Chapter - 3 Promise to be good mother

*Bianca's POV*

I shifted uncomfortably in the plush leather armchair, my eyes scanning the unfamiliar surroundings of my so-called grandfather's house. The spacious living room was adorned with antique furniture, ornate vases, and expensive art pieces — everything that screamed wealth and privilege. It was a far cry from the tiny apartment I had been living in, but it also made me feel like an outsider, a fish out of water. Did I really belong here? I questioned this repeatedly in my mind. He is my family but I don't even know what to behave like toward him. I couldn't help but question their kindness. I had always been living my life alone, and now that someone is finally taking care of me, it feels unalike and strange.

However, despite my initial doubts, my grandfather and cousin had been nothing but kind and accommodating. I didn't want to move in with them at first, but when I noted all the money I had left, and the future cost, moving with them was the best choice especially when they are welcoming me. I was grateful as they had taken me in when I had nowhere else to go. They had given me a room to stay in and had been taking care of my son while giving me some space to breathe and process everything that had happened. Nor did they ask me about what had happened or who the father was. I was relieved that I didn't have to open up with them, as soon as I met them. If they had been doing something to me that is, they are only taking care of me and trying to get close to me. 

"I feel like I'm being adored…" I mumbled as I was still unused to this kindness. I shut my eyes forcibly and tried to distract myself. I can't get used to their kindness, after all, I can't live with them for a long time.

My son's cries broke through my thoughts. He was crying loud. Is there no one with him? My heart skipped, and my mind became impatient with me, I couldn't resist the urge to see him. I have been avoiding him. I didn't know what I was going to do with him, nor did I know if I could become a good mother to him. I wanted him to be safe, and not get hurt. I tried to hold myself back from visiting him yet I couldn't. I stood up and made my way to his room, my heart beating faster with each step.

As I entered the room, I saw my son, laying in his crib. I clutched the crib's handle, as he threw me a smile, and I smiled back at him unconsciously. He was the only good thing that had come out of the mess in my life. My eyes welled up with tears as I watched him, my heart aching with love and regret.

Suddenly, I felt a hand on my shoulder, and I turned around to see my grandfather standing there, a sympathetic look on his face.

"He's beautiful, isn't he?" he said softly, his voice filled with warmth.

I nodded, unable to speak as I stared at my son's innocent face.

"He looks just like you," my grandfather continued, his gaze locked onto my son.

I felt a pang of guilt, knowing that I had brought him into a world filled with pain and uncertainty. But I was determined to be a good mother, to give him the love and care that he deserved. Yes, I shouldn't doubt myself anymore. It will only end up hurting both of us.

"Can I hold him?" I asked tentatively, my eyes locked onto my son's peaceful face.

"Of course," my grandfather said, his voice kind and understanding.

He handed me my son, and I cradled him gently as if he was made of glass. I didn't want any kind of harm to befall him, and lose him. I wanted to feel this warmth and weight in my arms, for a very very long time. It was like holding a piece of my heart in my hands.

For a while, I just sat there, holding my son, my mind drifting to a distant memory—the day I had met Damon.

*Flashback*

I was running through the dark alley, my heart pounding with fear as I heard footsteps closing in on me. I had borrowed money from the wrong people, and now they were after me. I had nowhere to go, no one to turn to.

That's when I saw him—a tall, dark figure standing at the end of the alley. I couldn't see his face, but there was something about him that made me feel safe, as well as dangerous. I knew that he might be able to help me out of this situation.

"Please," I gasped, my voice barely a whisper. "Please help me."

He stepped forward, and I saw his face for the first time—cold, hard, and unyielding. He wondered for a moment and zoomed his eyes through me.

"I can help you," he said, his voice as cold as his gaze. "But there's a catch."

What does he need from me? I am penniless. How can he ask for a deal at this moment?

"What?" I asked, my heart sinking, giving up. I had to save my life.

"You marry me," he said, his eyes boring into mine. "For a year."

I was taken aback by his proposal. "What are you talking about? Are you going crazy?" I asked, my voice becoming unconsciously louder. I gasped and covered my mouth, hearing their footsteps coming near me. "Please help me…" I begged, clutching onto him.

"It's a contract marriage. I just need a partner for a year," he continued, not budging a bit, "They should be your debtors. I will pay all the money for you, and give you additional money too. You are a good choice for me to get married to."

As I heard the debtors' chasing footsteps drawing near, I had only one option. I needed the money, and this was my only way out.

"I'll do it," I said, my voice trembling, as tears drew down my face, "But instead of giving me additional money, pay for my university fees!"

*Flashback ends*

I shook my head, trying to push the memory away. Damon was the last thing I needed to think about right now. I had to focus on my son, on being a good mother.

As I sat there, holding my son, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I had a purpose like there was something worth fighting for.

"I'll be a good mother," I whispered to my son, my eyes locked onto his peaceful face. "I promise."