Chapter 9 After that chaotic wedding day , Calix and I settled into our new life together . The media frenzy eventually died down . Thanks to Calixs security team , no reporters had managed to photograph me or Karina , we were able to focus on building our life together . For the first two years , everything was perfect . Calix was attentive and loving , making time for both me and Karina despite his demanding business . But as Calixs business empire expanded across Europe , he began traveling constantly . At first , hed call multiple times a day and fly home at least twice a month , no matter where he was in the world . I miss my girls , hed say , bringing gifts from every corner of the globe . Gradually , though , the calls became less frequent . The visits stretched from twice a month to once a month , then once every few months . When he was home , he was distracted , always on his phone or laptop . By Karinas fifth birthday , Calix had missed most of her school activities . He sent extravagant gifts , but they couldnt replace his presence . That night , I confronted him during our video call . Youre missing her childhood , Calix . She needs her father . He looked tired , the hotel room behind him anonymous and bland . I know , I know . This expansion is critical , but its almost done . Another month , maybe two . Thats what you said three months ago . After that conversation , I made a decision . If Calix couldnt come to us , we would go to him . Hed been based in the same city for nearly a year now , overseeing his European headquarters . Within weeks , we had relocated to a beautiful house near his office . Karina was enrolled in Oak Lane Academy , the most prestigious elementary school in the city . At first , it seemed like the perfect solution . Calix came home most nights for dinner , and Karina blossomed with her fathers renewed attention . But I soon noticed something troubling . Whenever Calixs phone rang with a certain ringtone , he would step away immediately , speaking in 21:43 The Dead Fiancés Return : Too 1-4- Chapter 9 hushed tones . He began having emergency meetings that kept him out late , sometimes overnight . One evening , I was picking up Karina from a playdate when I saw him across the street , entering a restaurant with a beautiful woman and a young boy about Karinas age . The woman had her hand on Calixs arm , laughing at something he said . I recognized her immediately : Cathy , his ex girlfriend from college . She had suddenly married his best friend years ago , only to be widowed when he died in a mysterious accident . When I confronted Calix that night , he was defensive . Shes going through a hard time . My friend left them with nothing but debts . The boy needs a male figure in his life . And that has to be you ? He was my best friend . I owe him this much . I tried to understand , to be the supportive wife . But as weeks passed , Calix spent more and more time with Cathy and her son Tyler . When I expressed my concerns , he dismissed them . You have everything , Anya . A beautiful home , financial security , my name . Cathy has nothing . She and Tyler need more support right now . I swallowed my hurt and focused on Karina , who was struggling to adjust to her new school . She mentioned a boy who wasnt nice to her , but I assumed it was normal childhood conflict . Then came that terrible day when my five year old daughter burst into tears the moment she got home … In "Country Gal to CEO's Bride" by CrushReel, Emma, a resilient country girl who has overcome hardships, finds herself entangled in a twist of fate when she mistakenly marries the dashing stranger, William. Transitioning from rural life to the bustling city, Emma's journey unfolds with unexpected turns as she navigates the complexities of her new life and relationship. As Emma grapples with the challenges of her newfound status as William's wife, themes of resilience, adaptability, and the clash of backgrounds come to the forefront. The magnetic pull between the two protagonists, set against the backdrop of opulent mansions and corporate offices, adds layers of intrigue and passion to their story. This modern romance novel delves into the dynamics of love, ambition, and self-discovery as Emma undergoes a transformative glow-up while embracing her hidden feelings for William. With a captivating blend of sweet romance and billionaire allure, "Country Gal to CEO's Bride" stands out for its exploration of opposites attract dynamics in a contemporary setting. Experience this enchanting tale filled with emotional depth and romantic tension by reading "Country Gal to CEO's Bride" on CrushReel. Embark on a journey that transcends social barriers and celebrates the power of love in unexpected places.