After I Stopped Loving Him (Isabella and Ethan) novel Chapter 218

Jennifer sat on the sofa in Ethan’s villa, her expression as cold as ever. Beside her, a suitcase waited silently, the picture of someone planning to stay for a while.

She hadn’t packed much, just tossed in a few changes of clothes and come straight over. After everything that had happened with Isabella, Jennifer just couldn’t take it anymore. The more she thought about it, the more she felt there was only one way forward: move in with Ethan and Isabella herself.

Of course, she didn’t come alone. She brought several maids, all of whom had been with the Adams family for more than ten years. These women were loyal to her, trusted confidantes who followed her lead without question. Jennifer’s plan was simple: replace Ethan’s current maids with her own. That way, she’d have eyes on Isabella at all times.

There was just one problem: Susan. She was the head housekeeper, and she had earned Ethan’s complete trust. Jennifer knew she couldn’t simply replace Susan. Even though Susan respected Jennifer, her loyalty was to Ethan first. She always took his side and followed his orders to the letter.

At that moment, Susan wasn’t even inside. She was waiting outside the villa, keeping an eye out for Isabella. Jennifer had shown up with her suitcase and extra maids and made it clear she wanted Susan to give the newcomers work. Susan immediately understood what was happening: Jennifer wanted to swap out the staff for her own people.

Jennifer also announced she was moving in. Susan knew it was all about Isabella. Lately, Isabella had changed so much, and Susan worried that if Isabella came home without warning, there’d be a fight the second she walked through the door. The only thing Susan could do was wait and try to warn her.

It seemed like forever, but finally Susan saw Isabella’s familiar BMW pull into view. She hurried forward as the car slowed down and stopped by the gate.

Isabella rolled down her window and glanced at Susan. “Susan, what’s going on? Were you waiting for me? Is something wrong?”

Susan sighed in relief. “Thank goodness you’re back. Jennifer’s here.”

Jennifer? Isabella’s brows drew together. In both her lives, she and Jennifer had never been close. Jennifer had always disliked her. Whenever Jennifer wanted to scold her, she’d just call. Coming here in person was a first. Isabella couldn’t help but think, wow, I must really be on her mind.

Isabella’s eyes flashed with annoyance, but her voice stayed calm. “I see.”

She parked the car and walked into the main house a few minutes later. Jennifer was still there, sitting perfectly straight on the sofa, as if she owned the place.

Isabella walked over and greeted her politely. “Jennifer.”

Jennifer hated being called Mom, and honestly, Isabella never felt comfortable saying it anyway. First names would do just fine.