Chapter 44

“Isabella Montgomery, I have faith in you. Give me your word, and I will marry you this instant.” Harrison Winslow’s voice was firm, layered with conviction.

A surge of warmth flooded Isabella’s chest, making her heart constrict.

He believed in her?

Everyone else wanted her ruined, destroyed. Yet this infuriating man claimed he had faith in her. The memory of their kiss, mere minutes ago, flashed through her mind. Her pulse quickened, hammering wildly against her ribs.

Pathetic heart, stop racing. He’s only drawn to your face. He just wants to get you into bed. Get a grip. Don’t fall for a reckless, untamable man like him. Isabella mentally scolded herself, pressing a hand firmly over her heart.

Ding! Her phone screen illuminated.

She answered. It was Julian Hawthorne. “Because of the press conference Sophia Kensington is holding, Chanel has postponed today’s shoot. They’re waiting to see how the conference plays out before deciding whether to terminate your contract. Also, a new shipment of diamonds has arrived at Ohly. They’re exceptionally rare. You need to personally inspect them.”

“Right now? Are you certain?”

Even an international powerhouse like Chanel was delaying because of Sophia’s press event. The online mob would be vicious. Leaving the villa meant risking not coming back in one piece.

Julian reassured her. “Don’t worry. The Blackwood Corporation has issued a strict order. No media outlet is permitted to invade your privacy or harass you. Any that do will be shut down immediately. Just keep a low profile outside. These diamonds are critical. You must verify their authenticity and ensure they haven’t been tampered with.”

These were limited-edition stones. A single substitution would mean a massive financial loss.

“Fine. I’ll go,” Isabella relented. Having excessive wealth was occasionally a burden.

“Be cautious,” Julian warned before ending the call.

Isabella entered her room and searched for the most nondescript outfit she owned—something for complete anonymity. She chose a simple black athletic top and matching pants. She added a face mask and a cap. Only her eyes were visible.

Satisfied she was unrecognizable, she left the manor and hailed a taxi to Ohly.

Ohly was an exclusive jewelry boutique specializing solely in wedding rings. Their policy was strict: one ring per person, per lifetime, registered with a government ID. No exceptions, regardless of wealth or status. True to its "one and only" branding, Ohly maintained just one store in each of the nation's 34 major cities.

Upon entering, she immediately spotted four people inside. Of all the luck. It was Eleanor Kensington, Victoria Kensington, Sophia Kensington, and Alexander Whitmore, impeccably dressed in a suit.

Alexander was presenting a ring to Victoria. “Do you like this design, Victoria?” His voice was soft, like a gentle breeze.

The sound alone made Isabella nauseous. She turned to leave.

Victoria caught a glimpse of movement from the corner of her eye. One look was all it took. “You, by the door! Wait!” she called out.

Wait? Who did she think she was, issuing commands?

A cold smirk touched Isabella’s lips. She continued walking, her long strides carrying her away from the store.

Victoria’s initial suspicion grew. The woman’s physique was familiar, but the confident, dismissive gait confirmed it. “That looks like Isabella,” she announced. “Why is she running away after seeing us?”

“Isabella?” Sophia’s head snapped up. She hurried forward, blocking Isabella’s path.

“Isabella Montgomery! Are you deaf? Someone told you to stop!”