“Anytime, darling,” Bella said, giving Ivy a final hug. “And remember, confidence is key. You’ve got this.”With that, Bella swept out of the boutique, leaving Ivy feeling inspired and excited.Ivy couldn't help but feel admiration for Bella as she made her graceful exit. Bella had done so much for her.Later That Evening Ivy returned home, her arms full of shopping bags and her heart full of hope. She couldn’t wait to tell Ryan about the CHANNEL opportunity, but as she walked through the door, she found herself thinking about Bella’s words. “Confidence was key”. As she unpacked her new clothes and accessories, Ivy’s mind wandered back to their conversation. Bella had always been a multifaceted person in her life. A friend, mentor, and puzzle all at once. Ivy wondered what drove Bella’s actions and if there was more to her interest in Ryan than met the eye.Despite her lingering questions, Ivy felt a renewed sense of determination. She would make the most of the opportunities ahead
“Not well,” Ivy admitted. “He’s so stubborn, Bella. He won’t listen to reason.”Bella sighed sympathetically. “I’m sorry to hear that. But don’t lose hope, Ivy. Sometimes, these things take time.”“I hope you’re alright,” Ivy said. “I just feel so helpless.”“You’re not alone,” Bella said firmly. “We’ll figure something out together. In the meantime, focus on your upcoming audition. You need to be at your best.”“You’re right,” Ivy said, feeling a surge of determination. “Thanks, Bella. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”“Anytime, darling,” Bella said. “Now go out there and show them what you’re made of.”The Following WeekIvy received an email confirming her audition for the CHANNEL campaign. She spent the next few days preparing, pouring over her portfolio and practicing her runway walk. Bella’s support had given her the boost she needed, and she was determined to make the most of it.On the day of the audition, Ivy arrived at the CHANNEL headquarters, feeling a mixture of nerv
He was tall, with messy dark hair and an air of confidence that made heads turn, with a defined jaw.His uniform neatly ironed, cutely on him as he walked like a god amongst men. His name was Ryan Kendrick, and from that day forward, their lives would be intertwined.Ryan's arrival didn't go unnoticed. With his striking good looks and natural charm, he quickly became the center of attention. Girls whispered and giggled as he passed, while the boys eyed him with a mix of admiration and envy. Bella, however, felt an inexplicable pull toward him that went beyond mere attraction.Their parents, as fate would have it, also met that day. Both sets of parents had arrived to drop off their children, and a chance conversation led to an instant connection. The Kendricks and the Reeds soon became friends, cementing the bond between Bella and Ryan even further.In the classroom, Bella found herself seated next to Ryan. She couldn't believe her luck. From day one, he was friendly and approachab
"Us? Dating? That's funny, Bella. You're like my sister. It would be weird." Ryan replied, chuckling."Yeah, weird... right." Bella replied, faking a smile.Her heart sank every time he laughed off her attempts to steer their relationship into romantic territory. To him, she was a constant, a reliable friend who would always be by his side. But to Bella, Ryan was the love of her life, even if he didn't know it.After high school, Bella pursued her dreams in the fashion industry. She became a successful model and influencer, working with top designer brands like Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton.Despite her busy career, she stayed in touch with Ryan and Ivy, visiting them whenever she could.Ryan went on to join the family business, excelling in his role and making his parents proud. He continued to date different women, but none of them seemed to stick. Bella watched from a distance, her old feelings never fully fading away.ReconnectingYears later, Bella found herself back in Ryan's l
Sarah, tell Iris to get ready. We're going to a family dinner tonight."Sarah nodded and headed upstairs, where Iris was scrolling through Instagram, a knot forming in her stomach as she saw Ivy's latest post. Ivy had just passed an audition for CHANNEL, one of the brands Iris had always dreamed of working with. It was ironic how Ivy seemed to be living the life Iris had always wanted."Iris, Mr. Kendrick asked me to tell you to prepare for a family dinner tonight."Iris sighed, closing her phone. She suspected the dinner was to celebrate Ivy's success. She got up and headed to the bathroom to take a bath.As she soaked in the warm water, her mind wandered to Ryan. His sudden shift from being sweet and caring to cold and distant was becoming unbearable. She thought his loving treatment after her kidnapping would last, but it had quickly faded away.After her bath, Iris carefully chose an elegant dress for the evening. She picked a floor-length, midnight blue gown with a subtle shim
Bella gave a faint smile from across the table, her eyes flickering with amusement. It was clear that the digs at Iris were for their entertainment.“Ivy, be kind. Iris is trying her best,” Mrs. Rose interjected, though her words lacked sincerity. The undercurrent of condescension was impossible to miss.Iris clenched her jaw and forced a smile, biting her tongue to keep from lashing out. She knew she had to endure this, if not for her own pride, then for Ryan’s sake.As the dinner progressed, it became increasingly clear that Mrs. Rose and Ivy had taken the night as an opportunity to belittle Iris at every turn. With each new course, came another backhanded remark.“Ivy, darling, tell us more about your Chanel audition. Such a prestigious opportunity! We’re all so proud of you,” Mrs. Rose chimed in, smiling proudly at her daughter.“Oh, it was incredible, Mother,” Ivy replied, her voice brimming with confidence. “The directors were so impressed with my portfolio. They said I had
By the time they arrived home, she felt drained, both emotionally and physically. She went straight to their bedroom, collapsing onto the bed, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.Ryan followed her, standing at the doorway with his arms folded. After a few moments, he walked over and sat beside her.Iris looked up at him, her eyes red and puffy. “Why do they hate me so much?” she whispered. “What did I do wrong?”Ryan sighed, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “You did nothing wrong. They’re just... difficult,” he said. “But you don’t deserve to be treated that way.”Iris leaned into his embrace, feeling a glimmer of hope despite the night’s events. It wasn’t much, but knowing Ryan was on her side gave her the strength to keep going.“Thank you, Ryan,” she whispered. “That means a lot.”He kissed her forehead, a tender gesture that momentarily made her feel safe, even loved. Yet the doubt still lingered in her mind. Could she truly endure the cold cruelty of his family forev
"I only want what’s best for him," she said, her voice almost too smooth. "If Iris makes him happy, then I’m happy for him."Ivy snorted dismissively. "Please. Iris is a parasite. She’s only clinging to Ryan for his money and status. She’ll never be one of us."Mrs. Rose nodded in agreement, her expression hardening. "It’s true. The sooner Ryan realizes the mistake he’s made, the better. He should have been with someone like you, Bella. Someone who understands our world—our expectations.”Bella’s smile remained, but there was a glint in her eyes, a flash of something dangerous. "It’s Ryan’s decision," she said softly, but her words carried an edge. "We should all respect it. For now.”The room fell silent, the tension palpable. Ivy looked to her mother, her frustration evident. "But why should we wait? Why let that woman ruin our family?”Mrs. Rose sighed, her voice low and calculated. "Patience, Ivy. We mustn’t act rashly. Iris will expose herself in time. People like her always do.