THE CONTRACT WIFE: A ONE NIGHT STAND BILLIONAIRE ROMANCE

Zara’s POV

The foundation of our marriage had crumbled, leaving me with a deep love for Lucas that couldn’t be erased from my heart and life. Moving on was necessary, a sacrifice that would set us both free.

With the help of my dear friends, Antoinette and Nick, along with my mom and grandfather, I managed to gather my belongings. It was just a small portion, but it symbolized a fresh start. Even my son agreed that we needed to heal our wounds; otherwise, they would haunt us forever. I made the decision that was best for me and for us.

Nick owned a condominium where my son and I took refuge temporarily. Since Nick was often away at his parents’ house or traveling, we were able to stay there. As for me, I had plans to build a house on a lot next to my mom’s place. However, Nick’s cousin’s mother was staying there temporarily, so we couldn’t go there just yet.

I never got the chance to say goodbye to Lucas personally. Instead, I left a letter, masking my true emotions and pretending to be content for the sake of his acceptance. I couldn’t bear to bid farewell in person, fearing that he might react with indifference or even contempt.

With the children currently on vacation, Nick arranged a trip for all of us. We would be flying to Stonewick on Fin’s private plane, accompanied by our parents, Fin and Antoinette, and of course, my son and me. The first month of the twins’ lives would be celebrated there, a reminder of how swiftly time had passed since Lucas and I parted ways.

Antoinette scolded me jokingly at the airport, “You’re lost in thought again, Zara. Don’t tell me you’re considering a comeback with Lucas. I swear, if I get the chance, I’ll slap you with a gold plate.” Her words were filled with concern and a hint of playful sarcasm.

As we prepared to board the plane, I realized it had been a while since I traveled. The last time I went on a trip was back in high school.

“Antoinette, it’s over, alright? I’ve let go, and this is the end,” I said with a tinge of sadness. We were called to board, and our private plane awaited us.

“Just make sure, Zara. You know, one of my dreams was for you to break free from that husband of yours who’s blind to your worth! But I see it, Zara! Finally, you woke up and set yourself free.” Antoinette’s happiness was evident in her words.

“You know what? Let’s go, let’s board. You talk too much. Whether you’re pregnant or a virgin, you’re always chattering, Antoinette,” I playfully complained.

“Well, at least I’m entertaining!” she retorted.

I shook my head, listening to her banter. My son was already engrossed in conversation with his godfather, Nick. They were happily discussing and browsing through pictures of beautiful places in Stonewick.

“Are you excited, Enrique?” I asked my son, who was eagerly searching for more information about the seafood delicacies in Stonewick.

“Yes, Mom! I can’t wait to try the seafood!” he exclaimed, his excitement shining through. It seemed he had inherited his godfather’s love for good food.

“Of course, son, but let’s not go overboard, alright? Let’s not indulge in your godfather’s gluttony.” I playfully teased him, and he laughed, fully engaged in the conversation.

“I just enjoy good food, Mom. Besides, I won’t get fat. Look at these muscles!” Nick flexed his arm proudly.

“Go on, Nick, show off!” I teased him. The entire journey was filled with laughter and lively conversations.

Nick truly was our personal entertainer. Even Fin and Antoinette joined in the fun. Meanwhile, my mom and grandfather, along with Antoinette’s relatives, were dozing off in the back of the plane. We decided to keep the noise down for now, except for Nick, who always managed to make a racket.

We arrived in Stonewick around 9 in the morning. We took a van to a resort, owned by Nick’s cousin, as a special gift for Antoinette’s twins. It was hard to believe that such luxury could be hidden behind Nick’s casual demeanor. He truly was a man of many surprises.

My son and I shared a room. Nick had already brought our belongings inside and hurried off to take care of something. I had no idea what it was.

The room itself was exquisite, comfortably decorated in white and wood. It had a soothing lemon scent that filled the air. And to top it off, we had a veranda with a breathtaking view of the sea.

“Wow, Mom! Can we go swimming?” my son eagerly asked, his excitement bubbling over.

“Yes, sweetheart, we’ll have a beach barbecue party later. But for now, let’s get changed, shall we?” I suggested, but our conversation was interrupted by a knock on the door.

Around 3 p. m., after tucking my son into bed for a nap, I ventured to the rocky side of the beach. People were scattered about, enjoying the rocky shoreline.

The sky was partly cloudy, creating a refreshing ambiance. The gentle sea breeze caressed my skin, bringing a sense of tranquility. I felt a presence behind me.

“Nick, no need to startle me,” I said, recognizing his distinctive scent of chestnuts. There was no mistaking it; it had always been his signature fragrance since our college days.

“You look great,” he remarked.

“Maybe you’re mistaken, and somehow you ended up in the wrong place. The girls of your caliber are over there,” I said, gesturing to the other side where the girls were flaunting their perfectly sculpted bodies.

“How did I end up in that category? And you’re even more beautiful than all of them, Zara,” he complimented, effortlessly charming me with his sweet words.

It seemed his flattery knew no bounds.

I playfully teased him, “I don’t have any chance for your compliments right now. Come back later, and maybe then I’ll entertain your flattery.” It had been our dynamic since the day we first met.

Back in our college days, he was always a ladies’ man. I initially thought he was just a player, given his muscular physique and confident demeanor, often seen among the social elite. But who would have thought he would still be my friend?

In fact, I had secretly harbored a crush on him, watching as girls on his left and right became his girlfriends. Yet, I settled for being his friend, his confidant, and his partner in crime. He was all I ever thought about.

“Penny for your thoughts?” he asked, gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear.

I wondered where he had found the hair clip, but he effortlessly secured my hair with it.

“Careful, you might jinx it, and I’ll see you walking down the aisle tomorrow,” I joked, testing the waters.

He chuckled softly. “I hope someone sees my worth.”

I could hear the hint of sadness in his voice. The last time I had seen him like this was when his mother passed away and when he discovered I was getting married.

“Hey, don’t lose hope. You’ll make your fair share of mistakes too,” I promised playfully, causing him to furrow his brows.

He even pretended to gasp dramatically and playfully snorted.

“You’re really something, Nick,” I said, a hint of irritation in my tone. I stood up, and he quickly followed suit, chasing after me.

“Where are we going, Zara?” he asked, catching up with me.

“To a place where you don’t exist,” I joked, but it hit a nerve, and he looked genuinely hurt.

“Damn, Zara. That’s low,” he sighed, playing the role of an offended actor with impeccable politeness.

“Enough, Nick, hahaha. I’ll just go over there and buy a souvenir,” I said, spotting some local shops earlier.

I intended to do some shopping so that I could bring back something for my employees as a greeting.

“I’m fine,” I agreed, realizing I didn’t really have much of a choice. Even if I said no, it would still be taken as a yes.

We attracted the attention of other tourists. Perhaps it was because of Nick’s appeal, wearing a stylish white beach polo shirt and shorts, along with his Gucci men’s sunglasses. I, on the other hand, was donning a vibrant yellow summer dress and a summer hat. We became quite the sight for the crowd.

“Look at that lovely couple,” someone remarked.

“You’re going to make everyone jealous, sis,” another person chimed in.

We tried to ignore their comments and proceeded to go shopping. We picked out a seashell keychain, a Stonewick shirt, and some other knick-knacks. Around five, we indulged in more ice cream. I was truly enjoying every moment of this trip.

It was also the perfect time for me to find myself again. I took in the fresh air, allowing myself to relax and rejuvenate, even if only for a moment.

As night fell, we kicked off our bonfire party. Everything was set up, with marshmallows, drinks for the adults, and a milk tea shake for my son. Stonewick transformed into a vibrant city at night, bustling with bars, entertainment, concerts, and dining options.

Before the bonfire, we sat down for a meal at a famous seafood restaurant, courtesy of Fin. Their buttered spicy lobster was both affordable and delicious. My child enjoyed some sweet and sour fish and cheese-smoked clam shells. It was a feast that was hard to resist.

Once the night truly began, we gathered around the bonfire. It was just me, Nick, Fin, Antoinette, and my son. The other bonfires were separated, as we preferred to stay within our circle of friends.

Nick held a drink in his hand, occasionally glancing at other girls in the area. I didn’t mind; it was good for him to let loose and have some fun.

Antoinette looked stunning in a grey night dress, while Fin strummed the guitar as my son happily devoured marshmallows.

Believe it or not, I used to be the lead vocalist of a band. Music has always been my passion and a means of expressing my emotions. It has been my escape and my voice in life. Whenever I felt sad, happy, or empty, music was always there for me.

I gained the courage to join a band because of Antoinette. She believed I had the talent and encouraged me to pursue it. So, I became a part of a band for almost a year before deciding to take a break and focus on my career.

With Fin’s guitar as accompaniment, I sang “Wild Heart.”

As I performed, I noticed Nick looking at me with a smile. It felt right, and it was nice to catch his eye.

“Your voice is truly beautiful, Mom,” my son exclaimed, always one to speak his mind. That made me proud. He had inherited that fierceness from his godfather.

“Thank you, kiddo,” I replied.

As the night grew deeper, the crowd around us gradually dispersed. My son fell asleep, and his grandparents took him to their room. I knew how much they missed their grandson.

Now, with just the four of us, I unexpectedly found myself in the hot seat.

“What are your plans?” Antoinette asked.

“Well, life must go on,” I responded with a hint of resignation. “There’s nothing else I can do.”