Isabella POV "You look absolutely stunning, señora Martínez." Lora, the head maid, gushed. It was time to attend the celebration party at Justin's company though the wedding was orchestrated, but it had to appear authentic to the media. I was merely playing a role in Justin's crafted illusions. As I gazed at my reflection in the mirrors, I admired the way the light makeup enhanced my light brown eyes. My dress for the party accentuated my figure with a perfect fit; the fabric was incredibly soft and luxurious with a gold subtle shimmer. The dress had a flattering fit with a cinched waist, a flowing A-line skirt and the neckline was adorned with delicate lace detailing. My delicate earrings added a touch of sparkle, while the matching heels completed my dress and my hair was styled in soft, wavy locks. I asked, uncertainly, "You really think so?" "Of course, señora Martínez, I would never deceive you." She declared, giving me a firm nod. "Thanks for helping me get ready,
Isabella POV "Señor López and Señor Lucas, meet my lovely wife, Isabella." Justin introduced me, his hand gently resting on my lower back. They both appeared to be in their late thirties, exuding a vibrant Mexican aura. "I'm López." The first man spoke, bowing slightly and extending a hand. "It's an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintance, Señora Martínez." I placed my hand in his, feeling a gentle kiss on my knuckles. "The pleasure is mutual." I replied warmly. Señor Lucas stepped forward. "As the owner of the National Global Bank, I extend my congratulations on your wedding. It was a truly magnificent day." "Enjoy the party." Justin encouraged and they nodded in agreement. He then turned to me. "Darling, I need to have a word with you." We quietly moved aside, leaving my bodyguards with Noah. Justin took my hand and guided me to a balcony overlooking the penthouse. As we stood by the railing, I noticed we were alone. "What are we doing here?" I asked, noting his styl
Isabella POV I lazily stretching my limbs, feeling the remnants of last night's party. As I sat up in bed, my laptop and smartphone caught my eye. I quickly reached for both devices, entering my old password on my phone and revealing the familiar homepage. A smile spread across my face, noting everything was still intact. I decided to give my Mother a call, eager to share the news of my well-being and to hear her voice. Afterwards, she answered, "Hello, Bella?" "Yes, Mom. Are you alright?" I asked, hearing a sigh of relief on the other end. "Yes, I'm just glad to hear your voice. How are you holding up?" She inquired. "I'm doing fine, but how's everything back home?" I questioned, concerned. "Your father is doing well and the shop is running smoothly, but Jean hasn't been home lately." She informed me and I furrowed my eyebrows. "She only called a few times, but she hasn't mentioned anything about the interview." I could hear the worry in her voice as she continued. "I d
Isabella POV I walked alongside Justin, accompanied by my two personal bodyguards. The photography studio was located at a bustling Mall in the city. Looking around, I noticed the studio was humming with activity and workers were diligently focused on their tasks. We quietly reached a different section of the building within seconds. A guy opened a wooden door and we stepped into the room, revealing the main studio. The space was filled with an array of professional equipment, from cameras and lighting setups to a variety of backdrops. There, I spotted a man sitting on a stool, meticulously fixing a camera in his hands, positioned before a gallery wall. The guy greeted the man, "Mr. Paul, they have arrived." Mr. Paul, a man with an artistic style and shoulder-length blonde hair, caught my attention as he stood up and approached us with a smile. While Justin and the others gathered around him, engaging in a conversation, I remained rooted to the spot, taking in the aest
Isabella POVFinally, the weekend has arrived and today I am scheduled to meet Justin's relatives, the Martínez family. Through various media and magazines that my father often brings home, I've seen the Martínez family featured in them quite often.They always look so perfect and flawless as if they have this picture perfect life that everyone dreams of. So, I'm keeping my hopes up that Justin's family will be different from him; perhaps less arrogant at least. I haven't actually spoken to Justin since the photoshoot though we live in the same house, but I have noticed that he tends to be cooped up in his study room and hardly ever around. As for me, I find myself engrossed in the enchanting world of books, spending most of my time in my bedroom and exploring the vast collections within the mansion.I casually made my way downstairs in my light blue waffle knit lounge set and comfy slippers, my attention fixated on a paperback cookbook. As I stood in the lobby, I caught snippets
Isabella POV As Justin pulled up to the estate, we approached sleek, modern gates. The guard greeted him warmly and opened them for us. We drove through, passing manicured lawns on either side of the driveway. Justin parked in front of the mansion and my eyes were drawn to a circular flower bed in the center of the driveway. As I admired the entrance, the front doors opened gracefully. "Wife, are you planning on staying in the car forever?" Justin asked, standing outside. I took a deep breath, stepped out and closed the car door behind me. Justin opened the trunk to unload our suitcases. "Justin, my dear son, you made it!" A sophisticated lady with shoulder-length, ash blonde hair descended the steps. She wore a black casual dress and exuded a diva-like presence. "Yeah, we both made it." Justin replied, closing the trunk. The lady then turned her attention to me. "And you must be Isabella. Finally, I get to meet you properly." She smiled, examining me. "It’s great to meet yo
Isabella POV "Isabella, perfect timing." Miss Sonia greeted me as I descended the staircase in my casual evening dress and sandals, my hair pulled into a high ponytail. "Assist me in the kitchen, if you may." She requested, walking away. I followed her quietly into the kitchen. I looked around as she carefully placed utensils on the marbled counter, then headed to the oven with a pair of mittens. "Did you get enough rest?" She asked while checking the oven. I nodded, knowing Justin had been too busy with work to disturb my sleep. "You can bring those to the dining room." She directed. "It's the right turn on the left." I exited the kitchen with the utensils, following her directions and found myself in the dining room. The twins were engrossed in a conversation about soccer. As I placed the utensils on the table, I glanced at their mother, Aunt Lisa, who was taking a seat with baby Crystal in a high chair beside her. Mr. Tom and Miss Sonia entered with the dishes, includin
Isabella POV I woke to the sound of knocking and opened my eyes to find it was morning. I stretched slightly and glanced at Justin, who was sitting up in bed. "Someone’s at the door." I noted, standing up from the sofa and wrapping the blanket around me as I moved to the bed. Justin nodded and went to answer the door, ruffling his hair. When he opened it, a female voice called out, "Brooo, you’re here!" "Seriously, Stephanie?" Justin groaned, putting a hand up at the doorframe and I ran a hand through my hair, listening. "Where’s your wife? I want to meet her right now." Stephanie demanded. Justin’s eyes met mine for a brief moment as he remained by the door. "She’ll be downstairs soon." Justin replied, slowly closing the door. I heard Stephanie groan before her footsteps retreated. "The brat wants to meet you." Justin explained as he closed the door. "Who’s the brat?" I asked, raising an eyebrow, curious. Justin headed to the closet and responded, "My youngest sister." I
Justin POV The mansion was quiet when I walked in, just the sound of my own footsteps echoing through the foyer. I was heading toward the stairs when I caught the sound of laughter coming from the living room. I stopped, then stepped back, making my way toward the source. Isabella was on the couch with the twins—David and Daniel—helping them with what looked like a school project. The coffee table was a mess of scraps of paper, glue sticks and markers. I was about to turn and leave when Daniel’s voice cut through the room. "Cousin Justin, you’re back from work!" I froze. Both boys looked up at me, wide-eyed and expectant. I gave a small nod, but my attention drifted to Isabella. Her smile faded the moment our eyes met. She looked at me for half a second before dropping her gaze back to the paper she was cutting with a pair of scissors. David suddenly spoke up. "Hey, did you hear about our birthday party?" I scratched the back of my head, about to answer, but Daniel beat
Justin’s POV The sharp buzz of my six o’clock alarm pulled me from sleep. I exhaled heavily, stretching my arms over my head before rolling my shoulders. Sleeping on the damn sofa wasn’t doing me any favors—my back felt stiff as hell. I sat up, rubbing the back of my neck as I glanced toward the bed. It was empty. The sheets were neatly spread, like she hadn’t even slept in it. My brows drew together as I stood, rolling out the tension in my shoulders before heading toward the bathroom door. I knocked. No answer. Pushing the door open slightly, I peeked inside. Empty. With a sigh, I turned toward the closet. A weird sense of relief settled in my chest when I saw her clothes still there. At least she hadn’t packed up and left. I shook my head at the thought, grabbing a suit and heading towards the bathroom. Moments later, I was adjusting my tie in the mirror when I heard the door open. Isabella walked in, carrying a coffee bottle and a small lunch container. She placed
Isabella POVI opened my mouth to respond, but Justin shook his head, cutting me off."Let me explain, okay?" His eyes locked onto mine and for the first time, I saw something unfamiliar—vulnerability. "Just...listen, please."That one word "please" took me by surprise. Justin Martínez never asked; he commanded. Hearing it from him and in that tone, softened something inside me, in a way I wasn't prepared for. I crossed my arms tightly beneath my chest, nodding reluctantly. He exhaled deeply, his hands dropping to his sides as he sat back on his heels. For a moment, he stayed quiet, as if trying to gather his thoughts."Getting married was the only way for me to regain access to my accounts," He began, his voice low. "The bank that holds my wealth, assets, inheritance...it's all tied to a contract my parents signed decades ago."I frowned, confusion knitting my brow.He dragged a hand through his hair, before he continued. "The contract states that none of us—me, my siblings, can co
Isabella POVLeading my parents out of the dining room, I kept my head high, even as my thoughts and emotions swirled. Once we reached the front door, I turned to face them.My mom adjusted her coat and she let out a quiet sigh. "Well, that was...an interesting evening.""I'm sorry about everything. They can be...intense." I glanced at her and rolled my eyes slightly, trying to lighten the mood."As long as you're all right, Bella." My mom exhaled, her hand reaching up to caress my cheek. I managed a small smile, holding her hand briefly as I glanced between her and my father. "I'm fine. Are you?" My father's expression hardened slightly, but he nodded. "We've endured worse, but remember, this is just part of the contract. It will be all over soon and you will be unburdened by this, just stay focused, Bella."My jaw tightened and I nodded, though the reminder hit like a cold splash of water. "I know."My mom pulled me into a quick hug. "Take care of yourself." "And call if you nee
Isabella POV"My wife is absolutely right."Justin’s hand on my leg began a soothing massage and before I could say another word, he spoke up. "Our marriage has nothing to do with my employees. Whether or not Mr. Knight works at my company, it’s none of anyone’s business who I choose to marry." I glanced at Justin, pressing my lips together to keep my emotions in check. His subtle support reminded me to stay composed. I knew I had to maintain control before I let it get the better of me and risk saying something I shouldn't—especially about the marriage contract. Before Mr. Tom could respond, Harden chimed in. "I agree with Justin on this one."He glanced at my parents with a nod. "They seem like respectable people so far." My parents smiled faintly in response, their tension easing slightly.Mr. Tom raised his hands in defense, shaking his head. "No, no. I think you’ve all misunderstood me." His eyes moved around the table. "I didn’t mean any offense. I’m just curious, that’s al
Isabella POVI quietly continued to eat and Miss Sonia’s smile tightened. "But isn’t marriage about commitment? About fighting for what you’ve built?""Yes, but it’s also about knowing when to let go for the sake of happiness." My mother replied, her tone calm as she narrowed her gaze at Miss Sonia. I poured myself a glass of wine, taking a slow sip as I leaned back, hoping to blend into the background.Harden probably sensed the unease and chuckled lightly. "I agree with both of you, but let’s be honest—it wasn’t working.""We were both miserable. It’s better this way." He shrugged, attempting to ease the atmosphere.Miss Sonia sighed deeply, nodding reluctantly. "I just wish you’d tried harder, son."Before the mood could darken further, Aunt Lisa interjected. "Marriage is like a buffet—you try a bit of everything, but sometimes you realize the dish you picked isn't for you.""And that's okay, as long as you enjoy the dessert." Her comment earned a round of light chuckles, easing t
Isabella POVJustin broke the silence, walking over to my parents. "Mr. and Mrs. Knight, it's good to see you both again."My father offered a firm handshake. "Thank you for having us, Justin."My mother smiled warmly as she spoke. "We're glad to be here."Justin gave a small nod in return before stepping over to me. He took a seat beside me at the table, placing a hand on the back of my neck. His thumb brushed past my curls as he whispered, "You look stunning, as always, wife." Heat flushed through me and I met his gaze. "Shut it, bastard." I muttered under my breath, unable to hide my blush and earning a quiet chuckle from him. As I looked away, I caught my mother watching us, a curious smile tugging at her lips. Feeling awkwardly embarrassed for some reason, I lightly kicked Justin under the table. He grunted softly, raising a brow at me, but I just gave him an innocent smile.The moment was interrupted by Miss Sonia’s return. A man accompanied her, carrying a luggage bag. "G
Isabella POV I descended the stairs in a casual evening dress, the hem brushing just above my knees, paired with simple flats. Justin stepped through the front door just as I reached the landing, his presence drawing my attention. A faint smile tugged at my lips; he’d come home earlier than I expected.He stood in the foyer, briefcase in one hand, a bottle of wine in the other, his sharp eyes fixed on me as I approached."You made it after all." I said, stepping close enough to unbutton his jacket.He nodded quietly, his gaze softening slightly."Justin!" Miss Sonia’s warm voice carried across the room before Justin could speak.We both turned to see her walking toward us, a pleased smile on her face. "Son, I’m glad you could make it for dinner." She said, her hands clasped in front of her.Justin nodded, handing her the wine without hesitation. "I’ll check on Stephanie and the medical team before joining you." Miss Sonia nodded, patting his arm before he walked past us and up th
Justin POV"How’s the pastry shop coming along?" I asked, remembering her mentioning something about her mother passing over the keys.Isabella's lips curved into a small smile as she leaned back. "Still working on organizing the cake sale to raise enough for supplies and the minor repairs the shop needs. If I pull it off, I should have enough to cover those costs and get the place running again."I nodded, taking a sip of water. "I could—" "Justin." She pointed her pen at me, shaking her head firmly. "No, thanks. Surprisingly considerate, but I’d rather you keep your hands out of it."I chuckled at her quick dismissal. "I didn’t even say anything." Her eyes narrowed as she gave me a pointed look, her pen tapping against her notebook. "You were going to, though." She wasn’t wrong, but I just shrugged, leaning back in my chair. I wanted to see how she’d manage a shop on her own, mostly out of curiosity—especially since I hadn’t mentioned the keys to the restaurant yet."I wanted t