Chapter 253

By the time Paul Hartwell got to Silverbay Estates, an hour had already passed. He rang the doorbell, and it was Bella Gallant who opened the door. She had on a soft, flowing sheer nightgown, her hair slightly tousled, curves on full display. Just standing there in the doorway, she looked so stunning, Paul couldn’t look away. Clearly, she hadn’t been up for long — probably had just woken up when she called him. “You’re here. Have you had breakfast yet?” Bella asked, her drowsy eyes carrying a gentle smile. Paul’s heart skipped a beat. He stepped forward and pulled her into a hug. “Yeah, I’ve eaten. Bella, are you here alone?” “Mm-hmm, just me.” Bella leaned back a little in his arms and looked up at him. “Why do you look so awful? Didn’t get any sleep last night?” As she spoke, her hands cupped his face. There was a hint of worry in her eyes. This version of Paul was one she hadn’t seen in a long time—completely worn out. His beard was scruffy, his eyes bloodshot. The heavy lenses of h