Twisted Ties of Love

And Beck wasn't entirely comfortable entrusting it all to her. His daughter was somewhat naive, and he feared she might be duped by some man. There were enough tales in the media of sons-in-law ruining their fathers-in-law, leaving families destitute.

But now, things were different.

With Izabella around, if she were to marry Casey, Beck could divide a portion of his wealth and grant her control of the entire Dempsey Group.

Beck was already counting his chickens, considering how Izabella had earned billions in just a year. He had to make sure to keep such a talent around.

So, he promptly dialed Casey's number, only to be greeted by the chilly automated voice.

"I'm sorry, but the person you called is currently on another call."

Casey had hung up on him.

Beck was used to this. He'd call again, and Casey would hang up. This went on until the fifth time.

Perhaps annoyed by the constant ringing, Casey finally picked up.

"What is it?"

Beck started with a complaint. "You hung up on me four times."

"Dad, if you don't have anything important to say, I'll hang up a fifth time."

Casey always meant what he said. Beck quickly halted him.

"Wait, don't hang up just yet. I have something to discuss with you."

Casey, patient as ever, asked, "What is it?"

Beck replied, "Bring your girlfriend over for dinner. Your mom misses her, and so does your sister. She's been asking about her non-stop."

Casey found Beck's change in tone rather strange. Usually, when Beck referred to Izabella, he would call her "that woman". But this time, he referred to her as Casey's girlfriend. This meant that Beck had fully accepted Izabella. And why wouldn't he? If he still had issues with someone as outstanding as Izabella, he'd probably need to get his eyes checked. "I'll have to ask Izabella if she's up for it."

Beck quickly responded, "Make sure you ask her. And remember to find out her favorite foods. I'll note them down and have our chef prepare them.”

Casey listed a slew of Izabella's favorites. Beck couldn't keep up, so he decided to record the conversation and jot down the details later.

After hanging up, Beck began making the necessary arrangements. When Wendy came home to see the house bustling with preparations, she pulled Kevin, the housekeeper, aside and asked, "Kevin, are we expecting guests?"

"It's Casey and his girlfriend, Ms. Salotti, ma'am."

"You mean Izabella is coming?"

"Yes, the arrangements were ordered by the master."

"I need to speak with my father." Wendy took a few steps before suddenly turning back. "Is my father home?"

"He should be in the garden, having tea."

Wendy rushed out to the garden where Beck was luxuriously perched on a rocking chair, sipping tea and humming a tune, sunglasses perched on his nose. "Dad."

The sudden call of "Dad" interrupted Beck's humming. He slid his sunglasses down his nose, leaning forward, "What is it?"

"Is Izabella coming over for dinner tonight?"

Beck nodded, looking up at Wendy's flushed face. She must have run all the way here.

"Yes, I just called your brother and asked him to bring his girlfriend for dinner."

So, it was really happening? Wendy's eyes sparkled. "Then I'll go change into something nicer."

Why did she need to change her

clothes when her brother was bringing his girlfriend over for dinner? Beck was puzzled as he watched his daughter's retreating figure. After taking a few steps, Wendy suddenly turned back, her expression serious.

"Dad, stop referring to Izabella as 'my brother's girlfriend'. She has a name. It's disrespectful."

Taken aback by the unexpected reprimand, Beck was about to ask, "Since when have you become so close with her?"

"None of your business." Wendy huffed and stormed off towards the house, heading straight to the second floor to pick out an outfit.

Wendy had always been a fan of

Izabella, noticing her since she

starred in a high school drama. She admired her beauty, but was disappointed by the various

wovel.n

controversies and rumors

surrounding Izabella in the following

years.

Wendy thought it was a shame, considering how infrequently she found someone who fell within her aesthetic preference.

But then, during the "Here Comes

the Superstars" show, Izabella caught her attention again. This time, Wendy admired not only her beauty but also her acting skills.Exclusive © content by N(ô)ve/l/Drama.Org.

Wendy collected numerous autographs, cards, and DVDs related to Izabella. She even went out of her way to get behind-the-scenes footage of Izabella's shows and dramas.

As a fan, Wendy believed in maintaining a distance from her idol. That was, until Casey was rumored to be dating Izabella.

For the first time, Wendy understood what it felt like when the "roof fell in". It was like a bolt from the blue, leaving her in disbelief and speechless.

She could have continued living in denial, until last Christmas when Casey brought Izabella to the Dempsey family gathering.

She watched as her world crumbled before her eyes, distracting herself by playing on her phone, purposely avoiding Izabella's every move.