ISABEL The residence exceeded my expectations, its beauty even more striking than it had appeared in the photographs. I wasted no time in finalizing the payment for the property, sealing the deal, and making it officially mine. Upon returning to the hotel, I hired a driver to help transport my items from the hotel to my recently purchased residence. After carefully putting them in the car's boot, we drove out of the hotel premises. I was excited about moving into a new apartment and the idea that I would be living alone, made me feel like a boss of my own. On getting there and completing other important tasks, I meticulously furnished my house with a curated selection of furniture and essential kitchen items. When I slipped off my dress in other to refresh myself for a short rest, the sound of the doorbell echoed through the house. Still wearing my dress, I paused, unsure of who might be calling and what the person could possibly want. Having just arrived, it seemed unlikely
MAVIS "Isabel? Hello? Are you there?" I repeated in frustration, drawing the phone away from my ear. Much to my surprise, the call had already been disconnected, leaving me to stare at the screen with a mixture of confusion and disappointment. The unexpected end to our conversation only added to the growing unease that had been building within me. It was embarrassing to me that the receptionist was watching as my step-sister disconnected the call without letting me finish talking. "Sir, if I may ask, did Miss Isabel happen to provide you with her address before the call ended?" The receptionist inquired, with a tone of concern. He could have sensed my consternation as I stood there, grappling with the abrupt termination of the phone conversation. I shook my head in response, "Unfortunately, no." I forced a smile to show that it was something I could handle. "She's a little upset with me, but we can talk it over when we meet," Smiling at me, he responded. "Alright, so, is th
Chapter 79 ISABEL I decided to honor my neighbor's invitation for dinner later in the evening. After choosing a simple yet elegant dress, I contemplated whether it was a good idea or not. With a smile lingering on my lips, I made the decision to join him despite my uncertainty. Stepping out of my home, I walked toward your neighbor's house, the anticipation of the evening mingling with the cool evening breeze. The door was opened by Eric, who welcomed you with a warm smile. "Hi, welcome." His eyes glanced at my fingers briefly before he looked up. "Miss Isabel," What did the gesture imply? He wanted to check if I had a ring on my finger so he would know how to address me. It was simply crazy but I ignored it. "Over here," He led me, "Please sit and welcome to my home," His house was cozy, emitting a welcoming atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. "You have a beautiful place," "I'm delighted. Pardon me, I was just about to complete my cooking before you arri
ISABEL. "Please accept my apologies for the disturbance," Eric said, his phone nestled back on the table after he'd turned to face forward. He then elegantly extracted the seat. "No worries at all. Let's pick up where we left off," I responded with an assuring smile. Settling back into his seat. "Ah yes, about your culinary skills. Do you enjoy cooking as much as you're good at it?" He inquired, his curiosity piqued by my earlier assertion. I nodded, "Sure, I do cook but I didn't have the opportunity to cook at my stepfather's house. We had a cook and a cleaner, they did nearly everything at home." "That's understandable," Eric replied with a nod of acknowledgment. "Having dedicated staff to handle household tasks must have allowed you to focus on other activities. However, I take it you still enjoyed cooking even if you didn't do it regularly?" He continued with interest. The conversation stirred up memories of my family and the unexpected pregnancy, evoking a mix of emotions
MAVIS "This is undoubtedly the best inn available within the vicinity," The driver opined with confidence after driving through the hotel's entrance. "The premise has exceptional amenities and facilities, designed to cater to your every need, ensuring the utmost comfort during your stay." "I don't intend to stay here longer than 12 hours. When should I expect your pick-up tomorrow for my departure to the airport?" I inquired. "At your convenience, sir. I am available to take you whenever you desire," the driver replied. "Good night, sir." He finished "Good night," I got my stuff and stepped out of the car. I made my way toward the hotel, but just as I was about to enter, I unexpectedly spotted Jackson's girlfriend, who was descending the stairs wearing a delicate nightgown. In a moment of panic, I sought to evade the unwanted encounter, desperate to avoid her gaze and remain unseen. As I felt a soft hand rest upon my shoulder, it became clear that the lady had already
MAVIS I sprung to my feet at once, "Trust me, I've just forgiven you for nothing obviously. We're now good friends again but you see, I can't reveal that to you." I shook my head, "Let's focus on helping me get to Isabel, okay?" Jackson's gaze hardened as he gave off a scathing remark: "You are delving deeper into a treacherous game, Mavis, one that will undoubtedly end in your ruin. You may think you are immune to the danger, but make no mistake, vengeance will consume you if you continue on this path." "Jack?" He ignored my call and continued, "Let's be clear, your newfound 'friendship' is a sham. That lady is no ally, but a snake in the grass, waiting to strike. Don't deceive yourself into believing her intentions are anything but self-serving." Rooted to the spot, his words echoed in my mind with the weight of a sledgehammer. Every fiber of my being was frozen in place, paralyzed by the revelation that struck me. I stood there powerless and unable to move or face him. He
ISABEL In the morning, Eric's knock on my door woke me up. I rose, securing the door partially open with my body, greeting him with a warm, "Good morning!" My right hand hovered over my face to put out the sun's rays. His response was equally friendly, "Good morning. I'm off to work, but I wanted to leave you with these. I woke up early to make these sandwiches, and I hope you enjoy them." His thoughtful gesture caught me by surprise, and I found myself extending my arm to accept the generous offering, thanking him profusely. "Oh, I absolutely adore sandwiches," I gushed enthusiastically. "This is such a thoughtful gesture, Eric. Thank you so much!" Grinning ear to ear, Eric nodded, replying, "I'm glad you like them! I had no idea you loved sandwiches this much, but I'm happy to make them for you any time." His smile remained as he replied, "When do you have to leave for work?" He asked with his gaze remaining on me. "Well, I'm actually in the process of starting a
ISABEL "Can that possibly lead anyone of his friends to steal his identity card?" "Anything is possible, since there's no footage to reveal the identity of the thief, then, it must be a friend or anyone he keeps close contact with maybe to hurt him." "I agree, the fact that the securities are strict about visitors implies that this must be someone familiar. Hopefully, he can locate the missing item." "Indeed, let's keep our fingers crossed." "Okay, my wife is now out of the bathroom. You may go ahead and speak with her." "Hello there, Darling. It seems like it's been ages since we last heard from you." Mom's question stirred a feeling of irresponsibility in my path. I only wanted to put my past behind me. Calling Mom occasionally would always bring back the thought of Mavis because she wouldn't end her talking without telling me about everyone at home and how they were doing. "I'm sorry, Mom. I promise you're always in my thoughts." "We miss you, sweetie. Now, why ha