"The leader claimed Bella’s father owed him a significant sum," Skyler continued, pulling Theodore back into reality. "He said she mortgaged the house to settle the debt."
Theodore nodded, a heavy sigh escaping his lips. "Yes, I’m aware of that. Her father... he is a drunkard, an abusive man. His gambling addiction made life a living hell for Bella and her mother. He is currently in jail for domestic violence. Bella went through a lot."
Skyler’s jaw slackened in surprise. How had Theodore acquired such detailed knowledge of Bella’s life in such a short time?
"Do you...do you know Bella Dawn is the Isabella you’ve been searching for?" Skyler stammered, the question tumbling out before he could stop himself.
"Yes, I am aware," Theodore confirmed, his gaze unwavering.
Disbelief washed over Skyler’s face. "Really? You already knew?"
Theodore felt a flicker of confusion as he watched the play of emotions on Skyler’s face. There was something mixed with shock and disbelief, but he couldn’t decipher what it was.
"Tristan uncovered everything," Theodore explained, his mind racing with questions. "Why are you so surprised? You were tasked with finding Isabella. When did you actually discover Bella’s true identity?"
Suspicion crept into his mind as Theodore reconsidered the whole thing. Tristan had easily tracked down Isabella’s whereabouts in the city with her phone location, which Skyler couldn’t. How could he fail to do that? Was he hiding something from him?
The tension in the room crackled like static. Skyler blinked rapidly, a bead of sweat forming on his temple. Theodore’s sharp gaze held a flicker of suspicion, making Skyler squirm.
He would be doomed if he accepted the fact that he had not been serious about searching for Isabella back then because he had thought it was a waste of time. The irony, as bitter as bile, was thick in his throat. He had never anticipated that Bella would be the person they had been looking for.
"Before capturing the gang leader, I went to Bella’s ancestral house and met Mrs. Green," he managed, still feeling a bit nervous. "It was only at that point that I realized she was Isabella."
Theodore’s suspicion vanished. He didn’t want to stretch the conversation any further. He was already feeling responsible for Skyler’s condition.
"Okay... Don’t overthink it," he said dismissively. "The important thing is, I finally know who my angel is. That’s all that matters." His voice softened. "Get some rest. You need to recover first. Go wherever you want, forget work. I can manage with Tristan and Hugo."
Skyler flashed a bitter smile. "So, you’re kicking me out for failing to find Isabella?"
"Nonsense." Theodore scowled, displeased. "You’re in this state because of me. Leaving you there alone was a mistake. Now it’s my turn to ensure you recover properly. Rest. I’ll check in later."
With a reassuring pat on Skyler’s shoulder, Theodore turned and left.
As the door closed behind Theodore, Skyler’s mask of forced composure crumbled. Fury ignited his eyes. With a predatory swiftness, he reached for his phone and dialed a number. "I want to know who shot me," he demanded, his tone surprisingly authoritative and cold. "Find that guy as soon as possible."
~~~~~~~~~~
Bella came to Zack’s office as he summoned her. She stood there fidgeting with her fingers, her nerves tingling with a mix of gratitude and apprehension. She knew Zack had played a crucial role in proving her innocence, but the dynamics between them had grown increasingly tense. She was a bit hesitant to meet him – afraid that he would say something inappropriate. 𝚏𝗿𝗲𝐞𝚠𝕖𝐛𝗻𝗼𝐯𝕖𝚕.𝚌𝗼𝗺
Working under him was getting more and more difficult. However, she couldn’t forget the favor she owed him. Zack had helped her, and a sincere "thank you" felt like the least she could offer. Taking a fortifying breath, she rapped her knuckles on the door. She waited anxiously for his response. Silence greeted her, and for a moment, she wondered if he hadn’t heard.
Before she could knock again, the door swung open unexpectedly. There stood Zack, tall and imposing. Bella’s hand froze in mid-air as she met his gaze. It surprised her that he had come to open the door himself. An uneasiness crept into her stomach.
"Come in." Zack gestured with a flourish, the door swinging wide open.
Swallowing the uneasiness, Bella smiled awkwardly as she stepped in. "I’m so sorry for all this drama," she began, attempting to lighten the tense air. "I know this whole incident must have been a hassle for you. And..." she trailed off, meeting his gaze, "thank you. I wouldn’t have been able to clear my name without your help."
"Don’t thank me," he murmured. "Maintaining order in my office is my responsibility. Last time, I failed you – I couldn’t catch whoever deleted that file. Since then, I’ve been determined to keep a closer eye on everyone. Huge credit to Amy, though, for coming up with the idea of installing spy cameras. They proved quite useful."
He forced a chuckle, attempting to inject some humor into the serious conversation. "At least Olivia was caught red-handed this time. Quite a relief."
Bella offered a tight nod, a pit forming in her stomach. She believed Olivia and Ivy wouldn’t stop troubling her. Together, they were a formidable threat.
As if sensing her worry, Zack offered a reassurance. "If Olivia or anyone else tries to bully you, don’t hesitate to tell me. I gave her a chance, but if she continues to harass you, I’ll fire her without a second thought."
"Thank you," she breathed, his words offering a sliver of comfort.
A glint appeared in Zack’s eyes. "Speaking of needing to talk," he said, "do you know why I called you in here?"
Bella’s head snapped up, curiosity replacing her trepidation. What did he have to say?
"Have a seat," Zack instructed, gesturing towards the chair beside his worktable. He sauntered back to his own seat.
Bella settled into the chair, waiting for his instruction.
"I have a luncheon with a client," Zack announced, pushing a manila folder across the smooth surface of the desk toward her. "Take a look at the contents. You’re coming with me."
Bella blinked, surprise washing over her features. A client luncheon? And Zack wanted to take her? It was something that had never happened before – usually, Amy or Ivy accompanied him on these outings. Apprehension gnawed at her.
"Me? But... I... Shouldn’t you take Amy instead?" she stammered, her voice betraying her unease. Client meetings were uncharted territory for her.
"Amy is swamped with other tasks," Zack explained. "You’re the only one I can count on for this."
Bella could say nothing. After all, Zack had helped her clear her name. The least she could do was return the favor. With a small nod, she conceded, "Alright. I’ll come with you."
Taking the file, she rose and headed for the door. As she exited, Zack watched her retreating form, his expression turning serious. Taking her to the meeting was just an excuse to have some time with her. After the meeting, he would take her out and confess his feelings.
"No more waiting, Bella," he murmured with determination. "You will be mine soon."
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