OFF LIMITS

The moment Bella Conclin stepped out of Los Angeles International Airport, a cool breeze brushed against her face. She paused for a second, taking a deep breath as she looked up at the bright California sky. A new country. A new city. A completely new life. For a brief moment, she glanced back at the airport behind her. “Goodbye, France…” she whispered to herself before a small smile curved on her lips. Everything that had happened in France was now a memory she had chosen to leave behind. There were still countless dreams waiting for her. Finishing her diploma at one of California’s most prestigious colleges. Joining a professional dance academy. Starting a modeling career. This was her chance to become the woman she had always dreamed of being. Just then, a black luxury SUV pulled up in front of her. A middle-aged man stepped out and respectfully smiled. “Miss Bella?” Bella nodded. “I’m Daniel, your father’s driver. Welcome to California.” “My flight was exhausting,” Bella laughed softly. “Please… take me home.” “Of course, Miss.” Daniel loaded her luggage before opening the passenger door. As the SUV drove through the city, Bella couldn’t take her eyes off the window. Towering palm trees lined the streets. Luxury boutiques, crowded cafés, and the endless blue ocean stretched across the horizon. California was even more beautiful than she had imagined. Noticing her fascination, Daniel smiled. “Your house is even better, Miss Bella. It’s only a few minutes away from the beach. Your father specifically chose it because he knew you’d love the ocean.” Bella looked at him before smiling gratefully. “He knows me too well.” Nearly thirty minutes later, the SUV stopped in front of a beautiful two-story beach house. Bella slowly stepped out. The sound of crashing waves filled the peaceful evening air. Large glass windows reflected the golden sunset, while a spacious balcony overlooked the ocean. For several seconds… She simply stood there. Speechless. “It’s… beautiful,” she whispered. Daniel smiled proudly. “I’m glad you like it, Miss.” Inside, the house was already perfectly arranged. Everything had been prepared before her arrival. After helping her with the luggage, Daniel politely excused himself. “Starting tomorrow, a permanent cook and housekeeper will be working here. Your father arranged everything.” “Thank you.” Once he left, Bella walked through every corner of the house, admiring its elegant interior before finally stepping onto the balcony. The cool sea breeze played with her hair as she watched the sun slowly disappear beyond the horizon. For the first time in years… She felt hopeful. Later that evening, Bella explored the neighborhood, bought a few groceries, returned home, cooked herself a simple dinner, and checked her email. A smile instantly spread across her face. Congratulations! Your application to New Spring College has been accepted. She would officially begin classes tomorrow. Without wasting another second, she video-called her father. “I love the house,” Bella said excitedly. “I’m happy you do,” her father replied with a warm smile. “Take care of yourself. Eat properly, and don’t skip breakfast.” Bella laughed. “I won’t.” After talking for nearly an hour, she finally went to bed, exhausted from the long journey. ⸻ The next morning… Ding. Dong. Bella groaned as the doorbell echoed through the quiet house. Still half asleep, she opened the door to find a middle-aged woman standing outside with a gentle smile. “Good morning, Miss Bella. My name is Lisa. Your father hired me to be your cook and housekeeper.” Bella smiled warmly. “Welcome, Lisa. Please, come in.” After showing her around the house, Bella stretched lazily. “I haven’t even unpacked my luggage yet,” she admitted. “I have college at nine, so please wake me up at eight.” “Of course.” “Oh… and one more thing.” Lisa looked at her. “I drink tea in the morning.” Lisa chuckled. “I’ll remember that.” ⸻ At exactly eight o’clock, Bella woke up to Lisa gently knocking on her bedroom door. To her surprise… Her entire room had already been organized. Her college uniform had been neatly ironed. Breakfast was waiting downstairs. Bella looked at Lisa with wide eyes. “You did all this?” Lisa smiled. “It’s my job.” Bella grinned. “Then you’re getting a huge tip at the end of the month.” “You don’t have to.” “I know,” Bella laughed. “But I want to.” She insisted Lisa join her for breakfast. Although hesitant at first, Lisa eventually accepted. ⸻ New Spring College was even more impressive than Bella had expected. Hundreds of students filled the campus. She suddenly felt nervous. What if I don’t fit in? Inside the classroom, the professor introduced her to everyone. “This is Bella Conclin. She recently moved here from France.” Immediately, whispers spread across the room. “France?” “No wonder she’s gorgeous.” “A French beauty…” One boy even winked at her. Bella awkwardly looked away. “Who would like Bella to sit with them?” the professor asked. Several hands shot into the air. Then one cheerful voice rose above the others. “Me!” Bella turned toward the girl. She had a bright smile that instantly made her feel comfortable. “I’m Emmy,” she said after class. “Welcome to California.” Bella smiled. “I’m Bella.” The two girls spent the rest of the afternoon talking, laughing, and getting to know each other. For the first time since leaving France… Bella didn’t feel alone anymore. A week later, as they walked across campus together, Emmy suddenly asked, “Are you free this Saturday?” “I think so. Why?” “My family is having a barbecue party at our house.” Bella hesitated. “Isn’t that… a family event?” Emmy rolled her eyes dramatically. “Exactly. Which means you’re coming.” Bella laughed. “I don’t want to intrude.” “You won’t. My parents are super friendly. Especially my mom. She’ll love you.” After several minutes of convincing… Bella finally agreed. She had no idea… That accepting this single invitation would change her life forever. Or that behind the doors of the Jacob mansion… She was about to meet the one man she was never supposed to love.