“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
Cade Westham, was sitting at the private lounge of Serene Oasis hotel on a phone call with his brother. “I know how much you're not interested in the family business but I’m sure you can handle it just until this scandal evaporates. Gabriel Stone will assist you every step of the way. Plus, you have me to come to.” His brother reassured him over the phone. Two weeks prior, Cade Westham had finally triumphed in the lengthy three-month legal battle about the medical mishap that happened when he was operating on a well-known patient, ultimately resulting in her demise. Shaken by the affair, he needed a place to escape from all the bad press in the media, and he ended up driving many miles south to Evercrest City, South Eldoria because the family corporation had recently opened a new branch there. “But the CEO position? I think it's too…” “Don't whine about it. Show everyone you are a Westham.” His brother suggested. “I know you can pull this…” A green-eyed beauty unexpectedly appear
Hazel paced frantically around the staff room, biting her nails nervously while Ivy slept on the couch behind her after a long cry for Daddy. ‘Why now? What does he want by showing up now?’ She pondered, getting angrier by the second. Seeing how finely dressed he was, it was obvious his life had been all rose but hers had only been filled with thorns. ‘Why did I have to suffer alone?’ She wondered. “Because I initiated the affair?” She thought, this time more loudly as she halted and quickly checked on her daughter hoping not to wake her up. Even though she was fast asleep, she still had her ‘Contract’ within her grip. Hazel wiped the tears from her eyes as she sat down on the floor beside the couch Ivy was lying on. She tucked behind her ear strands of her hair that were covering her face as she gently removed the contract from her hand which made the little one toss around. She decided to leave her for a while to be sure she was deep into her sleep before touching her again to
Hazel paused, her fingers millimeters from the pen beneath the bed, her heart leaping in her chest. She was startled by the abrupt sound and felt a shiver of fear run down her spine. She let out a cry and staggered backward, her eyes wide with shock as she fell onto the bed in a whirl of fabric and limbs. The unexpectedness of the situation sent her head reeling and her pulse racing. "You scared the living hell out of me, f*ck!" Breathing out gently, she looked up at the man who was standing inches in front of her. Her eyes widened in shock seeing the man before her. “Y–you’re Cade f*cking Westham?” She asked, pointing at Cade who had just gotten out of the restroom with just a towel around his waist. Cade was equally awestruck. Seeing her once was enough to mess with his head, but twice a day– and in this scenario? There was no way he was going to get her off his mind for a long time. All they shared the night they met was kisses, bodies, and a bed. Nothing more– not even thei
Gabriel halted, keeping quiet for a while. He wasn’t startled by Cade’s out-of-the-blue question, he was just not sure what to say at the moment.“I know my brother is asking me to trust you so much because he wants you to keep an eye on me and report back to him.” Cade went on, a little more blunt this time. Gabriel turned to face him, asking, “Are you saying not to do my job now?” “You can tell him about everything but this. He can’t know of any woman in my life. He mustn't.” Cade said, firmly. “That’s why I need you to quit being his man and become mine.” He requested. “I can’t work with someone I can’t trust with my secrets.Gabriel was quiet for a while before he eventually replied, “Can I get back to you on that?” “It’s hard to make an honest decision when I haven’t contacted my previous employer.” He added. Cade sighed heavily, “I hope you make the right decision on time.” He concluded before shutting the door behind him. He sat on the couch and relaxed his back. As soon as
Cade had no idea what was going on, but he knew what he wanted. To get a full taste of those lips. Without thinking much of it, he slipped his hand behind her back, unexpectedly pulling her to himself, their bodies pressing tightly against each other. With her hand still resting on his cheek, he leaned in and pressed his lips against her, his breath filled with the sweet aroma of the red wine he had drank. Their lips met in a gentle, sensual dance that sent shivers down Hazel’s spine. As they melted into each other, Cade’s hands caressed her waist, sending a wave of warmth through her body. Their kiss deepened, a silent symphony of desire and longing. Hazel’s fingers tangled in Cade’s hair, pulling him closer as they both lost themselves in the moment. The taste of red wine lingered on their tongues, adding an intoxicating sweetness to their embrace. As they broke apart, Cade’s eyes met Hazel’s, filled with a mix of passion and tenderness. Hazel was in awe, but she couldn’t deny
Cade squatted, spreading out his hand and welcoming Ivy to a warm embrace. “Were you crying?” Cade asked, wiping out the remaining tears off Ivy’s face. Ivy nodded affirmatively, pointing at Ms. Anne. “She called me baggage.” She reported. Anne quickly turned to face Cade, asking, “Mr. Westham, is there anything you need?” “Yeah! It’s very urgent, it can't wait, and I need YOU to do it.” Cade replied, lifting Ivy to his shoulder. “What is it you want, sir?” Anne asked curiously, grinning from ear to ear. Cade looked up at Ivy and smiled brightly, playing with her cheek while saying, “I need you to apologize to this cutie pie here.” “Now!” He added, giving a stern look as he turned to face Anne. Whispers flooded the air, as if on cue. Though discomfort and fury were washing over Anne's face, she dared not protest because Cade was a valued guest they could not afford to upset. She forced a fake grin as she looked directly at Ivy and apologized, “Ivy, I called you a bad word whi
“Daddy!” Ivy cried out excitedly as she ran from the midst of her friends, her backpack dancing in her back as she hugged Cade. Cade casually lifted her, jumping her in the air briefly before making her sit on his folded arms. “Why did you come to my school today?” She asked, grinning from ear to ear. Cade gently fumbled with her cheek as he replied, “I came to pick you up, silly!”“Woah! Really?” She squirted excitedly. “Did Mommy let you? She was so adamant that I would never meet you again. I’m glad you’re here.” She added. Cade turned away and rolled his eyes in disbelief, “She says Ivy is not mine but she’s always acting so suspicious.” He mumbled. “What are you mumbling about?” Ivy asked curiously. He didn’t want to lie to the kid so she decided to skip the topic altogether. “Ivy, do you want to eat ice cream? He asked as he started towards the ice cream truck in the school compound“Can I?” She asked, her eyes popping in excitement. “I don’t remember when last I had it.”
“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