The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2127

Ella's breath hitched, each word a barb hooking into her resolve.

"I told you before, if you're gonna leave, make it forever. You think you're tough stuff, huh?"

Her voice trembled as she fought to steady her emotions, "Yes, I'm tough stuff, so why should I not come back just because you don't want to see me? P City doesn't bear your last name, Noah."

Noah's already frosty features creased further into a scowl at her retort. "But here, it might as well," he shot back.

Ella's fists clenched at her sides, her breathing labored. She was trying, really trying, to keep her cool, but he was leagues beyond her reach.

Four years had passed - years that were hers as much as they belonged to anyone else. She'd worked her fingers to the bone to mature and excel, but he had changed too. No matter how hard she worked, she couldn't close the widening gap between them.d2

In that moment, defeat washed over her.

She'd thought by being her best self, sticking to her lane, focusing on her own life, she wouldn't keep thinking about him, and letting his words touch her.

However, here she was, being hurt by his words.

She thought she'd moved on. So what was the point of all those years she'd been away?

The man before her now seemed even more chiseled, his detached demeanor from years ago now encased in sharp ice, daunting, almost warning that anyone who dared approach would be silently skewered "So, what now?"

Her lips curled into a defiant smile, her eyes locked on his, devoid of any real warmth. Her bravado was a shaky facade, a mere whisper.

Suddenly, Noah felt a pang in his chest, a shattering of the icy walls he'd built around his heart at her expression. Words he'd been brewing in his throat felt venomous upon the realization.

His hand twitched, a part of him desperate to break free from the chains within, to pull her into his embrace, but he caught himself, his fists clenching, his arms retracting smoothly. His lips parted but then sealed into a sharp line.

Ella knew all too well the words he'd almost let slip. Even though he hadn't said them, she still felt the sting of her own imagined retort.

She closed her eyes briefly, her hands uncurling. "I know what you want to say. Don't worry, I won't stay here."

Noah stiffened.

"I'll move out. But even if I'm adopted, I'm still Grandpa's granddaughter, and I will visit him. I hope you won't stand in my way. Just consider this me begging you."

Her voice was indifferent as she spoke, turning away to grab the bag of medicine from the coffee table, and bounded up the stairs, unwilling to stay another minute with him. Noah remained still, then moved to the empty staircase, his Adam's apple bobbing with unsaid words. He was suddenly overcome with an unprecedented sense of defeat.

Four years of pent-up fury dissipated at the mere second sight of her. What did all his years of resolve amount to?

The next day, Ella didn't mention last night's events to Jon. She knew it would only anger him further with Noah. She wasn't doing Noah a favor, only that she didn't want to upset her grandfather. Today, Paul arrived at the Tretton family estate.

With school about to break for summer, Ella was notified to collect some certificates from two years prior. Paul was picking her up for the trip to the school.

Jon didn't hesitate to let her go, always keen to give the young ones their space.

At the school, Ella hardly recognized anyone. Most had graduated, with few continuing on to postgraduate studies.

Ella had become somewhat of a celebrity at the school. Electronic banners at every gate heralded a warm welcome back to their alumnus.

Paul chuckled at the sight, "Feeling proud and honored?"

Ella rubbed her forehead, "How about we switch the name to yours?"

Paul seemed to actually consider it for a moment, grimacing. Ella couldn't help but let out a low chuckle at the look on his face. There was no pride at all, but embarrassment was quite sufficient. After collecting her certificates, they came to discuss her upcoming job role. The school treated her with great respect, both in attitude and salary.

Then, the faculty suggested a tour. Ella was hesitant, but when she was brought to the auditorium, introduced with pomp, and invited to speak, she was bemused. It was a ruse to rally the students. She took the stage reluctantly, shared a bit about her experience abroad, and stepped down under applause. She didn't dare to stay any longer after that, grabbed her certificates and hurriedly slipped away. "What do you want for lunch?" They met at the north gate. Paul didn't drive, and Ella knew his intent. She thought for a moment, "Let's grab some barbecue, then head to that Pho shop."

The university area was littered with budget-friendly eateries, some with flavors that haunted one's memories.

Noah had kept her on such a tight leash before, forbidding street food, but that never stopped her from sneaking out with friends for a forbidden taste. Now, with lunchtime upon them, there was no hesitation. Paul seemed to expect her reaction, not the least bit surprised.

A hefty helping of barbecue and Pho left Ella so full she teared up. Paul, arm supporting her, was both amused and helpless, "To see someone eat themselves into tears is a first for me."

"Every time I sneaked out, it was like it could be the last meal, Uncle Noah was so strict, every time felt like the last."

Paul went silent at the mention of Noah, then smiled, "Now that you'll be staying at the school, there will be plenty more chances to come here."

Ella pursed her lips, "Help me look for an apartment later?"

"What?"

"I'll rent a place near the school for now. It'll be convenient for work."

Paul stopped, "Are you really set on moving out on your own?"

Ella's mind replayed Noah's words from last night. She took a deep breath, nodding, "Yes. I have to learn to live on my own at some point." "Alright, leave it to me."

Ella shrugged nonchalantly, "Let's just browse around. I'm stuffed from that meal."ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

On the way to drop Ella off at her place, Paul received a phone call. His expression turned curious during the call, and after hanging up, Ella overheard him seemingly agreeing to something. After a moment of hesitation, he glanced at Ella twice before saying, "There's a business cocktail party tomorrow. Would you like to join me?"

Ella paused, understanding the implication behind his invitation. If she decided to accompany Paul to this business cocktail party, it would be akin to officially acknowledging their relationship. This event was just the beginning. It signified both confirmation and announcement. From that point forward, in P City, they would be inextricably linked.

"When is it?" Ella asked after a lengthy silence in the smoothly cruising car.

Paul turned to her in surprise. Finally, he pulled over to the side of the road. "Tomorrow evening at eight." He let out a deep breath and turned to face her, "Are you sure? It means..."

"I understand," Ella interrupted.

Paul stared at her for a few seconds before pulling her into his arms. He said nothing, but Ella understood everything.

Two years ago, she had told him to feel free to pursue someone else if he found someone he liked after returning home, without considering her. He had flatly refused, leaving behind words that he would "wait for her return," before heading back home.

And he had indeed waited two years for her.

By any measure, Paul was a man she could rely on. He came from a good family, was physically attractive, upright, morally sound, and sincerely devoted to her. She had no reason not to choose him. Besides, they were already dating.

"I'll pick you up tomorrow, and I'll arrange a dress for you."

"Alright."

A business cocktail party, by definition, was a socializing event. It invited the most prominent companies in P City.

For small and medium-sized enterprises, it was an event worth fighting to attend. There were state-owned entities involved, intent on boosting the city's economy. For small businesses, it was an opportunity to align with larger corporations, either through partnerships or joint ventures, and it was seen as a desirable outcome.

At 7:15 PM, Paul arrived at the hotel with Ella.

Ella was dressed in a champagne-colored strapless gown with her hair neatly pinned up at the nape of her neck, adorning a simple set of diamond jewelry. It wasn't flamboyantly luxurious but lent her an aura of purity and gentleness.

Having been back in P City for two years, Paul had cultivated some connections, as well as acquaintances who knew of him by reputation. When he arrived at the party with Ella, it inevitably caused a stir.

This was Ella's first real taste of a cocktail party, and understandably, she was a bit nervous. Years ago, she had attended similar events, but always tagging along with Noah, never worrying about how others viewed her. Whether it was people

attempting to chat her up or those harboring doubts, Noah would

effortlessly take care of it all, sparing her any trouble.

Sensing Ella's unease, Paul gave her hand a reassuring pat, whispering, "Don't be nervous; just stay by my side."

Ella hummed in agreement.

People were already approaching Paul. He took two glasses of champagne from a waiter, handing one to Ella, then leaned in and whispered, "The man coming over is Mr. Hans. You don't need to pay him any mind."

Ella tilted her head slightly, her lashes casting a shadow as she leaned closer to Paul, listening intently to his words. To onlookers, their exchange seemed quite intimate.

Mr. Hans eventually approached, exchanged pleasantries, and then turned to Ella with a smile, asking Paul, "And this is?"

With an effortless ease, Paul wrapped his arm around Ella's waist and replied, "My girlfriend, Ella."

Paul then turned to Ella with a tender look, "Ella, this is Mr. Hans."

Ella smiled politely and nodded to Mr. Hans, "Pleased to meet you, Mr. Hans."

Mr. Hans responded with a chuckle and then looked puzzled, "Ella?"

His gaze shifted back to Paul, a realization dawning, "Visionary Productions?"

Paul just smiled and clarified, "She's the granddaughter of the Tretton family."

Those nearby who heard of Ella's background instantly let go of any skepticism or curiosity, as people began to make their way over.

The Tretton family's status in P City was beyond question. Visionary Productions was the leading national television station with such an extraordinary reach that it had become one of the key icons of the P

City.

The Tretton family was a

homegrown P City dynasty, deeply

rooted and incomprehensibly wealthy. Forming an association

with the Tretton family was something many could only dream of. Even though everyone knew that the Tretton family's granddaughter was only nominally related, it wasn't something to be scoffed at.

At that moment, a low murmur spread throughout the banquet hall. Amidst the whispers, Ella heard a familiar name.

She followed the collective gaze to the entrance, where a familiar figure confidently strode in.

"It's the CEO of Visionary Productions."

"It's Noah."

"What's the big deal? I saw the Harpers earlier."

"And the couple from CP Entertainment."

"And the Ziems, too."

"Noah has good relations with all of them. It's not strange that he's here since they are."

Ella was curious about these people's chatter. She knew everyone they mentioned, but aside from knowing the Harpers were Damon and Chloe, she had no clue who those other couples could be. They were all here, yet where were they?

She diverted her gaze from Noah and scanned the hall, seeking out familiar faces. Could they really have undergone a total makeover?

She wriggled in Paul's embrace, and it was impossible for him not to notice. He could only hold her tighter, looking down at her with a tender, albeit helpless expression. "Looking for someone?"

Ella gazed up at him, suddenly much closer than before. At this moment, if Paul were to dip his head just slightly, his lips would meet hers. Indeed, his eyes unexpectedly dropped to her lipstick-stained lips. Ella's cheeks flushed crimson, and she stepped back.

"I heard some old friends might be here."

"Uh-huh?" Paul raised an eyebrow, "Who?"

"I was thinking maybe Ollie?"

"From the Bauer family? You must mean Mrs. Ziems, right?"

Ella's eyes widened in shock, "Mrs. Ziems?!"

Paul chuckled softly at her astonished look, "You've been away

so long, it's normal not to know. The Bauer family's darling is now the wife of Mr. Ziems. They got hitched last April, but since there was a baby on the way, Miss Ollie decided to wait until after the birth and getting back in shape before throwing the

wedding bash. I hear they're

prepping for it now."

Ella swallowed hard, "Kane and... and Ollie, together?" It was beyond her imagination.

"Ella!"

Just as Ella stood there, bewildered and shocked, an excited voice suddenly called from the grand staircase in the hall. Everyone looked up to see a slender figure leaning over the banister, waving happily at

her.

"Hey, Ollie!"

Before long, Kane appeared beside Ollie, followed by Hans, Sawyer, Nathan, Yulia, Damon, and Chloe.

A gasp swept through the crowd below as they craned their necks to take in the group above. The men and women were striking, each with a formidable presence and pedigree. The visual impact was

staggering.

Ella's shock was so profound she covered her mouth with her hand.

"Ella, come join us." Ollie called again, "The whole lot of us Royal Scums are here today."

Seeing Ella stunned, Paul gently tapped her shoulder, "Royal Scums?"

Ella snapped back to reality, barely containing her excitement, "Come on, let's join them. I'll introduce them to you properly."

Paul smiled, "And will you introduce me just as properly to them?"

Ella hesitated, then nodded, "Of course."

Before she could finish, another strong arm swooped in and yanked her from Paul's embrace. Suddenly, she was enveloped in a familiar scent, a solid chest knocking the sense from her head.

Paul's smile slowly faded, his gaze turning icy as he faced the man opposite him. The sudden turn of events drew the crowd's attention back to the trio. The palpable animosity between the two men was a

puzzle to them.

Ella, trying to break free from Noah's grip, twisted and turned, but his arm was unyielding, holding her tightly as he stood immovable.

The men locked eyes for a long moment before Paul broke the silence with a slight smile. "Uncle Noah, what's this about?"

That "Uncle Noah" made Noah's eyes narrow slightly before he replied coolly, "If you're calling me 'uncle,' then let me remind you that you're not quite fit to join us upstairs tonight."

Paul's expression darkened instantly. Noah's words were blunt and spared no room for courtesy.

Noah was retaliating for being called "uncle," suggesting Paul was green and unworthy - that if he wanted to stay beside Ella, he needed to prove his worth. Clearly, he didn't see Paul as a match for him, not in experience, power, or influence.

Noah's words, harsh and direct, were not lost on Ella, but with everyone watching, she couldn't let things become more awkward.

"Wow." Ollie, perched on the balcony, watched the drama unfold with interest.

Kane rolled his eyes beside her, "You really love a spectacle, don't you? Wasn't she your best friend? Just going to stand there and watch her squirm?"

Ollie shrugged nonchalantly, "Who said I'm enjoying Ella's suffering? I'm just enjoying her uncle's."

Kane was speechless.

Cicely laughed softly and stepped forward, leaning on the banister with a languid grace, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she observed the scene below. "I have to agree, Mr. Noah is putting on the most

entertaining show."

Her lazy, somewhat arrogant demeanor made her an eye-catching observer.

Chloe, held in Damon's arms, looked up at him, their eyes meeting in silent understanding.

Ella glanced at Paul, then at the group upstairs and made a decision. If she couldn't join them, she would ask them to come down.

Ella took a deep breath, "Ollie..."

But before she could finish, Noah, as if reading her thoughts, didn't give her a chance to speak. He pulled her by the waist and headed upstairs.