Bound by the Past, Locked by the Heart novel Chapter 276

"What if I told you they never actually got married?" Iris picked up some food with her silverware, her tone casual. "I mean, he and Scarlett Sterling never signed the marriage certificate."

Willa let out a dry laugh. "Where did you hear that gossip?"

Iris shot her a mock-offended look. "Don't forget, Scarlett is practically a friend of mine in these circles. That news came straight from the source. It's solid."

This time, Willa was genuinely stunned.

They had a grand wedding, but no legal marriage certificate?

How could powerful families like the Sterlings and Yates silently approve of something like that?

Seeing her confusion, Iris lowered her voice to explain. "It's not that surprising. They both agreed to it. It's just a transaction to get what they want."

"Get what they want..." Willa muttered, deeply bewildered. "Isn't the title of Mrs. Yates exactly what Scarlett wanted? Without the certificate, she'll never truly hold that position legally."

Iris curled her lip. "I can't read her mind, and we aren't that close. But they had the wedding, the media snapped their photos, and everyone calls her Mrs. Yates. Who really cares about a piece of paper?"

"Willa, you still haven't answered my question."

"I have no intention of looking back," Willa answered decisively. "You don't need to test the waters for Randal."

Having her motives exposed, Iris actually breathed a sigh of relief, a smile curving her lips. "That's good. But don't misunderstand, I'm completely on your side."

She paused. "He came to me, knowing we kept in touch. He wanted me to feel you out. Since that's where you stand, I'll tell him to drop it and move on."

Willa gave a soft "Mhm" and went back to eating.

Neither mentioned Randal again. They chatted about industry news over the rest of the meal before wrapping up the lunch.

Stepping out of the bistro, Iris slung her bag over her shoulder. "I'll keep an eye on that job for you. I'll call you when I have news."

Willa nodded. "Alright. Thank you."

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