The Contracted Stripper

Ryan managed to give a weak smile, but Mrs. Rose’s attention quickly shifted to Iris.

Her greeting was cold and awkward, making Iris feel out of place immediately.

“Iris, welcome.”Iris forced a polite smile, feeling the sting of the cold reception.

She had to keep her composure, not wanting to upset Ryan. The guests mingled in the grand living room, exchanging pleasantries.

Bella was there too, looking stunning as always. She was the epitome of elegance and grace, a true fashion icon. Her presence added to Iris’s discomfort.

When everyone was present, they were ushered to the dining room. The table was laden with a variety of appetizers, fruits, delectable main courses, and an array of desserts.

But Iris had already lost her appetite, the humiliation, and cold treatment from Mrs. Rose and Ivy weighing heavily on her.

“Oh, look at you, Iris. That dress is nice, though a bit too… ambitious for you, don’t you think?”Ivy’s remark was laced with sarcasm, and Bella gave a faint smile, her eyes flickering with amusement.

“Ivy, be kind. Iris is trying her best.”Iris forced a smile, biting her tongue. She knew she had to endure this, for Ryan’s sake.

As the dinner progressed, Mrs. Rose and Ivy took every opportunity to belittle and humiliate Iris.

They made side remarks about her background, her career, and even her relationship with Ryan.

“Ivy, darling, tell us more about your CHANNEL audition. It’s such a prestigious opportunity. We’re all so proud of you. Mrs Rose remarked.

“Oh, it was incredible, Mother. The directors were so impressed with my portfolio. They said I had the perfect look for their new campaign. Iris said smiling.

“Iris felt a pang of jealousy but tried to hide it. She picked at her food, trying to appear unaffected.

“It’s funny, though. I heard that CHANNEL had considered someone else before me. But obviously, they made the right choice in the end.” Ivy added”

Mrs. Rose and Ivy exchanged knowing glances, and Bella watched with a fake smile.

“Iris, dear, how’s your… work going?”The emphasis on “work” was condescending, making it clear that Mrs. Rose didn’t think much of Iris’s career.

“It’s going well, thank you. Iris replied.

“Ryan, noticing Iris’s discomfort and intervened.”Mother, can we not make this dinner about putting Iris down? She’s worked very hard and deserves respect.

“Mrs. Rose looked taken aback, and Ivy rolled her eyes.

“Oh, Ryan, we’re just having a bit of fun. Iris knows we don’t mean any harm. Ivy said

“Iris wanted to disappear. The humiliation was becoming unbearable. She glanced at Ryan, who was upset but trying to keep his cool.

“Iris, I admire your resilience. It must be tough, dealing with all this.”Bella’s words were a double-edged sword, sounding supportive but carrying an undertone of superiority.

The dinner continued, with more jabs and subtle insults directed at Iris. Finally, Mr. Kendrick, who had been silent for most of the evening, had enough.

Mr. Kendrick: “That’s enough! This is supposed to be a celebration, not an opportunity to belittle someone.

Sweetheart, Ivy, I expect better from you both.”His words hung in the air, creating an awkward silence.

Mrs. Rose pursed her lips, and Ivy looked embarrassed. Ryan, fed up with the entire situation, stood up.

“Thank you, Father. I think it’s time we leave. Iris, let’s go.”Iris, who had been on the verge of tears, nodded and stood up.

She followed Ryan out of the dining room, trying to hold back her sobs.

As they drove back home, Iris couldn’t hold it in any longer. Tears streamed down her face.

“I’m sorry, Ryan. I didn’t mean to cause any trouble.” Iris said, her eyes flooded with tears.

Ryan glanced at her, his expression softening. Ryan: “You didn’t cause any trouble, Iris. My family was out of line.

“Iris sobbed quietly, feeling a mix of relief and sadness.

Ryan reached over and gently took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. When they arrived home, Iris went straight to their bedroom, her emotions overwhelming her.

She sat on the edge of the bed, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

Ryan followed her, standing at the door, with his arm folded.

“Iris looked up at him, her eyes red and puffy.Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

“Why do they hate me so much? What did I do wrong?” Iris questioned.

Ryan sighed, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “You did nothing wrong. They’re just… difficult. But you don’t deserve to be treated that way.

“Iris leaned into his embrace, feeling a glimmer of hope. Despite his cold demeanor, Ryan still cared for her.

“Thank you, Ryan. That means a lot.”Ryan kissed her forehead, a tender gesture that made her feel safe and loved, if only for a moment.

The night had been difficult, but Iris knew she had to stay strong. She had faced worse challenges and survived. With Ryan by her side, she felt she could endure anything, even the cold and cruel treatment from his family.

As they sat together in the quiet of their bedroom, Iris felt a renewed determination. She would prove to everyone that she was more than what they saw. She would succeed, not just for herself, but for her mother, and for her future