ia's

surrogacy program. The timing can't be more perfect, given my recent job loss and my father's moun

rs that gather in my eyes, and hail a cab to

is like something out of a fairytale-a sprawling mansion surrounded by manicured gardens, tall hedges, a

is uncharted territory for me, and I can't help but wonder what lies beyond those gates.

ll, clad in a crisp uniform, his gaze sharp and observant. I greet him politel

illed with a touch of anxiety. "I hav

sponds, his attention now o

the email only contains the address of the house. "I understan

m sorry, ma'am, but I can't allow anyone without a pass o

houlders. I have come so far, only to be stopped at the gate. B

call. Perhaps there has been a mistake, or someone will be able to assist me in

I sigh, feeling a pang of worry. It seem

lls up to the gate, capturing both my attention and that of the guard. The win

orming from stern to one of utmost respect. With a salute

trigue taking hold of me. Who is this Mr. Williams, and why d

r a brief moment, time seems to stand still. I find myself captivated by t

's expression before the driver accelerates and the ca

my mind. There is some

hat stirs a sense of curiosity a

ns at this moment as I try to ca

the premises. Disappointment and frustration well up within me, but I know causing a scene will on

windows rolling down to reveal a young man inside. He has a friendly smile

tch as he comes closer and speaks in a warm vo

nexpected, but it offers a glimmer of hope. I can't help but wonder who this youn

osity and happiness lacing my words. "But who

eeting. "I apologize for the confusion. My name is Etha

to provide me with an unexpected ally. I shake Ethan's hand, a grateful smile on my face. "

the car for me. "Please, come in.

g me. As the vehicle makes its way through the estate's groun

eur rivaling the estates I have seen before. I take a moment to abso

h our feet is cool and polished, reflecting the soft glow of the crystal chandeliers above. The walls are

way. My eyes dart from one detail to another, marveling at the intric

middle-aged woman, the housekeeper. Her warm smil

ival," the housekeeper says kindly, her voice

ase. Ethan gives me an assuring smile before excusing

winge of nervousness. The housekeeper seems to notice this

I'm n

ekeeper,

sks, "What would you lik

tantly shake my head. "N

says, "You can't not have anything. Le

sekeeper further, but her persuasive tone and warm smile c

o survey my surroundings. The grand mansion exudes an air of old-world charm, with its antique furniture, intricate tapestries, and polishe

a tray and a glass of water in her hand. She walks to

ith a smile as the ser

e pair of eyes staring at me from the staircase. When I finally do, I

myriad of emotions pass through my face at that moment. It is the