Chapter 14
Bella stood in shock, unable to comprehend what she’d just heard. In utter disbelief, her gaze darted from Enzo to Amber and then back to Enzo. She didn’t know what freaked her out the most. The fact that Enzo had just yelled at her, or that the person she thought was dead was very much alive and was now the owner of the most successful company in the country.
Bella opened her mouth to say something but words failed her. She looked at Damon and could see him staring back in shock.
“If you don’t have anything else to say Mrs Cross, I suggest you sit down.” Enzo said adjusting his tie.
But Bella wasn’t ready to calm down. She turned to Amber and jabbed a trembling finger in her direction.
“H… how’s this possible. She… she’s supposed to be dead.”
“As you can see Mrs Cross. Mrs Black is alive and well. Now advice you sit down or be escorted out.”
Bella tried to say something, but words failed her.
She looked around and seeing that she was the only one causing a scene, Bella took one final glance at Amber before slowly taking her seat.
“I apologize Mrs Black. I didn’t mean to cause a disturbance. That was unprofessional.” Enzo said bowing deeply.
“It’s alright Mr Enzo. You weren’t at fault here.” Amber replied smoothly.
She rose to her feet, and immediately, everyone else stood as well, giving her the respect she deserved as the CEO of MPK.
Amber gracefully took her seat at the head of the table while everyone else sat down.
“Good afternoon, everyone,” she began. “I’m Amber Blackwood, CEO of MPK.”
Damon’s eyes widened.
Amber Blackwood? So that’s why he couldn’t find her, she had changed her name.
“This was not how I intended for this meeting to begin, but it appears some things couldn’t be avoided. Not only was I accused of being a murderer, I was also insulted, and in my own company no less.” She paused, allowing the weight of her words to hang in the air.
“That won’t be tolerated anymore. From now on, when we gather here, it will be for serious matters only. No foul language or display of unseriousness. Anyone who refuses to comply will be cut off from MPK entirely.” Her eyes flicked toward Bella before continuing.
“As Mr Enzo has stated, I’m grateful that you all could make it here on such short notice. I’ve gone through your proposals carefully, and I must say, I’m impressed by the depth of innovation and vision both Wayne Group and Cross Enterprise bring to the table.”
“At MPK, we value partnerships that challenge boundaries and drive excellence and I believe this collaboration has the potential to do just that. My team and I will finalize the review process and send detailed feedback to your emails by tomorrow morning.
For now, I’d like to open the floor. Any questions?” Amber finish, looking at everyone in the room.
Enzo had smiles all over his face. As expected, Mrs Black never disappointed. Marcus was proud of his girlfriend for being really brave. The board members from Wayne Group and Cross Enterprise were also smiling. Bella was fuming with anger and confusion while Damon couldn’t believe everything that was happening. 1
1/2
Chapter 14
+25 Bonus
“I’m really glad to have you here with us Mrs Black. After hearing your words, I have no doubt this partnership will become a big success.“Mr Nathan said with a warm smile. He was the CEO of Wayne Group.
“I agree with Mr Nathan. It’s an honor to meet the brilliant mind behind MPK. I can’t believe the mysterious owner of such a powerful company turned out to be a young woman like you. Thank you for accepting us and deeming us worthy to partner with.” Someone else said in the room.
“My pleasure.” Amber said with a polite smile.
“I guess that will be all for now. You all should expect your emails from me by tomorrow’s morning.” Everyone rose as she stood on her feet.
Amber picked her handbag and gracefully exited the boardroom. Marcus followed closely behind, placing his hand on the small of her back.
“I’m proud of you babe.” He said placing a soft kiss on her forehead. “You did so well back there.”
Amber blushed.
“I’m glad I didn’t oppose to you coming with me. I was so nervous in there. It was nice having you around.”
“You did very well babe. You showed those bastards who exactly you are. I love the look on their faces when Enzo revealed you were the owner of MPK.”
Amber laughed lightly.
“Is there anything else left you want to do?” Marcus asked.
“Yes. I have a meeting with Mr Henry, he’s the one in charge of this branch. But first I think I will hit the restroom first.”
Marcus smiled and nodded at her as she hurried to the restroom which was down the hall.
No sooner has she left, the door to the boardroom burst open and an angry face stormed out. Marcus recognized him instantly.
Damon Cross.
The bastard who was responsible for all the misfortunes Amber had faced in the past.
“Where’s she?” Damon demanded, the anger in his voice didn’t go unnoticed.
Marcus didn’t bother answering, infuriating him even more
Damon looked to his right and saw Amber heading towards the restroom.
“Perfect!” He mumbled as she disappeared through the door.
He’s been looking for a way to talk to her and what better way than to corner her in the bathroom where she couldn’t escape his clutches.
With a deep breath, Damon made his way towards the restroom.
D
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Once His Mate Now His Rival (by Lord Browny)