Chapter 13

My eyes darted between Sebastian and the butler. My thoughts spun wildly.

"This is overwhelming," I whispered, running fingers through my hair. "I can't absorb everything at once."

The butler crossed his arms and faced Sebastian. "Do you truly believe she's trustworthy?" he questioned. "She spent years with Alexander."

Sebastian's gaze remained steady. "Isabella defended me when Eleanor and William visited earlier. She has personal reasons to despise Alexander and his family."

I raised my chin defiantly. "You needn't worry about me revealing your secret," I stated firmly. "I won't."

Silence hung heavily between us.

I released an exhausted breath. "I've had an incredibly long night. I need rest. Tomorrow will be even more demanding."

Sebastian exchanged a look with the butler before nodding. "Very well. Get some sleep."

They departed, and I collapsed onto the bed. Sleep claimed me immediately.

Morning arrived with my alarm's blaring sound. I groaned and turned over—only to find Sebastian watching me with an amused expression.

He lay beside me, a playful smirk on his lips.

"Good morning, wife," he murmured, leaning in to brush a kiss against my cheek.

I pushed him away, blinking in astonishment. "It feels like I had the wildest dream," I mumbled. "I saw you walking and speaking normally."

Sebastian chuckled deeply. "It wasn't a dream," he assured. "You'll need to adjust to this new reality."

I shook my head and rose from bed. "I doubt I ever will."

After a lengthy shower, I dressed in a sophisticated black dress and heels.

Important matters awaited my attention. Today marked my official induction as heiress.

Sebastian observed my preparations, his gaze intense.

"Try not to miss me too terribly," he teased.

I rolled my eyes and grabbed my purse. "Don't let anyone catch you walking about, husband."

His laughter echoed as I left.

At corporate headquarters, my grandparents awaited my arrival.

"You're finally here," Grandpa Benjamin noted as I entered the conference room. "Are you prepared?"

I nodded confidently. "Let's begin."

The board members sat around the lengthy table, their curious eyes studying me.

Grandmother Charlotte placed a comforting hand on my shoulder before addressing them.

"This is Isabella," she announced. "The new heiress of Sterling Enterprises."

Murmurs rippled through the room. Some faces showed approval while others remained unreadable.

"Welcome," one director said with a nod.

I met their gazes unflinchingly. "I appreciate the welcome," I stated. "However, I prefer to keep my identity confidential for now."

More nods followed. No objections.

Excellent.

As the meeting concluded, my grandparents drew me aside.

"How is the marriage progressing?" Grandma Charlotte inquired gently.

I hesitated momentarily—then last night's memories flooded back. Sebastian's teasing smirk.

The mark he left on my neck. Our playful argument in the bathroom.

My fingers instinctively touched my neck as I smiled.

"It's fine," I replied. "The marriage is... progressing well."

Grandpa Benjamin raised an eyebrow. "Are you certain?"

I nodded. "Sebastian can be mischievous, but I can manage him."

Grandma Charlotte chuckled softly. "Remember we're here if you need anything."

I smiled gratefully. "I will remember."

Exiting the building, I released a deep breath. It was accomplished. I was officially the heiress.

But as I approached my car, a sleek black Ferrari pulled up before me.

My stomach clenched.

No.

Alexander and Sophia emerged.

The last people I wished to see today.

I turned sharply, determined to leave, but Sophia's voice stopped me.

"Isabella!"

I closed my eyes briefly before turning back, my expression carefully neutral.

Sophia's lips curved into an overly sweet smile.

"What brings you here?" she asked. "Seeking employment? If you need assistance, Alexander could—"

I scoffed dismissively. "Spare me the act, Sophia." My eyes shifted to Alexander. "Both of you. Drop the pretense."

Alexander's jaw tightened. "Stop harassing her, Isabella."

I emitted a humorless laugh. "Harassing her?" I shook my head. "Don't be ridiculous, Alexander."

He stepped closer. "Where have you been?" he demanded. "Why haven't you returned my calls?"

I crossed my arms. "That's no concern of yours."

Alexander ran a hand through his hair, visibly frustrated. "Isabella, I have a meeting with the CEO here. If you need work, I can recommend you."

I stared at him momentarily before bursting into laughter.

Alexander frowned. "What's so amusing?"

I smirked. "You actually believe I need your help?"

He sighed. "You're as stubborn as ever."

I tilted my head. "Congratulations, by the way."

Alexander blinked. "For what?"

"Your engagement to Sophia," I said smoothly. "You'll be marrying soon. Having another child."

For a fleeting moment, guilt flashed across his features.