The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 55

The photographer clicked the shutter in rapid succession, capturing the moment in a few swift motions.

When the photo developed, the photography student glanced at it with delight. Handing Rebecca the picture, she couldn’t help but exclaim, “There, you two look absolutely perfect together!”

Rebecca took a look at the photo. Her fiery red hair and Dylan’s streaks of bright color seemed to play off each other, making for an oddly striking combination.

Though Dylan’s expression was rather sour, it hardly mattered—his face was barely visible in the shot anyway.

Rebecca offered a polite “Thank you. You’ve got a keen eye,” and managed to keep a straight face, though she was fighting back laughter on the inside.

Besides, she now had the perfect bit of leverage over Dylan.

That afternoon, Rebecca and Dylan headed to the city hall.

Just as they entered the main lobby, Dylan came to a sudden halt, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face as if something important had just occurred to him.

“Hold on a second. I need to make a call.”

Rebecca paused, a puzzled look in her eyes.

Is he getting cold feet? she wondered.

“Who are you calling?” she asked quietly.

Dylan didn’t answer, his tone turning chilly. “It’s none of your business.”

Rebecca pursed her lips. She was only asking—did he have to be so frosty?

Annoyed, she quickly shrugged it off. If Dylan really wanted to back out, so be it. It wouldn’t be the end of the world.

Dylan stepped away and pulled out his phone, dialing his assistant.

His voice, low and steady, carried a hint of urgency. “Any news?”

“Mr. Austin, she’s still nowhere to be found,” Dennis replied, sounding apologetic.

Dylan’s brow furrowed. Disappointment flashed across his features, but he didn’t seem entirely crushed. He took a deep breath and said quietly, “Forget it. Stop looking.”

Dennis was taken aback. After five years of searching, Mr. Austin was giving up just like that? Had something happened to change his mind—or had he finally let go of that woman?

Noah responded, “Aunt Crystal. She doesn’t want you to meet your new stepdad. She wanted you to embarrass yourself in front of him!”

Rebecca drew in a sharp breath.

If Crystal didn’t want her to meet Dylan, there was only one reason.

Could it be that Crystal liked Dylan?

The thought made Rebecca bite her lip, anxiety swirling in her chest.

Noah’s message popped up again: “Mom, Aunt Crystal is bad news. Please be careful.”

Rebecca’s heart warmed. Noah was always so thoughtful, always looking out for her. She quickly replied, “I know, sweetheart. Mom will be careful.”

Just as she sent the message, Dylan finished his call and strode back toward her, a new resolve in his eyes.

“Let’s go,” he said firmly.

Rebecca nodded, letting the matter drop. Now that Dylan had made up his mind, she doubted he would back out again.