Substitute Wife For The Blind CEO
Chapter 93: Done With The Pretense

Chapter 93: Done With The Pretense

Eliana sat in her car, parked a little away from the gate of Stefan’s estate. Her hands tapped lightly on the steering wheel as she stared at the house in the distance. She had been sitting there for a while, not ready to drive off just yet.

She’d wanted to leave right after the episode in Stefan’s house but she’d been unable to leave, her mind still stuck on the events.

Stefan had kicked her out. No warning, no chance to explain. Just cold, hard rejection without even listening much to her after all the effort she’d put into getting that opportunity to speak to him.

She wouldn’t give up just like that. Never. Her efforts wouldn’t go to waste and she’d make sure to carry out her plan and succeed at it whether Stefan liked it or not. She’d think of what to do and how to get Stefan close even if it meant drugging him just like Ivy had planned. And Ivy?

Her lips pressed into a tight line. So, Ivy now knew everything.

She exhaled, the breath shaky but not from regret. Not even from fear or guilt. If anything, it was relief.

"Good," she muttered under her breath, flipping her hair over one shoulder. "I’m glad she knows now."

She was tired of the act—tired of pretending to like that overbearing, self-righteous girl. Ivy Quinn had always walked around like she owned the world just because Stefan loved her. Even when she abandoned him, even when she disappeared, everyone still looked at her like she was some kind of victim.

Eliana rolled her eyes. "Please."

She had only stayed on Ivy’s good side for one reason—what she benefited from her which logically was from Stefan. Being close to Ivy meant recieving all the good things. But now?

The gloves were off. Ivy was no longer in favor with Stefan and he would in no time divorce her so why still suck up to her? It was best to get the good life direct from the source which was Stefan and now, Ivy knew that plan, and the pretense was over.

Eliana didn’t care anymore. She could be herself now—clever, charming, and undeniably more deserving of Stefan since she was someone entirely new. It was an opportunity fate had presented to her and she’d use it well. freew\e bnovel.com

Then, just as she was about to leave so she could go home and think her next step, Stefan’s sleek black car eased down the driveway and onto the road.

He didn’t even glance in her direction. Her eyes followed him as he drove off. She waited a few seconds, then started her engine and slowly followed him. She kept two cars between them, just to be safe.

Where was he going? It was getting late.

She had a strong feeling he was heading somewhere private. Somewhere he thought no one would follow.

But I will, she thought, turning on the car’s engine. Why wouldn’t he leave after that episode? He was troubled and he probably needed peace. It was her time to take control of things.

Infact, this was a sign that fate was definitely on her side.

Without thinking twice, she got on the road and followed him discreetly.

She trailed him through the quiet roads until he reached a luxurious hotel nestled just off the highway—one of the most exclusive in Zeden. Of course. Stefan wouldn’t settle for anything less.

When he finally disappeared inside with his coat and briefcase, Eliana waited. She gave it a few minutes—enough time for him to reach his room—before she stepped out of the car and walked confidently into the marble-floored lobby.

The receptionist looked up politely as Eliana approached the desk.

"Hi there," Eliana said sweetly, placing her hands on the counter. "I was hoping to get the room number for a guest who just checked in—Stefan Winters."

The woman’s smile faltered slightly. "I’m sorry, ma’am, but we can’t give out room numbers without the guest’s permission. Security policy."

Eliana gave a soft laugh. "Of course, I understand." She leaned in a bit, lowering her voice with a conspiratorial smile. "But it’s actually his birthday, and I’m here to surprise him. He has no idea I’m in town, and if I call, it’ll ruin everything. I hope you understand."

The receptionist hesitated, her fingers pausing above the keyboard. "Even so—"

"Please," Eliana pressed gently. "It’s just a small surprise. I’m not dangerous, I promise. I mean, what harm can a woman like me bring to such a man? I promise you, he’d appreciate this visit." She even gave a little wink for extra charm.

After a few moments of silence and internal deliberation, the receptionist sighed. "He’s in the ensuite room. Fifth floor, end of the hallway."

Eliana grinned, whispering a soft "Thank you" before gliding toward the elevators, her heels clicking with purpose.

When she reached the room, she knocked twice, then took a step back, as she waited for Stefan to get the door. fre/ew.ebnovel.c om

While she waited, she prayed with everything she held dear for Stefan not to slam the door in her face since she knew he might actually want to do that after chasing her out of his house like a thief.

Perhaps, she could use Ruby’s name. She thought with a sly smile.

A few seconds later, the door opened—just a crack at first—and then wider.

Stefan’s face appeared, and the expression he wore made her stomach twist. Not with fear though but with anticipation.

"What the hell do you want?" he said sharply, his voice low and dangerous. "How did you even know I was here? Did you follow me here?" he asked, narrowing his eyes in suspicion.

Eliana offered him her best smile. "Can I come in?"

He looked ready to slam the door, his jaw tightening, and his stormy gray eyes flashing with irritation.

But then... he paused. His expression shifted—just slightly, but enough for Eliana to catch it. A flicker of thought passed through his mind, and he stepped back.

Since she’d been Ivy’s friend and Ivy had felt really hurt about Eliana’s betrayal, perhaps she’d told Eliana about Ruby he could use. He needed as much information as possible so he could go find her after divorcing issuing Ivy divorce papers tomorrow.

"Fine," he muttered. "Come in."

She stepped into the suite, instantly taking in the elegant layout—the wide windows, the view of the city, and the minimalist décor.

Stefan didn’t wait for her to settle before he said, "Say whatever it is you came to say. Then leave."

She pouted slightly, walking past him and twirling slowly. "What’s the rush, Stefan? I’ve got quite a lot to say."

He folded his arms, unimpressed. "Really? Like what?"