Bella's curiosity outweighed her fear. Cassandra's hatred was so strong that it almost felt personal, and Bella needed to know why. She wasn't even fazed by the mention of Chris being "engaged" she knew Cassandra would say anything to drive them apart.
"I'm sorry," Bella said softly but firmly, "but may I ask you a question?"
Cassandra's brows arched in mild surprise. Finally, she thought. She's going to ask for money. At least this one is predictable.
Without hesitation, Cassandra snapped her fingers. Her personal assistant instantly handed her a checkbook and pen. Cassandra scribbled her signature onto a blank page, tore it out, and passed it to her PA, who handed it to Bella.
"How much do you want?" Cassandra asked coolly. "Fill it in, take the money, and get lost."
Bella blinked, then let out a scoff and rolled her eyes. So this is it. The cliché. Like one of those movies where the rich mother buys off the poor girlfriend.
She straightened her shoulders. "With all due respect, Madam Hampson, I'm not here for your money. I earn my own living, and I don't throw myself at rich men hoping to be bought off by their mothers. What I feel for your son is real. And honestly? I think it would be best if you stopped meddling in our relationship. I'm sure Chris would appreciate that too."
Her voice was calm, but her conviction was unshakable.
Cassandra froze. A flush of anger colored her flawless face. This little girl dares challenge me? Her hand clenched into a fist against her lap, violet eyes narrowing to slits.
"I didn't invite you here to lecture me," Cassandra hissed. "Let me make one thing clear you will never be accepted into this family. Never."
Bella opened her mouth to reply, but footsteps echoed from the hallway. Heavy, familiar. Her heart skipped Chris.
She quickly sat back, her eyes on the door.
Chris entered, sharp-eyed, his jaw tense. Without hesitation, he crossed the room and drew Bella to his side, protective and unyielding. His gaze fell on the table the signed blank check lying there like evidence. His lips curled into a bitter scoff. He didn't need anyone to explain.
He glared coldly at his mother. Then, without a word, he guided Bella out, his hand firm in hers.
They didn't stop until they reached his car. Chris turned, cupping Bella's face gently, his thumb brushing her cheek. His eyes searched hers with concern.
"Why didn't you tell me she asked to see you?" His voice was low, almost pained.
Bella shrugged lightly. "I didn't know how to bring it up. I knew your family would send for me sooner or later, but I didn't think it would be this soon."
Chris pressed his forehead against hers, his voice soft. "I'm sorry if she said anything to hurt you."
Bella smiled faintly, sliding her hand over his. "I'm fine." But he could feel the coldness in her fingers.
"Let's get you home," Chris murmured.
At Frederick's residence...
Thelma was in her room preparing for a modeling event with her manager, Denise. Loyal, sharp-tongued Denise was more than an assistant she was Thelma's weapon.
"The videos of Lillian and Neil," Thelma said coldly, adjusting her gown. "Send them to the journalists. Christmas Day is the perfect time to break them. If Bella thinks her fairytale will last, let's see how she survives the storm."
Denise smirked and tapped away on her phone.
Later that evening, Heathrow Airport.
Chris's phone buzzed. His heart leapt when he saw the caller ID. "Immy."
Twenty minutes later, he was standing at the arrivals gate.
"Chris!" Imelda squealed the moment she spotted him. She dropped her bags and flew into his arms. Chris swept her off the floor, spinning her around as tears threatened to spill from his eyes.
When he set her down, he cupped her cheeks, studying her. His baby sister was grown. No longer the sad, broken child he remembered, but radiant, happy and still his little Immy.
He hugged her again, tighter this time. Bella watched quietly, a smile curving her lips at the tenderness between them.
Chris turned. "Babe, this is my sister, Imelda. Immy, meet..."
"Christabella Walter," Imelda interrupted with a bright smile. "Your girlfriend. I know."
Chris and Bella laughed softly.
Then Chris noticed her luggage two trolleys, overflowing. His brow lifted. "Immy... why do you have so many bags? It's just Christmas."
Imelda grinned. "Well, I'm not planning to go back. I want to stay here, go to college here. Be close to you."
Chris blinked, stunned. "You're serious?"
"Dead serious." Her eyes gleamed.
"Does Mum know you're back?" Chris asked carefully.
"No," Imelda said sharply, her jaw set.
Chris only nodded, sighing as he took hold of her luggage. Whatever storm was coming with Cassandra, it seemed his sister had chosen his side too.