Chapter 3

My heart pounded, unable to believe what I had just heard. How could a husband say something like that to his wife?!

I threw off the covers and stared at Adrian. "What do you mean by that?"

Adrian was initially relieved to see my resistance, but then he began to persuade me. "Alexander is also a man of the Blackwood family, and his wife looks like you. Think it over."

I bit my lip, trembling with anger. "Do you see me as nothing more than a breeding tool?"

Adrian, irritated by my questioning, put on his shirt and snapped, "If it's not possible, it's not possible. Stop making a fuss!" He slammed the door as he left.

I stared at the closed door, my heart aching. When did the gentle, warm boy I once knew change so much?

I glanced at the wedding photo on the bedside table, recalling the time when I fell into the pond at the Blackwood estate as a child. Adrian had saved me from the cold water, dispelling my fear and chill.

"Don't be afraid, I'll protect you."

From that moment, I saw Adrian as my destined prince and willingly became his devoted wife. But now, to have a child, he wanted me to seduce Alexander.

How absurd!

The moon hung lonely in the sky, its cold light accentuating my solitude. I tossed and turned all night, unable to sleep, and Adrian did not return.

The next day was a family day for the Blackwoods.

I got up early to dress and hide my fatigue, then went downstairs to prepare for the family dinner.

Just as the dishes were set on the table, the three men of the Blackwood family arrived.

I looked up at the commotion—

James, the current head of the Blackwood family, was well over fifty but walked steadily to the main seat. Alexander, the eldest son, sat straight with his gold-rimmed glasses, exuding the cold, noble demeanor befitting a renowned lawyer. And Adrian, my once gentle husband, now had eyes filled with a hunger for power.

I felt a mix of emotions.

James suddenly spoke, "I'm getting old. The company will be handed over to you youngsters soon. Give me a grandchild early so I can enjoy my retirement!"

My heart tightened as Adrian held my hand and eagerly said, "Dad, Bella and I are doing our best to conceive."

James's face darkened, delivering a cold ultimatum. "Five years of trying with no result?! If there's no child this year, your position in the company might come to an end!"

The atmosphere at the table froze.

Adrian looked at me with displeasure, his grip on my hand tightening. I lowered my head, unable to say a word in defense.

In the tense silence, Alexander spoke slowly, "Dad, let's eat first."

His deep voice and calm tone immediately quelled James's anger, allowing the meal to proceed. I sighed in relief and excused myself, claiming an inability to handle alcohol.

I had just sat down in my room when there was a knock on the door.

"Come in."

A servant entered, handing me a box. "Madam, this is a gift from sir"

After dismissing the servant, I opened the box to find a red strapless swimsuit and a note in Adrian's handwriting: "Sweetheart, I was wrong before. I won't force you anymore. See you at the hot spring."

I sighed, recalling his words from the previous day. But regardless of my feelings, he wanted a child, and so did I. I changed into the swimsuit and headed to the meeting.

At the Blackwood estate's private hot spring.

I walked barefoot on the pebbles, shedding my robe as I entered the steamy water. The heat from the spring warmed my face.

Adrian was late. I relaxed, closing my eyes.

Before long, a gentle breeze carrying a hint of alcohol drifted over. I opened my eyes to see a tall figure through the mist. Adrian?

Thinking of his apology, I put aside my reservations and moved closer. "Baby..."

The figure paused. Before I could react, he pressed me against the edge of the pool, kissing me passionately. His fiery lips consumed my breath. I was kissed into a daze, my wet hair sticking to my face, my body going weak and soft. The man's hot breath made my cheeks flush, my mind blank. I never realized that Adrian could be so... passionate after drinking.

"Mmm..."

My mouth was dry, and I couldn't get enough of the kiss. My body felt ignited, my chest arching towards him. He kissed down from my lips to my pink bra, stopping to tease.

I panted helplessly, feeling that today's Adrian was different. Was it the change of scenery?

Just as I was lost in thought, a cool breeze brought a crisp pine scent, and the hardness pressing against my abdomen throbbed. This familiar sensation...

I suddenly opened my eyes—to see Alexander's heated gaze. His voice was lazy and husky. "Honey, does it feel good?“