Forbidden Desires

Chapter :71 A chance encounter

Amber's POV
"Intuition doesn't tell you what you want to hear; it tells you what you need to hear."
— Sonia Choquette

Amber finally returned home from shopping, the crisp city air still lingering on her skin. She had been drowning in wedding preparations and desperately needed a moment to step away, to feel the wind against her, to clear her mind. Today, she had picked up her second dress for the reception—a small indulgence she told herself she deserved.

Andy had been busier than ever, and she couldn't shake the feeling that there was something he wasn't telling her. As she stepped out of the car, a satisfied sigh left her lips—shopping had done its job. But as she handed her bags to Joel, her trusted driver and companion since childhood, her thoughts drifted back to her.

Gabriella Baldwin.

For weeks now, her name had lingered in Amber's mind like an unfinished melody. There was something about her—something Amber couldn't quite place. Meeting her in person should have put her unease to rest, but it had only made it worse.

She was stunning—tall and effortlessly elegant, with a slender frame that radiated grace. Her long, dark curls framed a face so striking it was impossible to ignore. Deep hazel eyes, rich with warmth and mystery, contrasted beautifully against her sun-kissed complexion. And then there was her voice—soft, with the slightest lilt of a Spanish accent, carrying a quiet confidence that demanded attention.

Amber turned to Joel as he carried her bags inside. "I need a favor," she said, her tone measured.

He paused, giving her his full attention.

"That woman I met earlier—Miss Baldwin. Ever since my mother invited her to my wedding, I haven't been able to shake this feeling. I need you to look into her background. The sooner, the better. I just want to make sure the people working for us are trustworthy."

Joel gave a slight nod. "Of course, Madame."

Amber hesitated before adding, "And, Joel... keep this between us. I don't want my parents finding out—not unless there's something worth knowing."

"Understood."

As Amber ascended the stairs, a weight lifted off her shoulders. Maybe it was nothing—just a hunch—but she had to be sure.

It wasn't uncommon for people to share a last name. But Gabriella Baldwin... the resemblance to Aiden was uncanny. And not just her features—her mannerisms, the way she held herself, the way her eyes carried something familiar. It didn't sit right with her.

Amber sighed, dropping her shopping bags on the floor before collapsing onto her bed. It's just a feeling. I could be wrong.

She rolled onto her side and picked up her phone, dialing Karlie.

"Hey, lovey," Karlie greeted when she answered.

"How was your doctor's appointment?"

Karlie let out a soft, happy sigh. "Everything was great. You should've been there to hear their heartbeats."

Amber's lips curled into a smile. "So, I take it you're finally ready to tell the parents? Both yours and Anthony's?"

Karlie hesitated before responding, her voice breaking slightly. "Yes."

Amber's brows knitted in concern. "Are you okay, love?"

"Yes," Karlie exhaled, "It's just the hormones. I'm so overwhelmed with happiness."

"Oh, sweetie, I'm so glad it went well."

Karlie sniffled lightly, then quickly shifted the conversation. "Enough about me. Let's talk wedding. Are you ready for your big day?"