Chapter 11
Five years later
The hum of the airplane still lingered in Bella’s ears as she and Rachel walked hand-in-hand with Timothy through the bustling Sweliss International Airport.
The boy’s small eyes darted everywhere, wide with excitement, while Bella’s heart swelled at the sight. Her son’s energy was a balm to her, even now.
Who would’ve thought the child she’d gotten from one reckless decision would become the centre of her world now?
Although five years juggling between jobs hadn’t been easy, she wouldn’t have had it otherwise. Timothy was her life and she’d do anything for him.
“Mommy, is this our new home?” Timothy’s voice rang out, his little fingers tugging at her hand.
“Yes, baby,” Bella said with a smile, crouching down to adjust his backpack. “This is where we’ll live now.” She glanced up at Rachel, who was juggling two suitcases and smiling tiredly.
“Feels strange,” Rachel murmured. “But… good strange. I’m tired of Zeden too and can’t wait to see what life here in Sweliss will be like p>
“Me too,” Bella said, smiling.
Bella straightened, her eyes taking in the city skyline visible through the glass walls. She inhaled deeply, a mix of nerves and excitement thrumming in her chest.
At twenty-eight, she was finally stepping into a new Chapter. A stable job at Chloe’s company, a fresh start for her family, and hopefully—peace where people don’t know her.
“Bella p>
The familiar voice made her spin around. Chloe was waving from across the terminal, her stylish frame cutting easily through the crowd. She reached them in no time, her face lighting up as she scooped Timothy into a hug.
“There’s my godson! Look at you, all grown up!” Chloe exclaimed, planting a kiss on his cheek. Timothy giggled and wrapped his arms around her neck.
“Godmother Chloe!” he chirped, and Chloe’s eyes softened.
She handed him back to Bella and gave her oldest friend a warm, tight hug. “You made it,” she whispered.
“I told you I would,” Bella replied, a smile tugging at her lips.
“Well, you wouldn’t blame me for doubting. This isn’t the first time you’ve planned to come. Remind me again, how many job offers have gone to waste because you didn’t show up for the interview?” she asked and both Bella and Rachel laughed.
“It took a lot before she decided to move. Wasn’t an easy choice but I’m glad she finally did,” Rachel said and Bella rolled her eyes.
“You know it was because of the house. I didn’t want to leave it,” she said as they made their way to the parking lot.
Chloe unlocked her sleek car and they all slid in. Rachel sat in the back with Timothy while Bella took the passenger seat. Once the engine purred to life, Chloe shot her a sly glance.
“Now you can bear to leave it?” Chloe asked sarcastically.
“I had to at some point,” Bella said and Chloe nodded.
Chloe glanced sideways at her. “So… how are you? Really p>
Bella shrugged, “I’m… good. Nervous, but good. I just hope this was the right decision.” Thɪs chapter is updated by.net
“I know it is. You know, I’m really proud of you. But She hesitated, then grinned knowingly. “Don’t you think it’s time to finally let your grudge down? To let a man into your life?” she said glancing at Timothy who was now fast asleep with Rachel at the back through the rearview mirror.
Bella stiffened, her smile fading. “Chloe p>
“I’m serious, Bella,” Chloe pressed gently. “Timothy’s almost five now. He’s growing fast. He’ll start asking questions. Sooner or later, he’ll need a father figure, you know that p>
Bella’s grip on her seatbelt tightened. She turned to the window, her voice low but firm. “It’s not time for that. Not yet. Right now, I just want to focus on my job and my son. Nothing else. Even if I wanted to, I don’t have the time right now p>
Chloe’s lips parted as if to argue, but she let it drop with a sigh. “Fine. But don’t close yourself off forever, Bella. You really deserve to be loved p>
Bella offered no reply, her gaze lingering on the city streets as they sped past.
After a moment of silence, she cleared her throat. “So… tell me about my new boss. What’s he like p>
Chloe winced, her brows drawing together. “Honestly? I don’t know much. He only just became CEO after the takeover. Replaced Mr. Camden p>
“Why? Mr. Camden retired?” Bella asked in surprise.
“More like pushed out. Charles Stones acquired the company and merged it with his fashion unit,” Chloe said wryly. “StoneTech is a conglomerate so it had all the money to buy Eterna Fashion Hub. After making sure it’s stable, Charles handed over everything to his eldest son a few months ago. This new guy’s name is all over the company now. From what I hear, he’s cold. Ruthless. Fires people at the slightest mistake. He’s had four assistants in two weeks. Can you believe that p>
Bella raised an eyebrow. “Wow! Sounds like the devil himself p>
Chloe gave a humorless chuckle. “Exactly. And guess what? That devil is the man you’re going to be working directly for—as his personal assistant p>
Bella blinked. “Wait, what?” she asked in alarm.
“You heard me.” Chloe smirked, though her tone carried a warning. “So be careful, Bella. Because one wrong step… and you’ll be out the door before you can blink p>
Bella swallowed hard, her fingers curling in her lap. The excitement she had felt just moments ago dimmed, replaced by unease. She forced a smile for Chloe’s sake, but deep inside, a whisper of dread stirred.
What kind of man was this devil she would be working for?
“What’s his name? Maybe I can look him up or something,” Bella said, but Chloe shook her head.
“I’ve tried doing that but there’s nothing in the Internet about him. I could give you though and you could search for him yourself,” Chloe said, making Bella sigh.
She hadn’t started working for him, yet she was feeling tense already.