All Chapters of THE CEO'S HIRED WIFE : Chapter 61 - Chapter 70

Avalynn stood in front of her full-length mirror, admiring her reflection. The gown she had chosen for Lisa for the Malvis Gala was sleek and luxury, with a rich emerald green color that enhanced her eyes. It was however more than just looking well, it was also about looking the part. She needed to project confidence, money, and the air of someone who could easily lend $200,000.Her phone buzzed, interrupting her focus. Lisa sent a message: "On my way. I need to talk before the gala."Avalynn felt her heart skip a beat. She responded quickly: "See you soon."As she waited, her thoughts turned to her father. She recalled the day he became ill, the despair she felt as his condition deteriorated, and the relief she felt when the surgery was eventually planned. A lump developed in her throat. Every lie, every risky decision she had made was for him.A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. She opened it to discover Lisa, looking as polished as ever, her eyes full of resolve and co

Avalynn was still able to hear the applause as she looked around the crowd in an attempt to find Lisa. Tonight, she had to make sure everything went as planned, or else their thin web of deceit may crumble. She sensed Jace's discomfort as he lingered near, shaking hands and saying hello to different individuals. Aunt Linda's subdued threats and the weight of his new duties appeared to be hanging over him like a rain cloud.At last she saw Lisa standing at the elaborate bar, fidgeting with a flute of champagne. Taking a deep breath, Avalynn moved over, hoping her companion had done a good job practicing their cover tale."Hello, Lisa," Avalynn forced a grin. "I'm so happy you could attend."Lisa's eyes grew a little wide, but she immediately covered up her anxiety. "Avalynn, I'm so happy to be here." This location is amazing.Jace showed up at Avalynn's side before they could say anything further. His attention turned to Lisa, his curiosity sparked. Lisa was looking at Avalynn as sh

Elena had spent over an hour cleaning up in Jace's office before he came. She fixed the framed pictures on the walls, reorganized the pens, and swept the bookcases. She checked that everything was in its proper place by lining up the edges of the pages.Elena moved with deliberate steps, and the only sounds in the room were the occasional rustle of paper and the gentle hum of the air conditioner.She was diligent in her attention to detail. Every book on the shelf lined up precisely with its neighbor, every pen was positioned parallel to the tabletop edge, and every picture frame was spotless and positioned at the ideal angle. With a faint, content smile on her lips, Elena stepped back to inspect her work. Everything was ideal, precisely how Jace wanted it to be.Her steps were a well-practiced dance of control and organization as she went through the workplace. The room was illuminated by a warm glow from the late afternoon sun, which brought attention to the orderly piles of paperwo

Avalynn gave a nod, but her gaze remained fixed on him as worry appeared on her face.With a mixture of fear and annoyance, Avalynn watched as Jace turned to walk away. She felt the oppressive weight of deceit and remorse pressing down on her, almost dragging her down.She felt trapped when her father needed surgery, even though she should have known better than to sacrifice everything for money. The effects of her treachery now hung over them like a heavy fog.Her thoughts were racing, planning her next action.Jace's thoughts would not be still as he made his way back to his study. He played again their exchange, her facial expressions, her almost too-calm demeanor.Jace was back in his study, still uneasy. Avalynn wasn't telling him everything, he knew that. He had to know the real story.He was going through the papers when he noticed something shimmering. He reached behind a stack of papers and removed a dainty earring. His heartbeat quickened; it was Avalynn's. A chilling sense

There was a great deal of tension in the room, and the silence that was between them was very heavy.Avalynn felt the weight of her mistakes shattering her heart. She had destroyed everything, including her life and Jace's trust. And for what purpose? She had lost everything due to a brief period of weakness and despair.She collapsed to her knees, sobbing uncontrollably. "Jace, please. There is nothing more that I can do. Don't do this, please."Jace inhaled deeply as he made an effort to relax. His tone was sardonic as he asked, "So what do you suggest I do? You've already jeopardized my business and sold me out to my opponent; what am I expected to do now? Please pardon me?"Avalynn's mouth opened and closed, her thoughts racing in an attempt to find the solution that would save her life.She stumbled, her voice quivering with panic. "I... I don't know," she said. "I'll do anything to make it right."Avalynn felt as though Jace's intense stare was a vise gripping her heart, drai