Crushed Affections

Bella let out a quiet sigh of relief as she agreed to Carla's terms and headed out with Lia.

Knowing Carla would likely watch from the window, the two first played it safe by strolling around the neighborhood. After what felt like an eternity, they finally slipped out unnoticed. They were 20 minutes late when they arrived at the café where Sean was waiting.

Sean had dressed down in a casual black blazer that wasn't overly formal but still gave him a polished air. Combined with his striking hair color, he was undeniably eye-catching.

As Bella sat, she smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry. Something came up, and I got held up. I hope you didn't wait too long."

Sean shrugged it off, a playful smirk on his face. "No worries. If it's you, I could wait forever."

Under the table, Lia nudged Bella's foot, signaling her to get to the point. Then, Lia stood up, claiming she needed the restroom, though she was actually heading to the door to keep watch and ensure that Carla hadn't followed them. Once Lia left, Bella took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts.

Sean seemed to sense she had something on her mind and spoke first. "You don't need to tiptoe around me. Just say it. I'm not a kid. I can handle it. Honestly, if you hadn't called me, I was planning to reach out to you. I'm heading back overseas soon to continue my studies. Who knows when we'll see each other again?"

Bella felt a pang of urgency. "When are you leaving?"

Sean grinned. "Why? Are you gonna miss me?"

She smiled faintly. "Cut it out... I actually wanted to ask for your help with something. But if you're leaving soon, then forget it."

Sean's eyes flicked to her bare

fingers, and a knowing look crossed

his face. "Your marriage to Dominic isn't real is it? That wedding ring you wore was just for show during,

interviews. I'll admit, that makes me a little happy. So, what do you need? 'bhelp you out before I leave."

Bella fidgeted, nervously gripping the edge of her jacket. She hesitated but eventually explained the situation, keeping it brief. She finished by adding, "It's fine if you don't want to help just... don't have many options right now."

Sean was quiet for a long time. His sudden seriousness made Bella uneasy. She wondered if he would refuse.

Just as she was about to give up, he finally spoke.I can't believe he's pushed you this far-to the point

where you have to force a marrianet

on him, You're right. You don't have any other options. I'll help. But if he still refuses to marry you... would you come with me instead?"

Bella had always underestimated Sean. She'd dismissed him as a carefree, unreliable trust-fund kid. But the weight of his words suddenly made him feel far more mature than she'd ever given him credit for. Taking a deep breath, she replied firmly, "If he refuses to marry me, I'll do whatever it takes to leave this place with my child."

Sean raised an eyebrow. "Leave with the baby, but not come to me? Fine. But if it comes to that, don't think I'll let you go so easily.

"We've got a deal. For now, you should head back before you get caught. Remember, if we're doing this, you need to sell it. No slip-ups." After leaving the café, Bella and Lia made their way back home.Original from NôvelDrama.Org.

Carla was waiting for them at the door, her expression stormy. "Ms. Jones... I told you, you're not allowed to leave the neighborhood."

Bella, anticipating this reaction, remained calm and smiled lightly. "But I'm back safe and sound, aren't I? I'm exhausted. We're going to wash up and head to bed. You should get some rest, too." Later that night, around 11:00 pm, Lia's phone rang, startling both women awake.

Zion had unexpectedly returned from the military for a brief visit before heading out again. When he didn't find Lia at home, he called to check-in.