Cheated Once Cherished Forever: The Billionaire's Bride novel Chapter 11

Margaret's eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at the pile of cash. Even Richard, who had been feigning indifference, couldn't help glancing at the money, the greed in his eyes plain to see.

Moments later, Margaret cleared her throat, and her tone toward Theodore softened. "Who exactly are you?"

Could the man Isabella brought home really be just a driver?

For him to produce that much cash at once had to be for show. Maybe he had borrowed from a loan shark just to play the rich man.

At that thought, a calculating gleam flickered in Margaret's eyes.

Once the five million was in their hands, it was theirs. She didn't care where Theodore had gotten it. Even if collectors came knocking, they'd never come after her and Richard.

"As you said, I'm just a driver. Sign the agreement, and the money is yours," Theodore said coldly.

Margaret picked up the papers and skimmed through them. It stated, "Five million dollars in exchange for Isabella Moore to sever all ties with the Moore family."

Without hesitation, she signed, then turned to urge Richard to do the same.

Once the papers were signed, they immediately grabbed the cash box and waved Isabella off with complete indifference.

"Alright. Since this gentleman has paid five million dollars for you, you can go now."

Upon hearing those words, Isabella felt the dull ache in her chest begin to lift. Her parents might not love her, but she had to love herself.

With that, Isabella drew in a deep breath and turned to pack her things.

…

Half an hour later, Margaret and Richard fawned over Theodore as they saw him off.

"Take care! Watch your step."

"We'd love to have you visit anytime, Mr. Sinclair."

Isabella stood beside Theodore, watching them fuss over him. For some reason, shame washed over her, and she only wanted to leave as quickly as possible.

At last, they made their way downstairs.

A few nosy neighbors lingered, eager to watch Margaret throw Isabella and Theodore out. Who would have thought they'd see a scene like this?

Margaret was notorious in the neighborhood for being petty and difficult. She could argue for hours over a few dollars at the farmers' market, and every local vendor dreaded seeing her.

"Has she finally changed her ways?" someone whispered.

Another scoffed. "No way! This is Margaret we're talking about! She only cares about money."

In the car, Isabella finally returned to her senses and stared at Theodore in disbelief.

By looks alone, he could easily be the most handsome male escort. But could this line of work really make that much money?

How could he hand over five million dollars just like that? Surely he didn't empty all his savings?

"Mr. Sinclair, how long have you been doing this?" Isabella asked cautiously.

Theodore was driving, but every time she spoke, he'd glance at her before answering.

"I've been supporting myself since I was in university."

That meant he had been working for almost ten years. With his looks, making five million dollars over that time wasn't impossible.

Yet, the thought that he had just handed over the money he had worked so hard for filled Isabella with guilt.

She began, "Mr. Sinclair, about the five million dollars… I don't have the means to pay you back right now. Is it okay if I give you a little each month from my paycheck?

"Including the three thousand I promised before, I can give you ten thousand dollars a month. I know it's not much. But don't worry. Besides my regular job, I work as a freelance artist, so I have extra income. I'll work hard and pay you back as soon as I can!"

Theodore found her serious and earnest expression adorable. So, he couldn't resist teasing her. "It's fine. That money was meant for marrying you anyway."