Seduction In Ink

Chapter 16

Rainy Day Retreat: Secrets Unveiled

The sound of raindrops drummed against the roof as Tyler and Isabela stepped into the cozy embrace of the secluded hut. Nestled in the countryside, far from the city's clamor, it was a hidden gem—exactly the kind of place Tyler knew would surprise Isabela. She looked at him, a mix of curiosity and delight sparkling in her eyes.

"Why are we here?" she asked, surveying their picturesque surroundings.

Tyler smiled warmly. "I wanted you to meet someone special to me—someone who has been a part of my life since childhood."

Isabela's eyes widened as she spotted a familiar figure in the distance. "Oh my God! My fish and shrimp!" she exclaimed, her joy palpable as she exited the car.

Tyler chuckled, observing an elderly woman waving energetically from a nearby chicken coop. He waved back and then turned to Isabela, who was eagerly heading toward the woman.

"Thank goodness the seafood hasn't gone bad yet," Isabela said, her voice light with relief. "I would have packed it with ice if I'd known we were going on a long trip."

Tyler took the eco-bag from her and gently led her by the hand. "Let's go see Nana."

Despite her age, Nana promptly left the coop to greet them. When she saw Tyler, her eyes sparkled with love, and her face lit up with happiness.

"Tyler, what brings you here today? Did Ezekiel give you more trouble?" Nana's voice was both concerned and caring.

"Not today, Nana," Tyler replied with a grin.

Nana's gaze shifted to Isabela, scrutinizing her with curiosity and caution. The intensity of her gaze made Isabela feel slightly uneasy.

"Thank goodness you're not that other woman," Nana said, adjusting her glasses. "What's your name again?"

"This is Isabela, my..." Tyler began.

"Secretary," Isabela interjected smoothly.

"Secretary?" Nana's eyebrows rose in surprise, glancing between Tyler and Isabela.

"I brought seafood from the market," Isabela explained. "I'd like to wash and cook it if possible. It'd be a shame for it to spoil."

"The kitchen at the back of the house is available," Nana said. "Feel free to use it."

Isabela left Tyler and Nana, racing to the kitchen without waiting for instructions.

Tyler followed Nana, who watched Isabela's every move with keen interest. When they were alone, Tyler whispered, "Maybe she'll charm you so much that I'll have to keep her."

Nana looked at him, curiosity piqued. "Where did you meet her?"

"She's a renowned writer," Tyler replied. "Her identity is a mystery to her fans."

"Are you in a relationship with her?" Nana asked inquisitively.

Tyler smiled. "It seems you're evaluating my girlfriend."

"Thank goodness she's not that woman. What's her name? Eloisa?" Nana inquired.

"Allysa," Tyler clarified. "Her name is Allysa."

Nana nodded in approval. "Good. I'd rather not see her again."

The sound of heavy rain began to pour outside, creating a rhythmic patter against the windows. Startled by the sudden downpour, Nana hurried outside to check on something.

Tyler took the opportunity to approach Isabela, who was absorbed in preparing the meal. He slid his arms around her waist from behind, drawing her close. His lips brushed against her neck as he whispered, "What's this? An unspoken invitation to enjoy the storm?"