Forced Marriage: My Wife, My Redemption by Lilyheart

Chapter 290: Is something going on?

~Grand Duke Hotels~

Jessica’s car glided smoothly through the tall gates of the Grand Duke Hotel. The polished black vehicle reflected the golden afternoon light as she slowed near the entrance.

A uniformed valet stepped forward with a slight bow, ready to assist. The hotel’s towering glass exterior shimmered in the sunlight, while the flower beds lining the driveway released a delicate, pleasant scent.

She parked expertly, her fingers steady on the wheel before switching off the engine. Taking a breath, she reached for her phone and dialed.

The call connected on the first ring.

"I’ve arrived," she said simply.

She stepped out of the car, dressed in loose jeans and a flowing top that concealed her pregnancy with subtle elegance. The outfit gave her a relaxed, almost youthful appearance.

Her eyes scanned the environment, sharp and alert beneath the rim of her cap, noting every corner and crevice as if expecting something—or someone—to emerge. Only after ensuring it was safe did she proceed.

Her heels stepped softly on the pavement as she made her way toward the grand revolving doors. With a gentle push, she entered, heading straight for the elevator and pressing the button for the fifth floor—the designated meeting venue.

With a soft ding, the elevator doors slid open. She stepped out with quiet grace.

Waiting just outside was Richard. The moment he saw her, he sighed in relief and approached with a warm smile.

"It’s been a while," he said, pulling her into a brief, brotherly hug.

"Haven’t we been talking the whole time?" she replied with a raised brow.

"I never said we haven’t. But it’s been a while since I saw you in person." A flicker of sadness crossed his eyes—brief but noticeable.

He had long made peace with the fact that whatever feelings he once had for her would never be returned. Their bond was forged in loyalty and trust, not romance. Maybe that was always how it was meant to be—siblings by choice, not blood.

Jessica caught the look and frowned. "Richie... what’s going on?"

masking the

another second, then nodded, deciding to let it slide. "So... are we

pushing the door open to the

cap cast a shadow over her face, giving her an air of mystery. She moved like a silent force, her posture composed

table at the center, surrounded by high-backed leather chairs. The lighting was

and snacks. A sleek screen on the wall was prepped for presentations.

closed behind her, heads turned. Quiet murmurs broke

"Whao... she’s so young."

"She’s the boss?"

get to see her

even knows her real name.

curiosity. But Jessica remained calm, scanning the room

begin," she said softly, her voice like silk—but every syllable carried

the younger men shifted in their seats, their composure cracking briefly under the

summary of the meeting’s purpose. When he

lightly on her notepad and glanced toward the

her tone clipped and authoritative. "We’re less than twenty-four hours from showtime. This year’s event shouldn’t just be good—it has to be unforgettable. So, we’re going to run through every critical point. No detail

tension in the room thickened. Everyone present knew what was at stake. Success meant prestige. Failure... well,

event manager. "Darren, I understand you’re handling the venue. How confident are

sound checks are ongoing tonight. Seating arranged according to VIP protocols. Backup generators are in

she asked,

Darren walked them through the security contingencies, exit placements, and staff deployment in case of

a few notes, her expression

the logistics manager,

are underway. Designers and their collections are secure. Transportation for the materials is confirmed for 6 AM tomorrow. Contingency plans are ready in case of

precision. Adjustments were made on the spot. Replacements assigned. The meeting proceeded

the session, Jessica turned to Phil. "Have five backup models on standby—just in case. If we don’t need them, Richard

nodded. They

walkthrough concluded, the day had slipped away