Chapter 077Reese"It will have to be your best performance ever, Riley," Flora added. "It must be a showstopper, leaving us no reason to turn down the offer. More projects will follow, and I can see them on the horizon.""More projects?" I asked, my voice trembling. "But I'm still on a break."My head was reeling; I hadn't forgotten that she was now pressuring me to go to Brazil. For heaven's sake, I only returned from the Maldives yesterday; I had just gotten over the jetlag.Flora gave me a cold stare. "You deserve to work hard now. After all, your three-year vacation cost me a lot of money, and I'm still thankful that you managed to avoid any controversies this time, even though I know what happened during your vacation."I felt a burning sensation in my eyes, but I held back the tears."So, that's all you care about?" I yelled. "Is money the only thing that matters to you? Haven't you considered the hatred aimed at me, the possibility of being booed by Marcus' fans as I walked do
Chapter 078ReesePerhaps I could also seek his assistance. I had a plan to return and settle scores with those who had wronged me. What a brilliant idea, Riley. I chuckled to myself, considering how Enzo could be instrumental in my planned retribution against my ex-husband and mother.Yet, the most heartbreaking aspect was the acknowledgment that deep within, the primary motive for marrying Enzo was to remove Flora from my life—the very person who saved me.However, I harbored the hope that once she realized I was no longer her financial resource, she would cease treating me as such. She ought to have understood that she didn't need to dominate me to acquire wealth, for I would readily share my fortune with her.We landed atop Enzo's building and proceeded to his office as before, guided by Owen, his personal assistant. As I entered his office, Trevor attempted to follow, but two men guarding the door quickly seized his arms, preventing him from stepping inside.''Damn it!'' Trevor e
Chapter 079ReeseI understood that the agency's response was a typical diplomatic one given when a model broke up with another, but as a supermodel myself, I was all too familiar with the dreadful experience of receiving global hate, and I didn't wish for Marcus to endure that, despite him cheating on me.I was acutely aware of his emotional turmoil."It's enough for me if the world understands that I wasn't unfaithful to him...'' I said. "When it became public knowledge that Dr. Smith assaulted me, the accusations of my cheating will no longer hold."Enzo's eyes darkened, and the fleeting anger I glimpsed earlier now spread across his face.He strode towards me, closing the distance until we were merely an inch apart.His jaw muscle twitched as he said, "Firstly, I will decide how to retract the news. Our deal was only to clear your name. Secondly, the argument you just made is foolish. If that's your second condition, then I would say, no."I swallowed again, unable to argue that h
Chapter 080Reese"Who else would you like to invite to your wedding?'' Grace inquired, typing away on her laptop. She was in charge of managing the guest list for my wedding reception.The day after I informed Lorenzo Carter of our impending marriage, another emergency meeting was convened at my house.Once again, my team gathered, all but Flora, who had been dismissed by Enzo with just one click. "Invite anyone you like, Grace...'' I said disinterestedly.She had already listed the Jenner family and Adriana Lima, yet there remained a lengthy roster of potential invitees, predominantly my acquaintances from the fashion industry.Ever since Lorenzo Carter had Dynamic Pulse dismiss Flora, I ceased responding to her calls and barred her from visiting my home. She once barged into my house, but Trevor sent her away.I could hear her outside my house, hurling curses at me, yelling that without her, I wouldn't be alive today. She ranted, scolding me for everything she had done for my caree
Chapter 081Reese"Ladies and Gentlemen, let us all welcome Miss Riley Coleman!" Steve Harley's voice resonated throughout the venue as I stepped onto the stage, offering a smile and a wave to the studio audience, who applauded warmly. The turnout was impressive, and it was heartening to see that I still had a considerable following. It seemed Enzo had been successful in rehabilitating my image, convincing my fans of my innocence about the allegations and rumors about me.Steve greeted me with a handshake and a peck on the cheek before I settled onto the couch facing him."How are you doing, Riley?'' he began the conversation, his wide smile revealing a perfect set of white teeth."I'm fine, Steve. Always doing great!'' I responded, smiling in return and crossing my legs."I've heard you're quite busy with your wedding preparations...'' he remarked. "Any wedding jitters? It's hard to believe you're about to tie the knot. The whole world is surprised that you're getting married so quic
Chapter 082Reese"Enzo..." I answered, eliciting an'aw'from the audience."Of course, you're going to choose your husband-to-be," Steve remarked.Another photo appeared on the screen alongside Enzo's, and I gasped softly, wishing I wasn't caught in the camera. It was Marcus.The audience's volume increased, and I silently cursed, admiring the cunning of whoever had devised this plan, knowing it would send the show's ratings soaring instantly."I'm certain Marcus won't harbor any hard feelings," I said with a wistful smile. "Enzo," I chose, my voice a notch softer and gentler than before, yet still audible to everyone in the studio."Great job, Riley!" Steve exclaimed, oblivious to how the game had made me wish I could vanish from that place.The thought of facing Enzo again filled me with dread. I hoped he wouldn't see this episode when it aired, and the mere idea was enough to make me cringe with embarrassment.Indeed, I have to acknowledge that the show was quite entertaining for t
Chapter 083ReeseI gazed at Diane and Grace in horror, and the look on their faces after hearing my words was even more dreadful. They appeared utterly terrified."Reese..." Mr. Vincent clasped my hand and gave it a warm squeeze, as if to reassure me that everything would be fine. "It's okay, sweetheart. I'll let Enzo know that you don't want to marry him. I'll speak to him on your behalf, my dear. It's okay. It's going to be okay...''While I pondered why his words were laden with concern, my instincts assured me that he was simply worried about me. Perhaps he saw in me the daughter he missed, and for that, I was thankful."Riley..." Grace advanced toward me, her eyes fixed on Mr. Vincent with disapproval. I recoiled, slipping my hand from Mr. Vincent's grasp, and began to pace the room in a state of panic."I'm sorry, but I can't do this...'' I uttered, my voice quivering. "I can't marry him."Oh my God! What was I thinking? The guests must have all arrived by now, and if I called
Chapter 084ReeseThe woman I viewed as a second mother exploited me for money. Now, I stood on the verge of beginning a new chapter with Enzo, where we would mutually use each other, not out of care or love."Reese Cooper...'' Enzo's voice trembled, not with the effort to hold back tears like mine, but with the strain of containing his anger. "You're speaking of those who wrecked your life. Those who used you to ruin you! I won't be one of them! Do you believe that leaving this marriage now will benefit you? Do you think it's the best option for you? Answer me!"His raised voice caused me to flinch. Presented with his perspective, my mind swirled with numerous thoughts. What would become of me if I were to walk away from this marriage?The scandalous news would soon hit the media, and swiftly, it would become global knowledge. I would become the butt of the nation's jokes once more. They might view me as the woman who refused to settle down, an ungrateful person who abandoned her dev
Chapter 128ReeseI was on my bed, browsing the internet for a model to collaborate with, aiming to make up for Jimmy and my team's effort on the wasted project with Beatrice Jackson. Although I knew they understood my decision, I couldn't help but worry, knowing that they had been planning this for a long time.As I clicked the mouse, my phone suddenly dinged beside my laptop. My heart fluttered when I saw a message from Enzo.''I miss you, baby...'''A smile instantly appeared on my lips as I read his message. Wasn't he supposed to be busy at work? How could he still find time to think about me?I responded to his message, sending him a kiss gif.''I don't want that kiss. I want the real one...''A soft laugh escaped my mouth as I read his response. The boss was in desperate need of some affection right now.I showered him kiss gifs and emojis, but his reply made me laugh louder.''Reese, come here right now and give me the real one, please...''Did he really think that I could just
Chapter 127Reese''Beatrice Jackson was set to marry Lorenzo Carter next month, but the whole world was shocked when he married the famous model, Riley Coleman.''Oh my God! Beatrice Jackson was the woman Enzo's grandfather wanted him to marry!With a trembling hand, I quickly dialed Jimmy's number.''Yes, Riley?'' he answered. ''Did you forget something?''''Well, Jimmy, I...'' I stuttered, my heart pounding as I struggled to find the words to tell him about what I had found out.''Yeah? What is it?'' I could sense his frown through the phone, and I cleared my throat before I spoke.''I changed my mind. I don't want to collaborate with Beatrice Jackson anymore...'' I blurted out, my heart racing. I had a feeling she planned this. I haven't met her, but I already had a bad feeling. I don't want to be involved with people Enzo turned away from to marry me, especially his family-his grandparents.''What? But why?'' Jimmy exclaimed, his tone rising. I couldn't blame him though. He arran
Chapter 126ReeseA gentle smile graced my lips as I observed the maids transferring my belongings into Enzo's bedroom. Enzo and I had decided to share a bedroom now that we found it hard to be apart from each other.I shook my head, amused, and let out a soft chuckle. Initially, I had never imagined such a turn of events with him, nor that my feelings for him would develop.Gazing out of the window in Enzo's bedroom, my eyes were drawn to the yellow roses blooming in the garden. The view was breathtaking, a sight I never had from my own room.This perfect panorama of the garden, brimming with my favorite flowers, was visible only from this room and the gallery. It seemed as if Enzo had anticipated what would bring me joy.Quite peculiar.I sighed softly. The anticipation of Riza and Enzo's return home today was palpable; I was eager to be with them once more.I let out another chuckle. Was I starting to sound like a desperate housewife?Suddenly, I realized that I was uncomfortable w
Chapter 125ReeseEnzo and I faced each other on the bed, our eyes squeezed shut as ur foreheads touched, and so did our lips. We stayed like that for a while in silence, before I brushed my lips against his, kissing him softly. My lips moved very slowly, trying to test him first, and I smiled secretly when he kissed me back with equal fervor.He raked his fingers through my hair, down to my nape and pulled me closer as he deepened the kiss. I moaned, loving the way he was making me feel.''Reese...'' He rasped after pulling away, a warning look in his eyes, as if he knew that continuing would inevitably lead to more.And that was what I needed right now. Him. I needed him so badly that I didn't want him to stop kissing me.It was peculiar that whenever I experienced a nightmare, he was the only one who could soothe my heart and bring the nightmare to an end.He might have thought that we would only be cuddling to sleep. I was also expecting that, but now that I was lying here next to
Chapter 124ReeseBreakfast seemed more delicious than usual, perhaps because my heart was filled with contentment.I watched Riza drink her milk with a smile. Despite our offer to let her stay home from school due to feeling unwell after yesterday's accident, she was adamant about attending, excited for her favorite subject, which was Art.Once breakfast was over, Felicia, Riza's nanny, took her school bag trolley, and Riza appeared eager to get to school.''I'm so excited about going to school today!'' she exclaimed. ''We're going to paint on a small canvas!''Her excitement about the upcoming school activity made a smile touch my lips. Then, Enzo stood up from his seat, and I noticed something in him.His tie was askew.As he walked around the table towards me, I moved closer, meeting him. Stopping in front of me, I reached up and straightened his tie, smiling as I looked up at him.Once again, the adoration in his eyes made my heart flutter.Suddenly, he reached to give me a passi
Chapter 123ReeseEnzo's gaze softened as he settled back beside my bed, gently stroking my hand. ''Okay...'' he whispered. ''I won't leave you alone. I'm staying right here with you...'' His voice carried such tenderness, and I trusted him.His fingers lightly grazed my cheek, prompting me to close my eyes, only to open them again at the sound of his reassuring words.''There's nothing to worry about. You can take a rest again...'' he said, assisting me to recline once more, and I exhaled a sigh of relief.Despite my reluctance to shut my eyes, they were heavy with mental exhaustion.Yet, with Enzo's presence, I persuaded myself that all was well, that the nightmares would not return.And for that, I was grateful they did not.*********After several hours of sleep, I awoke to find the clock displaying three in the morning. I had assumed I slept through a significant portion of the night, yet dawn had not even broken.As I turned to my side, I saw Enzo, fast asleep with his head rest
Chapter 122ReeseRiza finished the chicken noodle soup I had fed her. She smiled after savoring the last spoonful of her dinner, and a smile graced my lips as I placed the bowl back on the tray.''Thank you for feeding me, Leese... It tastes super delicious!'' she exclaimed with a beam.I felt a wave of relief seeing her return to her cheerful self. It was as if the accident had never occurred, and I was wondering how this could be?After assisting her with drinking water, she burped, and we shared a laugh before she covered her mouth, embarrassed. ''I am so full. I love it!''''That's good to hear...'' I responded gently. ''Because after this, you need to rest again and recharge your energy...'' I reminded her, even though she no longer appeared ill.I helped her settle back into her bed and drew the sheets over her. She smiled as I caressed her hair, while Enzo observed us, wearing the same smile on his face.''I'll teach you how to swim...'' Enzo told Riza. ''So that next time tha
Chapter 121ReesePlease save her! Save Riza!I could feel nothing except the pain coursing through my body, mirroring the ache in my heart. I was immobile, and it felt as though life itself was ebbing away from me.''No!'' I woke up, my chest throbbing intensely.''Reese...'' Enzo's voice reached me, laden with concern.Gasping for breath, I struggled to come to terms with the reality I found myself in. I was upright in bed, drenched in sweat.Was it just a nightmare? But it seemed so vivid.I looked over at Enzo, who was perched beside my bed, gripping my hand tightly. His face was etched with worry. ''How are you feeling?''Once again, I was trying to come to terms with the reality unfolding before me. Glancing down, I realized I was no longer soaked but instead clad in my clean housedress.The wall clock indicated that it was almost evening.''Riza...'' My voice quivered as her name escaped my lips, tears welling up in my eyes. I gazed at Enzo, fear evident in my trembling lips. '
Chapter 120ReeseI closed the book and carried it with me as I left the library, heading to my room upstairs. Upon opening the door, I made a halt, noticing something new. A small plate of cheesecake sat on the center table.I moved closer and scrutinized the cake. Its untidy appearance made it clear that it wasn't the work of a professional baker from this house.It had to be from Enzo.The idea of him going to the effort of baking this for me, despite never having done so before, just to bring a smile to my face, filled me with warmth.Indeed, this was the first time anyone had ever cooked for me. Driven by curiosity, I tried the cake with a spoon.To my surprise, it was exceptionally tasty, and it made me smile again.*********''You're the seeker!'' Riza exclaimed, catching me behind the curtain in the living room. We were playing hide and seek again.I chuckled as she embraced me. She coaxed me out of my hiding spot, and as I moved back to the center of the living room, I notice