THE BILLIONAIRE'S SURROGATE BABY

Chapter 5

                      PHOENIX

Receiving $100,000 for maintenance expenses was mind-boggling. I swallowed hard as the money landed in my account. When I showed my sister, she couldn't contain her joy. The first thing I did was buy my dad a new car.

He was taken aback but I explained everything to him, though he was adamantly against it.

"No amount of money justifies sacrificing nine months and enduring childbirth," he argued.

"I understand your concerns, Dad, but we have to consider the financial opportunities it brings," I reasoned.

"We're content with what we have," he insisted, looking at me.

"Through stealing and gambling?" I retorted, and he fell silent.

"Perhaps you could use the car for a taxi service. Once I receive my full payment, I'll find you a better job. But for now, let's find a new place to rent," I suggested, lightening the mood.

"Thank you," my dad said, and I smiled. At least he didn't abandon us like my mom did.

"No, thank you," I replied, embracing him.

If I didn't tell you, Rome was furious that day, but it was somewhat satisfying to watch, knowing there was nothing he could do about it.

~FLASHBACK~

"I meant the other Phoenix, I specifically told you not the one that came late," Rome complained to his sister.

"You gave me her file, not the other lady," Camilla said, gesturing to me.

"I don't want her," he simply said, his gaze cold and unforgiving. His sister looked at me, then back at him, likely perplexed by his disdain.

"There's nothing we can do," Camilla explained.

"What do you mean?!" he asked, furrowing his brow in frustration.

"The procedure has already been done, we are waiting for the results," she clarified, causing Rome to groan in frustration.

His gaze turned to me, his glare intense enough to send shivers down my spine. If looks could kill, I'd be long gone. With a mumble, he walked away, his displeasure palpable.

Camilla approached me, offering an apologetic smile. "I am so sorry that happened," she said.

"No problem at all," I replied, masking my unease with a smile. She nodded, offering a sympathetic look, before walking away.

~PRESENT~

That was quite the turn of events, and I have to admit, it was amusing. Eventually, we signed a contract, and it was agreed that I would start living with him when the baby is four months old. I know it's going to be a tough time, but I'm ready for the challenge.

"You want ice cream again?" Beatrix asked, noticing my nod.

"Damn, no doubt that you're pregnant," she remarked, causing me to gasp.

"Seriously?" I asked, my eyes widening in surprise.

"Yes, you've been craving unnecessary things lately," she pointed out.

"That's not true," I protested, though her observation made me wonder.

"Then why are you on your fourth ice cream today?" she questioned, confirming her point. Wait! Fourth? I hadn't even realized.

"Yes," she confirmed. That realization hit me like a ton of bricks- I needed to take the pregnancy test.

"Should I take the test now?" I asked.