Chapter 44

“Wow, all these for me? I can’t believe it. I already thought I was lucky just to be treated in such a prestigious hospital. But now, with all these flowers and your kind faces around me, I feel truly blessed.” Clara’s voice was filled with gratitude as she spoke to Isla and Gabriel.

Clara had been unable to perform her role as the lead model during the launch of Wyndham Wardrobe’s new designs. A domestic accident had left her with a badly sprained ankle and a broken phone.

Isla first heard the news from Jeff, who had received a call from Wyndham Hospital. But with everything going on between her and Gabriel, Isla hadn’t been able to visit Clara as quickly as she had wanted to.

“It’s nothing,” Isla said gently. “It’s our responsibility to make sure every staff member gets proper care. We’re only doing what’s right. But I am glad to see you’re getting better p>

Gabriel was nearby but distracted, speaking quietly on his phone since the moment they had arrived. For original chapters go to.net

“I was so happy to hear about the success of the launch,” Clara went on, her eyes bright. “You were born to be a model, Isla. Did you watch the video of your walk? It was stunning. Everyone is talking about you as the new face of Wyndham. Honestly, I’m jealous p>

Both women laughed at Clara’s playful words.

“But seriously,” Clara continued, “you saved us all. I’m proud of you. Your simplicity was so refreshing. And besides,” she teased, lowering her voice, “your hot kiss with the CEO is still trending everywhere. You really should check it out p>

“Clara, please stop–you’re too much,” Isla laughed, blushing slightly.

Finally, Gabriel ended his call and walked over to them.

“My love,” he said, brushing his hand against Isla’s shoulder, “I need to be somewhere urgently. Thomas will drive you to Wyndham Estate. Grandfather has called everyone to gather p>

Isla’s smile faded with concern. She rose from the sofa and asked softly, “Are you sure everything is fine p>

Gabriel took her hands and pressed a light kiss against her knuckles. “Nothing to worry about. We’ll know more when we get there. I promise I’ll meet you as soon as I can.” Then he leaned forward and kissed her lips gently before stepping closer to Clara.

“Get well soon, Clara. We can’t wait to have you back,” he said warmly, then kissed Isla once more before leaving the private ward.

Isla turned back to Clara with an apologetic smile. “I’m sorry, but I have to go now. I’ll call you later, alright?

Clara nodded with a smile. “I truly appreciate everything p>

Isla picked up her clutch, ready to leave, when Clara’s voice stopped her at the door.

“I must tell you this, ma’am,” Clara said firmly. “Don’t give up on your marriage. Delphine is just a side distraction–you are the real deal. Fight for your husband. Don’t give up on him p>

1/2

Isla froze in place. She didn’t turn back, but she listened. Clara’s words surprised her–she had not expected encouragement from someone like her. Quietly, she nodded, smiled faintly, and walked out of the VIP ward without another word.

Thomas was already waiting in the car. Once Isla climbed in, he drove out of the hospital’s underground parking lot. But Clara’s words echoed again and again in Isla’s mind.

She loved Gabriel deeply, and lately, she was falling for him all over again. But she has doubts. He had been receiving calls since last night, and each time, he walked away from her to speak in hushed tones. Even earlier at the hospital, he had kept his distance while on the phone. Isla had no idea who he was speaking to

And then, his sudden disappearance now… it bothered her more than she wanted to admit. She reminded herself of the promise she made: not to let her guard down so easily.

Yes, she loved him. Yes, she hoped he would change. But she knew it wouldn’t be easy for him to cut ties with Delphine. She had resolved to be patient, to support him if he ever decided to open up to her.

The car slowed to a stop, snapping Isla out of her heavy thoughts. They had arrived.

Stephen, the Wyndham family’s long–time butler, quickly opened the door for her. “Welcome, Mrs. Wyndham, he greeted with a respectful bow.

“Thank you, Stephen. How have you been?” Isla asked politely, smiling at the middle–aged man.

“I’ve been well, ma’am. Please, come with me,” he replied.

As they walked through the entrance, maids lined up to bow in greeting. Isla gave a gentle nod, acknowledging each one.

Stephen lowered his voice as he walked beside her. “Miss Delphine is also here with the family. I thought you should know p>

Isla stopped in her tracks.

Florence

Florence is a passionate reader who finds joy in long drives on rainy days. She’s also a fan of Italian makeup tutorials, blending beauty and elegance into her everyday life.