Chapter 069ReeseKnowing that negative comments impact me far more than positive ones, I've decided not to open any of my social media accounts for now."So, what are the bashers saying this time?" I inquired, my tone disinterested. "I guess, the usual negative comments, like I'm a bitch. A whore. A homewrecker. Nothing new?"Jimmy let out a deep sigh, shaking his head in disbelief. He appeared exhausted, and I suddenly felt guilty for making him seem older than his forty-year-old self.I've only been acquainted with Jimmy for seven months, yet he's always been kind to me. Typically, he would defend me when Flora scolded me and handle the situation with diplomacy. However, at this moment, I sensed that he was about to chastise me as well."Riley, there are no more projects lined up for you," he stated, disregarding my inquiry about the critics. "Aren't you worried about your career?"I was conscious of this fact. I was aware that my career was on the brink of collapse."Riley..." Jim
Chapter 070Reese"And? What's the outcome of the deal? Did they accept it?" I inquired, my patience waning as I resumed my seat. "What happened, Jimmy? I want to know.""It went well, but there's one issue," he said, and the look in his eyes made me uneasy. They seemed to warn me to brace myself for what was to come. He then glanced at Trevor, who was just listening quietly beside me. "Trevor, get her some water first. She needs to calm down and relax."Trevor promptly fetched a glass of water and handed it to me. Despite my irritation, I accepted it and drank it down in one gulp before returning the glass to him, murmuring, thanks."Alright, what's the problem now?" I inquired of Jimmy.He sighed deeply, cleared his throat, and began explaining, "We were close to finalizing a deal with L. Carter News and Media Corporation, but..." He trailed off, looking over at Flora, who gave a nod, encouraging him to go on."But what?" I asked with impatience, sensing it was a promising beginning
Chapter 071ReeseBaby?I gasped at that word, pressing my palm against my chest, feeling my heart thumping loudly against it.The endearment sounded so familiar, as if it had been used by a man I'd been involved with, yet I couldn't recall any of them using such an endearment. Even Troy didn't call me that word. Unless L. Carter was a part of my past, which was impossible. I was certain I had never met him even once in my life. I don't know if he was part of my memory that I had forgotten, but he should've told me or my team about it.Clearing my throat, I continued to read his letter. "I actually reside in Manhattan, but I'm currently in Los Angeles visiting my broadcasting company to check on its operations. Once you've read this, I'll send my helicopter for you, ensuring a swift journey to my office. Enjoy your flight to my office. See you soon, baby."My nostrils flared in irritation as I finished the letter. I crumpled it in my fist, clenching my teeth in anger. This Lorenzo Car
Chapter 072ReeseAs the helicopter soared towards the old man's office, I seethed with anger, fantasizing about confronting him. It was my first encounter with the most arrogant individual I had ever known in my life.I was astounded by his audacity to manipulate our lives, dictating me on what to do with my life. Even worse, he swayed my team to entertain his proposal. No fucking way, I would let that happen! I would never allow his influence to prevail.Outside, the summer sky was a canvas of bright blue, a stark contrast to the storm raging in my heart.As the helicopter touched down atop the L. Carter News and Media Corporation building, Trevor exited first and assisted me in stepping down from it. "Thank you, Trevor...'' I smiled at him, and he nodded, smiling back.A man clad in a black suit greeted us, and I reciprocated the handshake he extended."Welcome to L. Carter's office, Miss Coleman," he said, placing a hand over his chest and bowing slightly. "My name is Owen, Mr. L.
Chapter 073ReeseI had never encountered such narcissism. The urge to pull my hair out surged within me. "You're insane! You're a son of-""We're not having this conversation here," he interjected swiftly. "Not in public, at least. I prefer some privacy when speaking with my future wife."I heard Trevor's growl. "You can't just send me away. I'm here to guard and protect Miss Riley-" He was cut off mid-sentence as two men, presumably Enzo's bodyguards, grabbed his arms, pinned him to the ground, and handcuffed him."Trevor!" I yelled, my eyes wide in shock as I watched them subdue my bodyguard, who was clearly larger than both of them. "Let him go! You fucking bastards!"There was nothing I could do, as I could only watch as they hauled Trevor out of the room, his curses gradually diminishing in volume. My eyes stung as I whipped my head back to face Enzo."You may leave now, Owen. Thank you," Enzo directed his personal assistant, and Owen nodded, before he walked out of the room.No
Chapter 074Reese''You're delusional, Mr. Carter!'' I exclaimed, shaking my head in disbelief. ''Are you implying that you need me to cancel your marriage with that woman?''To my astonishment, he sneered back. ''I don't require anyone to cancel my own marriage. However, the idea of being forced to marry a conglomerate's daughter just to secure a business deal is preposterous!''It was then my turn to sneer. ''So, you intend to use me to sabotage your grandfather's plans? You're aiming for him to suffer a heart attack, is that it?''Should the world ever hear of our marriage, his grandfather would undoubtedly suffer a heart attack. Not only would his grandson be rejecting the prearranged marriage, but he would also be choosing to marry me-the nation's whore.Furthermore, our photos would be circulated globally, given my fame.Damn!Perhaps he truly intended to harm his grandfather.''So, you're saying that we should marry for one and a half years?'' I hesitated.''Until I finalize th
Chapter 075Reese''I have to agree with you this time, Riley. Mr. L really is out of his mind...'' Jimmy said, his fatigue evident in a way that surprised me.I whipped my head towards him, trying to figure out what he was pointing out.Did he finally understand how absurd the idea of that arranged marriage was?''I'm sorry, Riley...'' Jimmy said, slumping back against the couch, arms spread wide, his eyes brimming with remorse. ''I shouldn't have pushed you to agree with him. We're talking about your personal life here, and I know we've overstepped. I'm not married, so I can't claim to have any expertise, but I believe starting with marrying someone you love is sensible. You shouldn't marry that man if you don't want to...''I found myself at a loss for words. To say I was moved would be putting it mildly. Jimmy, ever the opportunist, was now ready to pass up a golden chance for my sake.''We can still sort things out...'' he said. ''There's your upcoming photo shoot with Bvlgari, b
Chapter 076Reese"I am not marrying that arrogant billionaire, no matter what...'' I declared, my chin held high as Diane curled my hair.Jimmy pursued the project with Bvlgari at Flora's insistence. I agreed to it, wanting to avoid any further arguments with Flora, which would inevitably result in her hurling hurtful insults my way.Currently, I'm preparing for a photoshoot at home before posting the pictures and videos on my social media accounts as part of a paid partnership to promote their latest product.Diane looked at me in the mirror before setting the curling iron down on the vanity. "Of course, my dear. The decision is always yours. Don't worry about what Flora wants. We both know her agenda. That man is a billionaire, and... you know what I mean," she said, reaching for the cake foundation. "But Lorenzo Carter isn't just a billionaire; he's also incredibly handsome. Wow! If I were still single, I'd definitely marry him."She giggled while gently dabbing the sponge on my f
Chapter 130Reese''Oh, the woman outside is the temporary replacement for Owen...'' he said, studying me with amusement and excitement in his eyes. He seemed to be enjoying my interrogation. ''He took a leave a week ago because his daughter is sick. He's in the hospital right now taking care of her...''"And the other woman?" I asked, raising a brow.''Oh, Mrs. Brown? Her husband is one of the shareholders of the company. He's in Russia right now, so she was the one who scheduled a meeting with me...'' he explained, before kissing my forehead.''Wait, what made you hire Missy?'' I asked, feeling a pang of jealousy at the thought he might have hired her because she was pretty. ''I mean, she doesn't look professional enough to me. She doesn't seem to fit working as your secretary...'' I said, voicing my thoughts openly.Enzo chuckled. ''Oh, I apologize. I didn't give it much thought. She's only temporary---a week or two. The HR manager recommended her to me, telling me that she has a g
Chapter 129Reese''Mr. Vincent...'' I was taken aback when the old man suddenly hugged me, but what surprised me even more was the calming effect it had. My heartbeat steadied, and my body stopped shaking. So, I hugged him back, wrapping my free arm around him, as the other hand was holding a bag with the lunchbox.''I am pleased you decided to visit here. I have been eagerly anticipating seeing you again...'' he said, gently running his palm over my back.As I pulled away, I noticed tears welling up in his eyes. He smiled and wiped the corners of his eyes. ''I'm so sorry, I just missed my daughter...'' he said, masking his emotions with a chuckle. ''Are you here to see Enzo?''''Yes...'' I smiled back, lifting the bag and showing it to him. ''I brought him lunch. Would you like to join us?''''Oh, no, thank you. I do not wish to intrude on your time together...'' he declined, shaking his head. ''I just came here for some documents to be signed. My personal assistant is sick, so I ca
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