When Contracts Turn to Forbidden Kisses Chapter 12

Amelia

The next morning, I stood in the underground parking garage, staring in disbelief at Julian's car. Deep scratches were carved along the right side, and an unmistakable dent marred the hood.

"Damn it," I hissed, running my fingers over the damaged areas. This had to be the work of those two thugs who'd followed me last night.

I pulled out my phone and snapped several photos, then texted them to Olivia: [Your brother's car got trashed. I'll handle it. Sorry.]

Her response was almost immediate: [Don't worry! My brother doesn't even know I borrowed it. What happened? Are you okay??]

I quickly typed back: [Remember those guys who were following me? Pretty sure it was them. Unfortunately, they didn't leave any evidence pointing to my father.]

After sending the message, I shoved my phone into my pocket and climbed into the damaged car. My stomach twisted with guilt as I started the engine. Julian's car had become collateral damage in my family drama, and now I had to fix it before he discovered what happened.

---

After my shift at the hospital, I drove to the repair shop Olivia had recommended. Under the harsh fluorescent lights, the damage looked even worse. The technician circled the vehicle, his expression growing increasingly grim with each step. I couldn't help but frown.

"We'll need to replace the entire right panel," he finally said, shaking his head. "And these parts will have to be ordered."

"How long will it take?" I asked anxiously.

"At least a week, ma'am."

Perfect. I'd only borrowed the car for a day.

As I discussed the repairs with the technician, I noticed a tall, handsome man approaching us. He moved with the easy confidence of someone who owned the world—or at least thought he did.

"Looks like you've run into some trouble," he said with a smile, his gaze moving between me and the damaged car.

I nodded politely but remained guarded. Experience had taught me to be wary of strange men who approached women out of nowhere.

"Noah Randall," he introduced himself, extending his hand. "I'm guessing you need this car fixed quickly?"

I didn't take his hand. Instead, I turned back to the technician to confirm the pickup time. His presence registered in my peripheral vision, but I deliberately ignored him. I'd dealt with enough men who thought their attention was a gift to womankind.

After finalizing the details with the technician, I walked out of the shop. The cool evening air was a welcome relief after the stuffy repair garage.

Outside, Noah caught up to me in his gleaming sports car. He rolled down the window. "At least let me give you a ride to the main road."

"That's really not necessary," I insisted. "I've already called an Uber."

He persisted, keeping pace with me as I walked. I quickened my steps, relieved when my ride pulled up moments later.

"See, there comes the car," I said with finality, climbing into the Uber without a backward glance.

---

Back at the house, I breathed a sigh of relief when I realized Ethan wasn't home. I collapsed onto the sofa, physically and emotionally drained. Just as I was about to close my eyes for a moment's rest, my phone rang. Olivia's name flashed on the screen.

"Amy, are you free tonight?" Her voice bubbled with excitement. "Want to grab a drink?"

I hesitated. "Not in the mood."

"I know a bar," she explained. "The owner, James Hayes, used to run in some shady circles before going legitimate. If anyone can identify those guys who attacked you, it's him."

"You think he'd help me?" I asked skeptically.

"Not sure," Olivia admitted. "But it's worth a shot."

I only hesitated for a second. "Alright, I'm in."

"I'll pick you up in an hour. Just make sure you're not wearing that tacky leather jacket," she added.

After hanging up, I dragged myself to the shower. There was no point arguing with Olivia once she'd made up her mind.

---

An hour later, I stepped out wearing a black fitted mermaid dress. Olivia's red Porsche was already waiting, its engine purring impatiently.

"Wow, look at you!" she exclaimed, giving me an appreciative once-over. "That dress is perfect! Tonight we're going to relax and have some fun."

As I settled into the passenger seat, I mentioned, "By the way, a guy named Noah Randall tried to hit on me at the repair shop. Do you know him?"

Olivia's eyes widened. "Noah Randall? The film mogul's son? He's one of the most eligible bachelors in New York!"

She gave me a playful look. "Was he into you? He's notorious for being quite the ladies' man."

Before I could respond, Olivia's phone rang. She glanced at the screen, her expression changing. "It's Julian," she whispered before answering with forced cheerfulness. "Hey, dear brother! What's up?"

"Olivia, what have you been up to?" Julian's voice filled the car, sounding suspicious.

"Nothing," she answered, shooting me a nervous glance. "Just work."

"You'd better be honest with me," Julian countered. "My cars are all linked to a service that notifies me of any maintenance reports. If you're mixed up with some gang, I swear when I get back—"

"I lent the car to Amelia," Olivia blurted out. "You remember Amelia Thompson, right?"

Julian's tone immediately brightened. "Amy? What happened to her?"

Olivia rolled her eyes. "Nothing serious. The car was hit while parked on the street. She wasn't even in it."

"That's a relief!" Julian sounded completely unconcerned about the damage. "That car's old anyway. If she needs a car, she can use my new Mercedes. The keys are in my drawer."

Olivia blinked in surprise. "Wow, thanks, brother. I'll let her know."

"Give her my regards," Julian said. "Tell her to call me if she needs anything."

After hanging up, Olivia gave me a smug look. "See? I told you Julian wouldn't mind. Clearly, he's only mean to me."

"That's not true," I said, relieved. "He really cares about you. I remember when we were kids, he always protected you when your parents scolded you for your mischief."

Olivia sighed. "That was a long time ago."

Changing the subject, I said, "At least we don't have to worry about the car anymore."

Olivia nodded. "Exactly."

As we approached our destination, I noticed the glowing sign: Blue Note.

"Blue Note?" I asked. "That sounds familiar."

"Of course—it's the hotspot for all the charming men," Olivia answered. "Everyone knows this place."

I gave her a skeptical look. "Aren't you worried about being photographed? You're a celebrity."

Olivia grinned. "This place is famous for its discretion. No one gets to leak what happens inside."

She grabbed my arm, pulling me toward the entrance. "So just enjoy whatever happens next!"

It seemed she'd completely forgotten the main reason we were here tonight.