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Terakhir Diperbarui:
2025-02-26 00:12:54
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Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 017
Curtis stiffened. “What the hell?” His voice was low, but sharp. His voice snapped me out of my shock. Disoriented, I stumbled backwards, but he caught me before I could fall. “Breathe, Amber,” he said softly, holding me tight yet gently as he guided me to the bed. “I'm breathing. I'm fine.” I tried to sound calm, but my words came out breathy, ragged. “Stay still. I'll get rid of it and—” “No. I want to see what it contains. I saw the edge of a paper sticking out when it fell. There's something else in there.” I sucked in a sharp breath before continuing, my voice trembling. “I need to know what the message says.” He nodded before retrieving the envelope and the picture. The picture was of me in the mall, frozen in the middle of turning back. It was when I looked back to see who was watching me. I wasn't being paranoid then; I was right when I thought I was being watched. I poured out the content in the envelope. A second picture, along with a folded note fell on
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-26Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 018
CURTIS ‘Have you decided yet?’ I typed in my empty chat with Amber before deleting the messages like I'd deleted the other unsent ones. She promised she'd come back and I believed her, but I was still anxious. I couldn't help it when I've finally confirmed someone doesn't want Marcella alive. I didn't expect they'd move so fast, striking before Amber could settle down or fully accept her role. It was now certain it was someone in my family, after all, no one except them knew Marcella was alive. Cole. Right now, only Cole and my mother knew about her presence. I didn't want to suspect my mother, but I had to be ruthless in my investigation. Someone I love murdered Marcella, and I wouldn't let love prevent me from seeing clearly. And then there's Dustin. I don't know how to explain to him if Amber refuses to move on with our contract. “Dad!” Speak of the Devil. Ra
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-27Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 019
The atmosphere in the room suddenly shifted. The chatter stopped, and the laughter gradually died down. I looked up from my food to find everyone looking behind me, a mix of shock, horror, surprise and joy on their faces, with some switching between them. My eyes fell on Genevieve who was wearing an expression I couldn't quite place a finger on. Other than Pamela whose face was drained of all colour, eyes widened as though she'd seen a ghost, and Dustin who was beaming from ear to ear, the kids were oblivious. They just kept eating, with some playing with their food. I didn't need to turn to know who caused the change. “I told you mommy would come back!” Dustin stuck his tongue out at Pamela who was still frozen before jumping off his seat. “Mommy!” . I turned back and for a split second, believed it was Marcella standing at the doorway, with Dustin in her arms. She was breathtaking, dres
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-27Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 020
AMBER The scent of grilled meat lingered in the air as Curtis stared at the remaining bills in his hand, his brows furrowed together in disbelief. “How is this even possible?” He muttered, looking at me like I performed a magic trick. “A movie, the zoo, and now this–and we’re still under budget?” I tore off a piece of my turkey leg with ease. “You’ve just not had to make every penny count,” I smirked, adding in a whisper, “And It’s not hard when you've had to live on less than a thousand dollars monthly.” It was still hard for me to comprehend Dustin having more money than what I survived on for an entire month, just sitting pretty in his pocket. I cracked a smile, watching as Curtis muttered to himself, still doing the math. The entire day felt scripted; it was so suffocating I struggled to breath, but watching him made the “date” feel less awkward and fake. It almost felt… real. He suddenly jerked his head up, “Bu
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-28Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 021
Curtis pulled up in front of the house, and I stepped out smoothly, keeping my pace even. But inside, my heart was racing with excitement. We finally had a real plan. The chances of it falling apart was high, but it was still something. “Marcella.” He called. It took a few seconds before my brain registered he was addressing me. I still wasn't used to being called Marcella, especially not by him. I spun on my heels to face him, only to come face-to-face with a box of… caramel sweets? Eyes twinkling, I met his gaze, a wide smile on my face. “Is this for me?” The answer was obvious, but one could never be too careful. I wouldn't want to assume only to find out it was meant for Dustin—the sheer embarrassment alone would take me out before whoever was after me. “Yes. Dustin said you liked it.” He shook it lightly, urging me to collect it. “It’s a way to say thank you for the date. It was relaxing and different…” he trailed off, his tone te
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-28Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 022
The door swung open with force as Simon stormed out. His eyes locked on me and he grabbed my wrist, eyes burning with anger. “You were listening?” My mind raced. With how pissed he sounded at Sierra and how I'm connected to Curtis who he has clear issues with, the truth wouldn't save me. Sierra would probably try to bail me out, but that would only cause more problems between them, and I didn't want to be responsible for that. Swallowing my pride, I decided to do the only thing I could think of. I went limp, my eyes glazing over as I swayed from side-to-side. “Water… water…” I mumbled. Simon froze, his brows knitted together in bewilderment. “Is she…?” Sierra trailed. I dragged my feet, leaving the room as I mumbled words incoherent to myself, mimicking the sluggish steps of a sleepwalker. I was nearly at the door when I heard Simon's heavy footsteps behind me. “You’ve got to be fucking kidding me.”
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-01Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 023
I stood in front of the apartment where most of my childhood had unfolded, my feet refusing to move. The air felt heavier at the thought of facing the very people who abandoned me. It wasn't just about facing them—it was the fear that they'd be exactly as I expected. I swallowed, my hand hovering over the doorbell, but I couldn't bring myself to push the button. “You can do this, Amber,” I muttered, summoning all the strength I had to push the button. I waited a few seconds and then heard the clacking of heels behind the door. The door creaked open as a familiar face stepped out, all dressed up. The smile on her face fell when she saw me and she immediately backed into the house, shutting the door. I reacted instantly, holding the door open. “I won't take much of your time.” I said, my tone edged with quiet anger. I didn't expect them to be happy to see or welcome me back, regretful of their actions towards me—but I sure didn't expect
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-01Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 024
“I’m sorry you had to go through that,” Belle comforted me. “Honestly, I'm not surprised by their actions. Why didn't you send someone in your stead when you already expected that?” I sniffed, blowing my nose—now red from blowing it all morning. “I wanted to see it to the end, and… I hoped they had changed. Anyway, that's enough about them.” I sat up, facing her, my expression shifting to a more serious one. “I didn't come here to cry about them.” “Okay… this sounds really serious. Did something else happen?” Her voice was filled with worry. I shook my head, unsure of how to bring it up. “It has to do with yours and Curtis' plans, right?” I nodded slowly, playing with my fingers. Her eyes narrowed suspiciously. “Why do I feel like it has to do with me?” “Well. It does…” I paused. “You can always refuse it though… except the bodyguard! I won't be at rest knowing someone—” “Hold up!” She held up a finger. “A bodyguard? For me?” She arched her brow. “Yes! For you. And i
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-02
Bab terbaru
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 065
“No… I don't,” I answered, trying not to let my curiosity show. Expectant, I watched him, waiting for his response.But it never came. He just nodded, stretching lightly as he yawned. “Well, I should get some rest. My body isn't as agile as you youngsters.” And then he just left, leaving me blinking in shock.That old man was really something. Getting some rest when he just woke up? How gullible did he think I was to fall for that, and the clearly fake yawn.I scoffed, a scowl on my face. If he wasn't going to tell me, why did he ask? “How annoying.” Perhaps that's why he wasn't liked. He was annoying, and he knew it.“Focus, Amber. Don't let him get to you,” I muttered to myself as I gently patted my cheeks. This time, I paid attention to my surroundings so no one would sneak up on me again.About twenty minutes later, Lilith walked into the kitchen, rubbing her eyes. She straightened up when she saw me, her expression one of shock. “Marcella, why are you cooking?” Her voice was lace
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 064
AMBER I was starting to desire what I shouldn't. As I sat at the edge of Dustin's bed, watching his chest rise and fall in a peaceful rhythm, I wished we were back at Curtis' mansion, a place I'd come to see as my home.I wished we could be away from this house, this family, the endless cycle of deception and hidden knives. I let out a tired sigh as I brushed a strand of hair from his face. “I wish this was real.” I wished we could start over somewhere far away, somewhere I wasn’t just a replacement. My wishes and desires didn't matter. I knew that much, but…Till it's time to leave, let me dream.Dustin shifted slightly in his sleep, his tiny fingers curling around the edge of the blanket, and my lips curled into a smile as I watched him, my baby. His presence in my life is one of the main reasons I didn't lose myself after losing my baby.It had been a while since I made him a meal. The chefs always handled everything, but I wanted to cook for him again. Slowly and quietly, I lift
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 063
CLINT The sun had risen hours ago, but I barely noticed. My office at home was a mess, with papers scattered across the desk and littering every available surface. I’d spent the entire night going through all the documents related to the project. I exhaled sharply, shutting my eyes which were burning from lack of sleep. “Calm down, Clint.” Although I said that, I just couldn't. Something wasn’t right. My eyes snapped open as I sat up straight, massaging my temples. The numbers didn’t lie. Funds were slow, suppliers were pulling out, and investors were now hesitant. It was supposed to be just the usual delays, and minor issues the project usually experienced, especially for one as big as this. That was what I thought. That it was just bad timing, a rough patch in a solid plan. But not anymore. It was starting to look like sabotage, but I was desperately hoping it wasn't because if it was, there was only one person who could be responsible. “Please, be a mistake,” I muttered
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 062
Lilith let out a chuckle. “You should’ve seen your face,” she said, her laughing fading into a smile. “Why were you just standing there alone?”I exhaled slowly, relieved she didn’t catch me eavesdropping on Genevieve, not that it mattered. Then again, I couldn't trust anyone in this house but Curtis. My lips parted to speak, but I stopped, realizing the opportunity before me. Letting out a tired sigh, I pressed a hand to my head, and said, “I was on my way to the kitchen, but then…” I paused, shaking my head slightly. “I’m not sure, but I think I remembered something from my past… I-I might be getting my memories back.”This was easier and more natural than a full-blown family conference. Now that she knew, it was only a matter of time before everyone else did. Her hands flew to her mouth, eyes glistening with unshed tears. “Really? Your memories are back?” She sniffled before rushing forward, pulling me into a tight hug. As though she'd touched hot iron, she immediately pulled away
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 061
Silence hung in the air, thick, suffocating, and I could almost touch the tension in the air. His eyes scanned the room, stopping when they landed on me. Relief flashed through his eyes, but there was something else that made me feel as though he could see through my facade, and I instantly broke eye contact.Genevieve shot up from her seat, her chair scraping harshly against the floor. The silverware rattled as she slammed her hands against the table. “What the hell are you doing here?” Her voice was sharp, dripping with fury.“Is that any way to greet family?” He took a step inside, completely at ease, like there weren't daggers coming at him from every direction.”Genevieve let out a scoff, before turning to Annie. “Is this what you wanted to tell us about? Annie didn't respond, quietly eating her food, as though she was oblivious to all that was happening around her, but the way she aggressively sliced the lamb told a different story.The lack of reaction seemed to fuel Genevieve’
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 060
CLINT The knock on my office door was soft and hesitant. I didn’t look up from my screen. “What?” Sophie stepped inside, carefully shutting the door behind her. “Sir, I…” She said, her voice trembling. I glanced up, a frown on my face. She was standing stiffly, hands clasped in front of her. The usual bright energy she emanated was replaced by wariness, like she was afraid of me. That irritated me. “Spit it out!,” I ordered, Her trembling moved from just her fingers to her entire body. “What is this? Are you trying to seduce me, because you are simply wasting both our time,” I drawled, leaning back in my seat as my eyes roamed her body. She shook her head furiously, pinching her arm to stay calm. “I’m not!” Her voice was firm, anger flashing through her eyes. “Then what did you come here for and watch your tone.”
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 059
CURTIS Aidbe was the kind of restaurant where only the right people got in. No reservations, no waiting lists. If you had to ask how to get a table, you weren’t important enough. It thrived on exclusivity, where privacy was a given and silence was the real price of entry. Aiden sat across from me, pouring himself the fourth glass of wine like it was his first time tasting it. His ever-present smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth, and his hood was up, shadowing his face. I guess his aesthetic for December was mysterious and brooding. No matter how much I thought about it, probably once, it was childish. He looked every bit like a man who didn’t take anything seriously, except money. And that was exactly what he was. This was the very reason we could be nothing more than business partners. I set my glass down. “I need things to get worse for Cole.”
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 058
AMBER Could I have misheard him? I wondered as I headed for my room, exhaustion setting deep in my bones. Each step felt heavier than the last, and all I wanted was to collapse onto my bed. A sigh left my lips as I pushed open the door. My eyes flickered around the room, my mood dampening when I didn't see Curtis anywhere. Whatever! He was the reason I went through so much in one night. I kicked off my shoes before neatly arranging them on the shoe rack and plopping down on the bed, my eyes fixed on the ceiling. I wondered if I overreacted with Cole. Nah, he deserved more than that. Curtis wouldn't go ballistic if he didn't do anything serious to me—he didn't care that much. The thought of what Cole might have done made me shudder, but thinking about it wouldn't make me remember. I didn't want to recall it either, so I shoved it to the back of my mind. Immediately, Lilith popped up in my mind. Something about how casual, yet specific her questions were unsettled me, but there
Life after divorce: The billionaire’s crazy proposal 057
LILITH Marcella's eyes narrowed, her voice sharp as she asked. “Why are you asking?” I blinked, faking innocence. “I just said I was trying to reach you. It was the first time I'd been unable to reach you so I was concerned.” I said, my voice low and soft as though her words hurt me. Guilt flashed across her eyes. She sighed before saying, “I was…” she paused, probably wondering whether to tell me the truth or lie. “I was just asleep, and turned my phone off.” Her eyes didn't leave mine, watching to see my reaction. My heart sank to my stomach as I realized she wasn't who I thought she was, but I still chose to hold on to the hope that there was some misunderstanding. Maybe she just didn't want me to worry about it. Why do you keep letting them take you for an idiot, Lilith? The voice in my head asked, but I blocked it out. Marcella wouldn't betray me. She lied, but… there was a reason. She was the only good thing marrying into Cole's family brought me. Everyone else
