Immediately the call ended. Hayden exhaled sharply, his mind still lingering on the mystery of the car's owner. He pushed the thought aside and returned to the dining room, before they began to worry.

He didn't care if Briella ran off with a man, he just wanted to know who the unfortunate person that got that car was. That model was specially designed. He wanted to buy the car weeks back but someone beat him to it.

In the black Bugatti, Briella sat quietly, her mind in chaos. She knew Hayden never loved her but why was she betrayed like this.

It just dawned on her that Hilda befriended her because she wanted to be close to Hayden. Everything added up now. She was outsmarted.

"Boss, are you okay?"

Briella smiled wryly, "I am fine, at least I'm a free woman now."

"It's so sad that you were divorced on your wedding anniversary, do you want ice cream, your favorite?" Charles said, hoping to comfort her.

She glared at him and he took the initiative to keep shut.

"Ice Cream is useless at this point." she said sternly.

Now that she's divorced she needs to return back to her family.

The car soon stopped at white wood villa.

She stepped down from the car, she didn't want to face her family looking like this.

"Boss, are you sure you want to stay here alone?" Charles pressed with a worried tone. 

"Just go home, Charles."

"Your father strictly told me to bring you back home."

"I'll call him, don't worry you won't get into trouble."

After reassuring him. He drove off. She didn't want to face her family like this, broken, defeated. 

Briella pressed the passcode and entered the villa. She missed this place. The spacious villa was all white and spotless like she had never been here.

As she sat on the couch to call her dad, A message popped up, it was from Hilda. Curiously she opened the message and it read.

"You were not worthy of him, you poor street rat, I always wondered how you became his wife.. That's old news anyway. I don't want to see your face in my boyfriend's house ever again or you'll see hell."

Briella's hands trembled as she read the message. What had she ever done to deserve this from Hilda? She took a deep breath, locking her phone and shutting her eyes. She needed to forget about Hayden. 

This was the last time she was going to shed tears over a man ever again.

*

At Sky Mansion.

The Linfords family finished dinner, Hayden broke the big news to them that he'd divorced Briella. 

The room fell silent for a while. 

"I wondered what you first saw in her. She's beneath you." Mr Linford muttered.

She's a nobody, she never belonged with you. his sister said. 

The rest of them spoke ill of Briella 

Hilda sat quietly, a small, satisfied smile playing on her lips. She had won. Briella was out of the picture, and Hayden was hers.

Hayden's younger brother- Allen, sat quietly, his jaw tightening as the insults continued. He had always been the silent observer, the one who saw through the family's pretenses. His eyes grew cold as he looked at each of them. He felt disgusted by them. Finally, he pushed his chair back, the screech sound of the chair against the ground silenced the room.

"I'm going to the restroom," he muttered. He didn't wait for a response, striding out of the dining room. He walked outside, the chill outside air did a little to calm his anger. Why were they still tearing Briella apart? He didn't know why he was born into a family that treated people like trash.

But then again, this was his family. 

It was getting late and everyone headed out of Sky mansion. Only Hilda and Hayden were now left. She decided to spend the night here now that Briella was out of the way. 

Hayden carried her in a bridal style to his room. It was her first time in his mansion. so this night was going to be a memorable one.

The sound of them moaning filled the night air. They couldn't get enough of each other.

The next morning, Hayden woke to an empty bed. Hilda had left early, leaving behind only the faint scent of her perfume. He dressed quickly, and his eyes fell on a note written by Hilda that she had some urgent matter 

He soon got a call from his security man.

"Good morning sir" He greeted.

"Did you find out who the owner of the car was?" Jayden asked in a commanding voice.

"Sir.. Sir, I couldn't get it." Dale stuttered.

"Such incompetence. Do I pay you for nothing." Hayden was pissed. He did allow the security man to speak further and he ended the call.

He refreshed up and dressed for work. He suddenly remembered he hadn't confirmed if Briella signed the papers since she didn't hand it over to him.

He rushed to her room, the room was neatly arranged, she didn't take anything, or would she come back for her things Hayden thought.

His gaze landed on the papers on the dressing table. He glanced through it, she had really signed it.

He smiled but his smile soon faded when he saw another note.

It read, I don't need your filthy money or moon villa. And as for my property in the house you can discard them.

Hayden's jaw tightened. How could she be so stubborn? How can a poor person be this stupid, he offered her what would benefit her life and she blatantly refused it.

Hayden got to his company, as he came out from the elevator his assistant rushed to him. Sir the deal with the blue star corporation has been canceled.

"What??" Hayden yelled. "It was almost finalized yesterday."

"Get Mr Victor on the phone now!!"

"I'm trying to reach Mr. Victor, but he's not responding."

Hayden clenched his fists. This couldn't be happening.

At Brim Woods Villa.

The morning sun blinded her eyes as she stretched on the bed. She woke up late due to tiredness from yesterday's event.

As Briella took her shower, she heard the doorbell ring.

She frowned. Who could it be? Only a few people knew about this place. She quickly dried off and dressed, and ran downstairs. Looking at the door camera. No one was there. She stepped outside, her eyes scanning the empty driveway. She needed to change her security team. How come someone entered her villa without them informing her.

As she turned to go back inside, something caught her eyes, a gift box on the ground. 

Puzzled, she picked it up, inspected that it wasn't a ticking bomb before going back inside. Who could this gift be from?

Briella's hands trembled as she unboxed the package, who had sent this? Inside lay a bottle of her favorite wine, a box of delicate chocolates, and an assortment of cupcakes, each decorated with intricate frosting. But it was the final item that made her breath hitch was the latest edition of a Chanel handbag, sleek and elegant.

A card laid within the gifts, her fingers grazing over the paper. It read only two words:

"Welcome back."

No name. No hint of the sender.

Her first thought was that it was probably her brother. He had always been thoughtful. But before she could dwell on it further, her phone buzzed in her hand.

Unknown number.

Her brows furrowed as she hesitated, then swipe to answer.

A deep voice pierced her ears.

Did you get my gift? He asked.

"Who's this?" Briella asked, gripping the phone tighter.

A low chuckle rumbled through the receiver. "It's been two years, and you've completely forgotten my voice? Come on, Briella.  it's Brian "

Her breath caught in her throat. "Brian?!"

"Omg Brian....!. Briella squealed. She completely lost contact with him since she married Hayden.

He chuckled. "I guess we should meet up."

The call ended, but Briella remained frozen in place, staring at the screen. A slow smile crept onto her lips. Brian. After all these years.

That evening, Briella got ready to see her father since she had promised to visit.

Briella arrived at her father's mansion, the familiar warmth of home wrapping around her like an embrace. As her cab pulled up to the grand estate, she spotted Mr. Garland Milton seated in the lounge outside, his grey hair neatly combed back, his eyes as sharp as ever.

The moment he saw her, he stood, his expression unreadable at first. But as she stepped forward, his arms opened wide.

"Dad!" she breathed, rushing into his embrace.

"Dad I've missed you."

He chuckled, patting her back. "Are you sure you missed this old man? If you did, you would've visited yesterday." His voice carried the same teasing warmth she had missed.

She pulled back, smiling. "You know I did."

"Come, sit," he said, gesturing to the chair beside him.

As she settled in, she glanced around. "Where's Lex?"

Her father exhaled, rubbing his chin. "Tidying up some things at the company. You know you'll be taking over soon."

Briella's chest tightened. She'd be back to her old life soon but leaving it was no use because she couldn't get what she wanted.

"How are you coping... with the divorce?" her father asked carefully, his gaze searching hers.

She forced a smile, though something inside her ached. "I feel better now. He betrayed me, and there's no use moping over him."

Her father's expression darkened. "Good. That bastard just touched a tiger's tail. Measures are already in place to deal with him."

"Dad," she warned, placing a hand on his. "Calm down. Leave him to me. Hayden isn't worth your time."

His face softened, but the fire in his eyes remained.

They went inside and talked over wine, her father briefing her about all that had transpired since she left.

*

Hayden's villa.

Hayden walked into his home, the grand space around him feeling unbearably empty. The maids greeted him, but he barely acknowledged them. Something felt... off.

Was it because he missed Hilda? Or was it the gnawing frustration of losing a multimillion-dollar deal that had slipped through his fingers that afternoon?

"Sir, should we serve your dinner now?" the butler asked hesitantly.

He exhaled sharply, rubbing his temples. 

Even though Hayden didn't have the appetite for food he had to force himself to. Since the doctor strictly warned him not to skip meals.

"I'll eat after I shower," he muttered.

The butler bowed slightly. "Understood, sir."

The butler noticed something was off about Hayden but he didn't pry.

Hayden climbed the stairs and by the time he returned downstairs after showering, dressed in casual silk loungewear, his dinner was set.

The scent of stir-fried pasta and chicken filled the air, it was one of his favorite meals. He picked up his fork, twirled the pasta around it, and took a bite.

Something was wrong.

The taste was off.

His jaw tightened as he slammed the fork onto the plate. "Who made this?" His voice came out sharper than intended.

The butler flinched slightly. "The chef, sir."

"Does she not know that I despise cinnamon? Why am I tasting it?"

The butler hesitated. "Sir... she didn't know because... Mrs. Briella has been the one preparing your meals."

Hayden's entire body went still. Briella?

"What do you mean by that? What was the chef's duty then?"

"Mainly to assist sir."

Hayden was already angry. His brown eyes deep. "You know what, have the maid pack this away." He said as he stood up.

He didn't want to regret saying harsh words to the old butler.

As he headed to his room he phone rang.

'What??" He retorted.

His personal assistant's heart throbbed due to the cold voice of his boss.

"Sir, I found the owner of the car."

Jayden forgot he had informed him about the matter after his security man displayed incompetence.

"And?"

"Well the car was purchased by Mr Milton...."

A cold chill settled in Hayden's chest. "You mean Mr. Garland Milton? The Chairman of Tons enterprise?"

"Yes sir.."Jed answered.

Hayden's fingers curled into a fist. How is the retired CEO related to Briella? 

Or did Briella follow wealthy old men when they were married. That could be the only explanation.

His mind was in rage at the thought. Such filthy young girl. If only his grandmother was alive to see the girl she spoke so highly of.

*

At Briella's father's mansion.

When Lex returned home, he looked exhausted. But the moment his eyes landed on Briella, his expression transformed.

"Big sister!"

He rushed to her, pulling her into a tight hug. Gone was the cold, ruthless CEO. For a moment, he was just Lex, her little brother.

"It's so good to have you back," he murmured.

She smiled. "It's good to be back."

Briella was happy to see her dad and only brother were doing well in her absence.

Lex never liked the idea of being the acting CEO, even though he studied business in school for his father's sake he wanted to be an artist and now seeing that his sister is back he can finally go chase his dream.

Mr Garland cleared his throat. "Lex, did you terminate the contract?" He asked.

"Yes dad and the slot has already been taken now."

Briella didn't understand their coded language. Since she would soon be brief about the new development of the company she didn't ask.

*

Tons Enterprise 

Everyone was excited to see the CEO was back. They've heard about Briella being the heir but no one has actually seen her.

Three years ago when chairman Garland Milton retired he announced that his daughter would take over But after some time they saw his younger son instead.

As she entered the boardroom, the executives eyed her with curiosity. But as the meeting progressed, their skepticism faded. Briella wasn't just a name. She had the qualifications, the experience, the confidence. And they welcomed her warmly.

The meeting ended and she walked hand in hand with her brother. He introduced her to all the other staff..

When everything was finalized. She headed to her office. Seeing her name on the plaque she felt excited.

She was two years behind but at least she was here now. 

Finding love wasn't worth it then.

As she sat on the swivel chair. There was a knock on the door.

Her assistant peeked in. "Ma'am, you have a visitor."

"Let them in."

She glanced at some files, expecting an executive.

Then a familiar voice sent a jolt through her spine.

"Briella."

Oh my God, Brian!" Briella gasped, rising from her chair.

Brian's lips curled into a warm smile as he closed the distance between them, pulling her into a firm but brief hug.

"It's good to finally see you again," he said, stepping back slightly, his hands lingering on her arms.

Briella beamed. "I know, right? It's been way too long."

"Yeah and thanks for the gift."  She added 

Brian waved a dismissive hand. "Oh, come on. You deserve more than that."

Brian, seeing how beautiful his long time friend is, couldn't help but admire her. He had always liked her but never said anything. When he received news that Briella was divorce he felt this was the perfect time to make a move and win her over.

Interrupting his thought, Bella spoke.

So where have you been all these years?" Briella asked, her voice pulling him from his thoughts.

Brian opened his mouth to answer, but before he could speak, Briella's phone buzzed on her desk. She glanced at the screen, her expression shifting to mild annoyance.

"I'm really sorry, Brian," she said, eyes pleading. "It's my secretary. I have an urgent meeting."

Brian sighed but nodded. "Understandable. What about dinner tonight? Let's catch up properly."

Briella hesitated only for a moment before smiling. "That sounds perfect. Send me the details."

****

That evening, Briella was curled up in her bedroom when her phone rang. It was Brian.

"I'm outside," he said.

Her eyes widened. Oh, God. She had completely forgotten about their dinner.

"Give me five minutes!" she said, rushing upstairs to get dressed.

At an Elite restaurant in the city.

Across the city, in a high-end restaurant, Hayden sat with Hilda, their laughter filling the intimate space between them. She leaned into him, her hand brushing his lightly.

"So... when are we getting married?" Hilda blurted, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

Hayden took a slow sip of his wine before responding. "Soon, my love. After my grandmother's funeral, we'll start planning everything."

Hilda's heart swelled with joy. Soon, she would be Mrs. Linford, a title she had fought for.

Their meal arrived, and as Hayden lifted a forkful of spaghetti, his gaze suddenly froze. Across the room, a familiar figure stepped in.

Briella.

She wasn't alone.

Dressed in a sleek designer gown that hugged her curves, her hair cascading in soft waves, she looked breathtaking. More polished. More radiant. More... untouchable.

And the man beside her? Hayden's grip on his fork tightened.

Hilda, sensing his distraction, followed his gaze. Her breath hitched. Briella?

She blinked, then blinked again. The woman who used to wear plain, unfashionable clothes now radiated sophistication. And that bag -a Gucci?!

Jealousy curled inside her chest like a venomous snake. She turned back to Hayden, sliding her hand over his. "Babe?"

Hayden didn't respond. His eyes were still locked on Briella, his expression unreadable but his knuckles white against the table.

Suddenly, he clenched her hand too tightly.

"Hayden... you're hurting me."

At her words, he suddenly came to his senses and immediately let go, but his eyes were still dark.

Briella, who was led by Brian, felt someone staring at her, when  she realized it was her ex husband. Her face darkened.

Why was he here, of all the restaurants to be?

She ignored him and walked with Brian to their designated seats. She wouldn't let her evening be ruined by them.

Brian, oblivious to the silent exchange, smiled. "What would you like to order?"

Briella forced a smile. "Anything is fine."

She wouldn't let Hayden ruin her night.

Not anymore.

After ordering their food. Brian and Briella started conversing

Brian was Briella's high school crush before he and his family traveled out of the country.

"So Brian, are you back in the country or you'll be going back soon?"

"I'll be here for a year before going back to England. My dad entrusted me with some work over here."

Briella lips curled up. "Wow, that's very good, I guess we'd be seeing each other often."

"That's if you won't get tired of seeing me." Brian chuckled his eyes fixed on Briella, admiring her beauty.

"Let's hope we don't get tired of each other then." Briella replied.

After paying for the meal. They headed out of the restaurant.

Brian locked his hands in Briella's hands as they walked to the waiting Maybach. 

Briella found the gesture warm and so didn't object.

Suddenly a voice halted them.

Looking back, Briella saw the fuming Hayden Approaching them.

What does he want, hasn't he done enough. Briella, though her heart was still aching seeing the man she still loved.

Hayden saw Brian's hands locked in Briella's and he felt like smacking it off.

He initially wanted to reprimand Briella and insult her. But he didn't want to draw attention.

"What do you want?" Briella asked impatiently.

"Come and pack your belongings from my house" He muttered sternly.

A bitter laugh escaped her lips. "You can burn them for all I care."

With that she pulled Brian gesturing for them to leave.

Hayden was stunned. Did Briella just speak to him like that? Someone that begs for his love.

He chuckled bitterly. She had been a slut jumping to another man immediately after their divorce and his grandma spoke so greatly of her.

He suddenly felt a soft hand rubbing his back.

"I was waiting inside for you, are you okay?" Hilda said softly, noticing something was off. And assumed it was because of Briella. She fumed but didn't show it.

"Let's go home," Hayden muttered coldly Startling her.

In the car back to Briella's Villa.

Was that your ex husband? Brian asked, pretending not to know.

Yes, that was him. Briella said in a low tone.

From her mood, he noticed that Briella still had feelings for Hayden.

"I won't pester you or anything Briella. Just call me if you need someone to talk to. Okay?"

"Yeah. Thanks Brian."

The car soon halted at Brim wood Villa.

"Thank you for the wonderful evening." Briella muttered, her mood has already improved.

"I'll call you. Remember you promised you would get tired of me." Brian said with a chuckle.

"Sure sure." Briella replied.

As she got into her villa, she kicked her heels and legs feeling the coldness of the floor.

Her phone suddenly beeped..

She saw a text from Brian. 

Good night, angel. It was really nice having you around today.

A small smile tugged at her lips. She typed back: Good night.

As she recalled what Hayden told her to get her belongings. Her mind suddenly flashed to the box under her bed. 

She slapped her head for forgetting the only important thing in that room to her.

After much consideration. She made up her mind to go back to Hayden's mansion. In the afternoon when he's still at work.

She called her brother to cover up for her that she wasn't feeling too well due to the stress of the company.

Briella wore her thick fur coat and drove out to Hayden's mansion.

The staff welcomed her warmly. She quickly rushed to her room seeing that Hayden wasn't around.

She brought out the box from under her bed. After inspecting the contact she dashed out.

As she stepped outside, a voice halted her.

"Briella?"

Her gaze fell on Hayden.

He looked calm, not the usual cold looking Hayden. Something was different about him.

He walked towards her and held her hands. "Let go of me now." Briella said already fuming.

"What did I do wrong? I'm just trying to be polite."

Briella's brow shot up confused. "What do you mean trying to be polite?"

Why is he acting this way, did he lose his memory or what.

Yesterday at the restaurant he was fuming and today he's calm.

"Can we talk please?"

Briella looked at him. His eyes were soft. 

She hesitated a bit "Fine, two minutes."

"Not here please, somewhere private."

Briella looked around, there was noone. She eyed him. "Speak now or forever holding your peace." She was still angry at him but eager to hear what he had to say.

He exhaled sharply. "I miss you, Briella."

Briella blinked. "Are you alright?" She asked. "You served me a divorce and cheated with my bestfriend and you claim to miss me?"

Deep down, Briella wished he really loved her.

"Divorce how, when??" Briella was certain he hit his head on a rock.

"When I regained my memory the first person I thought of was you and I traced you down here."

"What the heck are you saying?"