BILLIONAIRE FAMILY SERIES In the bustling city of Evercrest, where scandal and secrets intertwine, Cade finds himself faced with a surprising twist of fate. A medical accident shattered his life in LA, leading him to a fresh start in a new town. However, on his very first day, an unexpected marriage proposal from a 5-year-old sets off a chain of events that will challenge everything he thought he knew. As he comes face to face with the mother of his child, Hazel, memories of a passionate night five years ago come rushing back. Their chance encounter during a school world tour sparked a fiery connection that neither could forget. But as fate reunites them, will they finally confront the feelings they buried long ago? Ivy, a pint-sized matchmaker, weaves a tale of love and possibility, urging her parents to give their relationship a second chance. Yet, as buried emotions resurface and old wounds reopen, Hazel must grapple with her fears and insecurities. Will she open her heart to the possibility of a future with Cade, or will the ghosts of their past keep them apart? Book 2 of Billionaire Family Series - Cade Westham's Story ***** Book 1 - Billionaire's Bet; My Brother's Teacher - Cruz Westham's Story.
Lihat lebih banyak“Mommy, I’ve got you a husband!” a green-eyed beauty declared in front of her mother.
“A husband!” As hilarious as it was, Hazel couldn’t bring herself to laugh at it because this wasn’t the first time her daughter was trying to play matchmaker for her.She has been doing this since she turned three and became more aware of what a family should look like. At first she’d often call random men her Dad since her Mom told her her daddy went missing but when she turned five, the smarty pants decided she had to find her Mom a husband and herself a daddy.“Ivy-Lynn! Go back and sit with Mabel at the counter. I will clear this table and join you.”Ivy frowned and lifted his eyebrows, “It’s for real this time!” With excitement, she held up a piece of paper and said, “See, we even drew up a contract!”Hazel took the paper from her and briefly went through it while shaking her head in disbelief. Whoever she had talked to was really indulging her with the reassuring words signed on the paper.“Ivy, you can’t go around forcing people to write you a note! I am not in need of a husband– especially not from you." She complained.“But, Mommy, he’s totally your type.” She added, winking slyly, “And he seems loaded too.”“Ivy!” Hazel let out a shocked gasp. “Get back to the counter and get your books!” She warned as she continued to clear the table, dusting it up with a towel, She mumbled, “You don’t want to end up like me.”But Ivy wasn't ready to listen to her as she turned around and walked into the VIP lounge, which was opposite the regular lounge where Hazel was clearing up.“Young lady, get back here–” she called out before Ivy vanished behind the glass doors that divided their spaces.‘I must have raised her wrong.’ She sighed, gently massaging her temple as she dropped the towel on the table and followed her.As she gently pushed the door open, she spotted Ivy talking to a man in a gray suit. With his back to the door, Hazel could only catch a glimpse of his shiny brown hair and his bulky body, which completely encased the chair he was seated in.As she walked closer, she began to hear their conversations.“Hey, where is my wife? I thought you were going to get her.” The man asked, his voice gentle and warm. Hazel could tell right away that he was good with kids."I truly intended to bring her, but I believe that after too many rounds of this game, she has lost faith in me. You have to come with me, that way she won’t have any doubts.” Ivy prodded and pulled his arm gently, giving the young man a cutesy face he could not help but smile at.Hazel shook her head in disbelief as she finally walked up to them and pulled Ivy apart. “I’m sorry she interfered. She’s always like that with handsome men.” She complimented while offering an apology, her head cocked slightly in a bow.“There is no need to apologize for such a cutey.” He said, playfully pulling her cheek while getting on his feet.Hazel raised her head to finally get a glimpse of the man she complimented. As they locked eyes, what she saw took her aback.Her heart skipped a few beats as the familiar face and scent quickly brought her back to that night several years ago like a tidal wave.In that split second, a whirlwind of emotions and memories from her past came rushing back with an overwhelming force.The first image that appeared in her mind was the day her father had discovered she was pregnant. The look of disappointment and anger on his face as he yelled at her and eventually kicked her out of their home echoed in her mind like it had just happened yesterday.Then, the memories of her high school days came flooding back. The whispers and stares from her classmates when her belly started to show, the cruel words and teasing that made her feel like an outcast. The loneliness and isolation she felt as she navigated the halls of her school, carrying a secret burden that she was too young to understand fully.As she continued to lock eyes with the stranger, her mind raced to the countless nights she had spent alone, cradling her growing belly, wondering how she would be able to take care of a baby when she was just a child herself.A vivid collection of the night she brought her child to the world resurfaced.She remembered the feeling of overwhelming pain and exhaustion as she braced herself for the arrival of her child. The walls of the small room closing in on her, the sounds of her own breathing echoing in her ears as she gritted her teeth through each contraction. The fear and uncertainty of not having anyone by her side to hold her hand and reassure her that everything would be okay.She could almost feel the weight of her baby pressing against her, the sensation of her tiny body emerging into the world filling her with a mix of awe and overwhelming love.The cries of her newborn pierced through the room, a sound that simultaneously brought her to tears and filled her with a sense of unparalleled joy and relief.The fear and uncertainty that had gripped her in those moments came back in full force, making her feel small and vulnerable once again.Her education ended as soon as she decided to keep the baby so there was no other way for her to secure a better job.In the end, Hazel Estelle Ricci Sinclair, the first daughter of Ruso Ricci Sinclair, the most affluent and revered International Crime family in Evercrest City was now waiting tables at a hotel lounge a few kilometers away from home in Crestmont City.“I knew you'd like him.” Ivy seeing the duo lost in each other's eyes exclaimed with excitement.Hot tears quickly filled her eyes hearing her daughter's voice. She thought her daughter had been through a lot born to a single mom whose only living parent abandoned as soon as she became a stain to the family name.“Ivy, let's leave from here!” She said, dragging Ivy who wasn't ready to leave.“Mom, we can't leave Daddy behind!” Ivy cried loudly, forcing her mom to stop in shock right before opening the glass door.Hazel raised her eyes and blinked back her tears. She cleared her throat before kneeling to Ivy’s height.“Ivy, he isn't your Daddy. I’m sure you're smarter than that.” Hazel said, trying to brainwash Ivy.Ivy looked through the glass at the man who was still standing frozen in the same spot and the same position they had left him then she turned her gaze back to her mother, “But he has green eyes– just like mine. You don't have green eyes.” She pointed out.Hazel’s temper flared but she couldn't express just how she was feeling towards her child after all, it wasn't her fault.“Love, green is a very common eye color. If you go by that, every man with green eyes will be your Daddy.” She tried to explain, “And by the way, we both have caramel hair color which he clearly doesn't. Do you believe me now?” She asked, hoping her trick worked.Ivy went silent for several seconds, moving her gaze from the young man to her mom back and forth.“You’re right about everyone with green eyes becoming my Dad but– Green is one of the rarest eye colors. So you won't see many people with it.” Ivy confronted her mom.Even though she was angry, she felt relief thinking Ivy had come to terms with her.“It doesn't matter. At least you know he isn't your real Dad just because he’s got green eyes.” Hazel said, getting back to her feet.She gently held Ivy’s hand and attempted to walk away one more time but didn't expect Ivy to pull from her grip and stand firm to her point.“What does it matter if he isn't my real Dad? At least, he is the only one willing to marry a single mom.” She blurted, her words stinging Hazel's heart.“Is this a two wedding?” Another guest whispered. “Well, this couple stole the show! Wow!” Can another comment. With a huge smirk in her face, Hazel and Cade pushed their way among the stunned family and bridesmaids, landing themselves a perfect beside the bride. Serafina’s eyes flashed with fury, seeing Hazel practically stealing the spotlight at her wedding with both the perfect dress, makeup, and face card. The worst part was Serafina actually wanted that dress, but it was not in season yet.“Are you out of your mind? What do you think you’re doing right now?” She asked, completely pissed. Hazel smiled warily as she whispered a reply, “Taking pictures, what else?” “Photographer, please go ahead.” Cade instructed.The photographer was hesitant, but seeing that he had already wasted enough time, he quickly started taking the pictures. With a flower also in Hazel, one could easily assume that two weddings were taking place in a hall and since Hazel already wiped the happiness i
FEW MINUTES EARLIERWhen Hazel entered the dressing room, she met Serafina and Alexander’s mothers chatting and laughing with the bride.As soon as Serafina saw her, a sinister smile flashed across her cheeks as she said, “Oh, Hazel Ricci Sinclair, it didn’t think you’d make it. Thanks for honoring me with your presence.” She knew the parents might not easily recognize her which was why she had to mention her full name to draw their attention indirectly. “Oh! You mean this is Hazel? The town’s rebel?” Serafina’s mother, Julia asked curiously as she turned her attention to her. Hazel rolled her eyes in disgust but she faked a smile and greeted, “Yeah, Congratulations on your wedding.” “Thank you.” Serafina proudly replied. Amanda, Alexander’s mother after staring at Hazel in disdain for several seconds asked, “I remember you were disowned because you were pregnant, how is the baby now? And the father, did you manage to find him?” Hazel knew it wasn’t out of concern but just a wa
About an hour after the call, Hazel, Ivy and Cade were chilling at the back of Cade’s Mercedes, laughing at the silly jokes he was making to make Ivy smile. Once the laughter died down, Hazel who was still curious of Cade’s decision decided to bring it up. “Cade, where are we going?” She asked curiously.Cade acted surprised, “Are you asking me?” Hazel looked confused, remembering him clearly calling her and asking her and Ivy out, “Umm…I…you called earlier, right? You mentioned something more thrilling…I thought you were taking us out to have fun…”“I could take you now if you want, but…what about the wedding?” He asked curiously. “Umm…kids are not allowed and Ivy is coming with us.” Hazel explained.Cade smiled, “That’s exactly the thrilling thing I’m talking about. I spoke with Mr. Frost and he agreed I would come with my kid.” “Woah, that’s weird because he wouldn’t let me come with mine.” She complained. “Do you think she knows we are talking about the same kid?” She asked c
“You mean like a clap back?” Cade asked curiously.“Umm…something like that.” Hazel mumbled. Cade smiled knowingly, “I definitely want to! You know I always have your back when it comes to those bullies.” Cade reassured her. Hazel grinned from ear to ear as she said, the words, “Thanks.” Cade reached out to the box he’d just received from Hunter earlier. He removed the necklace and walked behind Hazel, putting it around her neck, “You should wear this on that day. It looks pretty on you.” He whispered into her ear. Hazel felt tingles all over her body, her face reddening to the point of explosion. She couldn’t bring herself to face Cade, so she just whispered, “Thanks,” Cade felt the urge to just turn her around and kiss those soft, plump lips but struggled to control himself, eventually just tapping her shoulder and saying, “Get back to work. I have to join Gabriel now.” Hazel didn’t say a word or even move her body as Cade walked away. As he held the doorknob, he briefly halte
While paying attention to the bidding, Cade noticed a partner in which the bidders were bidding enormous amounts of money on things valuing way less.Before long, he was able to deduce they were laundering money through the so-called auction. “Dirty money? Is that what you call large numbers over there?” Hunter asked, relaxing his back on the chair. Cade smirked, “Large? How large? Large enough to buy a single branch of Westham Corporations?” He asked daringly. “You don't think all of Westham Corporations is larger than the LA government, right?” Hunter asked, adjusting himself on his seat. “Of course not!” Cade replied. “It’s also not larger than Eldoria, but you never know how large it really is until you get involved.” Hunter suggested. Cade sneered as Hunter finally made his move. He always knew there was a reason he started showing up in his face, and now, he has finally made it clear. The first time he met him was during a board meeting with the government stakeholders du
Hazel wasn't sure how to respond, especially since she wasn't sure of her relationship with Cade and also since they are keeping the paternity of Ivy on the low for now. “Well, you can say he is the daddy I want for my baby.” She stylishly responded, glaring back at Cade who seemed to have concluded his conversation with Alex and was now walking towards them. “My ear keeps twitching. What have you too been talking about me?” Cade asked, his tone laced with jealousy as he joined. Hazel quickly grabbed his hand and started to pull him away. “Nothing much. Let's go.” She said, not wanting Hunter to bring back the topic. “Not so fast!” Hunter said, stopping them.They were surprised by Hunter's actions which he quickly went on to explain, “You will have to write down your address where you want to have your item delivered after payments are cleared.” “Just drop it at Westham Corporation.” Cade said, releasing himself from Hazel's grip and then holding instead as he pulled her out of
Hazel's eyes widened in disbelief as he saw Hunter and Alexander shaking hands and talking. “Don’t mind my manners, Hazel meet my nephew, Alexander. Alexander, Hazel and her partner, Cade Westham” Hunter quickly introduced the trio. Alexander was equally surprised as he stretched out his hand to receive Hazel's handshake. “Hey, Nephew!” Hazel teased, almost giggling.Alex tried his best to hide his anger, as he also greeted. He tried to shake Cade but he politely refused, waving instead and only igniting Alex’s anger which he succeeded in hiding. Just then, Serafina, who was delayed by some of her friends as soon as they entered the hall, finally joined them. “Good evening, Uncle…” her voice trailed off as her gaze fell on Hazel. “What are you doing he…” her voice trailed off again as she noticed Cade standing beside her. She was quickly reminded of Cade's reasons for not going forward with the contract with them.“Good evening, Mr. Westham.” She greeted, equally masking her a
Hazel swallowed hard, because she didn't expect Cade to pay heed to what Alexander had said the other day. “At first…yeah.” She replied with much hesitation. She quickly turned to face him and continued, "But it was consensual. He knew I had no feelings for him. I had asked me out in front of everyone in the field after they won a baseball match, and I had rejected him, but when I went home after, I found out Dad was matchmaking me with that jerk, Nathan. I just couldn't accept it so I organized a party that night and accepted his proposal, after which I told him my reason for accepting him.” She explained. After all she’d said, she couldn't get a reaction from Cade, as he just stared blankly at her. Hazel became anxious, worried Cade might have the wrong impression of her, so she continued to explain. “He had more to gain from the relationship. Even though he was the most popular boy in school, he was slowly losing his position with the news of his corrupt Mayor Dad spreading aro
Confused, Cade tried to touch her while asking, “Hazel, are you alright? Why are you getting…” but Hazel jabbed his chest hard, pushing him back. “I can’t do it! I won’t do it, why can’t you understand that? Why are you pushing me like this?” Her voice cracked with emotion, tears streaming down her face.“Hazel, I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were this triggered by…”“You’re sorry? Who the hell are you? Who the f@ck do you think you are to try and change my life? Did I ever tell you I didn’t like how my life was? Or is it because I said you could take responsibility for Ivy?” She challenged, her eyes burning red, her temper uncontrollable. Hazel’s panic turned into full-blown anger, as she lashed out at him, “I am Ivy! I am not your child! Maybe I should never have met you…that night on the trip and that day at the hotel!” her words cutting like a knife. Cade was pained by her statement but he could tell Hazel was traumatized by cars like he once was. Ivy who was watching a new side
Welcome to GoodNovel world of fiction. If you like this novel, or you are an idealist hoping to explore a perfect world, and also want to become an original novel author online to increase income, you can join our family to read or create various types of books, such as romance novel, epic reading, werewolf novel, fantasy novel, history novel and so on. If you are a reader, high quality novels can be selected here. If you are an author, you can obtain more inspiration from others to create more brilliant works, what's more, your works on our platform will catch more attention and win more admiration from readers.
Komen