Seduction In Ink

Chapter 14

Shadows of Love

Isabella and Tyler savored their dinner together, the warm glow of candlelight casting soft shadows on their faces. Yet, despite the comforting ambiance, Tyler appeared lost in thought, his gaze distant.

"Is the food okay?" Isabella asked, breaking the silence and tilting her head in concern.

Tyler blinked, startled from his reverie. "Oh, yeah, it's great," he replied, forcing a slight smile, though his mind lingered elsewhere. He took another bite, relishing the flavors but still distracted.

Isabella noticed his preoccupied demeanor. "Everything alright? You seem a bit off tonight."

He met her concerned gaze, a flicker of guilt passing through him. "Sorry, I've just been thinking a lot today."

To lighten the mood, Isabella attempted to distract him. "I hope my food may bring you back to reality."

A small smile tugged at Tyler's lips as he looked at her. "It helps," he said appreciatively, though the weight on his mind remained.

As they continued eating, Isabella decided to share something that had been on her mind. "Tyler," she began hesitantly, "I received a new review for my novel today."

Tyler's interest was piqued. "Oh? What did it say?"

Isabella recounted the review from the enigmatic TS, her voice tinged with excitement. "It felt so personal—like this person truly connected with my writing."

Tyler listened intently, his gaze fixed on her with admiration. "That's wonderful, Isabella. It's gratifying when someone appreciates your work on such a personal level."

A smile blossomed on her face. "Yes, it is. It got me wondering... Have you ever received feedback like that?"

Tyler's expression grew thoughtful. "Sometimes, yes. But usually, it's more about how my work impacts people's lives rather than that intimate connection."

"That's amazing," Isabella said, genuine admiration lighting her eyes. "To touch someone's life through your work is truly special."

His gaze softened further. "You have that gift too, Isabella. Your writing reaches people in ways they might not even realize."

Her heart warmed at his words. She appreciated his presence at moments like these. "Thank you, Tyler," she said softly, meeting his eyes. "That means a lot coming from you."

Their conversation was interrupted by the buzz of Tyler's phone. He glanced at the screen, his brow furrowing as he read the message.

"Sorry, it's a text from the caretaker," he said, his tone shifting. "I hired someone to look after your house in Batangas. The caretaker mentioned fixing a broken pipe."

Isabella smiled warmly, relieved. "That's good to hear. Thank you for taking care of my home."

"It's nothing," Tyler replied with a gentle smile, but his expression grew serious as he continued reading.

"Sir, a man inquired about Isabella's whereabouts," the message read. "He claimed to be a relative and wanted to know her address. When I asked his name, he left without answering."

A chill ran down Tyler's spine as he processed the information. His protective instincts surged. He clenched his jaw, his hand instinctively tightening over her thigh as a wave of concern washed over him. This stalker is serious about finding Isabella, he thought, a dark cloud of worry forming in his mind.

Isabella noticed the shift in his demeanor. "What's wrong, Tyler?" She asked, worried, squeezing his hand.

Tyler took a deep breath, attempting to calm the storm of emotions inside him. "It's nothing, Isabella. Just some unsettling news from the caretaker."

Her frown deepened. "Unsettling news? What happened? Another piping issue?" she asked, her voice dropping to a whisper. "Should I be concerned about the house renovations?"

Tyler hesitated, weighing the decision to share more. She deserved to know, but he wanted to shield her from unnecessary fear.

"It seems someone was asking about your whereabouts, claiming to be a relative," he explained, his voice tight with concern. "But he left without giving his name."

Isabella's eyes widened in alarm. "A relative? I don't have any relatives who would be asking. Who could it be?"

Tyler recalled the detective's findings that Isabella had no known relatives. "I don't know. Maybe your family is from another country or has just a few members."

"Do you think a friend might know about my house in Batangas?" Isabella asked, perplexed. "Who could it be?"

Tyler shook his head, his mind racing. "I'm not sure, but we need to be cautious. If someone is searching for you under the guise of being a relative, it's concerning."

Isabella nodded, her fear palpable. "What should we do?"

Tyler squeezed her hand reassuringly. "First, we'll make sure security here is tight. I think it's best if you stay with me until we figure out who this guy is."

A wave of relief washed over Isabella. Despite the uncertainty, she felt safe with him. "Thank you, Tyler," she said softly, gratitude flooding her voice. "I feel much better knowing you're here."

Tyler smiled warmly. "Always, Isabella. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe."

At that moment, they realized they could face any challenge together, fortified by each other's warmth and love.

Later that night, Allysa and Zek found themselves in a crowded club, the pulsating music and flashing lights creating an electric atmosphere. They managed to secure a quieter corner, allowing them to converse amidst the lively chaos.

Allysa sipped her martini, her gaze sweeping the dance floor. "Zek, Tyler has been acting so strange lately," she remarked, a hint of annoyance creeping into her voice.

Zek leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Strange how?"

"He's completely changed since Isabella came into his life," she continued, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "He used to be all about work, but now he's different."

Zek raised an eyebrow, studying her. "Different how?"

"He's softer, more... romantic," she replied, rolling her eyes. "It's like he's a different person."

Zek chuckled at her irritation. "Maybe he's just in love. It happens."

Allysa scoffed, swirling her drink. "Love? Tyler Sterling doesn't do love."

Zek shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "People change, Allysa. You should know that."

She shot him a skeptical look. "And what about Isabella? What's so special about her?"

Zek's expression softened. "She's a wonderful person."

Allysa's eyes gleamed with mischief. "Oh, do I sense a little crush, Zek? Are you smitten with Isabella?"

Zek laughed, shaking his head. "I just think she's decent, unlike some people."

Allysa narrowed her eyes playfully. "Decent, huh? Is that how you see her? Not like me, I suppose." She took another sip of her cocktail.

"No decent woman would live with a man if they weren't married," she stated, her dissatisfaction evident.

"Did you live in Maria Clara's time?" Zek teased. "Times have changed. There's nothing wrong with living together. Being envious of someone with less rights is wrong."

Allysa sighed, annoyed by his indifference. "You're always a mood breaker, Zek," she said, rolling her eyes.

Zek chuckled, clearly enjoying their banter. "Let's just say she's a refreshing change from your usual type, Allysa."

Allysa laughed. "I'll take your word for it. Isabella annoys me, though."

Zek shrugged, a knowing smile on his face. "You're entitled to your opinion, Allysa. But trust me, Isabella is a good person."

It got later at night, the music kept going, and they kept talking, as usual using their unique mix of humor and intelligence.