Chapter 1

In the emergency department of a hospital in Jedburgh, the sterile scent of disinfectant filled the air as Charlotte Moore gradually regained consciousness.

A nurse was changing the bandages of a nearby patient. Noticing Charlotte stir, she approached and asked, "Charlotte, are you feeling any discomfort?"

"No," Charlotte mumbled.

"Don't overexert yourself in the coming days. You're pregnant."

Charlotte immediately snapped to attention. "Pregnant?"

The nurse chuckled softly. "Didn't you notice your period was late?"

"I…" Charlotte's voice trailed off, unsure how to explain the irregularities in her cycle, which in that moment, seemed unnecessary.

The nurse handed her a stack of papers. "Here's your medical record and the payment slip. Just scan the code to settle your bill, and you're good to go."

With countless eyes on her, Charlotte hesitated to review the bill or the medical report. Instead, she quickly pulled out her phone and scanned the payment code.

Once outside the observation room, Charlotte anxiously scrolled through her WhatsApp messages, dreading the possibility of being marked absent and losing her attendance bonus.

As she feared, a message from her store manager appeared.

"Charlotte, you no longer need to come in for your part-time shifts. You fainted this time, and last time, you left claiming your mom was in critical condition. When you walked out, there was only one colleague left working, and it became too much for them.

"They were even yelled at by customers. Now, no one is willing to work with you anymore. Your salary for this month has been processed."

Charlotte stared at the 1,080-dollar payment. Without wasting another moment, she quickly dialed the store manager's number.

"Please, sir, just one more chance. I really need this part-time job. I'm begging you."

The manager's voice remained cold and indifferent as he said, "Charlotte, everyone has their own struggles. If you can't handle things, that's your problem. Begging won't change anything."

"But, sir, my mom needs a liver transplant. I truly need this job. I'm so sorry. I can take on the shifts alone so my coworker can get some rest—"

Before she could finish, the call was abruptly disconnected.

Helpless tears sprang to her eyes, quickly trailing down her cheeks and onto her lips. The coldness pierced deep into her heart, while the salty taste lingered on her tongue.

Meanwhile, Bianca Fletcher rushed over in a panic after receiving a vague call. The person on the other end hadn't given any details, just saying Charlotte had collapsed at work and was taken away by an ambulance.

As Bianca saw Charlotte's tear-streaked face, her heart dropped with fear.

"Charlotte, are you okay?"

Charlotte kept her head lowered, unable to meet Bianca's worried gaze.

"Bianca, let me treat you to a strawberry milkshake," Charlotte said, forcing a weak smile. But inside, her heart was heavy with an unspoken bitterness.

Strawberry milkshake…

Bianca's heart raced, a sense of unease settling in. "What's going on here?"

In a panic, she gently grabbed Charlotte's chin, examining her carefully.

Charlotte's face was ashen, her smooth skin stark against the dark circles under her tired eyes. Aside from the clear signs of malnutrition and sleep deprivation, there didn't seem to be anything physically alarming.

Charlotte earned only 18 dollars an hour—barely enough to get by, let alone treat Bianca to a milkshake.

That money was meant for her mother, Elyse Moore's life-saving treatment. And yet, Charlotte had spent it on buying Bianca a drink. Something wasn't right—something Charlotte couldn't handle on her own.

"Charlotte, what's really happening?" Bianca's voice shook, filled with concern. "Whatever it is, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here for you, and so are my parents."

"I just wanted to treat you to a milkshake… Let's find a place to sit and talk. I'll tell you everything."

"I don't need a milkshake. Let's go to the park. Sitting there costs nothing."

Having grown up together, Charlotte could see through Bianca's attempt to hide her feelings.

She knew Bianca was trying to protect her pride, unwilling to let on how much she was struggling.

To most people, ten bucks for a milkshake wouldn't seem like much. But for Charlotte, it was a small fortune. That amount could cover a day of her mother's nursing care, a bed fee, or even a painkiller injection.

To others, it was just a drink, but to Charlotte, it felt like a heavy burden.

The cold autumn wind cut through the air, snapping them back to the present moment.

Even in the sunlight, Charlotte couldn't feel its warmth.

"Look," she said, pulling out the medical report and showing it to Bianca.

She stared at the barren tree branches and the dry, yellow grass, her heart heavy.

She was a medical student, trained to save lives. Yet, before she could even graduate, she found herself responsible for a life she wasn't prepared for.

Bianca's eyes scanned the diagnosis—early pregnancy.

"You're pregnant?"

She shot up from her seat, anger flashing in her eyes. With a swift motion, she rolled up her sleeves, ready to fight.

"Who's the bastard that did this to you? I swear I'll beat the hell out of him!"

Charlotte met Bianca's gaze, a flicker of warmth stirring in her chest. "It was my choice," she said.

Bianca's anger faded in an instant, like air slowly leaking from a balloon. Without a word, she sank back down beside Charlotte, wrapping her arms tightly around her fragile frame.

In the end, it had been Charlotte's decision.

As much as Bianca wanted to fight for her, she couldn't alter the harsh reality.

"Given your condition, it makes sense you wouldn't have realized you were pregnant," Bianca said softly, trying to comfort her. "It looks like you're only about eight weeks along—an abortion is still an option. I'll find a hospital and go with you."

"But…" Charlotte's voice cracked, her throat tightening as the tears streamed down her face. "At eight weeks… the fetus has a heartbeat."

Charlotte wasn't someone who cried easily, but now, the tears streamed down her face, followed by gut-wrenching sobs.

Forced to let go of her child and unable to save her mother, she felt as if her entire world was collapsing around her.

Bianca held her tighter, the reality of the situation pressing in on both of them.

Elyse was desperately ill, needing constant medical care, and Charlotte still had four more years until graduation. She could barely keep herself together. How could she possibly raise a child?

Bringing the baby into the world just didn't seem like an option.

Bianca let out a soft sigh. No comforting words seemed enough to ease the pain Charlotte was carrying. She had no real solution, no way to make it all better.

All she could do was hold her close and be the shoulder Charlotte needed when the weight of everything became unbearable.

"Bianca… I haven't even saved a life yet, and now I'm about to take one."

Charlotte couldn't bring herself to accept it, her fists clenched in anger and disbelief.

"Bianca, I've worked so hard… So, why is my life still falling apart?

"I'm so exhausted. I just want to go back to Veloria City—to when my mom wasn't sick and to when all I had to focus on was my studies."

Charlotte had been diagnosed with amenorrhea as a teenager—no periods for life but still capable of becoming pregnant.

That night had been so brief. How could she have known that one time would lead to this?

Why was a single emergency contraceptive pill so expensive? Why was a tube of anti-inflammatory ointment so costly?

After paying her medical bills, all she had left was barely enough for that one tube of ointment.

The cold autumn air stung, and the park felt eerily still.

Charlotte and Bianca held each other tightly, their silent tears flowing freely.

Charlotte cried, and Bianca cried alongside her.

Suddenly, the sharp ringtone of Charlotte's phone pierced the stillness, vibrating against the bench.

When Charlotte saw the caller ID, her tears stopped in an instant, her heart tightening in her chest. With shaking hands, she answered the call. "Hello, doctor."

"Your mother's medical fees are nearly depleted. You need to make a payment within three days, or we will have to stop her treatment."

The call ended abruptly.

Charlotte stared at the cracked screen of her phone, feeling as though her heart had shattered along with it.

Her thoughts spiraled into confusion. Without realizing it, she placed her hand gently on her flat belly, speaking softly to the little life inside her, "I'm sorry, little one. I can't give you the life you deserve.

"Go to a family who can—one with love, stability, and parents who will cherish and care for you as you should be."

"What happened to Mdm. Moore?" Bianca asked.

Since the call ended, Charlotte had been lost in thought, the tension in her brow speaking volumes more than words ever could.

"It's nothing," she replied, forcing a smile. "Bianca, I need to go to the hospital."

"Charlotte, I just got paid. Let me send you the money. If it's not enough, I'll figure out another way."

Bianca knew that transferring the money in front of Elyse would only bruise her pride.

"It's fine. I've got it covered."

Bianca's fingers hesitated over her phone, sensing that something wasn't right.

Charlotte's part-time job barely brought in any money, and Elyse's medical bills were a never-ending burden. Where would Charlotte suddenly come up with the cash?

"Charlotte, tell me the truth—what's really going on with your pregnancy?"

"Medical bills," Charlotte replied calmly.

Just two words, but Bianca understood right away.

She wanted to rebuke Charlotte, but in the end, she held back, biting her tongue. She knew Charlotte's situation better than anyone. When it came to money, Charlotte would do anything.

She couldn't blame Charlotte, especially since there was so little she could do to help.

"About that night…"

Chapter 2

That night, Charlotte had stepped out of the hospital, the weight of overwhelming medical bills pressing down on her chest.

Unable to sleep from the constant stress, she had picked up a part-time job as a designated driver. Thankfully, she had gotten her license right after the SAT, providing her with an additional way to make money.

"You have five minutes. Clean yourself up," came the man's voice, rough and strained. His face was flushed, and his brows were furrowed tightly, fighting to stay composed.

Charlotte turned, standing at the shower door, her red lips pressed between her teeth as she gradually removed her reflective work uniform.

Her undergarments slipped to the floor in a crumpled heap. The cold tiles sent a chill through her bare feet, biting straight to her bones.

She shivered as goosebumps rose across her skin.

As the hot water cascaded down, she hurriedly lathered up, scrubbing away the scent that clung to her body. The man's shower gel had a distinctive scent—sharp, fresh, and unmistakably masculine.

Just as she reached for a towel, the door suddenly swung open. A rush of cold air filled the room as the man stepped inside.

Charlotte instinctively covered her chest with her hands and crouched down in fear.

The man's eyes were bloodshot, his gaze unfocused, and his breathing erratic. As soon as he stepped inside, he began taking off his coat and loosening his tie.

Panic gripped Charlotte. Before the bathroom door could even close, she bolted, running toward the bed. She threw herself onto it, wrapping the blanket tightly around her body.

But even beneath the thick covers, the cold still crawled into her bones, and her shivers wouldn't stop.

A few moments later, the man emerged. With a sharp snap, the room was consumed by darkness.

The darkness was suffocating, like an oppressive weight closing in around her.

Fear flooded Charlotte's chest. She reached out into the void, her hands desperately searching for something to cling to.

Under the influence of the drug coursing through him, the man gave in completely to his primal, instinctive urges.

When it was over, he rose, walking silently into the bathroom.

Lying there, Charlotte wept silently, her brokenness now laid bare.

Minutes later, the man returned, now dressed in a robe, a phone in his hand. Fresh from the shower, his scent was clean and crisp, but the air around him felt colder still.

"Give me your bank card."

"My cards are in my bag, with my clothes."

The man's gaze met hers, piercing and sharp as a blade.

Charlotte pulled the blanket over herself as she made her way to the bathroom.

In a rush, she quickly changed into her clothes, her hands shaking as she pulled out her bank card. With both hands, she handed it over to the man.

As soon as the transaction went through, Charlotte wasted no time. She bolted for her car and sped off into the night.

…

Bianca listened to Charlotte's story, her chest tightening with a mix of anger and sorrow.

Charlotte tried to reassure her, "It's okay, Bianca."

Talking it out had already helped calm her nerves. She didn't want Bianca to worry—she'd made her choice, and there was no turning back now.

"There's a women's and children's health center near the liver disease hospital. They should be able to help. I'll check tomorrow. You should head back to work."

But Bianca refused. How could she focus on work when her best friend had just been rushed to the hospital?

"I took half a day off. First, we'll check on Mdm. Moore. Then, we'll go to the hospital together."

Charlotte didn't have the heart to argue. Her eyes stung, tears threatening to spill over once more.

Life had dealt her some tough blows, but at least she had Bianca—always by her side, helping to mend the scars.

By the time they arrived at the hospital, a nurse was already hooking Elyse up to an IV drip.

Because of esophageal varices and gastric bleeding, Elyse hadn't been able to eat solid food for a long time, depending solely on IV nutrition to stay alive.

Her cryptogenic cirrhosis had left her skin a sickly yellow, almost translucent under the hospital lights. Beneath the blanket, her abdomen was slightly swollen.

Charlotte turned away, hastily wiping her tears. She couldn't let herself cry. She couldn't allow Elyse to see her like this.

And she certainly couldn't let her know that she was about to make a choice that would end a life before it even began.

While Elyse slept, Charlotte and Bianca rushed to the women's and children's health center to register and undergo the necessary checks.

Just before the doctor finished his shift, they managed to secure an appointment for the abortion, scheduled for three days later.

"Charlotte, you need to eat more. You're too thin. The surgery will take a toll on you, and you'll need strength to recover afterward."

The thought of fragile Charlotte enduring the pain of the procedure weighed heavily on Bianca's heart.

But with the appointment set, Charlotte had no choice but to summon her strength and face it.

"I know," she replied, shaking the list of instructions in her hand, forcing herself not to focus on the pain. "I've studied medicine for four years—internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, pediatrics… even traditional medicine."

Bianca sighed, her desire to reprimand Charlotte fading as the words escaped her. In the end, all she could do was curse the man who had gotten Charlotte pregnant. "I'll be there with you the day of the surgery," she said.

Charlotte wrapped her arm through Bianca's and rested her head on her shoulder. "You're the best, Bianca."

After parting ways with Bianca, Charlotte made her way to the payment counter at the liver disease hospital, using the last of her savings—800 dollars.

"I'll pay this for now and settle the rest soon. Please, just don't send any overdue notices to my mom," she begged.

Having become familiar with her over time, the hospital staff processed the payment without a second thought and handed her the receipt.

Charlotte had become numb to their impatience. It didn't matter as long as Elyse received the care she needed.

…

Brighton Group's towering building stood proudly in the heart of Jedburgh's busy business district, a true landmark of the city. Even though office hours had ended, the massive structure remained ablaze with light.

On the top floor, the CEO's office glowed brightly, still illuminated well into the night.

A steady, measured knock echoed through the door. Inside, the man remained unmoving.

"Come in." His voice was deep, crisp, and unwavering.

The assistant pushed the door open, revealing a stunning view of Jedburgh's bustling nightscape through the windows.

The sleek black desk was neatly arranged with files in various colors. Behind it, the man was fully absorbed, his intense gaze fixed on the computer screen.

"Mr. Hoffman, the investigation is complete."

Fred Garner stole a quick glance at the CEO's face. With his high-bridged nose and sharply defined jawline, Daniel Hoffman's features mirrored his work style—relentless, decisive, and focused.

"The woman's name is Charlotte Moore. She's a medical student at Jedburgh Medical College, currently enrolled in the eight-year combined MD program."

"I see," Daniel responded, his attention still fixed on the screen as his fingers continued to type swiftly.

Noticing Fred hadn't moved, Daniel's fingers paused for a moment.

"You can leave now."

"Mr. Hoffman…" Fred hesitated, aware of the urgency of the situation. Considering the circumstances, he felt it necessary to bring this to his attention.

"Ms. Moore is pregnant and has scheduled an abortion in three days."

Chapter 3

"Leave that to her."

Daniels' voice betrayed no hint of concern, even though the child in question was his.

Fred was briefly taken aback, but considering Daniel was the CEO of Brighton Group, he couldn't say he was surprised.

"Mr. Hoffman, she could be the ideal solution to your problem."

The steady tapping of fingers against the keyboard paused—just for a second.

"Go on."

"Mr. Hoffman Senior has been pushing for your marriage, scheduling matchmaking appointments well into the next two months. Since there's already a perfect candidate available, this marriage could solve two problems at once—securing both a wife and a child. A highly efficient solution, if I may add."

For them, the solemn and sacred institution of marriage felt more like a strategic arrangement than a heartfelt commitment.

"I've done my research. Ms. Moore and her mother rely solely on each other, with no other family support. Her mother is currently hospitalized with liver disease and urgently needs financial assistance."

Fred's intentions were unmistakable—money would secure Charlotte as Daniel's wife and guarantee an heir.

What made it even better was that she wouldn't demand any emotional effort or attention. Money alone would be enough to keep her in check. The Hoffman family had more than enough wealth to make this a simple matter.

With this arrangement, his grandfather, Errol Hoffman, would stop pressuring him for marriage, and Daniel could avoid endless blind dates. Errol would be pleased, and Daniel's schedule would remain uninterrupted.

Charlotte's motivations were straightforward—money. As long as she was well-paid, she would stay compliant and avoid crossing any lines.

One sought financial stability, while the other sought peace of mind—a mutually advantageous arrangement.

Wasn't this a far better option than marrying a wealthy heiress mired in complicated family dynamics?

In the end, Daniel would have to marry and have children regardless. Charlotte was simply the most practical choice.

"Is she smart?"

"She was the top science student in Veloria City—only eight points shy of a perfect SAT score."

"Check my schedule."

Fred's face brightened. He knew Daniel's schedule by heart.

"Mr. Hoffman, you're free tomorrow from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm."

Daniel's gaze shifted, finally settling on Fred. "I'm leaving this to you. Get the marriage certificate tomorrow."

"Understood, Mr. Hoffman."

Without hesitation, Fred left the office and immediately began making arrangements for the marriage registration.

…

Between managing part-time jobs and caring for Elyse, Charlotte rarely made it back to her dorm before curfew. To avoid the hassle, she had rented a room in a farmhouse near the college's back gate.

The landlady was a reclusive elderly woman, and the rent was affordable. It offered Charlotte the peace and privacy she needed, without curfews or disturbances.

After finishing both of her shifts last night, it was already 4:00 am. She managed only four hours of sleep before forcing herself out of bed.

She went through her morning routine—brushing her teeth, washing her face, filling her thermos with hot water, and packing her books. With that, she headed out to campus.

Stopping by the cafeteria, she grabbed the cheapest breakfast available—two sandwiches.

Thanks to her top-scoring results, she had earned a spot at the country's most prestigious medical college.

Getting into the eight-year clinical medicine program was no easy feat. It meant bypassing the stress of graduate and doctoral entrance exams, and everyone in her cohort started on equal ground.

The lead editor of the textbook spoke with passion on stage, and Charlotte listened attentively, completely focused on the lecture.

To earn the national scholarship, she knew she had to outshine her peers in commitment, making every moment count as she absorbed the material.

Her phone vibrated in her coat pocket, but she didn't notice. She was too focused on the lecture, the thick fabric blocking the sensation.

When the break arrived, she checked her phone to confirm her part-time job schedule and saw the three missed calls.

Thinking it was from a doctor at the liver disease hospital, she stepped outside the classroom and found a quiet spot to return the call.

"Hello, this is Charlotte Moore."

"Ms. Moore, Mr. Daniel Hoffman wishes to marry you. Please get ready."

"I don't have time for this."

Assuming it was just another scam call, Charlotte ended the call with a quick swipe of her finger. She definitely didn't have time for this.

…

Fred stared at his phone, momentarily speechless. Had he not been clear enough?

If that were the case, he would have no option but to go to campus and pick her up himself.

Fortunately, the official website of Jedburgh Medical College provided a complete list of course schedules and classroom locations.

…

For Charlotte, 24 hours in a day were never enough—she often wished she could stretch them into 48. There was no time to waste on what she presumed was a scam call.

Ignoring it, she focused on digesting the professor's lecture during the break.

As soon as the dismissal bell rang, she quickly exited through the back door of the classroom.

Just as she reached the base of the academic building, a man called out her name, "Ms. Charlotte."

He was dressed in a standard suit, yet he lacked the usual aggressive air of an insurance salesman.

"Can I help you?" she asked.

"I'm here to escort you to the city hall for your marriage registration."

Charlotte froze for a moment, the phone call from earlier echoing in her mind. "With Mr. Daniel Hoffman?"

"Yes. He's the biological father of the child you're carrying."

As students continued to exit the building, Fred suggested, "Let's talk somewhere more private. Feel free to set your terms."

"Alright." Charlotte didn't hesitate. Turning down a million-dollar offer was simply not something she could entertain.

A man who could easily put that amount of money on the table and track her down the day after she discovered her pregnancy was clearly someone with extraordinary influence. If he was willing to take responsibility, then perhaps she could keep the child.

Just yesterday, she had convinced herself to go through with the abortion, even scheduling the appointment. But last night, she had a dream.

In it, a baby with round cheeks and big, sparkling eyes was sucking on its little fingers. In a soft, gentle voice, the baby called her "Mommy".

She tried to push the feeling away, but the reluctance in her heart was undeniable. Severing ties was never easy, and she had been struggling with it.

After a round of negotiations, Charlotte and Fred—the groom's representative—finalized the prenuptial agreement by the lake on campus.

"Ms. Moore, the contract is ready. Please review it carefully and sign if you have no objections," Fred said, handing her the document and a pen.

Charlotte took it with a faint smile. "You came well-prepared."

"It's a win-win situation."

"I like the sound of that." More than anything, Charlotte hoped Elyse would win her battle against her illness.

Having been burned by unfair contracts in her previous part-time jobs, Charlotte had become diligent about reading every detail carefully.

The terms were straightforward. She was to carry the child for the Hoffman family and fulfill her role as both a wife and mother. If the marriage ended, she would receive no share of her husband's assets beyond child support.

In exchange, the Hoffmans would cover all of Elyse's medical expenses and assist in finding a suitable liver donor.

Recalling the man's cold indifference that night, Charlotte made one thing clear. "The liver donor must come from legal and ethical sources."

"Of course."

Without hesitation, Charlotte signed her name. "Here you go."

As she handed over the contract, a mix of emotions swirled within her.

There was no doubt. Given her situation, marriage was the most practical option.

In the short time they had spent together, Fred, having encountered countless people, could tell that Charlotte was an extraordinarily pure soul.

Or perhaps she had simply been raised too well—lacking the wariness and shrewdness that came with experience. She was naive to the ways of the world, making it easy for others to take advantage of her vulnerabilities.

With her delicate beauty and untainted heart, she was the kind of woman who needed protection. Without a man of significant power, she would be an easy target.

Fred checked his watch, gauging the time. "Everything's arranged. Bring your ID, and we'll head to the city hall. Once Mr. Hoffman arrives, the registration will be done in about ten minutes."

"Is there anything else after we get the certificate?"

Chapter 4

Charlotte's day was tightly packed—visiting Elyse at the hospital during lunch, working her part-time job in the afternoon, and attending an elective lab class in the evening. She needed to get everything sorted out first.

As Fred watched her mentally organize her schedule, he couldn't help but notice how much she resembled Daniel when he reviewed his own itinerary.

"First, you'll go with Mr. Hoffman to meet Mr. Hoffman Senior, his grandfather. Then, you'll move into Hoffman Estate and live with Mr. Hoffman."

Living together? Charlotte instinctively recoiled at the thought.

But they were married now—living together was part of the deal.

Besides, she was pregnant. Daniel wouldn't actually cross any lines, would he?

With her hectic routine of classes, part-time work, and caring for Elyse, she'd be barely home except to sleep. They probably wouldn't even cross paths. It wasn't a big deal.

"Is your car available? I'll pack my things now."

Fred's eyes widened in surprise. "There's no need to rush."

Was she really in that much of a hurry?

Charlotte quickly clarified, "I have to visit my mom at the hospital at noon, work in the afternoon, and attend class in the evening. This is the only free time I have."

"Understood." The word slipped out before Fred could think twice.

Only after he spoke did he realize—she wasn't Daniel.

Charlotte didn't have much to pack. Everything fit neatly into a single suitcase.

Being mindful of her pregnancy, Fred took the suitcase from her and carefully placed it in the trunk.

Since the landlady wasn't home, Charlotte left a little extra money, rounding it up to an even amount. She tucked the cash and the key into the small compartment where the landlady usually hid the spare key.

She planned to come back and explain things in person when she had the chance.

In the car, Charlotte gently placed her hand over her belly.

She whispered, "Little one, stay with me, okay? I'm your mommy. From now on, you'll be my precious baby.

"Forget what I said earlier. I'm truly looking forward to meeting you."

When they arrived at the city hall, the place was packed with couples—some waiting to get married, others there to finalize divorces.

Fred led Charlotte into the director's office. After a brief exchange with the official, he stepped out again.

With a friendly smile, the director handed her a form and a sample template, asking her to fill in her personal details.

At exactly 11:00 am, Fred returned—with a man by his side.

Charlotte recognized him immediately. He was the biological father of the child she was carrying.

Unlike the disarray of that night, he now seemed energized. With his suit impeccably tailored, he radiated wealth and refinement.

As soon as he entered, both the director and another staff member immediately stood, their hands neatly folded in front of them.

"Hello, Mr. Hoffman," they greeted him with unwavering respect.

Charlotte was reminded of her days as a waitress, when customers were treated like royalty. Now, even the director was acting like a subordinate—Daniel's social status was undeniably extraordinary.

His features were sharp and defined, with strong brow bones that deepened the intensity of his gaze and a jawline that exuded authority.

When his gaze met hers, Charlotte's breath caught. Instinctively, she quickly averted her eyes, focusing on the floor.

When the director asked for a photo, Charlotte quietly moved to sit beside him, letting the camera capture the moment.

When asked to leave her fingerprint, she pressed her thumb into the ink pad and stamped it on the document without hesitation.

The room was so still that it felt suffocating.

Sitting next to a man with such a powerful presence, Charlotte kept her head down, distractedly rubbing the blister on her thumb.

As the marriage certificate came into her peripheral vision, she reached out and took the one in front of her.

Without so much as a glance, she slipped it into her canvas shoulder bag.

To her, this wasn't about a marriage—it was about Elyse's chance at life. She had to protect it.

The sharp scrape of a chair against the floor broke the silence.

Daniel had already stood up, and Charlotte immediately followed his lead. His strides were long, and though she wasn't short, she had to quicken her pace to keep up with him.

By the time they reached the car, he was already inside. Fred held the door open for her, waiting for her to get in.

She paused by the door, making no move to enter.

"Mr. Hoffman, I need to visit my mother at the hospital. I'll meet Mr. Hoffman Senior later at the estate. Mr. Garner can take my suitcase there first."

"No, come with me now." His tone was sharp and unwavering, leaving no room for compromise.

Charlotte hesitated, silently resisting.

Fred kept signaling at her with his eyes, silently urging her to get in.

After a few moments of silence, Daniel's deep voice broke through. "You signed the agreement, didn't you? I don't make threats lightly."

The message was clear—if she refused to cooperate, he wouldn't hesitate to use her vulnerabilities against her.

With a sigh, Charlotte finally slid into the car. She fixed her gaze on the passing scenery outside the window, watching the streets blur past.

"Quit all your part-time jobs. My child must be born healthy and strong.

"I'll cover all of your mother's medical expenses. Fred has already arranged for her to be transferred to a private care unit."

"Alright," Charlotte replied, knowing he was right.

She was pregnant, and she had to take responsibility for it. If she was going to keep the baby, she had to prioritize her health.

Despite his overwhelming presence and commanding tone, his swift action in upgrading Elyse's care showed that he was a man of his word.

If she followed his terms and didn't resist, getting along with him might not be as difficult as she had imagined.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom moved smoothly through the bustling city streets, gliding past towering skyscrapers.

Daniel observed her every subtle movement. No matter where her allegiances lay, keeping her close was the safest choice.

When the car finally came to a stop, Charlotte watched as the grand gates slowly opened. It wasn't the same place she had visited that fateful night.

She saw Fred handing her suitcase to a housekeeper, instructing, "Take this to Waterside Residence."

By the time Charlotte snapped out of her thoughts, Daniel had already walked about 30 feet ahead.

In that moment, she realized long legs weren't always an advantage—he didn't care if she could keep up. She wasn't particularly short, but next to him, her stride couldn't match his pace.

The yard was a stunning display of Victorian style, each step unveiling a new scene—lush greenery, stone pathways, peaceful pavilions beside flowing water, and fish swimming lazily in the pond.

Charlotte didn't have a moment to appreciate the surroundings. She was afraid if she slowed down for even a second, Daniel would disappear through the gates without her.

She watched as he walked confidently into Pinecrest Residence and quickly followed suit.

The living room exuded a serene, refined elegance, with an elderly man sitting quietly at its center.

"Hello, Grandpa." Daniel's voice was noticeably gentler than before.

Charlotte came to a stop behind him, uncertain of what to do. When in doubt, she decided it was best to remain silent.

Errol let out a dismissive snort, barely sparing Daniel a glance. "I thought you intended to live in your office indefinitely."

Daniel walked over to the couch and sat down.

Now left standing in the open with no barrier between her and Errol, Charlotte felt exposed under his sharp gaze.

Uneasy, Charlotte nervously tugged at the seam of her pants, her head instinctively lowering as she stood there. The silence felt suffocating, and her heart pounded in her chest.

"And who is this?" Errol asked, observing her stiff stance. His tone softened as he continued, "No need to stand there—please, have a seat."

Charlotte had short hair and a petite frame, looking almost like a teenager—likely still too young to have fully come into her own.

Charlotte pressed her lips together, glancing briefly at Daniel.

He casually lifted his coffee cup, taking a sip without even glancing her way.

To Errol, that brief look seemed to convey fear.

"In this house, I set the rules," Errol said, gesturing toward the couch opposite Daniel. "Don't be afraid. Sit down."

Charlotte moved cautiously toward the seat, perching herself on the very edge. Summoning her courage, she greeted him, "Hello, Mr. Hoffman Senior."

"Speak up, you little punk!" Errol barked, his voice sharply contrasting the kindness he'd shown Charlotte.

Unfazed, Daniel replied nonchalantly, "She's both your granddaughter-in-law and the mother of your great-grandchild."

Errol's eyes widened in surprise as he looked at Charlotte. Without warning, he slapped Daniel's leg with a forceful smack.

"She's just a child! What nonsense are you talking about?"

Chapter 5

Seeing Errol slap Daniel, Charlotte quickly spoke up to clarify, "Mr. Hoffman Senior, I'm 22 years old. I'm an adult."

Her clear, expressive eyes met his, filled with sincerity, and Errol believed her without a second thought.

She had an innate charm, untouched by pretension. Just looking at her brought a sense of reassurance.

"She's pregnant with my child," Daniel interjected. "You've been eager for a granddaughter-in-law and a great-grandchild, so I went ahead and got the marriage certificate today."

He slid the certificate onto the coffee table as proof.

"You little brat! Do you think marriage is something you can treat so carelessly?" Errol's voice boomed, making Charlotte flinch. Instinctively, she started picking at the dry skin on her fingers.

Daniel, however, was unfazed. He was used to Errol's harsh words—Errol had always been in good health.

"The women you set up for me were all after something," Daniel said. "I'm not interested in that, and I have no patience for blind dates. Since she's carrying my child, it's only right that I take responsibility."

Having raised Daniel, Errol knew him well. While Daniel had always been dismissive of blind dates, his sudden declaration of responsibility for the child was unusual.

Daniel had never been one to value family bonds. To him, marriage had always been optional. If anything, staying single had always seemed more practical.

However, Charlotte did meet Errol's standards for a granddaughter-in-law—kind, polite, and full of life.

As for how the child came to be, that was not up for debate.

After all, Daniel was 28 years old—young, energetic, and with natural physical needs. It was only to be expected.

Errol's face brightened. "Now that you're married, build a good life together. Love grows over time. And now that you have a family, don't spend all your time on work. Work is endless."

"Yes, Grandpa," Daniel replied, fully aware that arguing would be pointless. It was easier to indulge Errol to keep him content.

"What's your name, miss?" Errol asked.

"Charlotte," she replied.

"Your name sounds lovely," Errol said, clearly pleased. "Do you have any family?"

Charlotte glanced at Daniel for a moment. He held her gaze but showed no sign of wanting to engage with her.

"It's just me and my mother."

"Hoffman Estate is large. If you're not used to the food or the living environment, feel free to bring your mother here."

Thinking of the bedridden Elyse, Charlotte felt a tightness in her nose. She clenched her teeth, forcing herself to suppress the emotions. "Alright. Thank you, Errol."

Daniel remained quiet, his sharp gaze taking in every detail of her reaction.

…

After lunch, Charlotte followed Daniel to her new home.

As usual, his strides were long, making it hard for her to keep up. Now that she had eaten, moving too quickly caused a dull ache in her lower abdomen. She slowed her pace, maintaining a comfortable distance.

They passed through the gates and entered Waterside Residence. The soothing sound of flowing water filled the air.

The building in front of her was nestled in the heart of the mountains and surrounded by trees, radiating a peaceful, calming atmosphere. A stream meandered lazily in front of the residence, with an arched bridge spanning over it, leading to a yard on the other side.

"Welcome home, Mr. Hoffman," a voice greeted as they entered the living room. A group of staff members stood ready, awaiting their arrival.

As Daniel entered, they all lowered their heads in respectful greeting.

"This is Charlotte Moore. You can call her Mrs. Hoffman," Daniel introduced her.

The staff exchanged surprised glances, momentarily taken aback.

Daniel turned slightly and noticed Charlotte lingering near the entrance.

With the staff's attention now focused on her, Charlotte quickly stepped forward, pausing at a respectful distance from Daniel.

In unison, the staff greeted her, "Welcome, Mrs. Hoffman."

Charlotte wasn't accustomed to such formality and replied stiffly, "Hello, everyone."

Daniel quickly took the lead. "From now on, everything here will revolve around her. Anticipate her needs before she even realizes them and address any potential issues before they arise."

"Understood," the staff responded collectively.

Without any further prompting, each of them stepped forward to introduce themselves.

"Hello, Mrs. Hoffman. I'm Dr. Beatrice Crawford, your prenatal nutrition and wellness physician. I'll be taking care of your diet, mental health, and prenatal checkups."

"Hello, Mrs. Hoffman. I'm Madison O'Brien, your prenatal yoga instructor."

"Good day, Mrs. Hoffman. I'm Kyla Covington, your security guard and designated driver."

"Hello, Mrs. Hoffman. I'm Regina Duncan, the butler at Waterside Residence. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask."

Charlotte glanced at the four women before her. "I truly appreciate all of you looking after me."

Regina exuded a warm, motherly presence, while the other three women seemed to be temporary hires. They stood stiffly, their bodies tense and clearly uncomfortable.

"From now on, they'll manage every aspect of your life. If there's anything you're unhappy with, you can tell me directly."

"Alright," Charlotte replied, her face revealing her dissatisfaction. "But can't I just take care of myself without them?"

"No, you can't."

She hadn't expected such a firm response, especially not in front of everyone. It stung, but she quickly pushed the feeling aside.

Daniel had already made his priorities clear—his focus was on the baby's health and development. Her own desires didn't factor into the equation.

She asked once more, "Can I visit my mom?"

Daniel's phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen but didn't answer immediately.

"You can. Kyla will take you. She'll be with you everywhere, except when you're at Waterside Residence."

Charlotte let out a heavy sigh. There was no use in arguing further. She knew she couldn't change his mind.

Without another word, Daniel picked up his phone and walked out, leaving her standing there.

Charlotte looked at the four women, who met her gaze with polite, professional smiles.

The atmosphere felt tense.

"Mrs. Hoffman, would you like me to show you around Waterside Residence?" Regina suggested.

"It's fine. Just tell me where I can take care of my basic needs," Charlotte replied.

Regina looked slightly confused. "Mrs. Hoffman, what do you mean by 'basic needs'?"

"Food, water, bathroom, and sleep," Charlotte said.

Rather than finding her words crude, Regina was struck by how refreshingly straightforward she was.

"Mr. Hoffman rarely dines at home. Your meals will be planned by Dr. Crawford and prepared by me. The second floor has everything you need—a study and a bedroom suite."

A bedroom. That meant she wouldn't have to share a room with him.

Perfect.

"Alright. I understand. You don't need to prepare dinner for me—I'll head straight to my evening lab class after visiting the hospital."

The best part about no longer working part-time was that she could spend all her free time with Elyse, aside from college.

Regina hesitated for a moment. "I'll need to inform Mr. Hoffman before I can confirm that."

Charlotte bit her lip and remained silent. She couldn't even make decisions about her own meals anymore.

Time seemed to stand still as the four women remained motionless, all waiting for her response.

"Fine. Go ahead and prepare dinner. I'll be back to eat."

The rules had already been laid out by Daniel. There was no point in arguing with his staff—it all had to go through him anyway.

Regina exhaled with relief.

"Kyla, let's go."

Kyla drove while Charlotte sat in the backseat, her mind consumed with anxious thoughts, unable to focus on anything else.

One question kept running through her mind—how would she explain the private care unit to Elyse?

Elyse had always been strong and self-reliant. If she ever found out Charlotte had sold herself for a million dollars, it would break her heart.

And now, she was pregnant. She couldn't bring herself to give up the baby. Despite still being in college, she had already gotten married.

Elyse's disappointment would surely be overwhelming.

Kyla followed her silently, stopping at the entrance of the hospital room and keeping a respectful distance.

Charlotte stood at the door, taking a deep breath to steady herself before pushing it open.

"Mom."

At the sound of her voice, all of Elyse's pain seemed to momentarily lift. Her eyes softened, and a gentle smile appeared on her lips.

"Sweetheart."

Charlotte moved closer to the bed, but before she could speak, she sank to her knees, her head bowed in regret. "Mom, I'm so sorry… I've let you down."

The mistake Charlotte had made was something Elyse could never accept. All Charlotte could do now was plead for Elyse's forgiveness.

Elyse had never been harsh with Charlotte. After all, Charlotte was a sensitive child with a strong sense of self-esteem, someone who never required harsh discipline.

Elyse's heart ached at the sight of Charlotte kneeling before her. She wanted to pull her up, but her frail body wouldn't allow it.

With ascites causing her stomach to swell, it was nearly impossible for Elyse to sit up.

"Sweetheart, I've always told you—I will support you, no matter what decision you make."

Unable to reach her, Elyse could only remind Charlotte of the promise they had made.

"You've always been so thoughtful and considerate. I trust that whatever decision you've made, it was done with careful thought."

"No…" Tears filled Charlotte's eyes as her throat tightened. "Mom, I… I really messed up. I did something so terribly, terribly wrong."

"Sweetheart, come sit with me. It's hard for me to hold myself up like this."

Charlotte glanced up and saw Elyse struggling to lift herself with her fragile arms. The whites of her eyes had taken on a dull yellow hue.

As a medical student, Charlotte instantly recognized the signs—Elyse's condition was deteriorating.

She stood quickly and gently eased Elyse back down.

"Sweetheart, I know that whatever decision you made, it wasn't a mistake."

There were moments when Charlotte had wished Elyse could be like Bianca's mother, Melissa Barnes—strong enough to strike out like she had with Bianca.

But Elyse was too gentle and too compassionate to ever let herself resort to violence.

"Mom," Charlotte confessed, "I'm pregnant."