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Chapter Fifty

Author: Tory June
last update Last Updated: 2024-12-03 00:03:42

Liam Arstor sat alone in his office, the busy city hummed softly behind his window. The office was dimly lighted, with a single desk lamp producing lengthy shadows on the glossy surface.

He leaned back in his chair, his gaze concentrated on the photo he held in his hands- a portrait of Avalynn snapped by him years ago at a family function. He was certain Avalynn had no idea they had met before.

Her smile was brilliant, and her eyes were filled with love and hope. It was a smile he once thought was intended for him.

He could recall the day he first saw the news. The television in his workplace was on, with the normal background hum of financial bulletins and market updates as a regular companion.

But then, the headline appeared on the screen: "Jace Wins Again - Marries Avalynn in Grand Ceremony."

His heart had stopped, and his breath caught in his throat as he stared at the television, stunned.

Jace and Avalynn smile at the cameras, their hands clasped.

The image was etched in his b
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  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftyOne

    Jace's mansion's big lobby, with its shiny marble floors and huge, pretty chandeliers giving off a warm glow, showed off a sense of luxury and elegance.The mansion was full of activity as staff worked hard to finish preparations for the gala while the evening sun began to set.Jace stood by the large bay window in the spacious living room, looking out at the driveway.Upstairs, in her bedroom, Avalynn's heart was pounding as she adjusted the last parts of her outfit in front of the floor-length mirror. Her grace and charm were highlighted by the beautiful emerald silk dress that hugged her curves.Avalynn stood in her bedroom upstairs, her heart beating as she fiddled with the last parts of her outfit in front of the floor-length mirror. Her grace and charm were heightened by the gorgeous emerald silk dress that caressed her curves.She took a long breath and stabilized herself, her mind trying to make sense of the storming feelings inside of her. "Jace," she whispered to herself as

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftyTwo

    As Jace and Avalynn made their way to the TerraCorp charity gala, the atmosphere hummed with the presence of prominent guests and the coverage of the event by other media outlets moving in and out the venue. The luxury ballroom was decked out with beautiful shiny decorations, and the gentle light coming from the chandeliers cast a warm light over the guests that were gathered there.TerraCorp was making a strategic move to boost its public image by holding this event, which was also a celebration of the company's recent success.Jace made his entry, with Avalynn posing as his wife, their polished demeanor hiding the underlying tensions from their recent contact.As they moved through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and forging contacts, Avalynn's gaze wandered across the room, her thoughts returning to the night before's near-kiss with Jace. The recollection was still fresh, and the emotions it evoked were puzzling and uncomfortable.After a while, Avalynn decided to leave the par

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftyThree

    Back in the ballroom, the visitors' laughing and the soothing music of a string quartet filled the air.The TerraCorp Foundation Charity Gala was a posh affair, with stunning crystal chandeliers casting warm, golden light on the marble floors, making the place appear particularly wonderful.Waiters strolled through the crowd, carrying trays of champagne and hors d'oeuvres, as guests exchanged welcomes and business cards.Avalynn felt alone and little in the middle of the ballroom, like a tiny fish in a vast ocean of wealthy people. She was attempting to appear well in her elegant outfit, but her fingers shook as she gazed around the room. Everyone appeared to be watching and scrutinizing her every move.Jace came forward, his voice low and focused, but with a tinge of scorn. "Remember...," he reminded her of her role in the charade. "You're here to be the perfect, charming wife."Avalynn met his stare, defiance simmering beneath the surface. "I'm very aware of my position," she said,

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftyFour

    As the car sped away, Avalynn’s gaze fell on the city’s lights, fading into golden lines against the night sky. The silence between her and Jace was like a thick, heavy fog that enveloped them both, and she could feel the anger radiating from him. She knew an argument was definitely inevitable.Jace broke the silence first, his tone icy and sharp. "What the hell was that, Avalynn?"She turned towards him, her face still and collected, yet her eyes flashed with a mix of rebellion and annoyance. “I do not get exactly what you are trying to say,” she stated in a cool, unwavering tone.His grip on the steering wheel tightened, matching the sharpness in his voice. “You are fully aware of what I am talking about,” he retorted, his tone cold and cutting."Your actions tonight were inexcusable. "What the f**$ was that?"Avalynn tightened her fists in her lap and took a deep breath to calm herself. "I finished all you requested me to do. I performed the role of a wonderful wife."Jace scoffed,

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftyFive

    Avalynn kept staring at the small ray of moonlight that was visible through the closed curtains, as if its familiarity would bring her some peace. She moved her weight a little on the bed, sinking her teeth into the soft mattress and felt the smooth Egyptian cotton against her skin.Her mind strayed to her father, sick in the most lavish private care facility in the city. Before Jace entered the scene, the never-ending pile of medical costs had been her exclusive responsibility for as long as she could remember. With her eyes closed, Avalynn felt the surge of her father's words and appreciative smile. "My dearest daughter, you are the only reason I have a will to live," he had muttered to her, his voice saturated with emotion.Then her thoughts started to wander, and she couldn't help but think about Dylan, the man who had once given her all of his promises. In a shallow chase of riches and prestige, he had courted her with sweet nothings and stolen kisses, only to put her aside fo

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftySix

    Avalynn burst into Jace’s study, her heart racing with urgency. There was no time to waste, her father’s life depended on it.Without so much as a knock, she threw open the door, her eyes meeting Jace’s in a flash of recognition.“Jace,” she said, her voice catching in her throat. “I need your help. My father's condition has gotten worse.. the doctor called me just few minutes ago. He said my dad needs immediate surgery. The price is $200,000."Jace fleeped his fingers and reclined in his leather seat. Between them, silence stretched heavy and suffocating."And do you think I'll just give the money to you?" Jace asked,his brows furrowed. "..especially in light of the stunt you pulled tonight??"Avalynn's annoyance mounted. "What happened and I is not the focus of this. It concerns my father's life."Jace's face became hazy. "How can I be sure that this isn't just another deception?"An angry spark came over Avalynn. "Deception?? Jace, things are bad for him. I'm not telling lies."Ja

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftySeven

    Liam's gaze pierced into hers as the echo of his voice resounded. "Information.... Access. Your husband is about to become CEO of Malvis Group. I want to know about their activities and intentions, anything that may give me an advantage."Avalynn's mouth opened a little as if she was going to say something, but nothing came out as she felt a chill run down her spine."Did you get that?" Liam asked. "Hold on.." She paused. "You mean.. you mean you want me to spy on Jace?""Think of it as a mutually beneficial arrangement," Liam remarked easily. "I help your father; you help me. Simple."She hesitated, caught between devotion and desperation. But the vision of her father lying in a hospital bed, battling for his life, sealed the deal for her."What kind of information?" Avalynn inquired, her tone just above a whisper.Liam leaned in, his voice low and secretive. "I need information regarding Jace's most recent business deals. His acquisitions, plans, anything that will give me an adva

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter FiftyEight

    "Jace?" Avalynn's voice was almost a whisper, and she looked shocked with her eyes wide open.Jace moved to her, took her hand, and walked her out of the room with a strong grip. As soon as they got to the hallway, he turned his sharp eyes on her."I talked with Dr. Greene," he said in a quiet however dire tone. "I came to cover your dad's expenses and I was informed it's as of now been paid.""How did you…?" She went on and on as she looked for an answer that wouldn't put her in danger. She looked right into his eyes, and it felt like Jace could see right through her and into her mind. "Avalynn, don't mess around with me. You're not really good at it."Avalynn's throat became dry. "What are you talking about, Jace?""I'm talking about the money that magically appeared in your account..how?" Jace's gaze narrowed. "You don't have that kind of money, Avalynn."She paused, her thoughts spinning. "A friend loaned it to me," she finally explained, trying to seem believable.Jace laughed

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

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  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFiftyOne

    EPILOGUE: The air in the Malvis estate was filled with the soft hum of life.. the distant chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze.Avalynn stood on the terrace, her eyes drifting over the landscape as the day slowly gave way to night. The previous few months had been a blur as she adjusted to her new position in the family business, planned the wedding, and experienced the pleasures of married life. She had, however, had a profound sense of joy and happiness throughout it all that she had never experienced before. With a little smile on her lips, she carelessly stroked her expanding tummy. Even though everything had changed so rapidly, life yet seemed quite right. The days had been full with love, laughter, and a wonderful sense of what was ahead.Silently, Jace walked into the room behind her, his light hardwood floorsteps. With his chin resting on her shoulder, he encircled her with his arms from behind and followed her look out the window. With a low g

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFifty

    Avalynn stood in front of the mirror, staring at her reflection with breathless eyes. Her body fit the ivory gown, which seemed a second skin with brilliant veil cascading down her back and delicate lace flowing down her arms. Grateful for the pearls' coolness, she ran her fingers over the beaded bodice.Lisa was behind her, adjusting the finishing touches, tucking the dress's train and setting the veil.With a note of wonder in her voice, she said, "Ava, you look amazing."Avalynn shifted slightly and looked into Lisa's mirror. With tears still welling up in her eyes, she said, "I can't believe this is happening. I never thought this would happen."With a kind grin, Lisa squeezed Avalynn's shoulders. "You are deserving of everything." You will make the most stunning bride when you tie the knot with the love of your life."Avalynn inhaled deeply and then looked at her mirror again.The girl who was gazing back at her appeared to be a dream - graceful, dazzling, and brimming with joy

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFortyNine

    With the sun rays coming in through the transparent curtains and lightning the room in a warm, golden glow, Avalynn stirred in her deep sleep.The blankets hugged her body tightly, leaving the remains of last night's excitement still visible on her skin.Jace stirred at her touch, his eyes slowly opening. When he saw her, a slow, lazy smile spread across his face, and he tightened his hold on her, pulling her closer. “Morning, beautiful,” he whispered, his voice husky with sleep.His features, softened by the dawn light, were relaxed in sleep, a far cry from his usually controlled and powerful look.Her heart became big with love and happiness as she reached out and gently brushed a lock of hair off his face. Peace, love, and the man who had become her whole world were all she had ever wanted.At her touch, Jace moved and slowly opened his eyes. A slow, lazy smile crossed his lips as he spotted her, and he tightened his grip, drawing her in. He whispered, "Morning, beautiful," his vo

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHudredFortyEight

    The dim light of the bedside lamp cast a soft glow over the room, creating a cozy atmosphere that enveloped Jace and Avalynn as they lay side by side on the large bed. The events of the past weeks had been intense, but now, everything seemed to have settled into place. The room, decorated in muted tones of gray and blue, felt like a sanctuary from the outside world.. a place where they could finally breathe and enjoy the calm after the storm.Avalynn laid her head on Jace's chest and made gentle circles over his skin while she listened to his heartbeat.They had a comfortable stillness that was laced with the warmth of unsaid understanding and shared experiences. Thinking about how far they'd come and how a one-night encounter had brought them to this point, she grinned to herself."Remember the night we first met?" Avalynn has a hushed, almost dreamy voice.With a chuckle, Jace ran a hand through her hair. "How could I overlook that? You were the most stunning woman in the club, an

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFortySeven

    Two weeks had passed since the whirlwind of revelations that had shaken the foundation of Avalynn’s world. But now, the dust had settled, and with it, a newfound clarity and peace had emerged. Avalynn had come to terms with her heritage, her place in the Malvis family, and most importantly, with Jace. The man she loved, who had been her anchor in the storm, was no longer just the man she thought she knew; he was so much more.The Malvis house was a hive of joy tonight. The huge hall gleamed with wealth and grace, decorated with crystal chandeliers and high ceilings. The walls, which were covered with pictures of the Malvis ancestors, appeared to witness to the importance of the evening.. the official recognition of Avalynn as a real Malvis and the celebration of the family's victory over the Rinders, longtime enemies.Guests started to pour into the hall as the evening sun started to set, soaking the estate in a warm, golden glow. With the quiet hum of string instruments playing

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFortySix

    With a deep breath, Jace's grandfather looked at him and Avalynn who were seated across from him. There was a tight, stifling silence as the weight of the information he was about to impart seemed to drain the room's very oxygen. As Jace's jaw tightened and his eyes locked on the elderly guy, Avalynn shifted in her seat, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest.The grandfather said, "Jace, Avalynn," in a tone that was serene but full of a gravity that made Avalynn's skin crawl. "The results of the DNA test are in."The words, thick with anticipation and terror, hung in the air like a fog. Avalynn braced herself for what was about to happen, her fists clenched in her lap and her claws digging into her hands. Jace leaned forward a little, his eyebrows furrowing in a startled yet nervous way.The grandfather stated, "The test proves that Avalynn is in fact my late son's biological daughter."A painful gasp from Avalynn's lips as her breath caught in her throat. The words echoed in her

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFortyFive

    Apart from the soft buzz of the equipment deciding their fate in a moment, the room was quiet. Avalynn sat on the brink of her seat her fists clenched in her lap and her knuckles white from the pressure. Jace walked back and forth, his body stiff from all the questions flying about in his thoughts.As they awaited the start of the DNA test, a distinct sense of apprehension filled the air.Grandfather Jace was standing close to the door, his face expressionless. Unwilling to allow the doubt to linger any longer, he had insisted on the test being conducted right away. Avalynn was so preoccupied with the idea that her whole life had been a lie that she had hardly noticed the trip to the private clinic. The idea of having Jace as her brother and becoming a Malvis by blood was too much for her to fathom. However, they were now facing the moment of truth.A nurse arrived with the required supplies in the room. "Miss Avalynn and Mr. Malvis Senior will need to provide samples," she stated

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFortyFour

    Avalynn gazed at the picture, her eyesight going blurry. Her mother’s image, frozen in time, looked back at her with a familiar smile that now felt hauntingly distant. She swayed on her feet as the room appeared to tilt and a sensation of vertigo overcame her. Her palm trembled as she attempted to settle herself, her fingertips grazing the edge of the desk, a sign of her mounting panic.In an instant, Jace was by her side, his arm encircling her waist and supporting her before she could pass out. He pleaded, "Ava, breathe," in a worried-sounding voice. Though his hold was tight, the panic that overcame them both was reflected in the shaking in his voice.From behind the desk, his grandfather observed them with a normally calm expression that broke into a look of uncertainty that Avalynn had never seen before. The man who had always been a tower of strength appeared lost, as though the world was collapsing around him."I'm not sure I get it. How is this even feasible?" Avalynn's li

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwoHundredFortyThree

    As the tension in the room increased, Jace's eyes darted between Avalynn and his grandfather, making it obvious that he was confused.“You didn’t mention she would be here,” Jace finally said, his voice tight, barely concealing his frustration. His brow furrowed in a way that made Avalynn’s heart ache. His grandfather remained seated, his hands folded calmly on his desk. “You’re right, Jace. I didn’t. But I didn’t think I could sit back and watch you continue like this. You’ve been shutting yourself away, wallowing in self-pity and loneliness. You need someone by your side.. someone you trust. And there’s no better woman for you than Avalynn.”A beat skipped by Avalynn's heart. She had rarely seen Jace's face of vulnerability, and it completely shocked her. With words stuck in his throat, he remained motionless, and the ensuing stillness was replete with unspoken realities.With black eyes filled with emotions he couldn't seem to control, Jace turned to face her. His regret-filled

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