Fated Marriage Spoiled by My Ice Billionaire novel Chapter 266

Chapter 266 Lingering Shadows

Chapter 266 Lingering Shadows

It seemed, for the moment, as if everything had finally settled down for good.

But who could ever really know?

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“Mr. Hughes, what a pleasant surprise,” Isabelle remarked as she stepped into the courtyard, her gaze falling on the man who was covered in a fine layer of dust from his work.

He’d been laboring out there for a while now. Diana had tried to shoo him away at first, but eventually, she’d grown tired of the effort. Why bother, when the result was free manual labor?

“Well, look who decided to join the land of the living,” Brian said, pulling off his work gloves and dusting them against his thigh.

Diana hurried over from near the rose bushes. “What are you doing out here? Shouldn’t you be taking it easy at home a little longer?”

Isabelle let out a soft sigh. “I was starting to grow moss in there. Just needed some fresh air.”

“Well, maybe find a cleaner spot to lounge. Don’t get in the way of us actually working,” Brian said, shooting her a look that was half–amused, half–annoyed.

It had just been the two of them in the backyard, a chance to discuss a few things not meant for other ears. Why did she have to pick now to make an appearance?

“You know what, you’re absolutely right. I should find a proper place to relax,” Diana said with a light, teasing smirk, brushing the dirt from her hands. “Come on, Isabelle. Let’s go get a proper coffee and actually unwind.”

He had meant for her to go rest, not for Diana to take off–why was she leaving?

Brian clicked his tongue, at a loss for words.

Diana flashed him a playful grin. “Hold down the fort, Mr. Hughes.”

Yeah, he was holding it, alright.

Isabelle offered a small smile. “We’ll bring you back a latte.”

The two women shared a knowing look.

“Wait for me out front. I need to change–I’m a mess and can’t be seen in public with this,” Diana said, gesturing to her dusty jeans and old t–shirt.

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Isabelle nodded. “I’ll be by the car.”

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Chapter 266 Lingering Shadows

She walked out through the side gate.

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Diana turned back toward the house, heading for the lounge on the third floor to freshen up.

“You two are really something else…” Brian muttered, a flicker of irritation rising. “Hey, can’t you take me with you?”

“Brian, don’t tell me your stamina’s giving out already?” Diana glanced over her shoulder, her grin widening.

Brian’s stern expression softened a fraction. At least her joking around was a good sign.

“Ms. Williams, aside from me, no one’s ever been this real with you. Is that any way to talk?”

“Well, I guess we’ll see how you perform tonight, then,” Diana tossed back before disappearing inside.

We’ll see how you perform tonight, then…

Did that mean… progress?

A slow, meaningful smile spread across Brian’s face.

Maybe persistence was finally paying off.

While waiting for Diana, Isabelle settled onto one of the plush sofas in the front reception area. She hadn’t been there long when she saw Collin walk in, accompanied by his mother.

First, he’d come alone a few days ago, and now with family in tow?

Their eyes met almost instantly.

“Linda,” Isabelle greeted, rising and walking over.

“Oh, Isabelle, dear,” Linda replied, her face looking more drawn and tired than Isabelle remembered.

“Isabelle.” Collin nodded in greeting, his voice gentle.

“Collin.” This time, she maintained a polite distance, careful not to step too close.

Collin noticed the subtle shift but didn’t comment, merely offering a faint smile.

He explained, “I wanted to order a few new dresses for my mother. She’s lost quite a bit of weight recently, and her old clothes just don’t suit her spirit anymore. I thought you’d probably understand her style better than anyone. I’ve dropped by the past couple of days but

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Chapter 266 Lingering Shadows

missed you, so today we thought we’d try our luck.”

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“Oh, he’s always fussing over me like this,” Linda complained, though her tone was fond. “The minute I’m back, he’s got me running all over town, as if I’m completely helpless.” She then turned to Isabelle with a kind expression. “By the way, that scar gel I asked Collin to send you- have you been using it? It’s truly remarkable stuff, very difficult to get back home.”

Isabelle paused. So the scar cream really had been from Linda, not directly from him?

Since Linda was asking about it now, it seemed Collin hadn’t mentioned that he’d taken it back.

She managed a warm smile. “It’s been wonderful, thank you. I’m using it.”

Collin gave her a nearly imperceptible nod, a silent agreement passing between them not to elaborate.

“Mom, why don’t you go on in and get your measurements started? I’d like to chat with Isabelle for just a moment,” Collin suggested gently, his eyes on Linda, who did seem somewhat weary.

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