The Contracted Stripper

After high school, Bella pursued her dreams in the fashion industry. She became a successful model and influencer, working with top designer brands like Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton.

Despite her busy career, she stayed in touch with Ryan and Ivy, visiting them whenever she could.

Ryan went on to join the family business, excelling in his role and making his parents proud. He continued to date different women, but none of them seemed to stick.

Bella watched from a distance, her old feelings never fully fading away. ReconnectingYears later, Bella found herself back in Ryan’s life more frequently.

Their parents’ friendship had endured, and family gatherings brought them together often. Each time she saw Ryan, the old spark ignited, but she kept her feelings hidden, respecting his boundaries.

“Ryan, it’s been great catching up. You haven’t changed a bit.” Bella said.

“Neither have you, Bella. You’ve always been the best part of these reunions.”Bella smiled, her heart aching with the familiarity of his words.

She knew he still saw her as a friend, a sister figure. But being close to him was enough, even if it wasn’t in the way she had always hoped.

************End of flashback*********

Ivy, now a grown woman with her ambitions, remained close to both Ryan and Bella. She had always admired Bella and valued their friendship.

But she also saw the unspoken tension between Bella and Ryan, understanding Bella’s lingering feelings.

“Bella, you know Ryan cares about you a lot. Maybe he’s just scared to take that step. Ivy said”

“Maybe. But I’ve made peace with it, Ivy. I just want him to be happy.” Bella replied

“You’re amazing, Bella. Anyone would be lucky to have you.”Bella: “Thanks, Ivy. That means a lot.”RêAd lat𝙚St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

Seeing Ivy so concerned about him had only reignited her desire to be a part of their lives.

The decision was made. She would meet him, catch up, and see if there was any chance for them to reconnect on a deeper level. The years had changed them both, but her feelings for him remained steadfast.

She picked up her phone and dialed a number she hadn’t called in years. After a few rings, a deep, familiar voice answered.

“Hello?”

“Ryan, it’s Bella.”There was a pause. “Bella. It’s been a while.”

“Yes, it has,” Bella said, her heart racing. “I was wondering if we could meet up sometime. Catch up, you know?”

Ryan hesitated. “I’m not sure if that’s a good idea.”

“Please, Ryan,” Bella said, her voice soft and pleading. “Just for old times’ sake.”After a long silence, Ryan sighed. “Okay. When and where?”

Bella smiled, feeling a spark of hope. “How about tomorrow evening? I know a great place we could go.”

“Alright,” Ryan said. “I’ll see you then.”As she hung up, Bella felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension. This was her chance to reconnect with Ryan, to remind him of the bond they once shared.

But she knew it wouldn’t be easy. Ryan was married now, and she would have to tread carefully.

But Bella had never been one to back down from a challenge. The desire to be with Ryan was stronger than ever.

With Ivy’s and Kendrick’s support and her determination, she was ready to fight for what she wanted. And what she wanted was Ryan.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Kendrick mansion.

Tonight, a celebration was in order, hosted by Mrs. Rose Kendrick.

The occasion was meant to be joyous.

Ryan had returned home early, his demeanor as cold as it had been since Iris recovered from her kidnapping.

He walked through the front door, his face expressionless, and called for Sarah, the housekeeper.

Sarah, tell Iris to get ready. We’re going to a family dinner tonight.”Sarah nodded and headed upstairs, where Iris was scrolling through Instagram, a knot forming in her stomach as she saw Ivy’s latest post.

Ivy had just passed an audition for CHANNEL, one of the brands Iris had always dreamed of working with.

It was ironic how Ivy seemed to be living the life Iris had always wanted.

“Iris, Mr. Kendrick asked me to tell you to prepare for a family dinner tonight.”Iris sighed, closing her phone.

She suspected the dinner was to celebrate Ivy’s success. She got up and headed to the bathroom to take a bath.

As she soaked in the warm water, her mind wandered to Ryan. His sudden shift from being sweet and caring to cold and distant was becoming unbearable.

She thought his loving treatment after her kidnapping would last, but it had quickly faded away.

After her bath, Iris carefully chose an elegant dress for the evening.

She picked a floor-length, midnight blue gown with a subtle shimmer that caught the light beautifully.

The dress had a fitted bodice with a delicate lace overlay and a deep V-neckline that was both sophisticated and alluring.

She paired it with silver stiletto heels and diamond earrings that sparkled against her dark hair, which she styled in soft waves cascading down her back.

Her makeup was flawless, with a smoky eye and a nude lip, enhancing her natural beauty. Ryan entered his room, took a quick shower, and changed into a tailored black suit.

He ran his fingers through his hair, glancing at himself in the mirror. He couldn’t shake the frustration and anger he felt over the unresolved kidnapping.

As he dressed, he couldn’t help but think about Iris. Despite his cold exterior, he cared for her deeply.

When Iris finally emerged from her room, Ryan was waiting in the sitting room. He looked up and was momentarily stunned by her appearance.

She looked breathtaking, and he had to admit to himself that she was truly beautiful. He almost got lost in the sight of her descending the stairs. They left the house in silence, riding in Ryan’s black G-wagon.

The drive to the Kendrick mansion was tense, with Ryan stealing occasional glances at Iris. He wanted to say something, to bridge the gap that had formed between them, but the words wouldn’t come.

As they arrived at the mansion, Ryan’s chauffeur opened the door for them. They stepped out and were greeted by Mrs. Rose Kendrick.

She hugged her son and gave him a light kiss on the cheek. Mrs. Rose: “Ryan, my dear, you look so thin. Are you not eating properly?”