Chapter 23
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After that heavy day with Anna, Isla received a message from her father. He wanted to see her. The timing was sudden–it was a Friday, and the grand Wyndham Wardrobe launch was only two days away, scheduled for Sunday.
Everything for the launch had been carefully arranged, and every detail was falling into place. The entire team had done a flawless job. Their dedication impressed Isla deeply.
In the few weeks she had worked with them, she had come to admire their drive, their vision, and their commitment to excellence. They were the kind of people who gave her hope, who reminded her why she loved her craft. She silently promised herself that when she eventually built her own company, she would shape it the same way with people who carried big dreams, just like those at Wyndham Wardrobe.
After finishing her long day’s work, Isla drove herself to her parents‘ house. She was exhausted, but she still honored her father’s call. Updates are released by
“Welcome, sweetheart. You look worn out,” Diana said as soon as she opened the door for her daughter.
“Thanks, Mama,” Isla answered softly, stepping inside.
Diana’s eyes observed her daughter closely. She noticed how much slimmer Isla had become, how pale she looked. A wave of worry passed over her face.
“Have you not been eating well?” she asked as they walked further in.
“Mama, it’s nothing,” Isla replied quickly. “Once the launch is over, I’ll take a few days off. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of myself.” She gave a small smile and stopped walking, “Where’s Father p>
“ He’s in his study,” Diana answered. “I think he’s waiting for you. Go on, we’ll talk later p>
“Okay, Mama p>
Diana headed toward the kitchen, while Isla continued down the hallway. She reached the heavy door of her father’s study and knocked gently before stepping inside.
Her father was seated in his large swivel chair, a warm smile on his face when he saw her.
“Papa,” Isla greeted warmly, walking in.
“Welcome, my dear,” he said, his voice calm. “I’m sorry for calling you on such short notice. But this is important. I hope you understand p>
Isla leaned down to hug him before sitting in the chair across from his desk. “Papa, you can send for me. anytime. You know I’ll always come. So, tell me, what do you want me to do for you?” She tried to smile again, though her father could see it was forced, a cover for the sadness hiding behind her eyes.
He sighed silently. In his heart, he believed his daughter deserved a far better man than Gabriel. He had kept quiet all this while, but today he could no longer hold himself back.
“How is your relationship with Gabriel?” he asked suddenly.
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Isla froze immediately. Her father had never asked her such a question before. Usually, he left everything concerning her marriage to her mother. He hadn’t supported her marrying Gabriel in the first place, but when her mother had already agreed to the proposal, he had to step aside, allowing her control.
“Well… my relationship with him is fine, Father. We are good,” Isla lied, her lips curving into another small, practiced smile.
Her father studied her, then nodded slowly, “Good. But I want you to know something. Whatever decision you ever make about your life and your marriage, I will stand with you. I will support you, no matter what p>
“Father…” Isla’s brows furrowed slightly. “Why are you suddenly speaking to me about my marriage? Did something happen?
She knew her father well. He was not a man who spoke without reason.
He exhaled heavily and leaned back in his chair. “To be sincere, Anna called me. She said many things. But what
matters to me is you. Tell me honestly–how is your relationship with Gabriel? Is he treating you well? If he isn’t
He paused, then lowered his voice. “You’re grown enough to make the right choice, my dear. I just want you to remember–you have my support p>
And just like that, Isla understood. If Anna had spoken to her father, then it meant she had probably brought up Delphine. That would explain his sudden concern.
“And one more thing,” her father added firmly. “Be careful. Don’t discuss this with your mother. I don’t want her to know. For now, keep this between us p>
Isla nodded silently.
“You can go home now. You really need to rest,” he said, standing up.
Isla also rose to her feet. He placed his hand gently on her back as he guided her toward the door, opening it for
her.
By the time Isla entered her car, the night had already settled deep around her. She leaned against the seat, ready to breathe for the first time that day, when her phone buzzed.
A message popped up. And there was a video attached to it.
The sender’s number was unknown.
She read the message and it caused her aching chest to ache more.
The words on the screen sent a chill straight to her chest:
“Tell me, after watching this video, who owns Gabby p>
Her heart pounded. She didn’t need to guess. In her gut, she knew. Only Delphine would do something like this.
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.