Chapter 68: Dead girlfriend?
Bella exited Zack’s office, the weight of his unexpected invitation to the luncheon meeting still settling in her mind. She headed to the elevator hurriedly to go back to her desk. As the elevator doors sighed open, a figure emerged – Ivy. Her face, already etched with a simmering anger, contorted further at the sight of Bella.
The mere presence of Bella on this floor was a spark that fanned the flames of Ivy’s fury. She was certain Bella had been here to meet Zack. No matter how hard Ivy tried to push Bella away, it seemed she got closer to Zack.
Loathing twisted in Ivy’s gut. If only those thugs hadn’t bungled the job, Bella wouldn’t be here, flitting around their office like a bothersome fly.
Her anger simmered over as she relived the string of failed attempts to banish Bella from Zack’s life. "Do you have any shame?" she spat, low and venomous. "Why can’t you just leave him alone?"
The baseless accusation stung. Bella stopped short, exasperation coloring her features. "You’ve got it all wrong, Miss Hill," she countered. "There’s nothing going on between Mr. Hudson and me. He is my boss, that’s all. Our relationship is nothing but professional. So, please, stop being insecure."
"Professional?" Ivy scoffed. "Don’t try and play innocent with me, Bella. You’re after my man, and you expect me to just accept it? Don’t mistake my kindness for weakness. I won’t hesitate to make your life a living hell. If you want any kind of peace, you’ll resign and stay well away from Zack."
Bella’s jaw clenched with resolve, her gaze unwavering. Despite Ivy’s threats and venomous words, Bella refused to back down. She knew her place in the company was earned through hard work and integrity, not through manipulation or deceit.
"I already told you, Miss Hill... Mr. Hudson and I have nothing going on. As my boss, I respect him... That’s all. And why in the world would I resign? I haven’t done anything wrong. You should be telling Olivia to pack her bags, not me! She is the one who falsely accused me of stealing, yet you transferred her to your department? May I ask why?"
Bella tilted her head, her gaze locking with Ivy’s in a bold challenge. "Isn’t that a bit biased?"
Her defiant attitude left Ivy momentarily speechless. The ever-timid Bella, the one who wilted under pressure, had seemingly transformed into a woman of steel. Perhaps it was Zack’s support emboldening her.