I Have No Other Motives

The question was sharp, pointed.

Isabella saw the slight frown on Beatrice Sterling's face, a clear sign of discomfort.

"I see it differently, Mrs. Sterling," she answered, her voice calm but firm. "My husband's identity is his own private matter. It has no connection to my professional work. I prefer to keep that part of my life separate."

Beatrice observed Isabella's resolute expression. A softer smile touched her lips.

"Don't worry, my dear. It was just an old woman's curiosity. I find the romantic lives of young people endlessly fascinating these days."

Isabella was taken aback by the frank admission.

"That's perfectly alright, Mrs. Sterling," she replied with a polite smile.

Beatrice gave a nod to the butler standing nearby. "Please, show the young designer in."

She then turned and walked back into the grand foyer of the mansion.

Isabella felt a spark of surprise at the sudden shift. She followed the butler inside, taking a seat on the plush living room sofa.

"Can I offer you a drink?" Beatrice asked, her eyes studying Isabella carefully.

"Just water, thank you," Isabella said, maintaining her courteous tone.

A servant soon appeared, placing a crystal glass of water on the coffee table before her.

After a moment of quiet, Beatrice spoke again. "Do you know why I've been reluctant to work with designers from Aethelgard Industries?"

Isabella shook her head. "No, I don't."

"The designers your company sent before," Beatrice explained calmly, "would start by asking about my design preferences. But very quickly, the conversation always turned to your company's founder. I am aware that many at Aethelgard know about my shares in the corporation. They know I've had dealings with your mysterious boss."

She continued, "It seemed every designer, man or woman, was trying to pry information about him from me. Eventually, I grew tired of it. I decided I didn't want to see any more designers from your firm."

Beatrice offered Isabella a gentle smile. "But after our talk today, I can see you're different. That's why I've decided to give you a chance."

A wave of relief washed over Isabella, easing the tension in her shoulders.

So that was the reason.

"Mrs. Sterling, you have my word. I am here solely to discuss your design needs. I have no other motives," Isabella stated earnestly.

Beatrice's lips curved into a faint, knowing smile. "Your founder is a very mysterious man. Immensely wealthy. It seems everyone wants to uncover his secrets. To find some connection to him. Are you telling me you aren't the least bit curious?"

"I admit, the mystery is intriguing," Isabella conceded. "But my curiosity is professional, not personal. My only goal today is to understand your vision for this project."

Beatrice nodded, her smile hinting at amusement. "We shall see."

Isabella met her gaze, sensing the unspoken challenge. She wondered if Beatrice was still testing her true intentions.

Feeling the need to reinforce her position, Isabella added quickly, "I hope this isn't too forward, but my husband and I are newlyweds. We are very much in love. Our bond is strong. I assure you, my focus is entirely on my work."

Beatrice's amusement seemed to grow. The situation was unfolding in a way she never expected. Alexander had just left. Now his wife was sitting in her parlor.

And to her astonishment, Alexander's wife was a designer from his own company.

Beatrice couldn't help but wonder what Isabella's reaction would be if she ever discovered the truth. That the enigmatic founder she spoke of was the very man she married.

The man she claimed to be so deeply in love with.