Library
Search
Home / Billionaire / THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE / Chapter TwentyFive

Share

Chapter TwentyFive

Author: Tory June
last update Last Updated: 2024-11-23 22:38:12

Jace stared against the rays of the early morning sun shining through the curtains, trying to put together the scattered bits of his memories as he woke up with a throbbing headache, the remains of the previous night's partying remaining at his consciousness.

Elena slept by his side, her appearance prompting a wave of shock and anger.

"What the hell happened?" Jace spat, getting up and swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. The room spun, and he pushed his hands to his temples.

Elena stirred, a warm smile on her lips. "Good morning, Jace," she whispered, reaching out to pat his back.

Jace dodged her touch, "Don't!," he yelled, getting up and looking at her, his eyes flashing with anger. "What the h*ck did you do?"

Elena's smile faltered, replaced by a look of fake innocence. "Jace, you were the one who called me up here. We enjoyed a sweet night together."

Jace realized what had occurred as the recollections of the earlier night started to return into his head as he gripped his
Locked Chapter
Continue to read this book on the APP
Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Related chapters

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwentySix

    The next morning, Elena strolled into the workplace with a somewhat more cautious gait than normal. Ever since she had left Jace's hotel room that morning, she had been looking forward to this moment. Though her mind was racing with what-ifs and possible confrontations, she kept her composure.The normal morning bustle of coworkers exchanging pleasantries and getting to work filled the workplace. Elena moved to her desk, glancing momentarily across at Jace's closed office door. Taking a deep breath, she sat down and tried to concentrate on her work.It was hardly an hour later that her phone rang. The screen displayed Jace's elongation. Her heart skipped a beat, but she composed herself fast enough to respond. "Elena speaking.""Elena, I need to see you in my office right now," Jace's voice was unambiguous; it was calm but forceful.She said calmly, "Of course, I'll be right there," even though her stomach was turning.She straightened her skirt as she rose up and walked to his offi

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwentySeven

    Avalynn looked as the door handle turned gradually, the pivots clicking as the entrance opened wide to show a tall, dull-haired person.His look fixed onto Avalynn, his manner a mix of resolve and fear."Ava," the man whispered, his voice scarcely over a rumble.Avalynn felt her heartbeat skirt a thump, her fingers holding around the teacup as she looked at the person before her."Dylan," she whispered, his name barely getting away from her lips. "What are you doing here?"Dylan moved into the room, locking the entrance behind him."I needed to see you, Ava. I was unable to stay away any longer."Avalynn's brain dashed as she tried to understand Dylan's surprise appearance.. why, how was he here?She hadn't seen him since their love had collapsed such an extremely long time back, and presently, he was right here, standing before her in Jace's home."I don't have the slightest idea," Avalynn mumbled, her voice shaking. "You left me, Dylan. You picked Amelia. What are you doing here at

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwentyEight

    The Malvis mansion's luxury dining room was a study in sophistication and intimacy. Candlelight danced on the beautiful cutlery, creating swirling shadows that swung in sync with the quiet classical music coming from hidden speakers.Avalynn and Jace sat opposite ends of the large, elaborately decorated dinner table, their quiet punctuated only by the subtle clinking of cutlery on exquisite porcelain plates.The tension in the air was apparent, as an unsaid dread fell between them like a thick cloud.Jace moved his attention from his plate to see Avalynn's detached expression. In an effort to break the stillness, he said, "Is the food to your satisfaction?"Avalynn's eyes addressed him, her once warm expression now cold and distant. "Yes, the food is extremely nice. Thank you."Jace couldn't shake off the gnawing feeling of disquiet. Every tick of the antique grandfather clock at the corner of the dining room seemed to echo through his mind.The silence stretched, heavy and oppressi

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter TwentyNine

    The darkly lighted bar projected a peaceful, refined ambiance as soft jazz music flowed in the background. Liam Artsor sat at a corner table, meticulously tapping the smooth wood with his fingertips. His friend, Kevin, reclined back in his chair, swishing about a whiskey glass and giving Liam a cheeky grin.Liam peered furtively around the bar, certain that nobody was seeing them. He moved in closer, his voice barely audible above a whisper."Kevin, I need to talk to you about something."Kevin lifted an eyebrow, interested by Liam's covert manner. "Oh? This sounds serious."Liam took a deep breath, the gentle glow of the bar's lamps creating dramatic shadows on his face. "It actually is," he acknowledged, stopping for a second before continuing. "It's about Jace Malvis and the Malvis Group."Kevin nodded, his attention peaked. "They've been generating quite a commotion in the business world, haven't they? What's on your mind? Spill it bro"Liam hesitated, his gaze darting across the

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter Thirty

    As the hot afternoon sun blazed high in the sky, its rays piercing through the gap in the curtains like golden daggers, Avalynn’s palm hesitated over her phone, the screen emitting a gentle light as Liam Arstor’s name winked up at her, a vivid reminder of the discussion from the night before.It was an urgent matter, he had stated. As she shivered, she felt a mixture of fascination and caution running down her spine. What is it that he might possibly want?After making the necessary adjustments to her outfit, which was a deep blue body hug gown that clung to her form in all the appropriate places, she reached for her purse. This is something I can handle, she reminded herself. Due to the fact that Jace was out of town on business, she was left to get through the day by herself. As soon as she entered the city, the city was buzzing with activity, and it was alive with the promise of something that was not the typical.The bar that Liam had selected was of a high-end kind, with a conte

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter ThirtyOne

    Avalynn's fatigued footsteps rang through the foyer of the Malvis home as she made her way up the stairs after a long, emotionally exhausting day. Her head was still whirling from her unexpected encounter with Liam Artsor, her intended former fiancé.As she approached the stairway, a sweet voice flowed through the air, its personal tone taking her off guard. Avalynn stopped, her fingers grabbing the handrail as she tried to listen."I'm sorry I haven't been checking up on you, Steph," Jace's voice, typically so controlled, was filled with a trace of regret.“You always are, Jace. You're constantly sorry.” Stephanie’s voice resonated at the other end of the telephone. “It's been over a month since we last spoke.” “But I send you text messages Steph. You know how hectic work is..”Avalynn remained transfixed, her exhausted limbs throbbing as she assimilated the truth. A girlfriend? But he hadn't named anybody when she decided to marry him. The reality hit her like a wave, swelling and

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter ThirtyTwo

    The morning sun slanted through the windows of the Malvis mansion, creating long, lazy shadows across the breakfast table. Jace sat with his normal air of calm, his face an inscrutable mask as he ate in quiet. Avalynn stirred her coffee, her eyes downcast, the weight of last night's events pressing heavily on her shoulders. The quiet in the room was deafening, every tick of the clock like a hammer hitting against the walls. Avalynn took a deep breath as she stole a quick glance at Jace, he was focused on his food with a blank look on his face. She should try talking to him, he has probably gotten over what happened yesterday, Avalynn thought to herself. She took in a deep breath. "You're quiet this morning," Avalynn ventured, breaking the suffocating quiet that hung in the air like a thick fog. Jace's only reaction was a small twitch of his jaw, the only sign of his inner turmoil. Avalynn's heart sank as she swallowed, the spoon clinking against her cup like a warning bell.

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

  • THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE    Chapter ThirtyThree

    "I'm literally so so confused and lost, I don't know what to do, he's suddenly become so cold and distant." Avalynn wept as she held the phone to her ears. "Calm down, Avalynn," her friend Lisa said over the phone. "Take a deep breath. You've been maintaining your half of the arrangement all along, don't let this one slip wreck it all." Avalynn moaned into the phone as her head spun. "But Lisa, he was quite angry. He seemed to have no interest in me." "He's entitled to be upset." Lisa emphasized out, softly but firmly, "that you had indeed invaded his private life. But that isn't the point, Avalyn. The point is, you have a one-year contract with Jace, and you need the money. You must concentrate on your ultimate aim, not how he feels about you." She added. "I know that, Lisa," Avalynn said, her voice tinted with wrath. But what if he decides to call it off? "What if he decides I'm not worth it?" Lisa snorted, her voice filled with mistrust. "Come on, Avalyn. You've worked extr

    Last Updated : 2024-11-23

Latest chapter

  • 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

You may also like

DMCA.com Protection Status