The Alpha's Contracted Mate

Chapter 8 Unsafe Secret

Isabelle didn't expect him to bring this up. The words caught her off guard, causing her to choke on the food she was eating. She coughed violently twice, quickly grabbing a tissue to cover her mouth.

Seeing her reaction, Matthew raised an eyebrow, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Such a big reaction?"

Gathering her breath, Isabelle replied, her voice slightly strained, "I don't like him anymore."

Matthew looked at her, his smile indicating disbelief. "Oh?"

Isabelle clenched the tissue she had used to wipe her mouth tightly in her hand and raised her eyes to meet Matthew's gaze.

"During the years in the Ace family, I can honestly say I've never done anything to upset you. I know our marriage has made you uncomfortable, you can do as you please, I'll pretend not to see."

Matthew nonchalantly took out a pack of cigarettes from his pocket, popped one out, and bit it between his lips, lightly scoffing. "You seem to understand me quite well."

As Matthew finished speaking, Isabelle looked at him through the smoke, her head feeling inexplicably sore.

"Give me three years." Isabella said, looking at Matthew.

Matthew nonchalantly raised an eyebrow. "What?"

Isabelle began, her voice steady, "I still have three years left on my contract with the Ace family's company. After three years, I'll resign from the company and divorce you."

Matthew didn't immediately respond. He looked at Isabelle meaningfully while biting his cigarette.

Isabelle thought Matthew was worried about the division of assets at that time, so she added, "Don't worry, I won't want a penny of your money."

Matthew removed the cigarette from his thin lips, extended his arm, and knocked off the ash. "What's in it for me?"

Isabelle asked, slightly puzzled, "What benefit?"

Matthew smiled slyly, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Marriage, divorce-it'll be my second marriage. What benefits can you provide me in this marriage?"

Isabelle's temples throbbed, and she fought to maintain her composure. "You do as you please, I don't care."

Matthew chuckled lightly. "That's it?"

Isabelle furrowed her eyebrows slightly, her voice tinged with frustration. "What do you mean then?"

Matthew spread his legs naturally forward, and hooked his finger at Isabelle.

Confused, Isabelle leaned forward, trying to understand his intention. Suddenly, Matthew placed his hand on the back of her head and pulled her toward him. The tissue in Isabelle's hand fell to the floor as her breath caught in her throat.

Matthew's voice dropped to a whisper as his lips brushed against her ear, sending shivers down her spine.

"Don't think I don't know, you want to use me as a cover to investigate the Ace family."

Upon hearing this, Isabelle's body stiffened, and she forgot to resist.

Isabella had met up with a private investigator named Robert at a discreet coffee shop in the heart of the city weeks ago. The place was bustling with activity, providing a sense of anonymity and security. She had carefully chosen this location to ensure their conversation remained confidential.

As Isabella entered the coffee shop, she scanned the room, searching for a man who matched the description she had received. Finally, she spotted a middle-aged gentleman sitting at a corner table, sipping his coffee and observing his surroundings with a keen eye.

Approaching the table, Isabella greeted him with a warm smile. "Robert, I presume?"

Robert looked up, his eyes sharp and attentive. "That's correct. You must be Isabella."

"Yes, that's me," Isabella confirmed, taking a seat opposite him. She glanced around once more before leaning in slightly, ensuring their conversation would remain confidential.

"I appreciate your discretion and professionalism."

Robert nodded, acknowledging her concerns. "Confidentiality is my top priority. Rest assured, your secrets are safe with me."

Isabella's gaze turned serious as she delved into the purpose of their meeting.

"I need your help with a personal investigation. I want you to look into the Ace family."

Robert leaned back in his chair, intrigued by the request.

"The Ace family, you say? They have quite the reputation. What specifically are you looking to uncover?"

Isabella took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully.

"I believe there is more to their operations than meets the eye. There are rumors of illicit activities, connections to influential figures, and power plays within their ranks. I want to uncover the truth, expose any wrongdoing, and protect myself and those close to me."

Robert listened attentively, his interest piqued by the potential complexity of the task. "I see. This won't be an easy investigation. The Ace family has a web of influence, and they guard their secrets closely. But I'm up for the challenge."

Isabella appreciated his enthusiasm. "I know it won't be easy, but I'm willing to take the risk. I need someone skilled, discreet, and resourceful like yourself to dig deep and find the truth. Can I count on you?"

Robert nodded, a determined expression crossing his face.

"You have my word, Isabella. I will do everything in my power to uncover the truth and protect your interests."

With the agreement made, Isabella reached into her bag and pulled out an envelope containing relevant documents and information. She slid it across the table to Robert.

"Here are the details you'll need to get started. Take your time, be thorough, and keep me updated on any significant findings."

Robert accepted the envelope, tucking it securely into his briefcase. "Consider it done. I'll begin working on this right away."

Isabella rose from her seat, extending her hand towards Robert. "Thank you, Robert. Your assistance means a lot to me. Please exercise caution and discretion throughout this investigation."

Robert shook her hand firmly, a determined glint in his eyes. "You can count on me, Isabella. I won't let you down."

With their agreement sealed, Isabella left the coffee shop, knowing that she had taken a significant step towards uncovering the truth behind the Ace family.

But how did Mathew find out? she asked herself as she recounted the whole event in her mind.

Matthew noticed Isabelle's lapse and chuckled roguishly. He lightly patted the hand that was on the back of her head jolting her back to reality. "Calm down, your courage isn't enough."

Isabelle's breath hitched. "When did you find out?"

Matthew blew hot air near her ear, his voice low and teasing. "Probably, from the moment you climbed onto... my bed."

Isabelle is unaware of the little connection their wolves shared since their first encounter neither does mathew, so her mind never went to that and neither was Matthew referring to that.

Yet the connection between them kept making drawing them close to each other subtly.

Isabelle's eyes widened in shock, unable to conceal her surprise.

Isabelle thought she had covered her tracks perfectly. Who would have thought that Matthew had found out anyway?

By the time Matthew let go of Isabelle, she had already composed herself and met his gaze.

Matthew took the cigarette from the corner of his mouth and put it out. Using his fingertips, he slightly opened the collar of his shirt, revealing a hint of his sexy collarbone. "Don't be too nervous, I'm not interested in your investigation of the Ace family."

Isabelle stared at Matthew without blinking, not daring to miss any hint of emotion on his face.

After making sure Matthew wasn't joking, her heart, which had been hanging in the air, finally settled. "Aren't you worried I might do something that harms the Ace family?"

Matthew's eyes were full of indifference. "What does your actions against the Ace family have to do with me?"

Isabelle pursed her lips, for a moment somewhat unable to understand Matthew.

He was clearly a member of the Ace family, yet when he spoke of the Ace family, his alienation and indifference was like that of an outsider, he always had an aura of nonchalance toward the Ace family matters.

Suddenly, Isabelle thought of their first encounter. Isabelle had just moved into the Ace family house, Nervous and uncertain about her new surroundings, she found solace in the lush gardens that surrounded the estate.

Isabelle wandered through the garden and stumbled upon Matthew, who was engrossed in a book, sitting on a bench beneath a blooming cherry blossom tree. She hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to approach him, but something about his serene demeanor drew her in.

Summoning her courage, Isabelle walked over and greeted him with a shy smile. "Hello, I'm Isabelle. Mind if I join you?"

Matthew looked up from his book, his eyes twinkling with kindness. He closed the book and motioned for her to take a seat. "Of course, Isabelle. Please, have a seat."

As they sat side by side, the conversation flowed effortlessly between them. Matthew shared snippets of his life and experiences, effortlessly putting Isabelle at ease. They discussed their favorite books, shared childhood anecdotes, and discovered shared interests.

Isabelle found herself drawn to Matthew's calm and gentle nature. He listened attentively, showing genuine interest in her thoughts and dreams. They laughed together, their laughter mingling with the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze.

Time seemed to pass quickly as they lost themselves in their conversation. Isabelle felt a sense of comfort and understanding, a connection that went beyond mere acquaintances. In that moment, she saw in Matthew a kindred spirit, someone she could trust and confide in.

Back then, Matthew was a gentlemanly young man. But she couldn't pinpoint when this gentlemanly young man took a wrong turn, where apart from his looks, all other behaviors became thoroughly twisted.

After Matthew finished speaking and saw that Isabelle was silent, he stood up and walked toward her. Seizing the opportunity when Isabelle was lost in thought, he leaned down, propped his arm on the back of her chair, enclosing her within his arms.

His voice turned deep and seductive. "...I miss that night, I miss you..."

Matthew instinct at this time wasn't that of his alone but that also of his wolf, expressing his longing for Isabelle.

Matthew's words were like a whisper against her ear, his touch sending shivers down her spine.

Isabelle's body stiffened, and her hand on the armrest of the chair tightened.

Seeing her nervousness, Matthew chuckled lowly. "In return for keeping your secret, will you spend a night with me?"

Isabelle took a shallow breath, calmed her emotions, and looked up at Matthew. "Do you want to sleep with me?"

Matthew's lips quirked in a sly smile. "No, I want to build marital feelings."

Hearing 'marital feelings' from Matthew's mouth seemed rather insincere.

The truth about their marriage was unclear to outsiders, but the two of them, as the parties involved, knew it well.

Isabelle had been momentarily frightened when Matthew hit a soft spot earlier. Now, having calmed down, she said calmly, "You don't need to keep my secret. Feel free to tell grandfather. Let's see if he believes you."

Upon hearing Isabelle's words, Matthew looked at her with admiration. "Quick response."

Isabelle pushed Matthew away and stood up. "As for the issue with Rose, you said you wouldn't investigate it further. Consider that as a favor I owe you."

Matthew leaned on the dining table and watched her with a smile, saying nothing.

Isabelle walked toward the entryway, bending down to change into high heels. "Matthew, be a good person."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes.

"Huh, what does she meant by be a good person?" Matthew questioned himself.

Leaving City Heights, Isabelle drove back to her own apartment. She had purchased this apartment last year, depleting nearly all her savings.

Isabelle's apartment was a cozy sanctuary nestled in the heart of the city. Situated in a modern high-rise building, it offered a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets below. The building boasted sleek architecture and large windows that flooded the apartment with natural light, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere.

As Isabelle entered her apartment, she stepped onto polished hardwood floors that extended throughout the living space. The walls were painted in a soft, neutral tone, providing a blank canvas for her personal touches and vibrant artwork that adorned the walls.

The living room was furnished with a plush sofa and a comfortable armchair, arranged around a stylish coffee table. A tasteful area rug added warmth and texture to the space, while a sleek entertainment center housed a flat-screen television and a collection of books and decorative items.

Adjacent to the living area, the open-concept kitchen showcased modern appliances and ample counter space, perfect for Isabelle's culinary endeavors. The cabinets were sleek and minimalist, complementing the overall contemporary aesthetic.

The bedroom, a tranquil oasis, featured a comfortable queen-sized bed adorned with soft linens and plush pillows. Large windows allowed natural light to filter in, while blackout curtains provided privacy when needed. A spacious closet provided ample storage for Isabelle's wardrobe, neatly organized and easily accessible.

A small balcony extended from the living room, offering a breath of fresh air and a glimpse of the cityscape below. Isabelle often found solace on this balcony, enjoying her morning coffee or watching the sunset after a long day.

In its entirety, Isabelle's apartment was a stylish and comfortable haven, a reflection of her taste and personality. It provided a respite from the outside world, allowing her to unwind, reflect, and gather her thoughts in the midst of her intricate life.

After settling down Isabelle went to the water dispenser, drank a glass of warm water to calm her nerves, and fell into deep thought, leaning against the wall with her cup in hand.

She had always been discreet about her investigation into the Ace family, so where did things go wrong? How did Matthew find out? After finishing her glass of water, Isabelle headed to the bathroom.

The bathroom exuded a spa-like ambiance with clean lines and modern fixtures. A pristine bathtub stood adjacent to a glass-enclosed shower, offering a choice for relaxation or a quick invigorating rinse. A vanity with a sleek countertop and a large mirror completed the space.

As the warm shower water cascaded down from above, Isabelle looked up to receive it, realizing that she needed to slow down her investigation.

Otherwise, it could easily entangle her. After showering, Isabelle went to bed to rest. Before sleeping, she sent out a message: "Stop investigating the Ace family for now, I will explain later."