Chapter 2 Decision

Avery swallowed hard, her mind racing with uncertainty as she weighed her options. At 18 and a virgin, agreeing to the surrogacy arrangement felt overwhelming, especially given her final year of high school. But the prospect of benefiting her mother's health by settling her medical bills was tempting.

As she considered Evan's proposal, she thought about the benefits it would bring. She would also gain financial security, which could improve her mother's care. Her body quivered slightly as she thought about the implications.

Avery looked up at Evan, searching for any sign that he was hiding something. His expression remained calm and reassuring, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to this arrangement than met the eye.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Avery drew in a sharp breath and spoke. "Deal," she said finally.

Evan nodded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Great! I'll send the new contract papers to you as soon as they're ready. My lawyer will contact you." He turned to leave, his hands tucked in his pocket.

As he walked away, Avery realized that she would be spending many nights under the same roof as him. The thought sent a shiver down her spine.

As Evan stepped out of the hospital, a white Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of the doorstep. The driver got out and respectfully opened the door for him to get in.

Felix, Evan's PA, cleared his throat slightly. "That was quick, boss. Did you get it done already?"

Evan chuckled dryly. "That girl ran off with someone else."

Felix raised an eyebrow. "Don't worry, boss. I'll track her down and make sure she's properly dealt with."

But Evan raised his hand, stopping Felix mid-sentence. "There's no need for that. I found someone else for the job."

Felix nodded thoughtfully. "Wow, so quickly, boss." He couldn't help but wonder what magic his boss used to get a replacement last minute.

Evan's expression turned serious. "Contact my lawyer and tell him I want to see him at my office ASAP."

His assistant, Felix nodded and the car took off with high speed from the hospital, leaving Avery standing alone on the sidewalk.

.......

Avery's eyes scanned the hospital parking lot, her mind racing with anxiety. She had tried calling Monica five times, but each attempt had ended in failure. The number didn't exist.

At this moment she realized Monica wasn't bluffing one bit and she was indeed gone for good.

With a heavy sigh, Avery dialed Natalie's number instead. Her best friend answered on the first ring. "Hey, girl! What's up?"

Avery took a deep breath before spilling out the news. "Monica ran off with Mr. Benson's money, along with her boyfriend Matthew."

Natalie's gasp was audible over the phone. "Holly moley! Are you sure about that?"

Avery nodded, despite her friend's incredulous tone. "I called Monica myself, and she told me. Mr. Benson was furious."

There was a pause before Natalie spoke again. "So what did you do?"

Avery hesitated before answering. "I decided to take Monica's place as Mr. Benson's surrogate."

The line fell silent, and Avery could almost hear Natalie's brain racing. Finally, her friend spoke up. "What? Why would you say such a thing? You're only 18 and still in high school!"

Avery felt a lump form in her throat as she explained her reasoning. "My mom is sick, and I'm all she has left. I had no choice."

Natalie let out a sigh of relief. "I'm glad you guys are doing it the modern way"

Avery felt a shiver run down her spine as she recounted Evan's words. "He said he wants us to get intimate."

The line went silent again before Natalie spoke up. "And what did you say?"

Avery felt tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. "I was desperate and scared, so I agreed."

Natalie let out a horrified gasp. "Oh my god! That's insane!"

Avery sniffled back tears. "I know, I'm so scared right now."

Natalie's voice softened. "Just take a deep breath, girl. We'll talk about this at school tomorrow, okay?"

****

Lawyer Smith rapped his knuckles against the transparent glass door before entering Evan's office. Evan looked up from his files, his eyes focusing intently on the lawyer.

"Ah, Mr. Benson, I see you wanted to see me," Lawyer Smith said, taking a seat across from Evan. "What can I do for you?"

Evan removed his reading glasses and leaned back in his chair. "I'd like to make some changes to that contract you drafted earlier."

Lawyer Smith's expression turned concerned. "Are you sure you want to proceed with this surrogacy arrangement, Mr. Benson? You could still find a decent partner and avoid all the...complications."

Evan's jaw clenched. "I've made up my mind, Mr. Smith. I know my grandfather will come through if he finds out I'm expecting a child."

Lawyer Smith nodded reluctantly. "Very well, Mr. Benson. What changes would you like me to make?"

Evan's eyes locked onto the lawyer's. "First, change the surrogate's name from Monica Daniels to Avery Daniels. And I'm no longer interested in modern surrogacy."

Lawyer Smith raised an eyebrow. "Okay...then what should be written in its place?"

Evan's response was straightforward. "We've agreed to do it the natural way."

Lawyer Smith's face turned a deep shade of crimson. "You mean...physical intimacy?"

Evan nodded without hesitation.

Lawyer Smith cleared his throat, attempting to compose himself. "Right...well, I'll make the necessary changes, Mr. Benson."