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A surrogate for my ex's uncle 107
IVY.The following day, as soon as it was 7 AM, I was already dressed and almost ready for my visit to F&K Financials. My eyes widened with anticipation as I looked at my reflection in the mirror; my pulse quickened. Nothing else mattered right now. I couldn’t stop smiling—my whole face radiated excitement.When Casper woke up, I could swear he rolled his eyes, clearly frustrated by how early I was up. Well, I wouldn’t blame him. He was born with a silver spoon and could never imagine what it meant to grow up in New York, struggling on the streets of Seattle without parents. Just when I thought things were looking up, I met a boyfriend who turned out to be a serial cheater and abusive jerk. I doubted he ever knew the feeling of fulfilling a long-held dream.“Didn’t you check your email yesterday? I sent you your schedule for the week,” he grumbled as he climbed out of bed.“Of course I did.” I didn’t bother to look his way.“Your first stop is F&K. You’re their major shareholder, over
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IVYI followed the directions to the office they had arranged for me. It wasn’t large, but it was cosy—well-furnished and equipped with everything I might need during my stay to oversee operations. Despite their efforts, I wasn’t impressed. I doubted anything associated with Leon could ever win my approval.My lack of enthusiasm stemmed from the fact that this office was provided by Leon and Hailey. I scrutinised the room for a moment before scoffing, “They can put in their best effort, but it will never be enough for me.”Meanwhile, I sensed Leon and Hailey waiting outside, anxious for my reaction. Hailey nudged Leon, who seemed lost in thought, preoccupied with his ex-girlfriend. “What’s going on, Leon?” she asked in a low voice, her frustration evident.“Hey, keep your voice down,” Leon cautioned. “We need to maintain the act until she leaves.”Hailey scoffed. “What do you mean? I can’t work with that woman! You know I can’t stand her!”Leon took her hand, fixing his gaze on her.
A surrogate for my ex's uncle Chapter 001
CHAPTER 1. IVY. I raised my head to find my boyfriend, Leon, standing at the door, a white towel wrapped around his waist. He held one hand on the towel, trying to keep it from slipping off, while the other rested on the doorframe. My eyes widened at the sight of him, but my heart sank when I noticed my cousin, Hailey, lying on the bed completely naked, desperately dragging the sheets to cover herself. Just a moment ago, I looked at the numbers inscribed on the door of Santaro Hotel before knocking. I was supposed to deliver a package to some customers who had placed an order, but who would have imagined I would be delivering condoms to my fiancé and his side piece? The pain in my heart deepened; it wasn't just any woman—it was Hailey, my own cousin. I felt trapped in a nightmare. A lump formed in my throat, making it difficult to speak or swallow. I held my breath, refusing to believe what I was seeing. "Hailey," I managed to mutter, my voice shaking. In that hotel room, my
A surrogate for my ex's uncle Chapter 002
CHAPTER 2. IVY. --- When I got home around 6:56pm, I was surprised to find that Leon wasn’t there. He was supposed to be back by now; he usually returned from work before that time. I pulled out my phone and dialed his number for what felt like the umpteenth time, but there was still no reply. With my keys locked inside, I had no choice but to sit on the balcony and wait for him like a beggar. I needed to talk to him about two things: I wanted him to at least try to defend himself—maybe say that Hailey had seduced him, which might make it easier for me to take him back. The next morning, my phone alarm jolted me awake at 5:30 AM. My heart sank when I realized I had slept outside. I walked over to the door and turned the doorknob; it swung wide open, and a gasp almost escaped my lips. Leon had come home last night and hadn’t bothered to let me in. He was seated on the plush couch in the living room when I walked in. When he saw me, he frowned. “I didn’t get dinner last night. Wh
A surrogate for my ex's uncle Chapter 003
CHAPTER 3 IVY “And how is that your business?” I shot him a glare. “We just ended our relationship, so we’re now strangers. What I do shouldn’t bother you, Mr. Leon.” His face paled in shock at my audacity. He moved closer, ready to hit me, his usual form of abuse. But this time, I stood my ground. “One more hit from you, and I’ll sue you for assault! We are no longer a thing,” I declared boldly before walking out of the room. As I stepped outside, I realized I had nowhere else to go, but I didn’t care—I was finally free from the abuse. --- Three Hours Later Lewis Hotel, Seattle I stood on the open-roof balcony of the Lewis Hotel, the cool breeze brushing against my skin. I repeated those words to myself as I stood there, a wine glass in hand, trying to sip away my sorrows. After leaving Leon's house, I felt lost, with nowhere to turn. I had been trying to reach Jenny, my best friend from the South Side, but my calls went unanswered. I guessed she was at work. With no ot
A surrogate for my ex's uncle Chapter 004
CHAPTER 4. IVY It was around 10 a.m. when the cab dropped me off in front of Sky Investments. This was only my second visit to this part of Seattle; the first was for a rather ridiculous party at the home of a tech mogul whose name I can’t remember. But this time, it was for something much more important. I took a bite of my freshly baked chocolate cake as I gazed up at the gigantic building before me. There’s something comforting about the flavor of chocolate cake, even if my predicament was anything but exquisite. Jenny always recommended freshly baked cakes when someone was feeling down, saying they uplift your spirit. Perhaps she was right, but it was hard to enjoy the cake given my current situation—especially with a loan I had to repay in forty-eight hours. I’m not one for a pity party; I take pride in my dignity and am content with what little I have. Looking at the building, which resembled a tourist center in Dubai rather than just an office, sent chills down my spine.
A surrogate for my ex's uncle Chapter 005
CHAPTER 5 CASPER. For an instant, everything felt cold and hot at once. I was too stunned to move, and I sensed she felt the same way, lying half-sprawled on top of me in the elevator, our lips pressed together. Her lips tasted curiously sweet and fresh for someone having such a terrible day. I didn't bother to push her off me; at least we were in the elevator and not outside, where the press would have twisted this moment into something it wasn't. If this had happened outside, I was sure I would receive a call from the manor in the next three minutes about my irresponsible behavior. That’s just how the life of Casper Forbes looks every minute of the day. For the next few seconds, she stayed on top of me. Then she came to her senses, scrambling to push herself off and practically leaping to her feet. “I-I-I…” she stammered, struggling to articulate herself. Just then, she lost her balance and fell, but I quickly lunged forward and caught her before she hit the floor. “Miss? Mis
A surrogate for my ex's uncle CHAPTER 006
CHAPTER 6 IVY I finally woke up from a dreamless sleep and squinted at the brightness of the room. Yawning and stretching, I felt more relaxed than I had in a long time. A smile tugged at my lips as I remembered the dream I just had. In it, I had collided with a handsome stranger after meeting that arrogant director at Sky Investments. I didn’t recall every detail, but I remembered saying, “I’m sorry, it was an accident,” as I fell into his arms. He had responded with a charming smile and a grace that made me feel awkward. “I’m not complaining. If it was an accident, then it was a pleasant one.” But that was no dream. The last thing I remembered was accidentally kissing him, and I could still swear he tasted like sweet apple juice. The nostalgia of that moment lingered in my mind until I spun around, and my breath caught in my throat. The sense of calm vanished as I took in my surroundings—the chandeliers, and the luxurious bed. This place was unfamiliar. Where was I? Panic
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A surrogate for my ex's uncle 108
IVYI followed the directions to the office they had arranged for me. It wasn’t large, but it was cosy—well-furnished and equipped with everything I might need during my stay to oversee operations. Despite their efforts, I wasn’t impressed. I doubted anything associated with Leon could ever win my approval.My lack of enthusiasm stemmed from the fact that this office was provided by Leon and Hailey. I scrutinised the room for a moment before scoffing, “They can put in their best effort, but it will never be enough for me.”Meanwhile, I sensed Leon and Hailey waiting outside, anxious for my reaction. Hailey nudged Leon, who seemed lost in thought, preoccupied with his ex-girlfriend. “What’s going on, Leon?” she asked in a low voice, her frustration evident.“Hey, keep your voice down,” Leon cautioned. “We need to maintain the act until she leaves.”Hailey scoffed. “What do you mean? I can’t work with that woman! You know I can’t stand her!”Leon took her hand, fixing his gaze on her.
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 107
IVY.The following day, as soon as it was 7 AM, I was already dressed and almost ready for my visit to F&K Financials. My eyes widened with anticipation as I looked at my reflection in the mirror; my pulse quickened. Nothing else mattered right now. I couldn’t stop smiling—my whole face radiated excitement.When Casper woke up, I could swear he rolled his eyes, clearly frustrated by how early I was up. Well, I wouldn’t blame him. He was born with a silver spoon and could never imagine what it meant to grow up in New York, struggling on the streets of Seattle without parents. Just when I thought things were looking up, I met a boyfriend who turned out to be a serial cheater and abusive jerk. I doubted he ever knew the feeling of fulfilling a long-held dream.“Didn’t you check your email yesterday? I sent you your schedule for the week,” he grumbled as he climbed out of bed.“Of course I did.” I didn’t bother to look his way.“Your first stop is F&K. You’re their major shareholder, over
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 106
IVYI smiled, savoring the way I was getting on his last nerves. “Just get me wine,” I said, watching Leon scramble away. He was desperate to catch Hailey before she did something reckless. Well I didn't care if he caught up with her,I just need him to get me my wine. When I heard the door swing open , I knew I was in for some entertainment. I took a sip of my drink, feeling confident. I could only imagine the chaos I was stirring between them.Soon, the door opened, and one of the staff members brought in a bottle of wine and glasses. “Good morning, ma’am,” she greeted politely. I accepted the drink, my eyes gleaming with satisfaction as I leaned back in my chair, feeling like the queen of the office. Well I was…I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of conversation Leon and Hailey were having. Manipulating their emotions was almost too easy, and it thrilled me to think of the discord I had sown but if only they knew this is just the beginning of whatever I was planning. When they
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CHAPTER.CASPER It’s barely been twenty-four hours, and the whole coast has been cleared. Leon made sure to take down all those photos and sweep away the negative narrative hovering over my name. As I scroll through the internet, my lips curl into a proud smile at how cleverly he handled it.At least now I won’t be running around like a headless chicken, answering the constituents of Parliament about why I broke such vague family rules. And as for Xavier? I’ll be sure to give him a taste of his own medicine. Did he really think he could get away with that?But for now, I choose not to focus my energy on him. My parents’ death anniversary is just a few hours away, and the whole province will be mourning their past king and queen. This will be the first time I attend the anniversary for the world to see. In previous years, the royal family mourned privately, but that changed three years ago when my grandmother decided to open it to the public. Since then, I haven’t been able to attend.
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 104
CASPER. “Of course not!” I quickly defended myself with a sharp wave of my hand.How could she label me as impotent? That was cruel, especially for a man like me. Back in high school, I remember a girl from my hostel getting pregnant, but she ended up having an abortion before she even told me. I also go for regular check-ups, so I know I’m capable of fathering children with any woman I choose.Well, I don’t care if she still doesn’t believe me; maybe she can find one of her friends to bet on how good of a man I am.“You’re potent. Then why are you using a donor?” she asked, throwing the most bitter question my way—one that always made me turn away in insecurity.Maybe I should just admit that I’m paranoid sometimes. Or should I confess that I have my own issues? If I reveal my flaws and traumas, who knows if she might change her mind about wanting to have a baby with me? I’ve been with her for weeks, trying to understand her, but opening up like this would give my brothers leverage
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 103
I smiled, savoring the way I was getting on his last nerves. “Just get me wine,” I said, watching Leon scramble away. He was desperate to catch Hailey before she did something reckless like calling her parents.Leon had made a deal with her parents' company, and they only agreed because of their relationship. I could already picture him rushing to the rooftop, where Hailey usually went to smoke and clear her head.When I heard the door swing open, I knew I was in for some entertainment. I took a sip of my drink, feeling confident. I could only imagine the chaos I was stirring between them.Soon, the door opened, and one of the staff members brought in a bottle of wine and glasses. “Good morning, ma’am,” she greeted politely. I accepted the drink, my eyes gleaming with satisfaction as I leaned back in my chair, feeling like the queen of the office.I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of conversation Leon and Hailey were having. Manipulating their emotions was almost too easy, and it t
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 102
“I don't know; it's all over the news outlets in Monaco. You're the trending topic right now, and it's that bad,” Leon continued.Casper's eyes widened in horror as he rushed outside with Leon. From his reaction, I could tell it was serious, but my mind couldn't help but wonder who had leaked those photos to the press. Casper had boldly claimed that there was no access to phones in that part of the palace. It had always been a sanctuary, keeping the royal family away from media scrutiny. But clearly, that was no longer the case—someone was trying to sabotage him.If only he had let me speak first, he would have heard the bad news from me. I wasn’t trying to be the bearer of bad news, but I had intended to tell him before that jerk snatched the opportunity away.I let out a disappointed sigh. I knew I had been cold toward him these past few days, but I didn’t want him to endure the media's scrutiny in such a negative light. I picked up the file he had meant to show me before Leon inte
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 101
# Ivy's POVI smiled, savoring the way I was getting on his last nerves. “Just get me wine,” I said, watching Leon scramble away. He was desperate to catch Hailey before she did something reckless like calling her parents.Leon had made a deal with her parents' company, and they only agreed because of their relationship. I could already picture him rushing to the rooftop, where Hailey usually went to smoke and clear her head.When I heard the door swing open, I knew I was in for some entertainment. I took a sip of my drink, feeling confident. I could only imagine the chaos I was stirring between them.Soon, the door opened, and one of the staff members brought in a bottle of wine and glasses. “Good morning, ma’am,” she greeted politely. I accepted the drink, my eyes gleaming with satisfaction as I leaned back in my chair, feeling like the queen of the office.I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of conversation Leon and Hailey were having. Manipulating their emotions was almost too ea
A surrogate for my ex's uncle 101
I smiled, savoring the way I was getting on his last nerves. “Just get me wine,” I said, watching Leon scramble away. He was desperate to catch Hailey before she did something reckless. Well I didn't care if he caught up with her,I just need him to get me my wine. When I heard the door swing open , I knew I was in for some entertainment. I took a sip of my drink, feeling confident. I could only imagine the chaos I was stirring between them.Soon, the door opened, and one of the staff members brought in a bottle of wine and glasses. “Good morning, ma’am,” she greeted politely. I accepted the drink, my eyes gleaming with satisfaction as I leaned back in my chair, feeling like the queen of the office. Well I was…I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of conversation Leon and Hailey were having. Manipulating their emotions was almost too easy, and it thrilled me to think of the discord I had sown but if only they knew this is just the beginning of whatever I was planning. When they retu
