The Contract

Chapter 154-The Dilemma

Tuesday.

And I was out here feeling like the girl next door, I was in a pretty white dress, my hair in a sleek ponytail, a clipboard in my arms as I ticked things off.

The Fidel Mansion sat nestled in the rolling hills of Sierra Madre, surrounded by towering oaks and lush greenery that gave it a secluded, storybook charm. Though vast and undeniably grand, the house exuded a warmth that softened its extravagance, blending luxury with the inviting allure of a countryside cottage. The exterior was crafted from aged stone and rich, dark wood, its steep gabled rooflines and ivy-draped walls reminiscent of a European s hidden deep in the woods.

A cobblestone path winded its way through vibrant gardens filled with wildflowers, lavender, and carefully tended rose bushes, leading to an arched oak door adorned with wrought-iron accents. Large, mullioned windows allow golden light to spill out, glowing warmly against the cool evening air. Stone chimneys rise from the roof, with faint traces of smoke curling into the sky, hinting at roaring fireplaces inside.

The sprawling estate didn't lack for luxury, with secluded gardens, an elegant greenhouse, and a private pond shimmering just beyond the house. Lanterns hung on wrought-iron posts illuminate the pathways, making the Fidel Mansion felt like a hidden woodland castle—a place where wealth meets the charm of an enchanted cottage.

And as promised, Theo was by the side cutting out woods to add to the pile in the fireplace. I haven't seen Kourtney all morning since she went in tour with Trevor, I hope she still remembered she was still dating my cousin.

The wedding was in two days and I really appreciate the family for putting all hands on deck. The Aunties were giving orders to some of the attendants while I made sure everything we ordered was all offloaded.

"Hey" I turned to see Theo, he was holding out a can to me, still shirtless with the axe in his hand. "Hey" I replied, flirtily.

"Here, I figured, you'll need this. You've been walking so hard" he said, holding out the orange drink. "Oh, that's so sweet" I appreciated, taking it from him. I would have preferred apple drink though.

"So, how is the work going?" He inquired, "Everything is going great"

"Hello?!" Someone called out and we both turned, some chick in a black dress and shades, stepped out of a car, "Diamond!" Theo called out, dropping the axe before walking to her.

I watched as she took a step back, avoiding the hug he offered. Who was that? While I thought of that, I popped open the can and took a gulp.

Where were the girls? We were supposed to finish the dress fitting this evening. They both turned and their eyes shot to me, Theo led her forward to where I stood and she finally took off her glasses, revealing her face fully.

She was shooting me a flinty look, I didn't even know who she was. "You're Bethany's family?" She asked. "Yes, I'm Pearl" I answered but she scoffed before muttering, "I didn't know she had that"

My breath hitched at that statement and my jaw hardened. "This is Diamond, the youngest in the family" Theo introduced.

"I guess every family does have a bitchy sister" I muttered too but more audibly so she heard and she gasped, "Excuse you"

"I'm also the wedding planner, I'm glad you could join us on time. So, are you one of the bridesmaid?" I inquired and she tore her gaze from mine, her features stoic.

"I don't have a choice" she replied. "Is Steven gonna be joining us?" Theo asked and she hissed, putting back on her glasses. "Yes, I'll be in" with that she headed in and my gaze followed her.