Becomes

Chapter 0064

Serena’s POV

“Don’t be like this, Serena,” Bill says, sounding frustrated. “You can’t keep me away from my child’s life.”

As I look at Bill, I see the determination on his face. His eyes are intense, almost pleading, and his jaw is set in a way that tells me he’s not going to back down easily. It’s clear he’s committed to being involved with the baby.

Realizing he’s not going to let this go, a plan forms in my mind. I need to make him doubt his paternity, to push him away for both our sakes. How sure are you that you’re the father? Like you said, I might have at sugar daddy.”

Bill pauses, scratching his right eyebrow with his thumb

a sign he’s mulling over his next words carefully. “You know what? I don’t think you have a sugar daddy,” he finally says. “You’re just saying this because. you don’t want me to take care of you and the baby.”

I suddenly feel trapped by my own words as I recognize a glaring flaw. in my plan. Who else could I claim is the father of my child? Calvin?

Dragging Calvin into this could ruin their family. I can’t do that to him after all Calvin has done for me.

I look off into the distance, choosing to stay quiet. My mind is racing with thoughts, but I can’t seem to find any words to say next.

“Look, I’m sorry for everything,” Bill says. Bill’s face changes, the usual tough look melting into something softer and more honest. His eyes, often hidden behind a layer of caution, now show remorse.

“I should’ve been a better husband. But I–I…” Bill starts to choke up. It’s a side of him I’ve never seen before, so open and vulnerable. “I can’t

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Chapter

turn back time.”

Hearing Bill struggle with his words hits me in a way I didn’t expect. My heart feels heavier, a mix of shock and a bit of sadness creeping in. It’s odd and new to see him like this, so honest about his mistakes. It makes me question the barriers I’ve put up between us, wondering if maybe there’s still something real there.

“Wow, I guess you’re really trying to change,” I say, the surprise clear in my voice. “So, what now, Bill? It’s a little too late for apologies as your said.”

Bill takes my hand, his grasp gentle yet full of intention. “Please allow me to show you that I can be a great father and a husband. I just

want us to pick up where we left off. Come back to me, Serena,” he pleads.

I glance down at his hand touching mine, a familiar warmth spreading. through me. He still has that effect on me, that ability to soften my heart with just a simple gesture. But I remind myself I need to stay strong, to protect not just my heart but also the future of my baby.

“don’t

“I don’t need this right now. I have a business to take care of,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady and show him where my priorities lie. “If you want to co–parent, sure, I’ll let you be a father to our child.”

I realize I need to set some clear boundaries. The last thing I want is to rush back into a relationship with Bill. “But don’t ask me to be your wife. again.”

Bill nods, clearly agreeing to my terms. He doesn’t push back or try to negotiate more, which is out of character for the sharp CEO he usually is. “Fine. I’ll take what I can get for now,” he admits. “You know I still love you, Serena. And I’ll do whatever it takes to win you back.”

I rub my temple, feeling a headache coming on just from the thought of getting back together with Bill. “You don’t understand, Bill. I really don’t

want to be with you. Not now, not ever.”

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“I’m not forcing you to be with me, Serena,” he says, his voice calm and steady. “I’m willing to wait, no matter how long it takes until you’re ready. Just let me show you that I can be a better man for you.”

I look Bill straight in his blue eyes, making sure he gets my message. Do what you want. But I’m not sure how I can trust you again.”

Bill nods, showing he’s grateful. “I understand,” he tells me, sounding determined. “I’ll do anything to make you trust me again.”

Thinking back on the three years with Bill, I realize I can hardly remember any happy times, except our trip to Amsterdam. Those days. with Bill and his family felt more like a nightmare than anything else. This makes me wonder do I really want to go back to that kind of life?

–

Then there’s Calvin, who also said he’d wait for me. He’s never been anything but kind, a real difference from my time with Bill. Calvin’s always gentle, really listens, and says things that make me feel better, not worse. He’s patient and makes me feel valued, like I matter. Being around Calvin is comforting, without any of the drama I had with Bill.

I’m stuck in the middle, with Bill on one side and Calvin on the other, like they’re in a tug–of–war and I’m what they’re fighting over. It’s tiring, feeling pulled in two directions between my past with Bill and what could be with Calvin. 1

Chant 0065