Returning with Triple Treasures: My CEO Husband Is Obsessed novel Chapter 9

She had to secure the divorce within a week.

Standing at the entrance to the sprawling modern villa, Isabella reached for the doorbell, then paused. The keypad lock was the same model as before. On a whim, she tapped in the old passcode she'd set years ago, expecting an error tone. Instead, there was a soft, distinct click as the lock disengaged.

That b*stard Xavier... he didn't even change the code?

Not only was the code unchanged, but the spare key was still in its old hiding spot. Isabella walked to the pair of large stone planters flanking the entrance, reached into the familiar crevice beneath the left one, and retrieved the key.

Two young women in neat domestic uniforms stared, shocked, as a stranger wheeled a suitcase through the grand foyer without hesitation.

"Excuse me... who are you?"

"The lady of the house," Isabella replied calmly, nudging her suitcase toward one of them. She took a brief, surveying walk through the main living areas. The place was eerily unchanged from five years ago.

Back then, Xavier was almost never home. Isabella, preferring solitude, had only hired a bi-weekly cleaning service. Now, a staff of four was present.

Aside from a woman in her fifties who carried herself with authority, the other three appeared to be in their twenties. The older woman, Emma Green, was the head housekeeper.

She was a relative of the Allens' longtime butler and had secured her position through Linda's influence. Consequently, she was fiercely protective of what she saw as Linda's territory.

"Miss, you are mistaken. Mr. Moore has no wife. If anyone holds that position, it is Ms. Allen. You are trespassing. Please leave immediately before we contact the authorities."

"So you're close with Linda. Does she stay here often?" Isabella asked airily, continuing her inspection without looking at Emma.

Emma faltered. The truth was, Linda seldom visited, and never overnight. "Of course! Ms. Allen is Mr. Moore's intended, from an excellent family. She—"

"You're quite chatty. I didn't ask for her biography." Isabella cut her off.

She shrugged off her tailored coat and handed it to the nearest maid, who accepted it reflexively. "I've scheduled a consultation with an interior designer. They'll be arriving shortly. Please see them in and ensure the existing furnishings are protected."

"Yes, ma'am." The three younger staff exchanged uncertain glances before one murmured a reply.

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