Chapter 41

Ellie's P.O.V.For once, Jared wasn't smiling. His eyes darted around the conference room, searching for someone to speak in his favor. However, no one was interested in associating with suspicious designs. Every board member was waiting for an explanation.Jared sighed dramatically.“After years of continuous hard work and achievements, I'm being interrogated in my own company.”He shook his head.“Is this how you reward a dedicated professional? Truly disappointing.”His performance was flawless, garnering everyone’s attention. He spoke in an earnest tone.“You know, if anyone has ever thought about what's best for Walton Lux, it's me. And today, I will prove it again.”His secretary immediately clicked something on the laptop, and a new slide appeared on the screen.“Honorable members, these are confidential documents. But for the sake of transparency, I'm displaying them in front of everyone.”Jared gestured toward the copy of the contract on the digital display.“This contract is

Chapter 42

Ellie's P.O.V.Well, that was it for Jared’s confidence.His eyes took a haunted look as if he had seen a ghost, his lips parted in a silent scream. He desperately searched for someone willing to save his sorry ass.But to his dismay, nobody even moved, whispers echoing in the room. Mr. Marven was the first to break the silence.“Mrs. Walton is asking you something, Mr. Jared. Answer her.”Another board member frowned.“Exactly. Why do her designs and the Walton Lux team's creations have the same watermark signature? What's going on here?”Jared opened his mouth and then closed it, unable to utter a single word in defense. He was completely trapped after being caught red-handed.Honestly, I enjoyed seeing him speechless.“Well, Mr. Jared?” My voice was deliberately calm. “A few minutes ago, you talked so confidently about Walton Lux's future and best interests. Why are you silent now? Everyone is waiting for your expert opinion.”Jared faced Mr. Marven, avoiding my eyes. He swallowed

Chapter 43

Ellie's P.O.V. “Aren't you flying high in the sky, Ellie Hunt?” I turned sharply and found Jared walking toward me. His face was still pale, but fury burned in his eyes. “What are you trying to prove, Ellie?” His voice dripped with contempt. “That you're some master designer? That you're the one who made Walton Lux what it is?” He pointed a finger at me. “You're highly mistaken, Ellie. I am the face of Walton Lux, and you know it very well. No one would have given a flying fuck about your average designs if I hadn't spent all the resources promoting them.” My anger flared, burning me inside out. But I didn't raise my voice. “I am not thinking anything besides you being a pathetic thief, Jared.” His expression darkened. “Oh, really? Take this matter to court, Ellie. I dare you.” Jared stepped forward, his lips curling into a cruel smile. “Once the truth comes out, you'll be begging me for forgiveness.” I stared at him in disbelief. “I'll apologize? In your dreams.” My grip

Chapter 44

Ellie's P.O.V. “How do you plan to repay me, Ellie?” I looked up at Zack as his question lingered between us. A gradual smile formed on my lips. Oh. He had no idea about the repayment. I replied softly. “I actually have something for you.” Zack's eyebrow lifted. “Something for me?” “Yes.” My smile widened. “Wait here.” I turned toward Lilly. “A package was delivered for me this morning. Can you please bring it?” Lilly nodded. “Of course, ma'am.” As she left for the package, Zack watched me curiously. “There must be something good. Ordinary things don't impress me.” I rolled my eyes. “Just wait until you see it.” He crossed his arms. “Fine. First, your present, then I'll tell you something important, Ellie.” I didn’t pay much attention to that important information and returned to the cake while waiting, the soft creamy delight melting in my mouth. A few minutes later, Lilly came back carrying a large courier package. “This is for you, ma’am.” My heart fluttered. I s

Chapter 45

Zack's P.O.V.Ellie had just barged into my room!Technically speaking, it was our room. But after the night she'd arrived at White Mansion, she had never dared step inside.And now, she stood several feet away, breathing heavily.“How dare you play with my feelings like that, Zack?”Her firm voice demanded answers, but I couldn't utter a single word in response. Well, I was too stunned to even blink. I couldn’t look away from five feet three inches of sheer, chaotic beauty.Ellie wore a pink T-shirt decorated with a ridiculous white bunny, matching pink trousers, and Crocs. Her cheeks and nose were flushed red. Her eyes were swollen, and several loose strands had escaped her messy bun.She looked nothing like the polished woman who always stayed on guard. And for some inexplicable reason, the corner of my mouth lifted.For the time she came here, Ellie looked... comfortable, like she belonged in my world.I stared at her longer than I should have, that realization stirring something

Chapter 46

Ellie's P.O.V.“I don’t want you to leave, Ellie.”Zack's serious tone froze me in place. He looked completely serious with no smirk, no sarcasm, or a trace of the arrogant man who usually had a clever response ready.His amber eyes held mine with an intensity that sent goosebumps across my skin.“You came to White Mansion by chance," he said quietly. "If it wasn't for Jared's stupidity, you and I would have never met.”For a second, I forgot how to breathe.He raised his hand, his fingers gently brushing a stray strand of hair away from my face.“And once you're here… I don't want you to go, Ellie. Ever.”That last word struck me like lightning on a clear day. My heart thundered wildly against my ribs. I whispered faintly.“I didn't come here on a whim. I signed a marriage contract to be here.”Zack’s expression hardened.“That contract is nothing.”Before I could respond, his hands closed around my shoulders.“Where's the guarantee in that marriage contract that you won't ask for a