The desperate Lovers

Chapter 26: An Unbreakable Bond

The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over Isabella's bare skin as she stirred in Alexander's arms. His warmth surrounded her, his steady heartbeat a soothing rhythm against her cheek. For a moment, everything felt perfect—no Victoria, no past haunting them, just the quiet intimacy of a love that had only grown stronger.

She lifted her head slightly, her fingers tracing soft patterns over Alexander's chest. He stirred, his grip tightening around her waist as his eyes fluttered open. A slow, lazy smile spread across his lips as he gazed at her.

"Good morning, my love," he murmured, his voice husky from sleep.

She smiled, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. "Morning."

He deepened the kiss, his hand sliding up her back, pulling her closer. The heat between them ignited instantly, but before things could escalate, Isabella placed a hand on his chest, stopping him.

"We need to talk," she said softly.

Alexander sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I was afraid you'd say that."

She sat up, holding the sheets against her, and looked at him seriously. "Victoria isn't going to stop, is she?"

His expression darkened. "No, she's not."

Isabella took a deep breath. "Then we need to be ready for whatever she tries next."

Alexander sat up, cupping her face in his hands. "I won't let her come between us."

"I know," Isabella whispered. "But love isn't just about feelings, Alexander. It's about trust. And I trust you. I just need to know we're facing this together."

His gaze softened, admiration shining in his eyes. "We are," he promised. "From now on, no more secrets. No more hiding things to protect you. We fight together."

A small smile tugged at her lips. "Good. Because I have no intention of letting Victoria—or anyone else—tear us apart."

Alexander grinned, pulling her back into his arms. "That's my girl."

She laughed softly, melting into his embrace.

---

The Calm Before the Storm

Later that day, Isabella found herself walking through the art gallery she managed, her mind still replaying her conversation with Alexander.

She had no doubts about his love, but she wasn't naïve. Victoria wasn't the type to give up easily, and Isabella needed to be prepared.

As she was lost in thought, her assistant, Claire, approached her with a worried expression.

"There's someone here to see you," Claire said hesitantly.

Isabella frowned. "Who?"

Claire bit her lip. "Victoria."

A chill ran down Isabella's spine, but she forced herself to remain calm.

"Send her in," she said firmly.

Moments later, Victoria walked in, looking as elegant and confident as ever. She studied Isabella with a smirk. "I must say, I didn't expect you to last this long."

Isabella crossed her arms. "And I didn't expect you to be this desperate."

Victoria's smirk faltered for a split second before she recovered. "Desperate? Darling, I don't do desperate. I do calculated."

"Then calculate this," Isabella said, stepping closer. "You lost. Alexander is mine. And no matter what you do, that won't change."

Victoria tilted her head. "You're awfully confident for someone who barely knows the man she's fighting for."

Isabella narrowed her eyes. "I know everything I need to know."

Victoria let out a low chuckle. "We'll see about that." She leaned in, her voice dropping to a whisper. "Tell me, Isabella, have you ever wondered why Alexander left me?"

Isabella's stomach twisted, but she refused to show weakness. "Because he didn't love you."

Victoria smiled, but there was something dangerous in her eyes. "That's what he told you?"

Isabella felt a flicker of doubt but pushed it aside. "I don't play mind games, Victoria."

Victoria sighed dramatically. "Pity. Because you're in one whether you like it or not." She turned to leave but paused at the door. "Ask Alexander about the contract. Then we'll see how strong your love really is."

With that, she walked away, leaving Isabella standing there, her heart pounding.

The contract?

What was Victoria talking about?

As much as she trusted Alexander, a small voice in the back of her mind whispered: What if there's more to the story?

And for the first time, doubt crept into her heart.

To be continued…