CHAPTER ONE

001

JOANA’S POV

“I am indeed pregnant…” I whispered to myself as I stared at the two bold lines on each of the seven pregnancy test strips lying on the table.

I decided to take a test this morning after struggling with incessant bouts of nausea and dizzy spells for the past three days.

My heart leaped with joy as I scanned each of the strips for the umpteenth time this morning to make sure that I was seeing right. And that I wasn't having one of those dreams again.

I couldn't help but imagine my husband’s reaction when he got to know I was finally carrying a treasure for him.

My husband, Clinton Gates is a third-generation billionaire and the sole heir of Gates Group. Although he has been cold and indifferent to me, I have been fighting hard every day to fully win his heart.

Despite his coldness towards me, never for once have I thought of giving up on our family. My hope for a change has been soaring even higher now that I was carrying his child.

I couldn't help but let out a chuckle as the reality of my pregnancy sunk in. I could feel the excitement bubbling up in me as my heart swelled and threatened to burst with joy.

“Excuse me, ma'am.” I heard a voice say, interrupting my daydream. It was our maid, Alba, standing and fiddling with her fingers.

“Yes, any problem?

“Should I dish out your food now?” She asked in a low pitiful tone.

I took a deep breath and shook my head slightly “No, I'm not hungry yet.” I replied as gently as I could.

“Madam, are you sure you're not hungry? Should I perhaps give you some water?” She asked again, anticipating that at least I drunk some water.

But no. I wouldn't. I have told her countless times that she shouldn't serve my food until my husband comes home. But she’s always worried that the food will run cold or I will even end up not eating since he comes home late every night.

“No need, I'm fine Alba.”

She nodded and excused herself. As she descended the stairs, my thoughts trailed to how it all started.

It was a month ago, on Claudia Gate, Clinton’s sister’s death anniversary. I'd made the mistake of letting my emotions and his grief cloud my judgment.

That night, Clinton had drowned himself in whiskey, barely able to stand on his own as he stumbled into the room we once shared. He reeked of so much alcohol, and his hair and outfit were totally disheveled as though he had been run over by a car.

I had tried to comfort him, but surprisingly things spiraled out of control. One kiss led to another. And before I could stop myself we were tangled in sheets. It wasn't the tender moment I might have once dreamt of– it was raw, desperate, and full of pain. But I was happy nonetheless.

However, my illusions of a newly reunited happy family were stripped away the next morning. The look of disgust on his face said it all. Clinton's sharp words were still etched into my mind

“Take something to flush it out. I don't want any surprises.” He had told me in a voice devoid of any emotions as he woke up and buttoned his shirt the next morning. My heart broke into irredeemable pieces at that moment.

And now with the test strip in my hand, I knew he wasn't going to take my disobedience lightly.

It's been an hour past dinner time. Yet, there was no sign of his coming.

Just when I reached out to pick up my phone to call him, the sudden sound from the TV startled me.

It was the evening news. The news anchor’s voice was crisp and celebratory as she announced the first headline.

“Breaking news: Gates Group has officially become the second richest company in Hera city, surpassed only by the Henshaw Group”

My heart skipped a beat at the mention of my husband’s company. This was an unprecedented victory, one that he has so worked tirelessly for.

Maybe this news, coupled with the news of my pregnancy could soften his distant demeanor. Perhaps tonight, we could celebrate–both his success and the new life growing inside of me.

Picking up my phone, I dialed Clinton's number with my hands trembling. He picked up after the third ring.

“Joana?” His voice was curt, but it always had a way of making my heart skip.

“Uh, Clinton..” He had warned me never to call him sweet names as it always irked him. “When are you coming home? I…I made dinner for us.” I said, trying to keep the nervous tremor out of my voice.

He paused. And I swear I could almost hear him calculating whether this was worth his time. “I'll be there,” he finally spoke “I have something for you too”

I grinned. Maybe he was in a good mood already, and this night would be the turning point I'd be yearning for.

I just couldn't wait for him to get home.

*******

I smiled warmly as I watched him walk through the doorway. He had a striking presence; he was tall, handsome, and well–dressed in his CEO attire. He looked so irresistible, especially in his navy blue tie that matched his eyes and jet-black hair.

I'd already planned everything, I'd reveal the good news to him while we were having dinner. He would be surprised at first, but the joy of being a father would outweigh all other emotions.

“Oh, you're back home. Welcome.” I greeted softly, moving towards him to embrace him. He stiffened in my hands and slowly let out a grumpy huff. I took that as my clue to let go.

“I made your favorite tonight,” I said softly. He scowled, the disgust and uninterest evident on his face. But I wasn't going to let that weigh me down.

“We need to talk. Come with me.” He said, asking me to join him in his study. I noticed he held a rectangular envelope in his hand, and his jaw seemed clenched indicating a serious matter.

What was going on? Was there anything to be afraid of at the moment? What did he want to discuss?

My heartbeat slowly increased but I took a deep breath to calm myself.

“Is there any problem?” I asked, feeling uneasy. He sighed, appearing uncomfortable as he let out a scowl deepening my worry.