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135. The approval
Last Updated:
2024-11-27 15:38:52
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The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 136. A Lie
Louise Rose.I excused myself as I was busting. It’s fun to be with the girls—they are indeed good to be with. Beauty wanted to accompany me, but I refused. She’s concerned—I can see that—but I know my way to the ladies’ toilet. There is no need for her to accompany me.I turn the tap on and wash my hands. The door opened, and I heard someone’s stiletto heels getting closer to my distance. I did not look at who it was as I was busy washing my hands.“Hi, how are you? Louise, right?”I glance at her and turn the tap off. I smiled as we stared.“Yes.”“It’s Stephanie Colleman.” She extended her hand for a handshake, and I accepted it.“Louise Rose.”“I heard a lot about you. I’m glad to see you in person.” She rested her back on the sink and looked at me happily.“Really?” I said in a surprise as I wiped my hands with hand towel tissues.“Hendrix and I have been business partners for over a decade. His family and mine have been business partners for two decades. I’m Hendrix’s only busi
Last Updated : 2024-11-29The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 137. Took out
Louise Rose.What was that about? Why did I fail in that moment? Who does she think she is?I grimaced, feeling so shit. I wish I could have done it the other way. Instead, I was sulking. I'm a known fighter, but tonight, I wasn't. Is this really me? Shit."Drop me home, Hendrix." I gritted my teeth. I'm done crying and acting like a baby. Rosy never raised me to become weak because she taught me how to defend myself in front of my bullies.Born without parents, I had many insecurities. Rosy was always with me at all the events in my life. When friends asked about my parents, I always said the same thing over and over... my parents are deceased. That's the eastiest way to answer them.Hendrix took the turn that led to his house instead of mine. I glanced at him, but he never looked back."I said to my place, Hendrix!""Stay in my place.""I'm not sleeping in the same bed with you!""I understand. But please stay for tonight, Louise." He gazes at me in desperation. "I will not force
Last Updated : 2024-12-02The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 138.
Louise Rose.I lost my smile the moment I saw Hendrix. Anger surged within me, and I recalled what Stephanie had said at the party.“Louise, darling...”Hendrix leaned in to kiss me, but I pulled away. Lilia noticed and cleared her throat before walking away. She left us.Hendrix opens my chair so I can sit down. I never look at him as I take my seat. I’m still upset.“I’m not sure what you’d prefer for breakfast, so I asked Lilia to prepare a variety of options.” He cleared his throat as he placed each dish closer to my plate.I will eat as much as possible and then go to the flower shop branches. That’s my plan for today. We sit in silence while eating, creating an awkward atmosphere. I don’t want to discuss anything and can sense his hesitance to speak.“I’m sorry about what happened last night, Louise.”My lips twitch. Why is he apologizing? Is it because he didn’t inform me about Stephanie? Additionally, I don’t even know what role Stephanie plays in his life aside from being
Last Updated : 2024-12-05The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 139. Worried
Louise Rose."What the heck? You attended the event the other day with Hendrix, right?" Shella's eyes were like fire when I looked at her."Why? What's wrong?" I still had my hands on the flowers I had arranged in the vase.After the event and spending the night at Hendrix's place, I visited Rosy the next day. She seemed unwell and uncomfortable, which worried me. So, I decided to stay with her until nighttime to help with her needs. She's got a personal maid, but me being there with her is a different story. I just want to be with her. I don't want to think about that sly Stephanie.I have a few messages and miscalls from Hendrix. I will get back to him later. "Look at this. Have you read this?" She showed me the newspaper. The front page featured a picture of Hendrix's company and the events mentioned. On the next page was a collage of pictures with his cousins, parents, and Stephanie."Where are you? Why aren't you here? They didn’t even mention you at all, as if you didn’t exist
Last Updated : 2024-12-08The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 140. Surrender
Louise Rose.I sat down, and Dr. Lou looked very serious. I haven't seen Rosy—not yet. The food and treats are still inside the paper bags with me.“Look, Louise. I know it’s been some time, and if you’ve noticed, Rosy’s condition is worsening each day.” He paused and glanced at me with a worried expression."Yes, I noticed that. I've been meaning to talk to you, but I've been held up with many things, including my business. Every time I visit, you're either not here or busy with your patients.""Yes, I'm sorry about that. But this time, I could no longer ignore the symptoms, and—"He paused again when my phone suddenly rang. I hadn't muted it."Oh, sorry." I pulled it out of my side pocket and swiped the screen. It was Rosy."Uhm, it's just Rosy. Just hang on for a second, Dr. Lou." I stood up and whirled halfway."Yes, Rosy. I'm already here at the clinic. I'm talking to Dr. Lou. It won't be long, and I will be there. I'll see you in a minute," I said, ending the call.Dr. Lou clear
Last Updated : 2024-12-10The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 141. Disaster
Hendrix."It's good to see you again, Rosy." I gave her a tight hug and kissed her forehead.She gazed at me faintly, smiling. Her hands felt cold, and she was growing thinner each day. I felt anxious. To me, she didn't seem well, yet I recognized her strong fight for Louise.Last night was calm with Louise. We had a good time together. We never talked about the issues and just set them aside. We kissed, cuddled, and made love. It was solemn and peaceful. Although it does not solve the problem, I think it's probably better that way.I have too much on my plate at the moment, and I'm sorting out my business with Stephanie. I'm doing things one at a time, and I know Louise understands that."Hendrix…" Rosy weakly uttered my name, and I sat down beside her."How are you feeling, Rosy?" My jaw tightened. I knew she was not feeling well. I had a quick chat with Dr. Lou before I proceeded to her unit.The treatment was still ongoing. We are on our second radiation session now, and there ar
Last Updated : 2024-12-13The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 142. Proud
Louise Rose.I stopped by the flower stall near Hendrix’s office building, and rather than waiting for him, I opted to head to his office instead.The interior of the building is impressive. It features a unique atmosphere, and the entrance boasts a tall ceiling adorned with a large, sparkling chandelier.There was no reception. Instead, there was information displayed on the large screen indicating which floor to visit. On the opposite side of the hallway leading to the lifts, you’ll find a small café alongside a flower stall.I smiled upon seeing it, and the two ladies attending smiled back. They were taking orders from two customers waiting nearby.Hendrix is clever, and I’m very proud of my man.Last night, we didn’t talk about Stephanie and the newly released articles. I felt jealous, but I knew how to manage my jealousy. I trust him and will wait for his explanation.The elevator arrives at the top floor, the fifty-ninth. I exit and am greeted by the company’s prominent logo ad
Last Updated : 2024-12-15The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 143
Louise Rose.I cautiously glance to the side while listening to Hendrix speak on the phone with Stephanie.After dinner, we settled back at his place, giving me enough time to relax. I'm all relaxed, alright. I had my shower thirty minutes ago and checked on Rosy at the care clinic. Everything is going well with her, and I'm glad she's okay. I was a little worried when I saw her this morning. She doesn't seem well."I told you I'm not negotiating anything from you anymore, Steph." Hendrix's voice rose in octavo."Dammit! This is why we can't talk in person. This is why I can't see you!' He ran his hand through his hair in frustration and lifted his head."Fucking hell! Don't you dare tell me what to do, Steph! It's not about myself anymore, and not about Louise. Stay her out of this!"My body jerked when I heard the surprising kick he made on the chair inside the room. I fiddle my fingernails on my lips while listening, and my heart is pumping hard inside me.Hendrix is furious. Step
Last Updated : 2024-12-17
Latest chapter
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride Epilogue
Louise Rose.At times, you meet the right person when circumstances are not ideal. Other times, you encounter the wrong person when the moment is perfect. However, when you discover the right person at the right time in the right circumstances, it’s destiny. Fate has intertwined your paths, so hold on tightly and never let go.I still couldn’t believe it. After Hendrix’s proposal, the wedding took place.That was spot on. I wasn’t prepared. But when I saw Rosy in her wheelchair, I felt it was the perfect moment for everything. It was truly the right time for that. That night was perfect for us and everyone around us. Hendrix and I got married and were surrounded by our loved ones.It’s been a year, and everything around us moves smoothly. There are tough days alongside joyful moments. The silver lining is that we don’t argue. Even if we bicker over minor issues, we make sure that they are resolved by the end of the day.I’ve faced numerous challenges, beginning with Rosy, my father,
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 160. I will
Hendrix."Is everything ready?" I whispered to Eleanor ahead. She gave me a thumbs-up.I took a deep breath and scanned my surroundings. I'm feeling anxious about this. I hope everything works out.This proposal is my second attempt. I chose to keep it simple. Eleanor will invite Louise to a Saturday event, which is my proposal for her.Rosy, my family, and a few of the boys will be here soon. I'm not sure what Reeve and Linus are up to, but I have a bad feeling about it. They've prepared something without telling me what it is."I'll return with Louise in two hours, okay? Everything is set. We have another surprise for both of you. So, no matter what it is, Hendrix, you cannot refuse. Understood?"I blinked. "Okay. . ." My forehead wrinkled."Don't worry. It's not going to harm you or Louise. It will be beneficial for you." She winked, patted my shoulder, and then walked straight ahead."Hendrix! What's up, bro?""Riley? What are you doing here? I thought you were still in Scotland?
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 159. Pure happiness
Louise Rose.It feels like just yesterday, yet a month has already passed. As I glanced at my mother's name on her urn, I also looked at her picture beside it. I resemble her. She's beautiful, and I just look like her. For years, I have refused to look at her photos from Rosy's old albums. I didn't want to see her at that moment, nor did I want her image to linger in my mind. I didn't feel any anger towards her. I just didn't want to imagine what she looked like.Ideally, Rosy embodies the motherly figure I've always cherished, and during moments of hardship and solitude, it's her face I long for most.I have no regrets.If I were to look at old photos of my mother and notice how much I resemble her, I might feel resentment. Whenever I see my reflection, I see my mother, which prevents me from finding peace.As a child, I had many questions about why she left me with Rosy and why she never came back. But that was in the past. It’s all behind us now, and we are left with the answers
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 158. In time
Louise Rose."Louise!"My heart lights in that last second before they toss me.I saw Hendrix running towards me. . . Stephanie screamed, and everything flew in the air.Splash!I held my breath quickly, and my hand automatically did the job. But the rope was tightly wrapped around my feet, and the bricks were heavy. I descended quickly at the bottom.I tried kicking, trying to get it out. I jerked my head up, trying to grasp the air. I can only hold my breath for thirty seconds at least. That was my best record when I went swimming with my friends back when I was only sixteen.I hate the waters. I'm scared of it. I can't breathe.Five, four, three, two, one. . .That's it. I can't do it. I can't untie myself. Am I going to die? Is this my end? Rosy…mum…Hendrix…***Hendrix.Damn it!"Louise!" My body was on autopilot. I run towards her."Oh my god!"I heard Stephanie scream and the rattles around.After extensive tracking, we finally caught them in the act. However, it seems too la
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 157. Impossible
Hendrix.Reeve accompanied me when we arrived at El Puerto. A car was waiting for us. Xavion arranged it. He also contacted the authorities to check the area around. And because it's not yet twenty-four hours, they don't consider it as a missing person. So, we have no choice but to work out independently.The boys will be coming to help. Most of them were at the event, waiting for us, but the party was over. It hasn't even started."Mum, not now, please. I need to find Louise," I answer my mother in the line. She's been calling me non-stop."Look, son. Eddie and Marco are on their way. They might take a while, but they're coming."I sighed, feeling frustrated now. The camera recording shows not much. It did not even capture the face of the person with Louise. The area was quiet, too. They're making sure that they can't be seen. They prepare well for this and damn it. I will make them pay for this."Also, son, Eddie told me that Stephanie actually came back this morning. He doesn't be
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 156
Narrator's POV.Eleven hours earlier...Louise was supposed to call Shella, but that did not happen. Shella has been wondering all along why Louise hasn't called yet. "Why hasn't she called me yet? She was supposed to call earlier," she muttered before dialing Louise's number without any hesitation.Tot…tot…tot…"What the? Why is she unattended?"She attempted once more, but the result remained unchanged. After waiting another hour, she considered it might be the signal at that location. However, deep down, she realized it was unlikely. This area has a strong signal with telecommunications towers throughout. So, it's impossible.Shella then speculated that perhaps Louise's phone had a low battery.That's it!It was nearly seven o'clock, and Louise still hadn't arrived. She remained unattended.Shella felt a surge of panic. She realized that Hendrix would arrive shortly to pick up Louise. They needed to go to a surprise family event. This surprise was organized by Hendrix, of course
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 155
Louise Rose.I swear in my mother's name, I will make Stephanie pay for what she has done to me!"I'm busting! Hey!""Just pee on your pants. You're going to die anyway." She folded her arms across her chest while observing the two men getting ready for something.I chuckled. "I don't want to die smells like shit, at least! You should grant me some wishes, you know, bitch!"She twirled around, frustrated by my annoyance."Will you shut up! I can't concentrate!" She yelled like a maniac.I giggled at that. "Oh well, too bad. I will never leave you in concentration. So, better untie me, Steph, and bring me a moment of joy!"She disregarded me. She plugged her ears while waiting for the boys to wrap up.What the hell they're doing?I'm out in the dark, at least, and now the sun is shining brightly. I never had a wink last night. I've been thinking of many ways to escape, but I can't do anything.At least one of the boys is kind enough to let me use the toilet. But even there, there was
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 154
Louise Rose.I stepped out feeling confident about this. I already told Shella that I would be home before seven. It’s still early—it’s eight in the morning.A man dressed in black looked in my direction. I scanned around first, ensuring that no one matched his description.Last night, he messaged me that a man in all black would fetch me here in El Puerto.“Louise?” the man wearing all black looked at me.I nodded.“This way, please.”He led me to his car, which was only a short distance from where my car was parked. I glanced around again, ensuring it was really him. No one else was nearby, so it had to be him.He opened the sliding door of the van, and I climbed inside.“There are refreshments for you. Help yourself and enjoy the road trip,” he casually said before shutting the car door.I feel the van moving and become familiar with the road. I’m not hungry yet. I’m just enjoying myself while listening to music on the vehicle wireless. He remained silent while driving, avoiding e
The Billionaire's Substitute Bride 153
Louise Rose.'Your mother… she has passed away a few months after she left you with me. That's why she couldn't come back for us, Louise…'Tears came rolling down my cheeks as I waited for Hendrix. I hugged my knees, crying in vain like a lost child.I laughed at Rosy's confession earlier. It was like a joke, and I didn't know how to take it in.I was speechless and shocked at the same time. Now that I'm all alone, here in the dark corner of Rosy's house, everything comes back haunted—my reality.The mother that I hated so much was long gone. Are you kidding me?I've been rehearsing a lot in the back of my mind, preparing myself for the day she will return for me. I have a lot to ask. Too many, to be exact. But what is it now? What will happen now? What will I do now…"Louise?"I gasped for air and stood up quickly when I heard Hendrix's voice outside. I wiped my tears, but my vision blurred, and my tears kept rolling down. It seemed like all the tears I had kept for myself for years
