THE CONTRACT WIFE: A ONE NIGHT STAND BILLIONAIRE ROMANCE

Zara’s POV

As we were engrossed in our conversation, a maid discreetly entered the room, interrupting us.

“Apologies for the inconvenience, ladies. Our chef won’t be able to make it on time today, so there won’t be lunch prepared,” the housekeeper informed us.

The lady pondered for a moment, contemplating our options for lunch.

“If that’s the case, we could consider ordering from a buffet or dining out at a five-star restaurant for a change,” suggested my mom.

However, I had another idea brewing in my mind.

“Would it be alright if I take charge of preparing our lunch?” I asked, feeling a surge of confidence.

Stephanie smiled, seemingly impressed. “Wow! You can cook? I’m so envious! I’ve never been able to pick up the skill, so only my husband cooks for us. I still dream of being able to cook for my family one day,” Stephanie admitted wistfully.

“I could teach you sometime. Cooking is something our family truly enjoys. I want my son to grow up appreciating my home-cooked meals because it creates a special bond,” I shared, expressing my belief that a family that eats together grows stronger.

“You don’t have to go through the trouble, Zara. We wouldn’t want you to feel burdened over a simple lunch for our newlywed family member,” the lady interjected, her concern evident.

I smiled warmly in response. “It’s absolutely fine with me, and I would love for you to taste the dishes we prepare.”

“If you insist, you can seek assistance from our kitchen staff to lighten the load for you.”

“That’s a good idea,” I agreed. “Lucas and I brought fresh ingredients from the countryside, including fruits, vegetables, and even seafood in the cooler.”

“Really?! I miss the countryside. The fresh air is often underrated but definitely something to appreciate when visiting. I wish I had known earlier; I would have loved to join you. And I’ll gladly help with the cooking. Maybe you can give me a few tips so I can move beyond instant noodles,” Stephanie chimed in with enthusiasm.

First, I asked the assistant, to bring in the fresh produce and the cooler from the van parked outside. Once in the kitchen, I noticed that the kitchen assistants had already set up the necessary peeling and cutting tools. Glancing at the well-stocked fridge, I spotted some high-quality beef.

“Let’s start by soaking the meat in water to thaw it properly,” I advised Stephanie, focusing on the basics for now.

“Ah, I see!”Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

I chuckled, understanding that her upbringing with helpers taking care of such tasks contributed to her lack of experience. It was a privilege for them, while for the middle class, it was an opportunity to learn independence.

Returning to our cooking, I boiled the necessary ingredients while marveling at the state-of-the-art kitchen appliances at our disposal. Meanwhile, using the beef, cabbage, bananas, and potatoes we brought, I prepared a mouthwatering stew with sweet corn.

“Remember, don’t immediately place the food in the pan. Check if the pan is dry first, then heat it before adding oil to ensure it’s hot enough for frying,” I instructed Stephanie, who seemed to be absorbing every word I said.

Mostly taking on the role of a mixer, Stephanie patiently assisted me in mixing the dishes. She also served as the taste tester, bravely trying his hand at frying marinated meats. Initially hesitant, she quickly found his rhythm and took pride in his achievements.

Using the ripe mangoes we had brought, I prepared a mango graham cake, a favorite of my husband. To conclude our lunch, a delightful dessert awaited us.

As the maids brought out the dishes I had prepared one by one, placing them on the table, the Blackwood men entered the room, impeccably dressed and looking presentable once again.

“Wow! What a feast! They look absolutely mouth-watering! Yum…”

Stephanie spoke up with pride, ensuring everyone knew our accomplishment. “Just so you know, Zara and I cooked all of these dishes, and they are all delicious. No room for doubt, little brother,” she stated, a grin adorning her face.

“Now I’m starting to doubt the credibility of this food. I might need to keep a glass of water by my side. Last time you cooked, our tongues were scorched by the saltiness of your roasted chicken. It was salty and burned,” he recounted, recalling a past culinary mishap.

“Excuse me, little brother. Are you badmouthing me? Your sister, Zara, and I prepared all of this. So grab your spoon and start eating,” Stephanie retorted, her voice tinged with playful sternness directed at her youngest twin sibling.

“Alright, enough banter. Let us begin with a prayer,” Dad interjected, prompting us all to bow our heads and listen attentively.

As I observed these respected, dominant, and high-class families, I realized that they were just like any other people. Despite their wealth, they were still human, and it brought me joy to be a part of their happy family.

“Hmm, this soup is delicious. Did you make it, sister?”

“Hey, little brother, Zara has taught me how to mix and cook. Watch and learn… Besides, you’ve been underestimating me for a while now. Why don’t you trust me with cooking?” Stephanie responded, playfully pouting.

“That’s because the last time you stepped into the kitchen, you managed to burn half of your condominium,” Lucas chimed in, his grin unwavering.

I couldn’t help but notice their fondness for teasing Stephanie.

Stephanie gasped at Lucas’ remark before turning to me. “Your husband is lying, Zara! He’s exaggerating. You have an unfortunate husband, my dear. Perhaps I can introduce you to some fine men so you can understand,” Stephanie playfully teased Lucas in return.

Before my husband could respond, their father scolded them. “Enough, both of you. Let’s eat… mmm Zara, you have a talent for cooking. This tastes incredible,” Dad complimented me, causing a wave of embarrassment to wash over me as I thanked him.

“Of course, it’s my wife’s cooking,” my husband proudly proclaimed.

Seeing my husband and son enjoy their meal filled my heart with happiness. They even praised the quick mango-graham cake I prepared for dessert, appreciating the freshness of the fruit.

Afterward, we returned to the garden, seeking refuge under the shade of the trees. Today was a day of happiness for me, as I felt accepted by my husband’s family. I had initially feared that my social status would prevent their acceptance, but I was proven wrong. They were kind and welcoming, making me feel like one of them. Their wealth didn’t create a sense of difference; their interactions were genuine and down-to-earth.

Everyone was delighted to have an unexpected guest, further solidifying the warmth and hospitality of the family. However, an unsettling feeling began to creep up on me. Giselle, the woman from Lucas’ past, suddenly appeared, her expression twisted with anger and ferocity. She resembled an unstoppable storm, and my son grew fearful, hesitating to come near me.

Giselle approached my husband, her eyes gleaming with intensity. “What is the meaning of this? Huh!? Lucas, you better start explaining yourself!” she demanded.

Lucas responded calmly, not allowing Giselle’s presence to rattle him. “I have nothing to explain to you, Giselle. We are over, and you should stop this scandalous act.”

The model stood up, scanning the room and fixating her gaze on us, particularly my son. “We’re over? We only broke up a month ago, and you already have a son who’s about to become a teenager! Hey, Lucas, have you been cheating on all this time? How dare you reveal what I did? It was supposed to be kept hidden! You damn cheater! Everyone should know about this!” Giselle shouted, her laughter filled with madness.

Sensing the need for calm, I suggested that Stephanie take the child inside to spare him from witnessing the unfolding scandal. I didn’t want my son to be traumatized amidst what should have been a joyful gathering. After all, there should always be a sense of fun associated with such occasions, right?

Stephanie agreed and guided the boy indoors, while Giselle continued her persistent hostility towards us.

“Oh? Why did you take the child away? He should hear who’s involved! You, woman! Are you the one who replaced me? My God, Lucas, just look at her! You never said anything to me! Have you lowered your standards all these years?” Giselle exclaimed, approaching me with an accusatory tone.

“Hey, kid! What do you want, Lucas? Money! Just tell me your price and leave us alone, you bitch!” Giselle yelled, raising her hand to slap me.

However, Lucas intervened, pushing her away with a determined look in his eyes. Summoning my courage, I spoke up, determined to find a diplomatic resolution.

“If we can have a civilized conversation, we can avoid turning this into a scandal. Let’s handle this with maturity,” I suggested calmly.

Giselle rolled her eyes, sarcastically throwing a smile my way.

“Civilized conversation? Oh, how considerate of you! You’re suddenly trying to act gracious and educated! Well, I have every right to be furious! You stole my man away from me! Do you understand that?” Giselle continued, her anger unabated.

“I am legally married to Lucas, Giselle. We tied the knot without your knowledge. So refrain from calling me a hookup, and perhaps I’ll consider showing you our marriage certificate,” I finally revealed, unable to contain my frustration any longer.

“Married? Then what about all these years? Goodness! Lucas, you’ve made me look like a fool! Dad!” Giselle turned to the don. “I’ve always been engaged to your son, his fiancée. How could you allow some nameless woman to enter your family?”

Lucas approached Giselle, his voice calm but firm. “Ease up on the insults, Giselle. My wife is the one you’re referring to as a bitch. We’ve been together for a long time, and we have something special. While I still have some respect for you, it’s time for you to leave,” Lucas asserted.

Giselle grinned, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “No, Lucas. No! Not if you’re not coming back to me. Do you want the press to get wind of this?” Her words carried a threatening undertone.

Lucas seemed to darken at Giselle’s words. “Don’t play dumb! Who here sacrificed our child for her own dreams? Do you think I’ll ever come back to you? Start dreaming on!” He exposed a secret, leaving Giselle momentarily speechless.

The shock on the faces of the Blackwood family was evident, swiftly followed by anger. Mrs. Blackwood approached Giselle, delivering a resounding slap that reverberated through the room.

“Get out of here, Giselle. The Blackwood household does not tolerate deceit. Don’t threaten us, dear; be prepared to face our wrath! Guard! Escort this woman out and ensure she never enters our home again!” Mrs. Blackwood commanded, her voice filled with authority.

Giselle was forcibly removed, her temper flaring as she screamed in protest.

Lucas embraced me, but I couldn’t shake off the worry that lingered within me.