The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 38

According to Isabella, adulthood is all about drinking.

Night fell softly, the city lights just beginning to awaken. The two women headed straight to a bar known for its unique décor and great music.

Isabella ordered two cocktails, and as they sipped their drinks and chatted, the sight of two beautiful women with wine glasses in hand quickly drew the attention of every man nearby.

More than a few tried their luck, sidling over with cheesy lines, but Isabella and Rebecca turned each one away with effortless finesse. They enjoyed their night on their own terms, not sparing a glance for the parade of would-be suitors.

Isabella wore a stylish red dress, her makeup immaculate, eyes glancing playfully at Rebecca across the table. Rebecca, in a simple yet elegant black gown with understated makeup, swirled her drink and gazed into the glass, her expression soft and distant.

“Rebecca, you’re about to get married,” Isabella teased, “You’d better let loose while you still can. Once you tie the knot, opportunities for wild nights are going to vanish.”

Rebecca gave a faint, wry smile, her voice low and dreamy. “There’s no love between us. It’s just a business arrangement. Married or not, nothing really changes. Besides, he can’t control me.”

Isabella winked. “Feelings can grow, you know. Sometimes you just need to give them a little nudge.”

Rebecca shook her head with a gentle sigh. “Right now, my world revolves around my four little ones.”

Finding time to nurture romance? Not a chance.

Isabella’s playful demeanor softened. “Look on the bright side. Giving your kids a father isn’t such a bad thing. Without one, other kids might tease them, or they might feel out of place.”

Rebecca’s gaze darkened. She said nothing, just stared quietly at the deep red swirling in her glass.

Right then, a tall man strode into the bar, dressed in an expensive suit and holding a glass of wine. His eyes were immediately drawn to Rebecca’s beauty and the quiet confidence she radiated.

He smiled at her. “Drinking alone is no fun, gorgeous. How about some company?”

Isabella rolled her eyes. “Excuse me, what am I—chopped liver? You don’t see me sitting right here?”

Rebecca’s response was cool and unwavering. “Thanks, but I’m fine on my own.”

The man hesitated, a flicker of embarrassment crossing his face before he pressed on. “I’m the owner here—Fitch Russell. How about just one drink with me, as a favor?”

Upstairs, Fitch was greeted with teasing as soon as he walked into the private lounge.

“Fitch, what took you so long? Even Dylan beat you here, and you’re always the first to show,” Jonas called out, grinning.

Dylan, seated beside him, just gave a nod.

Jonas had put this gathering together—everyone in the room was someone with status and influence. Getting Dylan to show up was no small feat, and yet Fitch had managed to be the last to arrive.

Fitch managed a rueful smile as he took a seat next to Dylan, downing his wine in a silent apology.

Jonas leaned over, curiosity sparkling in his eyes. “So what happened? You look a little off tonight.”

Fitch sighed. “Don’t ask. Tried chatting up a beautiful woman downstairs and got shot down.”

Jonas let out a dramatic gasp. “No way! The legendary Mr. Russell, turned down? That’s front-page news!”