THE CONTRACT WIFE: A ONE NIGHT STAND BILLIONAIRE ROMANCE

Zara’s POV

Two days had passed, and I found myself somewhat indifferent to the situation between Lucas and me. Although he occasionally attempted to bridge the gap, his pride often got in the way. However, I didn’t let it bother me too much. It was up to us to resolve our issues in due time.

I loved Lucas deeply, and my love for him drove me to support him wholeheartedly in every aspect of his life. Whether it was his career, his aspirations for our family, or his dreams, I always said yes to him.

But sometimes, I hoped for the same level of support in return. After all, my endeavors mattered too. I had poured my heart and soul into my businesses, fighting tooth and nail to keep them afloat.

If everything were suddenly taken away from me-my businesses, my properties-there would be nothing left. Nevertheless, I had invested my blood, sweat, and tears into them, not to mention the livelihoods of numerous employees who depended on them. That’s why I felt a tinge of disappointment at some of Lucas’s words.

Currently, I was with Antoinette, my trusted friend. We were driving around aimlessly, trying to distract ourselves from the chaos. My son was still at Lucas’s parents’ house, and I planned to visit him later. Going home didn’t feel appealing at the moment; maybe I would meet my husband there, or perhaps not.

“Giselle is absolutely terrible, isn’t she? I can’t believe she would stoop so low. And that business with the abortion, too. Unbelievable, isn’t it?” Antoinette expressed her exasperation, clearly stressed by the unfolding events.

“I understand the pain she must be feeling. Imagine discovering that your long-time boyfriend has a wife and child,” I replied, taking a sip of my coffee.

“Don’t play the ‘I’m so kind’ card with me, alright? But I get your point. If that happened to me, I would be furious too. But the issue goes beyond that-it involves an unborn child. That’s a whole different story! I hope Lucas realizes the gravity of it,” Antoinette vented, as if she were the one who had committed the sin.

“You’re right. Let’s leave it to karma. I can’t blame my husband entirely for feeling hurt, can I?” I remarked, attempting to find some semblance of understanding.

Antoinette burst into laughter. “You, my friend, are quite resilient. If that’s the case, I’m happy for you. It’s just that Nick really doesn’t have luck on his side,” she said, shaking her head.

I took a deep breath, contemplating her words. “That’s true. He just hasn’t found the right person yet. I hope he does,” I responded, gazing into the void.

Antoinette continued to shake her head, snickering. “You’re such a tough cookie, girl. It’s entirely up to you, but that best friend of ours will eventually find someone else,” she said, leaving me slightly confused. What did she mean by that? How did I become so resilient?

We engaged in deep conversation, delving into the intricacies of my relationship with Lucas.

“You, my dear, are stunning. Your husband wants to flaunt you like a trophy! Pass me those scissors; I’ll give you a haircut,” Antoinette exclaimed mischievously, flashing a grin. That girl!

“You know how important my business is, Antoinette. I’ve poured my blood, sweat, and tears into it. I hope Lucas understands the sacrifices I’m making now,” I asserted, emphasizing the significance of my endeavors.

“Don’t be mad at me. Tell that to your husband! Alright, the sun is setting, and you’re still heading to the Blackwoods. They’ve been kind to you so far, just make sure to take care of yourself. Guard your heart,” advised my one and only female best friend.

I had made many friends over the years, but she was truly one of the best.

We bid farewell, and I drove past the grand manor of the Blackwood family. It wasn’t far, and I would likely arrive around 6 p. m.

Upon seeing me, my son enthusiastically greeted me, and my heart swelled with joy. I had missed him dearly during those two days, which felt like an eternity.

“We’re having a great time here, Mom! They have a huge library where I can read so many books! They even have a movie room, a gaming room, and plenty of chocolates,” my son excitedly shared, indicating that he had been thoroughly spoiled.

“That’s wonderful, sweetheart. Have you been behaving yourself? Let’s not give your grandparents, aunts, and uncles a hard time, alright? We’ll be staying here tonight, but we’ll head back home tomorrow,” I informed him. He nodded in understanding.

“Mom, where’s Daddy?” my son inquired with curiosity.

“He’s still away on business, my love. Don’t worry about it. Let’s go inside; it’s getting dark,” I gently deflected his question, leading him back into the house.

“Hi, Zara! I’ve missed my beautiful sister-in-law!” Stephanie greeted me warmly, her radiant presence illuminating the room.

She looked stunning in her light blue dress, emanating an innocence that I couldn’t fully comprehend. Good looks certainly ran in their family.

My son immediately went to spend time with his grandparents, who seemed delighted by his presence. They were building a strong bond with their grandson.

“Let’s have a chat, just us. We have something important to discuss,” Stephanie suggested, and I found myself slightly taken aback. They led me to the gazebo in their picturesque rose garden.

My mom-in-law and Stephanie began their conversation, indicating that they had an agenda to address. They planned for a family gathering later in the afternoon, during which they intended to introduce me to their extended clan. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of unease. Did I really need an introduction? Couldn’t I just remain in the background as Lucas’s wife?

“Is it really necessary? I mean, we can keep it low-key. It’s fine,” I nervously expressed my thoughts, unsure about the grand plans being discussed.

Stephanie, always full of motivation, reassured me with encouraging words. “You’re more than deserving, Zara. You’re part of our family now, and as a Blackwood, you deserve everything our clan has to offer. Don’t be shy!”Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.

I shrugged, realizing that the decision was ultimately up to me. “Okay, I guess it’s my choice,” I replied, trying to maintain a nonchalant demeanor.

My mother, serious and determined, asked an important question. “Did you have a civil wedding?”

The question hit a nerve. Did Lucas not want me enough to marry me in a church? Did he resent me so much that our marriage was limited to the municipality?

I nodded silently, unable to find the words to express my feelings.

“I can’t accept that. You should have a proper wedding with my son. Stephanie, design her gown. As for the rest of the plan, leave it to me-I’ll handle it. It will be as grandiose as a fairytale, mark my words!” my mother exclaimed with joy.

I couldn’t help but let out a frustrated growl. “It’s not necessary. What matters is that we’ve sworn to love each other.”

And it was true. I was content with the fact that Lucas loved me, that we were married, and that we were together. It wasn’t about extravagant ceremonies; it was about the real and genuine connection we shared.

But my mother wouldn’t hear any of it.

“Oh no, Zara. If it’s fine with you, it’s not fine with your mother-in-law! I’ve seen all my children get married, and I will see you in your gown and my son in his tuxedo with the same enthusiasm as their weddings. No objections, that’s the plan!”

Her determination made it clear that I couldn’t complain any further. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that our marriage wasn’t the right timing if we hadn’t yet reconciled or received congratulations from my husband. I could only hope that everything would work out.

I was well aware that I couldn’t stand my husband either.