A wealthy man pays a homeless woman to carry his child—but when the baby is born, he’s stunned by what he sees…

Henry Lewis was a 42-year-old man who had everything, money, power, and status. But that night, he realized that despite all the luxury around him, there was one thing his money hadn’t bought, an heir. He needed a child, but Henry didn’t want a family in the traditional sense. He had tried twice, and both marriages ended in failure and disappointment. He thought love was an illusion, something that only brought problems, but a child was different. It was an investment, a continuation of everything he had built.

A millionaire pays a homeless woman to have a baby! But when the child was born, he was shocked by what he saw…
And now he was determined not to seek a relationship for this. He needed a clear agreement, without emotional entanglements, just a contract. He knew that with his resources, he could find someone willing to carry the pregnancy without questions or emotional ties.

For Henry, this was a transaction. And like all his transactions, he would have total control. Now, he just needed to find someone who would accept the deal.

The next morning, Henry Lewis drove his sports car through the city streets. His mind, however, was focused on finding someone who would accept the contract. And while stopped at a light near downtown, something caught his attention.

On the corner of the sidewalk, a young woman sat on the ground, drawing on a piece of dirty paper. She had messy brown hair falling over her face, and her blue eyes shone, despite her tired-haired equals one appearance. She seemed invisible to others, but something about her caught Henry’s eye.

He tried to ignore her, but when the light turned green, he looked again, and thought, who draws on the sidewalk as if nothing else exists? Annoyed with himself, he sped away, leaving her behind. But a few blocks away, something bothered him. He stopped in a parking lot and sat there, staring at the steering wheel when an idea came to him.

This is ridiculous, he said to himself, but his instinct pushed him back. Reluctantly, he turned the car around and went back to where he had seen her. There she was, just the same, now leaning the paper against the wall.

He pulled up to the curb and rolled down the window, his tone direct and cold. Hey, you, come here. The young woman looked at him with suspicion, her eyes narrowed, evaluating the well-dressed man in the sports car.

She hesitated. I’m not asking. Come on, I don’t have all day, he insisted, not changing his tone.

Slowly and reluctantly, she approached. When she finally stood next to the car, her thinness and the wear of her appearance were even more evident. Despite this, there was something in her posture, in the way she looked at him.

What do you want? she asked, her voice low but firm. Henry studied her for a moment before responding. Get in.

I’ll take you somewhere we can talk, she laughed dryly. I’m not one of those, if that’s what you’re thinking. He frowned, clearly irritated by the assumption.

Don’t be absurd. I don’t have time for that. I just want to talk.

Now get in the car, or you can keep living on that sidewalk. The hesitation was still there, but something in his authoritative tone left her no room for argument. Finally, she opened the door and got in.

The silence between them and the car was heavy, but Henry didn’t seem to mind. He drove to a quiet cafe, away from the city noise, and parked. What’s your name? he asked as they sat at a table in the corner.

Layla Parker, but why does it matter? She retorted, keeping a suspicious look. Because I need to know who I’m dealing with. Tell me, Layla.

Why do you sit on the sidewalk, drawing as if nothing else matters? She shrugged, avoiding his gaze. What else is there to do? I have nowhere to go. I lost everything.

But that’s none of your business. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. Right, I’ll get straight to the point.

I want to make you an offer. Something that can change your life. Her eyes narrowed.

And what would that be? I want you to have a child for me. Layla blinked, as if she hadn’t heard correctly. You’re joking, right? No, it’s a serious offer.

I’ll cover all your expenses, give you full support during the pregnancy, and in the end, you’ll get an amount that will ensure you never have to worry about money again. She let out a nervous laugh, crossing her arms. This is a joke, right? What kind of man makes such an offer to a stranger? The kind of man who knows what he wants and doesn’t waste time.

I don’t want a relationship, Layla. I don’t want emotional drama. Just a child.

Simple as that. Layla stared at Henry as if he had lost his mind. His words echoed in her mind.

I want you to have my child. As much as she wanted to dismiss his proposal as absurd, something in Henry’s gaze told her he was absolutely serious. His cold logic hit her hard, leaving her torn between her dignity and the harsh reality of her life.

This is madness, Layla finally broke the silence. No woman in her right mind would agree to something like this. Henry didn’t look away, maintaining the calculated posture that came so naturally to him.

No woman in your position would refuse, he replied bluntly. I’m offering you a way out, comfort, stability, and a new life in exchange for something you already have, the ability to bear a child. Layla crossed her arms, trying to maintain a facade of resistance, but deep down, she knew he was right.

She was in a situation where every day was a struggle to survive. Even so, the idea of giving up something so personal for money made her stomach churn. And then what? She asked, her voice heavy with skepticism.

What happens after the baby is born? Henry relaxed slightly in his chair, as if he had anticipated the question. After the baby is born, you’ll receive a substantial sum to start your life over. No strings attached, you’ll be free to do whatever you want.

No strings attached? She let out a humorless laugh. And how do I know you won’t change your mind and drag me into court later? He studied her carefully before answering. Layla, I’m a businessman.

I don’t enter into agreements without ensuring all parties benefit. You’ll have a legally binding contract. Neither of us will be able to change the terms afterward.

Now, let’s have a little fun with those who only read the comments. Type milkshake in the comments, only those who’ve read this far will understand. Now, back to the story.

Layla fell silent, absorbing his words. The promise of security, even if temporary, was tempting. She had nothing now, not even a place to sleep that night.

But she also knew she was on the verge of making a life-altering decision. And what if I say no? She challenged, leaning slightly forward. Henry gave a faint smile.

Then you go back to the streets you keep scraping by, facing the cold and the hunger. The choice is yours. His words landed like a blow.

She wanted to hate him for being so blunt. But she hated even more the truth in them. He had backed her into a corner, and she knew it.

But there was one more thing she needed to ask. Why are you doing this? She demanded. A man like you, with all your money, why not adopt a child? Or find one of those wealthy women who love showing off their perfect kids? Henry took a deep breath before answering, his tone more serious than before.

Because I want something that’s mine. An heir of my own blood. And because adopting or getting involved with someone in my social circle brings complications I’m not willing to deal with.

I want control, Layla. Nothing more. Nothing less.

The coldness in his words made her look away, unsettled. She knew he was being honest, which only made her feel more vulnerable. I need time to think, she said finally, trying to regain some control over the situation.

Henry nodded as if he had expected this response. You have 24 hours. After that, don’t bother contacting me.

He stood up and walked toward the door without another word. Layla watched as he disappeared, feeling as though she was being pulled into a whirlwind she might never escape. Walking through the streets, Layla’s thoughts raced.

Henry’s words echoed in her mind. Comfort. Stability.

A new life. She knew all too well what it meant to have nothing. The biting cold of the night stung her skin, a reminder that tomorrow would bring the same struggles.

The fight for food. The constant fear. And the humiliation of being invisible to the world.

She sat on a park bench, staring at the overcast sky. Her mother used to say that opportunities only knock once, and it’s up to you to decide whether to seize them or let them slip away. But at what cost, she wondered.

Having a child, even as part of a deal, was a monumental decision. But what if it was her only chance to escape the endless cycle of misery? Meanwhile, Henry sat in his living room, reviewing a contract his lawyers had meticulously prepared. He hated waiting, but he knew Layla didn’t have many options.

Regardless, he had already calculated the risks. If she declined, he’d move on to someone else. Simple as that.

The sound of the intercom interrupted his thoughts. He picked up, hearing his receptionist’s voice inform him that Layla had arrived. Send her up, he replied, his tone neutral.

Minutes later, the door opened and Layla walked in. Her eyes were tired but determined. I accept, she said bluntly, before Henry could say anything.

He stood up, observing her carefully. There was no hesitation in her expression, just a firm decision. Great, let’s make this official.

He motioned for her to sit while he picked up the contract from the table. Layla looked at the document, reading the terms carefully. The conditions were clear.

She would be taken care of throughout the pregnancy, with all her expenses paid, and in the end, she would receive a significant amount to restart her life. In return, she would give up any rights to the child. This seems… final, she murmured as she read.

That’s exactly what I want. Henry replied, And I hope it’s what you want too. Layla took a deep breath and after a moment of hesitation, picked up the pen.

With a quick motion, she signed her name, sealing the agreement that would change their lives forever. The signing of the contract sealed more than just a deal. It marked a new phase in Layla Parker’s life.

That same day, she was escorted by Stephanie, Henry’s assistant, to a black car waiting at the building’s entrance. As she looked out the car window, the city, which had once felt overwhelming, now seemed to offer something different, a chance to start over. Layla didn’t speak much during the ride to Henry’s mansion, but Stephanie tried to break the silence.

You’ll like the place. It’s quiet, spacious, and most importantly, comfortable. The friendly tone contrasted with the cold environment of the contract she had just signed.

Layla just nodded, still processing everything that had happened in the past few hours. When the car finally arrived at the mansion, her eyes widened. The monumental iron gate opened, revealing a property surrounded by impeccably maintained gardens.

At the center was the mansion, an imposing marble and glass structure that seemed as cold and calculating as the man who owned it. Stephanie led her inside, and Layla barely had time to take in the extravagant details. Crystal chandeliers, wide marble staircases, and furniture that looked like it came straight out of a design magazine made her uncomfortable.

This wasn’t her world, but for now it would be her new reality. I’ll show you to your room, Stephanie said with a smile. It’s one of the best suites in the house, Layla followed in silence.

Upon entering the room, she was greeted by a huge bed with linen sheets, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a bathroom larger than any apartment she had ever lived in. If you need anything, just call me. We’re here to take care of you, Stephanie added before leaving her alone.

Layla sat on the edge of the bed, running her hands over the soft fabric of the sheets. It was strange, until yesterday she had been sleeping on cold sidewalks, and now she was surrounded by luxury. But, as comfortable as it was, there was still something heavy in the air.

She knew she wasn’t a guest, she was part of a business deal. In the days that followed, Layla tried to adjust to the new routine. Meals were served promptly, and a team of doctors was hired to conduct initial exams.

As expected, Henry kept his distance. He was focused on work, rarely appearing around the house, except to check the reports Stephanie gave him on Layla’s progress. On one of those rare occasions, they crossed paths in the hallway.

Layla was leaving a medical appointment when she saw Henry walking toward her, with his usual impeccable posture and serious look. Are you okay? he asked, his tone more out of obligation than concern. Layla hesitated before answering.

Everything is as expected, I guess. He nodded, not deepening the conversation. However, before walking away, he gave her one last look.

If you need anything, ask Stephanie. I want you to be well. She didn’t know what to make of that comment.

Was it genuine kindness, or just a way to ensure the agreement went smoothly? Either way, that brief encounter lingered in her mind. Although she was being treated like a queen, Layla couldn’t ignore the dilemmas that began to arise within her. During a silent night, she walked to the balcony of her room and looked at the vast garden illuminated by the moonlight.

Everything was so calm, so far from the reality she knew. Am I doing the right thing? she thought, hugging herself against the cold wind. The idea of carrying a child and then giving it away seemed increasingly complex.

And although the contract made it clear she would have no rights to the child, she didn’t know how she would handle it emotionally. Meanwhile, Henry watched everything from a distance. He knew Layla was resilient, but he also recognized that she carried significant emotional weight.

Despite his cold demeanor, he felt a faint twinge of curiosity about her. Who was this woman who had accepted such an unusual proposal? And why couldn’t he completely shake the feeling that maybe she was more than just part of a plan? One evening, Layla was in the living room, browsing through a book from the shelf. She wasn’t a fan of classic literature, but there was something comforting about the quiet of the house and the scent of old books.

Henry walked in, surprising her. He seemed distracted, holding a folder of documents in his hand. I didn’t expect to find you here, he said, stopping in the middle of the room.

I didn’t expect you to talk to me, she replied with a sarcastic smile. He frowned but didn’t respond right away. Instead, he placed the folder on the table and sat down in a nearby armchair.

Are you settling in? he asked, crossing his arms. I think so, she answered hesitantly. But it still feels strange.

It doesn’t feel real. Henry leaned forward slightly. It doesn’t have to feel strange.

This is a contract, Layla. An agreement. I assure you, everything will be carried out exactly as planned.

That’s what you do, isn’t it? She said with a hint of defiance. Plan everything. Calculate everything.

Leave no room for mistakes. He looked at her closely, as if deciding whether the conversation was worth continuing. That’s how I’ve built everything I have.

Planning prevents failure, he finally replied. Layla gave a short laugh, shaking her head. Sometimes failure is inevitable.

You can plan everything but you can’t control how you feel, Henry. Her words hit him like a blow. He leaned back in the chair without replying.

Layla noticed his reaction but didn’t push further. She simply picked up the book from the shelf and headed to her room, leaving Henry alone, deep in thought. The days went by and Layla Parker began adjusting to life in Henry Lewis’ mansion.

While the environment was grand and comfortable, she couldn’t shake the feeling of not belonging. Every expensive piece of furniture, every decorative object seemed to scream that this wasn’t her place. Still, she followed the routine.

Frequent medical appointments, meals prepared by chefs. Despite the comfort, an emotional emptiness lingered. At night, alone in her room, she thought about what she had left behind.

Not that it was much, but it was the only life she had known. Now everything felt out of control. What would it be like to carry a child and then hand it over? She tried to push those thoughts away but they haunted her, especially in the stillness of the night.

While Layla grappled with her internal conflicts, Henry watched her from a distance. He maintained a reserved demeanor but found himself curious. Even amidst his commitments and meetings, he often caught himself thinking about her.

It wasn’t romantic or emotional, at least not yet, but a curiosity he couldn’t quite explain. One afternoon, returning home after a long day of meetings, Henry found Layla in the garden. She was sitting on a bench, her face turned toward the sky.

The scene contrasted with the tough image he had of her. For a moment, he hesitated to approach but eventually walked over to her. Enjoying the garden, he asked in his firm, direct tone.

Layla turned, slightly surprised but quickly responded. It’s nice, definitely better than the streets. He sat beside her, keeping some distance.

There was something disarming about Layla’s honesty. Are you settling in? he asked. Layla shrugged, looking at the flowers in front of her.

It still feels strange, like I’m living someone else’s life. Henry remained silent for a moment before replying. It’s all part of the agreement.

I want you to have everything you need so things go as planned. As planned, she echoed with a hint of irony. Do you always live like this, planning every second of your life? Henry looked at her, surprised by the question.

He was used to people who simply agreed with him, who never challenged him. Planning is what keeps everything running, he said firmly. Without it, everything falls apart.

Layla gave a faint smile, shaking her head. I don’t think everything can be controlled. Sometimes, things just happen, whether you want them to or not.

Her words unsettled him more than he expected. He stood up, abruptly ending the conversation. If you need anything, let Stephanie know, he said before heading back inside the house.

A few days later, Henry decided to accompany Layla to one of her medical appointments. He justified his presence by saying he wanted to ensure everything was going well, but deep down, he felt a growing responsibility for the situation. Layla showed no surprise, but was inwardly intrigued by his decision.

At the doctor’s office, the usual examinations were conducted, and for the first time, they heard the baby’s heartbeat. Layla felt a wave of unexpected emotion. Her eyes filled with tears, but she tried to hide it.

Henry, on the other hand, remained still. His expression was hard to read, but something in his gaze had changed. It was as if that simple sound had touched something inside him that he wasn’t prepared to face.

Everything looks perfect, said the doctor, smiling. You can start thinking about what you want to do next, like prenatal care and the next steps. Layla nodded, but Henry remained silent.

On the way back to the mansion, the silence in the car was heavy. Henry was visibly thoughtful, and Layla couldn’t find the right words to fill the space between them. When they finally arrived, he opened the door for her, a simple gesture that surprised her.

Thank you for today, Layla said as she got out of the car. It was the least I could do, Henry replied, not looking directly at her. I’ll make sure everything continues to go well.

Layla watched him as he walked into the mansion, his posture always impeccable, but there was something different about him. Maybe the sound of the heartbeat had touched a part of Henry that he kept hidden, or maybe it was just her imagination. In the following days, Layla began to notice small changes.

Henry appeared more frequently in the common areas of the house, and their conversations, though brief, seemed less mechanical. He asked about the details of her appointments, how she was feeling, and even suggested activities to help her relax. One night, while they were dining in silence at the large dining table, Henry broke the habit and asked, Have you thought about what you want to do after all this is over? Layla was surprised by the question.

It was the first time he had shown any interest in her future. I don’t have any plans, she replied honestly. I still don’t know what my life will be like after this, Henry nodded, seeming to consider her answer.

You’ll have the resources to start over, wherever you want. Just, make sure you do something worthwhile. Layla looked at him, intrigued.

Behind the calculated coldness, there seemed to be a trace of genuine concern. She didn’t know how to interpret it, but for the first time, she didn’t feel completely alone in the mansion. One morning, Layla found a package left at the entrance of her room.

It was a gift wrapped impeccably with a small handwritten note to help with your free time. Inside was a new sketchbook and high-quality pencils. Layla was speechless.

She didn’t know that Henry knew about her love for drawing. During one of their early conversations, she had casually mentioned how she used to draw to distract herself, but she never expected him to remember, let alone care. That night, while she was in the garden, Henry passed by her and stopped for a moment.

Did you like the gift? He asked casually. Yes, Layla replied, holding the sketchbook. Thank you.

I… didn’t expect this, Henry shrugged. It seemed like something that could be good for you. Layla smiled, holding the gift more firmly.

It was, she replied simply. Layla began to realize that the routine in the mansion, despite being well-planned and comfortable, was not enough to dispel the internal conflicts surrounding her. Each day brought a new sense of emptiness, as if she were physically present but disconnected from what was happening around her.

While Henry maintained his usual firm demeanor, Layla felt there was something more to the man that he didn’t let show. One morning, she was surprised by an unexpected request from Henry. He wanted them to talk after breakfast, something that seemed atypical given the distance he usually maintained.

Once they finished, Layla met him in the sitting room, where he waited next to a stack of papers. I want to discuss some additional details of the contract, he said directly. Layla’s heart tightened, imagining he was about to impose new conditions.

More details? I thought everything was already settled, she replied, trying to hide her tension. Henry watched her for a moment before continuing. It’s nothing that changes the terms.

I just want to ensure you understand how things will be after the birth. I want to avoid any surprises. Layla took a deep breath, trying to stay calm.

I think I get it. I’ll leave, and you’ll go on with your life. He gave a small nod.

Yes, but I want you to know that if you need anything afterward, regardless of the agreement, I’ll be available to help. I don’t want you to feel abandoned. She raised an eyebrow, surprised by the offer.

His tone was different, as if he was trying to show a consideration that hadn’t been there before. That’s unexpected coming from you, she said, unable to hide her sarcasm. Henry just shrugged.

I don’t want complications, and this is the best way to avoid them. Layla chuckled, but there was something about his seriousness that made her reconsider her sarcasm. Maybe he really was trying to be different, even if he didn’t quite know how.

Later that day, Layla decided to explore the mansion further. The place was immense, with seemingly endless hallways and rooms decorated with artwork that probably cost more than she could imagine. As she wandered, she came across a small study at the end of a hallway.

The door was slightly ajar, and she peeked inside. Henry was sitting at the desk, but he didn’t seem to be working. He was holding a framed photograph in his hands, staring at it.

Layla couldn’t make out the details of the image, but something about his posture caught her attention. It was the first time she’d seen him like this, vulnerable, lost in thought. She knocked softly on the door, and he quickly set the photograph back on the desk.

Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt, she said hesitantly. Henry looked up, clearly surprised to see her. It’s nothing, he replied, returning to his neutral expression.

Did you need something? No, I was just… exploring the house. Layla hesitated, feeling like she should say more. You seemed like you were thinking about something important.

Henry stayed silent for a moment before replying. We all have things we’d rather keep to ourselves. Sensing he didn’t want to continue that topic, she shifted the conversation.

This house is huge. Do you live here alone all the time? He nodded, crossing his arms. It’s more practical than it seems.

I don’t like distractions, and here I have the space I need. Layla studied him for a moment, trying to understand how someone could live surrounded by so much luxury and yet seem so lonely. That must be… strange, she said without much thought, having all this but no one to share it with.

Henry looked away, clearly uncomfortable. I’m used to it. I don’t need anyone to do what I do.

Layla wanted to believe him, but something in his tone suggested otherwise. Before she could respond, Henry stood up. If you need anything, Stephanie can help, he said, ending the conversation.

That night, Layla went out to the mansion’s terrace. The sky was clear, and the city lights twinkled in the distance. Sitting there, she let her mind wander.

She thought about the sound of the baby’s heartbeat she had heard during the checkup, a sound that had affected her in ways she couldn’t explain. As much as she tried to maintain emotional distance, it was becoming harder. When she heard footsteps behind her, Layla turned and saw Henry.

He looked tired, but he still carried that same rigid posture. You like this spot, don’t you? he asked as he approached. I like the silence, she replied.

It helps me think. He stopped beside her, gazing at the city lights for a moment before speaking. Thinking isn’t always a good thing.

Layla laughed, but without much humor. Try telling that to someone who spends most of their time alone. Henry didn’t respond right away.

When he finally spoke, his voice was softer. Sometimes being surrounded by people doesn’t help much either. Layla glanced at him, noticing a sadness in his words she hadn’t heard before.

Maybe you need something you can’t control, Henry, she said without filtering her thoughts. She didn’t regret it. He frowned as if he wanted to respond, but decided against it.

Instead, he turned and walked away, leaving Layla with her own thoughts. In the weeks that followed, Layla realized that no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t maintain a solid barrier between herself and Henry. He remained enigmatic, but there were moments when small fragments of his true self seemed to slip through.

And while she tried to keep her distance, something within her wanted to understand the man who had brought her into this world. At the same time, Henry found himself grappling with emotions he couldn’t name. He had entered this agreement expecting simplicity and control, but now he was beginning to see that this was far more complex.

Layla wasn’t just part of a plan, and that scared him. The following week, it was time for another checkup. Layla woke up early, feeling a mix of anxiety and curiosity.

The months were passing faster than she had imagined, and the idea of seeing the babies for the first time even on a screen made her heart race. She wondered if Henry would be there for this appointment, as he had been the last time. When she came down for breakfast, she found Stephanie going over the schedule with Henry.

Ready? Henry asked, looking up from the folder of documents in front of him. Ready enough, Layla replied, trying to sound calmer than she felt. Great, we’ll go together.

He didn’t give any more explanations, but his tone left no room for discussion. Layla headed to the car, feeling the silence between them heavier than usual. Henry, as always, was focused, but there was something different in his demeanor.

Maybe he was as nervous as she was, though he would never admit it. At the doctor’s office, the physician greeted them with a warm smile. He motioned for Layla to lie down while he prepared the ultrasound equipment.

Today we’ll get a clearer view of the baby, the doctor explained, adjusting the monitor. Layla looked at the screen, trying to ignore the cold gel the doctor was applying to her abdomen. When the transducer began to glide over her skin, she held her breath, anxious about what was to come.

Henry, standing beside her, crossed his arms, keeping his eyes fixed on the monitor. Then the sound came, the strong, steady rhythm of heartbeats, not just one, but two. Well, here’s the surprise we couldn’t see last time, the doctor said, pointing to the screen.

You’re expecting twins. Layla’s eyes widened in surprise. Twins? She had never considered that possibility.

She felt a wave of emotion wash over her, a mix of shock and joy. Instinctively, she placed a hand on her belly, trying to process the news. Henry, for his part, remained silent for a few seconds, his serious expression giving way to something Layla had never seen before, genuine awe.

He leaned slightly forward, watching the screen intently. Two? He asked, as if needing confirmation. Two.

The doctor replied with a smile. Both seem healthy and are growing well. The silence that followed was filled only with the sound of the heartbeats echoing in the room.

For Layla, that moment was magical. No matter how hard she tried to remain emotionally distant, she couldn’t help but feel connected to the two lives inside her. Let’s play a game with those who only read the comments.

Type pizza in the comments. Only those who get here will understand. Now let’s continue with the story.

Henry, standing beside her, seemed equally moved. He remained quiet, but his eyes revealed something that words couldn’t express. For the first time, he seemed vulnerable, touched by the idea of becoming a father to two.

On the way back to the mansion, the silence between them was different. It wasn’t the usual cold and distant silence, but something laden with meaning. Layla finally broke the silence.

You don’t seem like the kind of person who gets easily surprised, she commented, trying to lighten the tension. Henry sighed, his eyes fixed on the road. I’m not, but this, he paused, choosing his words.

This is different, Layla glanced at him, intrigued. Henry rarely showed emotions, but now he seemed lost in thought. Is it scary? She asked, almost in a whisper.

He turned slightly to look at her before answering. No, it’s impressive. Knowing that, in a few months, two completely new beings will be here, depending on me.

Layla felt a pang of pain in her chest. She knew that, eventually, she would have to let go of those babies, but hearing him talk about them with such care made her realize how connected she already was to them. They also depend on me, at least for now, she said, trying to hide the emotion in her voice.

Henry nodded. I know, and that’s why I want to make sure you’re okay, Layla. Not just physically, but in every way.

That’s important to me. She stayed silent, absorbing his words. It was the first time he had spoken so sincerely about what they were going through together.

Later that night, Layla was on the terrace, looking at the horizon, when Henry appeared again. He seemed hesitant, something rare in his usually confident demeanor. I can’t stop thinking about what the doctor said today, he began, sitting next to her.

Two babies, two futures. Layla turned to him, surprised by his openness. It’s a lot of responsibility, isn’t it? She asked.

It’s more than that, Henry said, his gaze fixed on the horizon. This is the first time I feel like something in my life can’t be calculated. I can’t plan who these two will become.

I can’t control who they’ll grow into. Layla felt a chill hearing those words. It was rare for Henry to admit that something was beyond his control.

She realized that, like her, he was changing, albeit reluctantly. Sometimes, that can be a good thing, she said. Not knowing what’s next.

It can bring things you never imagined. Henry looked at her as though he were considering her words. For the first time, he seemed to be accepting the idea that not everything in life could be planned.

In the following days, the news about the twins brought an unexpected lightness to the mansion. Stephanie began making adjustments to the nursery that had been prepared, now adapting it for two. Layla watched the transformations with mixed feelings.