The Enticing CEO's Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2127

Ella's breath hitched, each word a barb hooking into her resolve.

"I told you before, if you're gonna leave, make it forever. You think you're tough stuff, huh?"

Her voice trembled as she fought to steady her emotions, "Yes, I'm tough stuff, so why should I not come back just because you don't want to see me? P City doesn't bear your last name, Noah."

Noah's already frosty features creased further into a scowl at her retort. "But here, it might as well," he shot back.

Ella's fists clenched at her sides, her breathing labored. She was trying, really trying, to keep her cool, but he was leagues beyond her reach.

Four years had passed – years that were hers as much as they belonged to anyone else. She'd worked her fingers to the bone to mature and excel, but he had changed too. No matter how hard she worked, she couldn't close the widening gap between them.d2

In that moment, defeat washed over her.

She'd thought by being her best self, sticking to her lane, focusing on her own life, she wouldn’t keep thinking about him, and letting his words touch her.

However, here she was, being hurt by his words.

She thought she'd moved on. So what was the point of all those years she'd been away?

The man before her now seemed even more chiseled, his detached demeanor from years ago now encased in sharp ice, daunting, almost warning that anyone who dared approach would be silently skewered.

"So, what now?"

Her lips curled into a defiant smile, her eyes locked on his, devoid of any real warmth. Her bravado was a shaky facade, a mere whisper.

Suddenly, Noah felt a pang in his chest, a shattering of the icy walls he'd built around his heart at her expression. Words he'd been brewing in his throat felt venomous upon the realization.

His hand twitched, a part of him desperate to break free from the chains within, to pull her into his embrace, but he caught himself, his fists clenching, his arms retracting smoothly. His lips parted but then sealed into a sharp line.

Ella knew all too well the words he'd almost let slip. Even though he hadn't said them, she still felt the sting of her own imagined retort.

She closed her eyes briefly, her hands uncurling. "I know what you want to say. Don't worry, I won't stay here."

Noah stiffened.

"I'll move out. But even if I'm adopted, I'm still Grandpa's granddaughter, and I will visit him. I hope you won't stand in my way. Just consider this me begging you."

Her voice was indifferent as she spoke, turning away to grab the bag of medicine from the coffee table, and bounded up the stairs, unwilling to stay another minute with him.

Noah remained still, then moved to the empty staircase, his Adam's apple bobbing with unsaid words. He was suddenly overcome with an unprecedented sense of defeat.

Four years of pent-up fury dissipated at the mere second sight of her. What did all his years of resolve amount to?

*

The next day, Ella didn't mention last night's events to Jon. She knew it would only anger him further with Noah. She wasn't doing Noah a favor, only that she didn't want to upset her grandfather.

Today, Paul arrived at the Tretton family estate.

With school about to break for summer, Ella was notified to collect some certificates from two years prior. Paul was picking her up for the trip to the school.

Jon didn't hesitate to let her go, always keen to give the young ones their space.

At the school, Ella hardly recognized anyone. Most had graduated, with few continuing on to postgraduate studies.

Ella had become somewhat of a celebrity at the school. Electronic banners at every gate heralded a warm welcome back to their alumnus.

Paul chuckled at the sight, "Feeling proud and honored?"

Ella rubbed her forehead, "How about we switch the name to yours?"

Paul seemed to actually consider it for a moment, grimacing. Ella couldn't help but let out a low chuckle at the look on his face. There was no pride at all, but embarrassment was quite sufficient.

After collecting her certificates, they came to discuss her upcoming job role. The school treated her with great respect, both in attitude and salary.

Then, the faculty suggested a tour. Ella was hesitant, but when she was brought to the auditorium, introduced with pomp, and invited to speak, she was bemused. It was a ruse to rally the students.

She took the stage reluctantly, shared a bit about her experience abroad, and stepped down under applause. She didn't dare to stay any longer after that, grabbed her certificates and hurriedly slipped away.

"What do you want for lunch?" They met at the north gate. Paul didn’t drive, and Ella knew his intent. She thought for a moment, "Let's grab some barbecue, then head to that Pho shop."

The university area was littered with budget-friendly eateries, some with flavors that haunted one's memories.

Noah had kept her on such a tight leash before, forbidding street food, but that never stopped her from sneaking out with friends for a forbidden taste. Now, with lunchtime upon them, there was no hesitation.

Paul seemed to expect her reaction, not the least bit surprised.

A hefty helping of barbecue and Pho left Ella so full she teared up. Paul, arm supporting her, was both amused and helpless, "To see someone eat themselves into tears is a first for me."

"Every time I sneaked out, it was like it could be the last meal, Uncle Noah was so strict, every time felt like the last."

Paul went silent at the mention of Noah, then smiled, "Now that you'll be staying at the school, there will be plenty more chances to come here."

Ella pursed her lips, "Help me look for an apartment later?"

"What?"

"I’ll rent a place near the school for now. It'll be convenient for work."

Paul stopped, "Are you really set on moving out on your own?"

Ella's mind replayed Noah's words from last night. She took a deep breath, nodding, "Yes. I have to learn to live on my own at some point."

"Alright, leave it to me."

Ella shrugged nonchalantly, "Let's just browse around. I'm stuffed from that meal."

*

On the way to drop Ella off at her place, Paul received a phone call. His expression turned curious during the call, and after hanging up, Ella overheard him seemingly agreeing to something.

After a moment of hesitation, he glanced at Ella twice before saying, "There's a business cocktail party tomorrow. Would you like to join me?"

Ella paused, understanding the implication behind his invitation. If she decided to accompany Paul to this business cocktail party, it would be akin to officially acknowledging their relationship.

This event was just the beginning. It signified both confirmation and announcement. From that point forward, in P City, they would be inextricably linked.

"When is it?" Ella asked after a lengthy silence in the smoothly cruising car.

Paul turned to her in surprise. Finally, he pulled over to the side of the road. "Tomorrow evening at eight." He let out a deep breath and turned to face her, "Are you sure? It means..."

"I understand," Ella interrupted.

Paul stared at her for a few seconds before pulling her into his arms. He said nothing, but Ella understood everything.

Two years ago, she had told him to feel free to pursue someone else if he found someone he liked after returning home, without considering her. He had flatly refused, leaving behind words that he would "wait for her return," before heading back home.

And he had indeed waited two years for her.

By any measure, Paul was a man she could rely on. He came from a good family, was physically attractive, upright, morally sound, and sincerely devoted to her. She had no reason not to choose him. Besides, they were already dating.

"I'll pick you up tomorrow, and I'll arrange a dress for you."

"Alright."

*

A business cocktail party, by definition, was a socializing event. It invited the most prominent companies in P City.

For small and medium-sized enterprises, it was an event worth fighting to attend. There were state-owned entities involved, intent on boosting the city's economy. For small businesses, it was an opportunity to align with larger corporations, either through partnerships or joint ventures, and it was seen as a desirable outcome.

At 7:15 PM, Paul arrived at the hotel with Ella.