The CEO’s Hidden Bride: Leaving After 2555 Days - Chapter 12: Chapter 12

Dominic’s cryptic announcement left the group in stunned silence. The moment he hinted at something major unfolding, they scrambled into the car without hesitation.
The entire ride was filled with relentless questioning, but Dominic remained tight-lipped. His only reaction was the occasional glance thrown Lucas’s way—furtive, weighted.
Their destination? A dimly lit bar none of them recognized.
Just before stepping out, Dominic shoved Lucas forward, his voice low and urgent. "Lucas, I’ve been hearing whispers for weeks. I tried ignoring them, but I can’t anymore. Whatever happens in there—don’t blame me. I’m doing this for you."
Lucas’s smile faltered. He and his friends had been inseparable since childhood. Hearing Dominic sound so grave sent a chill down his spine.
Pausing at the entrance, Lucas took a breath before pushing the doors open.
Inside, the bar throbbed with life—neon lights flashing, bass-heavy music vibrating through the floor. A single spotlight illuminated the stage, where a couple was lost in a heated embrace.
Even from across the room, Lucas recognized Isabella instantly. Adrian had her pinned against him, her fingers tangled in his hair, her lips locked with his. The sight was nothing like the composed, untouchable heiress they all knew.
For a heartbeat, the group at the door stood frozen, the raucous cheers around them fading into white noise.
"Damn, she just left the hospital and she’s already going wild. How long have they been at it? Do they even come up for air?"
"Relax, they’re dating. What’s the big deal? Or are you jealous?"
"Wait, didn’t Bella and Adrian get together months ago? And they’re still this obsessed? Think it’ll last longer than her thing with Lucas?"
"Who knows with Bella? She’s probably just playing games. Look at Lucas—she dumped him years ago, but the second she wants attention, she yanks him back like a damn yo-yo."
Lucas’s friends stiffened at the taunts from Isabella’s crowd. They weren’t about to let that slide. Shoving through the throng, they stormed the stage.
One killed the music. Another flicked on all the lights. The rest closed in on the couple, still tangled in each other. The bar’s energy shattered in an instant.
Isabella jerked back, her expression darkening as she took in the intruders. Her gaze darted around—no sign of Lucas. A flicker of relief crossed her face before her eyes turned icy.
"How the hell did you get in here? I didn’t invite you."
Lucas’s friends scoffed. "Public place, sweetheart. You don’t own it."
"Or maybe you’re hiding because you don’t want us running back to Lucas about your little love nest?"
Isabella’s lips curled. "And why would I care if Lucas knows? He’s married. Last I checked, exes don’t get a say in my love life."
The group erupted in mocking cheers.
A cold dread slithered down Isabella’s spine when they grinned instead of arguing. Something was wrong. Before she could demand answers, they struck first.
"All this time, you’ve been playing the heartbroken ex, pretending you still cared. But the truth’s out now, huh? Six months with Adrian, yet you’ve been stringing Lucas along. Pathetic."
Adrian’s grip on her tightened, his expression hardening. Isabella’s pulse spiked—this wasn’t part of the plan.
Clenching her jaw, she sneered, "Please. Lucas is the one who wouldn’t let go. Like a stray dog begging for scraps. I left him three years ago—that’s why I ditched the wedding. Not some ‘study abroad’ lie. The only man I want is Adrian."
"So that’s really how you feel?"
Isabella lifted her chin. "Every word. I’d say it to his face if he were here."
Silence.
Then, in eerie unison, Lucas’s friends stepped aside, clearing a path.
Isabella’s stomach dropped. Her gaze snapped to the doorway—and there he stood.
The entire room held its breath.