long tables in the conference room, surrounded by scattered notes, open laptops, and half-empty coffee cups.Laura tapped her pen against the table, her brow furrowed in concentration. "We need to create a buzz," she said, her voice low but determined. "Valmont Luxe’s grand opening has to be unforgettable. And that means collaborating with celebrities who can draw attention."Isabelle nodded thoughtfully. "I agree. But we have to choose carefully. Not just any celebrity will do—we need people whose image aligns with Valmont Luxe’s brand of luxury and exclusivity.""Exactly," Laura replied, leaning forward eagerly. "Think about it: A-list actors, top models, renowned musicians—people who command respect and admiration. If they’re seen wearing Valmont Luxe or attending our events, it’ll send a powerful message."I
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 73: The Second Meeting: Shadows of Competition
The evening air was tense as the team gathered in the same conference room in the evening. Liam Anderson sat at the head of the table, his sharp gaze scanning the group. Meredith stood beside him, holding a folder with neatly organized notes."Good evening, everyone," Meredith began, her tone brisk and professional. "Before we dive into the main reason we are here, let me clarify how I've divided the PR teams for this project for the sake of those that were absent this afternoon." She gestured toward Laura and Allison. "Laura will lead the Events & Partnerships Team, assisted by Isabelle. Allison will lead the Digital & Branding Team, with Ethan assisting."Liam nodded approvingly. "This division seems fair. Now, let's hear your initial ideas. Remember, Valmont Luxe expects nothing less than perfection from us. Let’s not disappoint them."Laura straightened in her seat, eager to prove herself. "Thank you, Mrs Hayes1, Mr Anderson," she said, her voice steady but tinged with determinati
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 72: A New Rivalry
The office buzzed with tension as Meredith’s urgent email flashed on everyone’s screens:“Emergency meeting. Conference Room. Now.”Isabelle grabbed her notepad and hurried down the hall, Ethan following close behind. Employees from Anderson Corp’s PR team also rushed toward the meeting room, murmuring among themselves.“Any idea what this is about?” Ethan asked, keeping pace with Isabelle.“No clue,” she replied, glancing at the flurry of activity around them. “But it’s definitely big if Meredith’s calling everyone in like this. It's for the best, I've been bored with nothing to work on.”Inside the conference room, Liam Anderson was already seated at the head of the long table, his usual composed self. Beside him sat two elegantly dressed representatives—a man and a woman—both exuding an air of European sophistication. The woman had auburn hair tied in a sleek bun, while the man sported a tailored navy suit and a faint smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.Meredith stood at the fr
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 71: Laura's True Colors?
Liam was standing close to Isabelle as they chatted. He dropped his coffee cup after finishing the content and suddenly placed his hands lightly on Isabelle's waist, his breath warm against her skin.“Liam...” Isabelle started but couldn't finish. He leaned in, his lips brushing against hers, but just as he was about to deepen the kiss, Isabelle pulled back slightly, her eyes flicking down to her wristwatch."Break's over," she said in a voice that was both teasing and firm, pulling herself away from him with a small smile.Liam’s face softened, disappointment flickering in his eyes, but he still couldn't hide the affection in his voice. "I see you everyday but I still miss you."Isabelle let out a soft laugh, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I know, I can make it up to you later at home, I didn't give a date." she replied, her voice light, a playful tone slipping in as she began to walk away, still holding the coffee cup. Liam watched her go, his gaze lingering on her as she walk
Contract Marriage With My Childhood Best Friend Chapter 70: Unexpected Invitations
Isabelle’s pen tapped lightly against her desk as she glanced at the time. Lunch break. It had only been a few days since she started at Anderson Corp, but things were already getting interesting.She turned to Ethan, who had been typing something furiously. "Hey, lunch?"Ethan immediately stood up and stretched. "Finally! I was about to die at my desk."They both grabbed their lunch trays from the cafeteria counter. As they scanned the room for a seat, Isabelle spotted an empty table near the glass windows. She walked over and sat down, expecting Ethan to join her.But just as Ethan was about to sit, someone else slid into the chair across from her."Excuse me, Ethan," Laura said with a polite smile, her own tray in hand. "I need to talk to Isabelle about something."Ethan hesitated, glancing at Isabelle for approval. Isabelle gave him a small nod."Alright," Ethan said reluctantly, picking up his tray. "I'll be over there. Call me if you need me here."Laura chuckled. "Am I about to
