Chapter 9
548words
Back at the villa, I began packing my suitcase while Ethan was at work.
I'd made my decision to leave.
Anna was right about one thing—I wasn't the protagonist, just a supporting character with a tragic end. I couldn't rewrite the story, nor could I risk staying.
While Ethan still cared for me, I'd take the money and run—avoiding my tragic fate entirely.
Staring at the rows of designer dresses and meticulously arranged handbags, I hardened my resolve and took only the three black credit cards Ethan had given me.
I booked a one-way ticket to Montreal, planning to start fresh in Quebec.
Struggling with my suitcase, I'd barely reached the staircase when I came face-to-face with Ethan, home unexpectedly early.
"Bella, where are you going? Why didn't you mention this?"
He stood there in a crisp white shirt and tie, gold-rimmed glasses perched on his nose, his expression gentle but confused.
I clutched my suitcase handle, unable to mask my discomfort.
"Oh... I'm just... heading to London—I mean, Hong Kong—for a quick vacation. No need to see me off, I can manage."
As I spoke, I tried to edge past him toward the door.
Ethan moved quickly, gently catching my wrist.
"I'll drive you."
"Really, there's no need!"
"You are coming back, aren't you?" His grip tightened slightly.
I couldn't answer.
He'd known all along.
"Wherever you want to go, I'll support you. If you prefer privacy, Harry can drive you. I've transferred thirty million to your account. If you need more, just message me. Enjoy your trip—home will be waiting when you return."
Ethan released my wrist.
My throat constricted painfully.
"Okay."
I picked up my suitcase and walked out the door.
Ethan's sleek car waited outside, his driver Harry standing attentively beside it.
Seeing me emerge, Harry took my suitcase and stowed it in the trunk.
The trunk was already filled with several elegantly wrapped boxes. Curious, I opened one and froze.
I opened each box, tears welling in my eyes.
Inside were new dresses, shoes, handbags, jewelry—all with tags still attached—and boxes of my favorite imported chocolates.
"Mr. Gray prepared these for your trip," Harry explained quietly. "He asked me to accompany you to the airport, help you get settled, and return. He promised not to disturb you."
I closed my eyes, stood motionless for several heartbeats, then turned and ran back inside.
Ethan hadn't moved, his tall figure suddenly looking terribly alone.
"Ethan, I had a nightmare," I blurted. "You fell in love with Anna and became incredibly cruel to me. I was terrified."
My voice broke as tears spilled down my cheeks.
Ethan spun around at the sound of my voice.
"Bella..." His voice was rough with emotion.
"How could I ever... please don't cry..."
Seeing his stricken expression, I suddenly wanted to risk everything—to love him despite this twisted fictional world.
"I don't want to go anywhere. Would you make those garlic prawns I love?"
I stepped forward, wrapped my arms around his neck, and buried my face against his collarbone.
"Of course."
He drew me closer, his embrace protective yet tender, as if I were the most precious thing in his world.
"In this lifetime and beyond, I will only ever love you, Bella."
