Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

She wasn't exactly Lisa's biggest fan-truth be told, she might even dislike her. But, at the end of the day, family ties run deep. As long as Lisa was okay, that's what really mattered. Ann had been there when the news broke and couldn't hold back her tears. Just knowing Lisa was alright was enough for her.

Chloe stepped out of the courthouse into a day that couldn't have been clearer. She took a deep breath. Ann, eyes still puffy and red, approached her.

"Thanks, Chloe."

Chloe met her gaze. "Let's not dwell on it. I'm heading to Eldridge City soon and won't be back much. Take care of yourself, alright?"

Ann was momentarily stunned. Was Chloe really leaving Eldridge City? She must be fed up with all the drama here, Ann thought, feeling a pang of regret. But she knew she had no right to protest.

"Chloe, make sure you live well. Don't worry about us. We've let you down, and I'm sorry. Just promise me you'll be happy."

Ann couldn't say more, turning away with tears in her eyes.

Chloe never did share her own story with Ann. That would have to wait.

Chloe and Connor planned to set off in three days, so in the meantime, they had a lot of goodbyes to say-to Cassie, Winston, and the Moncada family. Chloe called Tara to let her know they'd drop by for dinner at the old house and see Lucas's kids.

When they got to the Moncada Estate, night had already fallen. Connor came armed with gifts that left Tara beaming. They visited Jeffery first. Seeing Connor and Jeffery getting along famously in the study, Chloe decided to slip out and check on the kids. On her way, she noticed Belle's door slightly open with voices coming from inside. She hadn't realized Belle was home today. Remembering Justin's request, Chloe paused to knock.

"Come in," Belle called from inside.

Chloe entered to find Belle sprawled on the couch, munching on an apple, and glued to her phone. Almost every video she was watching was about Justin. Spotting Chloe Belle shot up, visibly delighted.

"Chloe, you're here!"

Chloe smiled. "Just popped in to see godmom and you."

Belle practically glowed, tossing her phone on the coffee table and wrapping an arm around Chloe's. Resting her head on Chloe's

je

shoulder, she said, "I've missed you."

IMS

Chloe picked up Belle's phone and noticed Justin's face on the wallpaper.

"Mind telling me what's up with this?" Chloe asked directly.

Belle feigned innocence. "He's always been on my wallpaper. What's the big deal? Justin's my hero." "Hero or boyfriend?" Chloe pressed.

Belle's face changed instantly, eyes wide, mouth agape. She glanced nervously at the door before getting up to close it. With the door shut, she leaned against it and whispered, "Chloe, who told you?"

Chloe didn't beat around the bush. "Justin did. He's worried because you've gone radio silent on him. What's going on?"