The Tycoon's Secret Wife's Escape

CHAPTER 1: Fading Affection

Isabella's gaze met Grayson; the tension was palpable as her audacious proposal hung between them.

"You heard me right, Mr. Grayson Blake. I'm offering to be your wife," she reiterated.

"And what do you get in return?" he asked, his voice edged with curiosity after a

brief pause.

"I-I want out of the entertainment industry that's been holding me captive; I need two hundred million."

In two swift strides, Grayson closed the gap between them. Isabella found herself backing up until cool plaster met her shoulder blades. His proximity was overwhelming, his scent intoxicating. She swallowed hard, feeling herself melt under the intensity of his gaze.

"But a wife is expected to fulfill all her duties," he murmured, his lips curving into a wolfish grin, "Including intimacy." A cold shiver ran down Isabella's spine as the words sank in.

***

Isabella

I just finished my scene for "Whispers of the Heart," a romance drama series where I have a small but important role. The show will premiere on major streaming platforms next season and is getting much attention.

Not far from where I'm standing, I spot Gabriel Sterling, the lead actor, sharing a hearty laugh with Sabrina Morrison. People have been discussing a possible real- life romance between them for the past two years because of their on-screen chemistry.

The public has adored them since a live interview two years ago when Sabrina blushed the moment she first saw Gabriel. And, humbly, my boyfriend didn't embarrass her.

That's right! Gabriel became my fiancé two years ago when he proposed to me— right around the time he signed a contract to show affection with Sabrina publicly.

I should be used to seeing their on-screen sweetness by now-the stolen glances and tender touches-but every scene still stings, a sharp reminder of the cost of fame and the secrets we carry.

My talent manager, Sophia, a petite woman, approached me. "Your scenes are wrapped for today. The crew also mentioned you're free to head home now."

Sophia escorted me to my vehicle. She efficiently arranged my belongings in the back, ensuring everything was in order.

As I settled into the plush leather of the front passenger seat, Sophia hesitated.

"Anyway..." she began, taking a deep breath before continuing, "Uh, I heard there will be multiple bed scenes for the main cast in this series. They're scheduled to start filming next week."

"What?" I exclaimed, raising my voice in disbelief. "Why wasn't I informed about this?"

“Isa, this series is a mature romance, not meant for young audiences," Sophia says gently but firmly. "There will be intimate scenes in some episodes."

"But Gabriel didn't mention any of this to me," I replied.

Sophia's eyes softened with understanding. "Maybe he didn't want you to think poorly of him or worry unnecessarily."

That is the case as always-I'm the one who constantly worries.

"Gabriel has never accepted bed scenes in the past," I muse, almost to myself. "Why would he agree to them now?"

Sophia stayed quiet, knowing when to give me space. She started the engine, and the car filled with a low hum. She could tell I was exhausted from being on set for 48 grueling hours, waiting for my scenes to wrap up. The long days and nights had turned into a blur of bright lights and repeated takes.

I closed my eyes, trying to find a moment of peace. But even in the darkness behind my eyelids, I can't escape the dull ache in my chest.noveldrama

Sophia said goodbye after dropping me off at the fancy skyscraper building where Gabriel and I lived. He proposed to me two years ago, and I agreed to move in with him instead of renting a separate place.

Falling asleep, I only woke up when darkness had settled in, startled by rustling sounds in the room. Gabriel's green eyes greeted me. He was standing at the door, looking bothered.

His usual sweetness was long gone. "Uh..." he cleared his throat.

"Gabriel, I heard you'll be having bed scenes with Sabrina," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. Not wanting to sound like I was interrogating him, my voice shook a bit, especially since this was something he should have told me himself.

"Yes." He approached me and acted like everything was normal, and that I had nothing to worry about. I instinctively pulled away when he tried to kiss me on the cheek. Gabriel frowned, his brow furrowing deeply.

"Isa, this is a romance series! Besides, didn't you already know about this since you also signed the contract as part of the cast?"

The heat rose to my temples. "Gabriel, I have a small role! I was there when the director and writer explained the overall plot of this series, but not the specific scenes, especially since I'm not one of the main actors! You should have told me about it before accepting this role!”

"Isa, I'm tired!" he murmured, exhaustion clear on his face. "Come on, I don't want to argue. The intimate scenes are part of the role. I'm the lead and must accept whatever scenes they give me."

Looking at him, I felt a wave of exhaustion wash over me. It wasn't just physical tiredness but an emotional weariness that seemed to seep into my bones. I never felt that he truly valued my feelings or considered how his actions affected me.

"Gabriel, let's break up."