บททั้งหมดของ From substitute bride to CEO : บทที่ 71 - บทที่ 80

Three weeks after the twins were born, Chloe sat by the window of her apartment with one baby sleeping peacefully against her shoulder while the other rested in a small crib beside her.The afternoon sun poured into the room, warming the wooden floor.A notebook lay open on the table, but there were no jewelry sketches this time.Only lists of things she was planning for.A soft knock came at the door, “it's me Chloe” Zoe said from outside, "oh you can come in," Chloe called quietly.Zoe stepped inside carrying two grocery bags "How are my favorite people doing?" She giggled and Chloe smiled."They've been taking turns keeping me awake all night."Zoe laughed."So... neither of them believes in sleep?""I don't think they do."Right on cue, the baby in Chloe's arms stretched lazily before settling back against her chest.Zoe carefully placed the groceries on the kitchen counter before walking over to the crib."They're getting bigger.""They are.""You know..."Zoe looked back at Chlo

Several months earlier...The Grey mansion was unusually quiet that afternoon.The Butler led Amelia into the sunroom where Catherine was already waiting. A neatly arranged tea set rested between them, and the scent of freshly brewed tea filled the room.Catherine looked up with a smile."You made it."Amelia returned the smile as she walked over."I wouldn't miss tea with you."They embraced briefly before taking their seats.The maid poured tea into delicate porcelain cups before quietly excusing herself.Catherine lifted her cup."How have you been?""I've been alright." Amelia smiled gently."Lucien has been so busy lately.""He always is."Catherine replied."But he'll slow down eventually."Amelia laughed softly, "I hope so."For a few moments, they spoke about charity events, business gatherings, and mutual acquaintances before Catherine set her cup down.Her expression grew more serious."I've been thinking."Amelia looked at her."About?""Lucien."Amelia's fingers tightened

Four Years LaterMorning sunlight spilled through the floor-to-ceiling windows of a spacious design studio.The room buzzed with quiet activity.Designers moved between workstations discussing sketches, gemstones glittered beneath bright lights, and finished jewelry rested neatly inside glass displays waiting for approval.At the center of it all stood Chloe.She wore a simple cream-colored suit with her hair tied neatly behind her. A tablet rested in one hand while a sketchbook was tucked beneath the other arm.A young designer approached nervously."Miss Campbell..."Chloe looked up."Good morning, Mia."The young woman smiled."I finished the bracelet collection.""Would you mind taking a look?""Of course."She walked over to the display table and carefully picked up one of the bracelets.She examined every tiny detail without rushing.The room waited quietly.Finally, she smiled."The balance is beautiful."Relief spread across Mia's face."But..."Chloe pointed gently toward one

At the legal office.Floor-to-ceiling shelves lined the walls, filled with neatly arranged files and law books. Chloe sat across from her lawyer, a leather folder resting on the table between them.The lawyer smiled politely."It's nice to finally meet you in person, Miss Campbell""Likewise.""I've reviewed the information you sent before today's appointment."Chloe nodded."Thank you."The lawyer opened the folder."So, before we discuss the legal side of your marriage, tell me exactly what you want."Chloe didn't answer immediately.She took a slow breath before speaking."I'm going back to New York.""The design summit?""Yes.""And while I'm there..."She folded her hands together."...I'd like to settle everything.""You mean your marriage.""Yes."The lawyer nodded thoughtfully."So you're hoping to begin divorce proceedings?""I am."There was no hesitation in her voice.Not anymore.The lawyer made a few notes."Any interest in property claims?""No.""Financial settlement?"

The following morning, Chloe left the hotel just after breakfast.The twins had insisted on staying with Zoe so they could visit the aquarium before lunch."I want to see sharks!" her son had announced proudly."And I want penguins!" his sister had argued.Zoe laughed as she took both their hands."Alright, alright. Sharks and penguins it is."Before Chloe left, she crouched in front of them."Be good.""We will.""No running away from Auntie Zoe."The twins nodded so quickly that she smiled."I'll be back before lunch.""Promise?""I promise."She kissed both of them before leaving.---Caleb was already waiting when she arrived at the café.He stood as she walked in."Good morning.""Good morning.""It's been a long time.""It has."He pulled out a chair for her."I'm glad you agreed to meet.""So am I."After ordering coffee, silence settled between them for a moment.Neither of them seemed in a hurry to fill it.Finally, Caleb smiled."You look well.""I am.""I'm happy to hear th