Bound by the Past, Locked by the Heart novel Chapter 276

"What if I told you they never actually got married?" Iris picked up some food with her silverware, her tone casual. "I mean, he and Scarlett Sterling never signed the marriage certificate."

Willa let out a dry laugh. "Where did you hear that gossip?"

Iris shot her a mock-offended look. "Don't forget, Scarlett is practically a friend of mine in these circles. That news came straight from the source. It's solid."

This time, Willa was genuinely stunned.

They had a grand wedding, but no legal marriage certificate?

How could powerful families like the Sterlings and Yates silently approve of something like that?

Seeing her confusion, Iris lowered her voice to explain. "It's not that surprising. They both agreed to it. It's just a transaction to get what they want."

"Get what they want..." Willa muttered, deeply bewildered. "Isn't the title of Mrs. Yates exactly what Scarlett wanted? Without the certificate, she'll never truly hold that position legally."

Iris curled her lip. "I can't read her mind, and we aren't that close. But they had the wedding, the media snapped their photos, and everyone calls her Mrs. Yates. Who really cares about a piece of paper?"

"Willa, you still haven't answered my question."

"I have no intention of looking back," Willa answered decisively. "You don't need to test the waters for Randal."

Having her motives exposed, Iris actually breathed a sigh of relief, a smile curving her lips. "That's good. But don't misunderstand, I'm completely on your side."

She paused. "He came to me, knowing we kept in touch. He wanted me to feel you out. Since that's where you stand, I'll tell him to drop it and move on."

Willa gave a soft "Mhm" and went back to eating.

Neither mentioned Randal again. They chatted about industry news over the rest of the meal before wrapping up the lunch.

Stepping out of the bistro, Iris slung her bag over her shoulder. "I'll keep an eye on that job for you. I'll call you when I have news."

Willa nodded. "Alright. Thank you."

Vantage Media. She knew them. They had an immaculate reputation in the industry and had won several awards.

She had interviewed with them right after moving back, but hadn't made the cut. Now, with this golden opportunity right in front of her, she felt an inexplicable sense of dread rather than excitement.

"Vantage Media... why would they be interested in me? I haven't worked in two years, and my resume is blank. I'm a little scared..."

Iris went silent for a moment, her tone dropping, faintly laced with disappointment. "Willa, where did your confidence go?"

Willa was momentarily choked by Iris's words.

She never used to be this timid, but now, even summoning the courage to start over took immense effort.

She took a deep breath. "When are they available?"

"Next Wednesday at 2 PM. I'll text you the address."