Bound by the Past, Locked by the Heart novel Chapter 145

By the time Willa woke up, the sun was already high in the sky.

She was alone in bed; Randal had long since left.

She sat up and rubbed her eyes, her mind still a bit foggy. She threw on some clothes, but just as she reached the door, she heard two voices coming from the living room.

One was Randal's. The other was a woman's voice—one so sickeningly familiar it made her stomach churn.

Like she was possessed, her feet froze. She hid behind the door, straining to catch their conversation.

Scarlett spoke first, her tone laced with dissatisfaction. "Randal, we had an agreement. When we're out, you have to show me the proper respect. I don't want a repeat of what happened yesterday."

"Our entire social circle is laughing at me right now. They're saying my fiancé caused a massive scene over an outsider."

"Yeah, there won't be a next time." Randal's voice was flat, devoid of any real emotion. "She doesn't affect us. I'll keep her in line."

Scarlett sounded relieved, her tone softening considerably. "Good. Once we're married, it doesn't matter if you don't want the Yates family assets. My dad will hand over some of the Sterling businesses for you to manage."

"Alright. Tell Mr. Sterling thank you."

Willa didn't have the courage to listen to the rest.

She stumbled backward, collapsing onto the bed, her body trembling uncontrollably.

She knew she had no right to demand anything. But if Randal saw her as such a burden, why keep her imprisoned here? Why subject her to this utter humiliation?

A biting chill rushed from the core of her chest, forcing a sharp intake of breath.

"Is Ms. Vance in?" Scarlett's voice suddenly carried through the door.

Willa pulled herself together and walked over to open it.

"Ms. Vance, Randal and I were just talking in the living room. I hope we didn't wake you."

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