THE ELUSIVE HEIRESS

Chapter 6- Unexpected Feelings

Mrs. Ryan’s POV

I left Nora at the event auditorium after introducing her to Collins. She seemed genuinely happy, animated even, while discussing business with him. I have faith Collins will honor our agreement better than anyone else. But what weighs on my mind isn’t the deal, it’s Nora’s heart. Why hasn’t she married yet? That’s the question I’m determined to answer.

She’s almost thirty, and it’s high time she settled down, built a family, things I believe will bring her the stability she needs. Collins is my chosen key to unlock this door. I trust him to carry out this delicate mission, to get close enough to learn why Nora keeps rejecting suitors. When he reports back, I’ll release the funds immediately, he’ll be well compensated for this.

Marriage isn’t just tradition to me; it’s the foundation for Nora’s peace of mind, her future happiness. I plan to counsel her once I understand the root of her resistance. If I can guide her through this, I’ll feel like I’ve done my duty as a mother.

After these thoughts swirled for a while, a yawn escaped me. I stood up from the couch in the quiet living room and headed to my bedroom, ready to rest and face another day.

Later, James arrived

The soft crunch of tires on the driveway was followed by the car pulling smoothly into the garage. James stepped out immediately, opening the door for Nora.

“Thank you,” she said politely, stepping out and walking toward the grand entrance.

Though the night had settled dark and deep, the mansion was a beacon, every corner lit, radiating warmth and power.

Inside, Nora felt both exhausted and exhilarated. She made her way to her room, peeled off the day’s weariness, and sank into a steaming shower. Afterwards, clad in soft nightwear, she rested her head on her pillow. But sleep wouldn’t come easy, Collins’s presence lingered in her thoughts like a melody.

Her phone buzzed sharply. She reached over, heart pounding, and saw his name glowing on the screen. A sudden thrill shot through her as she answered, and to her surprise, it was a video call.

Nora’s POV

“Hello, dear. Just wanted to check if you arrived safely,” Collins' calm voice rang in my ear, making my heart beat faster.

“Yes, I’m already in bed,” I said, smiling uncontrollably. “I hope you remember our appointment tomorrow?”

“Absolutely,” he replied warmly. “I’ll be there. Please send my greetings to your mother.”

“I will. Thank you. Good night, Collins.”

“Good night, Nora. Sleep well.”

The call lingered, neither of us speaking, just smiling, eyes locked in quiet connection. It felt like there was something unsaid, but both of us seemed hesitant to cross that invisible boundary too soon.

“Bye, Nora,” Collins finally said, his smile lingering.

“Bye, Collins.” I waved before ending the call, my heart fluttering in the silence.

Collins’ POV

Nora Ryan, so beautiful, intelligent, and graceful. She’s unlike any woman I’ve met: hardworking, thoughtful, calm. Two days ago, her mother entrusted me with a sensitive task, discovering why her daughter remains unmarried. I have two weeks to uncover the truth and report back.

One hundred thousand dollars is on the line, but that’s just the surface. I need that money to fund my new business venture, but more importantly, I need to gain Nora’s trust. It won’t be easy, she’s cautious, guarded. But nothing worthwhile ever is. I will play this game carefully, get close to her, and succeed.

Nora’s POV

After waving goodbye to Collins and ending the call, I laid back on my pillow, a soft smile playing on my lips. He’s so caring, I thought, eyes closing as I pictured his handsome face in my mind.

Am I falling in love so quickly? Why do I feel this happiness every time I talk to him? I gasped softly, heart fluttering. If he is truly meant for me, I cannot deny it. My heart knows it, I love him already. Or is this just love at first sight? I chuckled to myself, eyes drifting open toward the city lights shimmering beyond my glass-walled room.

I tried to shake off the restless feelings and coax myself to sleep. I have important plans to focus on tomorrow, dreams that can’t be distracted by a man I just met.

Still, I kept my eyes open, gazing out at the glowing city, letting a new hope settle gently in my heart: the hope of meeting someone special.