THE CONTRACT WIFE: A ONE NIGHT STAND BILLIONAIRE ROMANCE

Lucas’ POV

Overwhelmed by frustration, hurt, and a sense of emptiness, I find solace in the company of beer and cigarettes within the confines of my desolate home. Giselle attempts to reach out to me, but I deliberately ignore her calls.

I already have enough problems to contend with-Zara and my son remain missing from my life. Their absence constantly preoccupies my thoughts, and I struggle to determine where to begin in my quest to find and reunite with them.

Sleep eludes me without the numbing effect of alcohol. I find myself perpetually on edge, hot-headed even at work. I am a mere shell of my former self, worn down and lost. My anguish cuts deep, and I yearn for an end to this unbearable pain.

Driven by desperation, I decide to visit their house, only to discover that they are not there. Zara’s Mom and grandfather are also absent, having left town without disclosing their whereabouts. Even Zara’s social media accounts offer no clues. It feels as if she has vanished into thin air, leaving me grappling with how to retrieve my loved ones.

One morning, a glimmer of hope emerges as I receive a message from a private investigator I had enlisted to find my wife and son. An email awaits me, revealing that my wife was spotted leaving a condominium purchased by someone named Nick.

Rage courses through my veins, causing my hands to tremble with barely contained fury. I learn that they are currently in Stonewick, courtesy of their friend Antoinette, who organized the trip. Without hesitation, I grab my phone, swiftly canceling all my meetings and hastily booking a flight to join them.

A smug smile plays upon my lips as I embark on this mission to reclaim what is rightfully mine. Success! The overwhelming joy of their presence in my life is indescribable. They will no longer be ignored or kept hidden away. I am determined to make up for my past shortcomings. No longer will they be a secret; I will proudly proclaim them as my family.

Such thoughts bring a genuine smile to my face as I envision a future where we wake up together, with Zara preparing breakfast and showering me with affection before I head off to work. The world may be full of big challenges, but my mind can only focus on them. It’s as if I am intoxicated with sheer happiness.

Our two blissful days in Stonewick remain etched in my memory. I cherish those moments, especially when Zara displays her adorable jealousy. Though it may sound possessive, I simply want to shield her from the advances of other men.

Upon returning to Claybourne, we find ourselves reunited-Zara’s parents, our son, and me. Numerous questions hang in the air, yet they choose to remain silent, perhaps waiting for the right moment.

Guiding them to our home, we enter together, mindful of the late hour and Zara’s parents’ desire to avoid further travel.

“Lucas, take Enrique to his room first. He’s already asleep,” Zara’s mother requests, and I oblige, carrying Enrique to his room before swiftly exiting, as Zara’s parents signal their intention to speak with me.

Anxiety courses through my veins, my nerves on edge. I brace myself for the unknown, fearing they may demand a divorce this time. Absolutely not! Not now, when I have accepted my love for Zara and my son above all else, and when I am ready to fight for my feelings.

They await me in Zara’s room. Her grandfather, her mother, and I gather in the living room, their expressions poised and calm, as they begin to address me, their intentions still unknown to me.

“What are your intentions with my daughter, Mr. Blackwood? It was clear the other day that she intended to end things with you, and it seemed you felt the same. We too wish to clarify matters as her parents,” Zara’s mother speaks, her voice steady.

I anticipated this question, yet my nerves remain frayed. It is a vulnerability I have seldom experienced. I am accustomed to instilling fear in others as a Blackwood, possessing countless abilities at my disposal with a mere flick of my hand. But when it comes to Zara, I am learning the art of vulnerability.

“The truth is, I have only now come to truly realize their worth to me. I admit I have been foolish for far too long, disregarding them and failing to acknowledge my love for your son and grandson,” I respond, maintaining my gaze on them as they listen intently.

“So?”

“I apologize for all I have done to your daughter. I allowed my pride to overshadow my true feelings for Zara. And when I woke up one day, they were no longer by my side. I felt as though I was losing my mind, but now I am determined to mend my ways. I have awakened to the undeniable truth that I cannot live without them,” I speak at length.

Zara’s grandfather then interjects, “We hope that you will take good care of our grandson, Lucas. Please do not make us regret the fact that we pushed for your marriage.”

Expressing my gratitude and offering apologies once more, I retreat to our room. Zara and Enrique slumber peacefully, likely exhausted from the journey. Seeing them sleeping soundly beside me fills me with an overwhelming happiness, and the anticipation of waking up to them by my side amplifies that joy.

The next day, the sun’s gentle rays streamed through the window, nudging us awake. Just as the aroma of breakfast began to waft through the air, Zara’s mom called. We eagerly picked up the phone, knowing it would be a pleasant conversation with Zara’s loving mother.

As we gathered around the table, our morning hunger was met with a delightful spread prepared with love. Zara, beaming with affection, had even lent a hand in cooking our breakfast.

The table showcased a mouthwatering array of fried bacon and eggs, sausages, bread, and liver spread. Zara’s thoughtful gesture extended to brewing a fresh cup of coffee, which she lovingly placed in front of me.

“Thanks, love,” I whispered tenderly to her, regardless of our friends’ presence at the table.

In that moment, a blush graced Zara’s cheeks, illuminating her face with an undeniable joy. It was evident that my love and appreciation touched her deeply, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of happiness.

Zara’s parents had cared for us with a warmth that mirrored that of a mother and a wife. After savoring the delicious breakfast and exchanging heartfelt goodbyes, we bid farewell to Zara’s parents, grateful for their kindness and understanding. It became clear why Zara’s upbringing had shaped her into the remarkable person she is, and their influence on my own transformation was undeniable.

Before departing, Zara’s mom sought a private moment with me. Her words carried the weight of a mother’s wisdom and love.

“Take care of my daughter and grandson, Lucas. She has never experienced the presence of a father, which has driven Zara to be brave and independent. Protect them, cherish them, and never let them slip away. I forgive you, Lucas, my son,” she implored, her words echoing with the power of maternal love.

“Mom, you can count on me. I will never let you down again,” I vowed, holding her gaze, my determination resolute.

As we embarked on the journey in our car, an air of anticipation filled the space. A surprise awaited us, a symbol of the fresh start we had embraced.

“The road to our subdivision is not familiar, my love,” Zara remarked.

“Just wait, my love,” I reassured her, savoring the thrill of anticipation.

Though questions lingered, Zara and our son remained patient, allowing the element of surprise to unfold without interruption.

Eventually, our car came to a halt in front of a majestic two-story house, exuding an aura of grandeur that outshone the neighboring residences. This house was not merely a dwelling; it would become our cherished home, the haven where we would create precious memories as a family.

“Daddy, whose house is this?” our son inquired with wide-eyed wonder, stepping out of the car beside us.

“Our house, son, this will not just be a house, but a place we call home. Here, we will forge new memories together as a family. Let’s leave the past behind and embark on this new chapter of our lives,” I explained.

Zara’s disbelief gave way to tears streaming down her cheeks. I gently wiped them away, planting a soft kiss on her temple.

“You’re not dreaming, my love,” I assured her, handing her the key and leading the way to our new abode.

As we stepped into our new home, the first thing that greeted us was a beautiful fountain, lending an air of tranquility to the surroundings. A vibrant rose garden adorned the landscape, enhancing the elegance of the mansion’s Victorian-modern architecture.

“Look, we have a bigger swimming pool!” our son exclaimed joyfully, his eyes gleaming with excitement upon spotting the wide, inviting infinity pool.

In our new home, we were blessed with a team of dedicated helpers, allowing me to spoil Zara and our son without any worries. I intended to shower them with all the love and abundance that life had to offer.

“Darling, it’s up to you now. You don’t have to work anymore,” I offered to Zara, wanting to ensure her happiness and well-being.

A radiant smile graced her face as she replied, “Okay, I will take care of our family with all my heart.”

Leaving our old house behind, I arrived at the office with a lightness in my step, a sense of contentment radiating from within. Mary, my colleague, immediately noticed the change in my demeanor, prompting me to share the joyous events of the day. She wholeheartedly celebrated my transformative journey, thrilled with the pivotal decisions I had made.

However, amidst the bliss, one concern lingered-Giselle, who persistently sought contact, longing for a chance to meet and discuss our situation. Our paths were yet to be completely untangled.

She desired a meeting at her condominium, but I found no reason to indulge her. My heart and soul were content, no longer yearning for extramarital affairs. My focus now rested solely on the happiness I had found.

Today, I had an appointment with one of my investors. As I made my way to the parking lot, ready to step into my Ferrari, a surprise awaited me. Standing there, seemingly out of place, was Clare, Giselle’s old friend.

“Clare? The last time I saw you was during that unpleasant incident at the coffee shop on my birthday,” I recalled. “Do you need anything, Clare?” I asked, noticing her restlessness and nervous demeanor. Sensing the importance of his words, I checked my watch, realizing it was still early. Curiosity compelled me to hear him out.

As we strolled towards the nearby coffee shop, I couldn’t help but steal glances at Clare. Her weary appearance and persistent agitation piqued my interest. It was evident that she carried a weighty matter on his shoulders.

Upon reaching the coffee shop, we settled down and ordered our drinks-an aromatic cup of coffee and a tantalizing slice of blueberry cheesecake. Taking a sip of my coffee, I inquired, “What is it that you wanted to discuss?”

“You see, I’ve been friends with Giselle for a long time, and I’ve witnessed most of her indiscretions. But there was a secret that caused a falling out between us. I believe you deserve to know the truth,” Clare began, his tone serious and laden with significance.

Anxiety began to creep up within me, uncertainty tightening its grip. “What is it?” I asked.

He let out a sigh before continuing. “Lucas, seven years ago, your girlfriend-my best friend-aborted your child,” he revealed, causing me to jolt upright in my seat, as if splashed with cold water.

“Is it true?” I queried, the weight of his words sinking in.

Clare nodded solemnly. “I have no reason to lie. Giselle chose to prioritize her dreams and modeling career. I disagreed with her, leading to our fallout and subsequent silence. Do you remember the time we coincidentally ran into each other at the coffee shop? It wasn’t a coincidence. Giselle had urged me to bury her secret in the depths of our conversation that day in the limo. But I couldn’t,” she explained, providing a detailed account of the past.

Slowly, the puzzle pieces began to fit together, and a wave of emotions crashed over me. First came the heaviness in my heart, followed by a profound sense of betrayal. My fists clenched, and anger clouded my vision, threatening to consume me. The intensity of my emotions made me fear the harm I might inflict.

How could she have done this to me? All those years, I loved her wholeheartedly, blinded by her dreams. And now, I stood here, shattered and deceived. It felt as though a part of me had died.

Overwhelmed by the realization that I had been foolishly deceived by the person I loved, I felt my strength wane. I had neglected the well-being of my mother and daughter, who had loved and understood me unconditionally. It was time to show them my worth and make them feel cherished.

Without saying another word to Clare, I bid him farewell and swiftly left the coffee shop, my mind consumed by a single purpose-to confront Giselle and her treacherous secret. The business meeting I was supposed to attend faded into insignificance. My sole focus was to face the woman who had made a fool out of me.

Hurriedly, I reached the parking lot where my car awaited. Sliding into the driver’s seat, I revved the engine and sped towards Giselle’s condominium unit. The clock seemed to race as I arrived at her doorstep, my anger burning like an inferno within me. I pressed the doorbell, and she emerged, expecting a warm embrace, only to be met with a forceful push. The shock and confusion were evident on her face.

“Why?” she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

“How could you do this to me? All those years, I foolishly believed in you. But you were only driven by selfish desires, pursuing your own dreams. You made a mockery of me!” I shouted, my voice echoing with anguish.

“What are you talking about? I don’t understand, Lucas,” she pleaded, her expression filled with concern.

“You aborted our child!” I declared, the weight of the truth hanging heavily in the air.