Chapter 1 My Stepbrother And I

I had learned early on that life didn't always give you what you wanted. My mother and I had been living paycheck to paycheck since my dad left, but we'd managed to scrape by. Until now, that is.

"Stella, honey, we need to talk," my mother said, her brow furrowed with worry.

I braced myself, knowing that our discussion wouldn't bring good news. Our fridge was almost empty, and the overdue bills were piling up on the kitchen table.

"I know things have been tough lately, but I think I've found a solution," Mom began, a hint of optimism in her voice.

"A solution to what? Our money problems?" I asked, trying to keep my skepticism in check.

She nodded. "Yes, Stella. I met a man, and he's rich. He's offered to take care of us, but there's a catch..."

"What's the catch, Mom?" I prompted, my heart racing.

She took a deep breath, her eyes clouded with apprehension. "The catch is that he wants to marry me, and he wants us to move in with him. He's a nice man, Stella, but I know this is a big change for you. I won't force you into anything, but we need this. We really need this, honey."

I was stunned.

My mind was racing as I processed this bombshell. Marrying a stranger for money? It seemed like the plot of a soap opera. And yet, our lives were on the brink of ruin.

"I know it's a lot to take in, Stella," Mom said, her voice gentle. "But this is our chance to start over, to have a better life. And I promise I won't let you down."

"You want to marry him, then?" I asked, my voice cracking slightly.

She nodded, her eyes filled with resolve. "I do, Stella."

The decision seemed like it had already been made, regardless of my thoughts. My mother was determined, and she was right-we needed the help. But this felt like jumping into the deep end of the pool without knowing how to swim.

"Okay, Mom," I said, my voice wavering. "I trust you. If you think this is the right thing to do, then I'm with you."

Mom smiled, relief evident on her face. "Thank you, Stella. This means the world to me."

Later that day I went to see my best friend and told her how my mother had scored a billionaire.

"Stels, this calls for celebration!" Jessica screamed with excitement. "Goodbye to poverty!"

"Goodbye to poverty!" I repeated after her, smiling hard.

"Let's go party!" she screamed again, and I nodded in agreement. My life was about to change for good. I was going to have a billionaire as a stepfather in a few weeks.

---

At the club, I and Jessica danced so hard while we got drunk. It was nice to have fun, and spend money without worrying.

"Stella, you need to get laid tonight." she said at the top of her voice so i could hear her against the loud music.

I blushed. It's been months since i had any action. After my break up with my boyfriend, I had just focused all my time on work and making ends meet.

"You need a real man Stels. No more more overgrown boys." she was referring to my ex-boyfriend Dennis.

I smiled at her. I have never done one night stands. But tonight the excitement I was feeling knowing that I was soon going to live the life of a billionaire was too intoxicating, and I was ready to do anything, no matter how crazy.

I looked around us, trying to see if any guy caught my fancy, but Jessica stopped me and quickly spun me in the direction of the most handsome man i have ever seen.

A slow smile spread over my face, "Jackpot!"

"Do you think you can get him in your bed tonight?" she asked.

My mouth parted agape. How is it possible for someone to be this stunning?

Blonde haired, blue-eyed, demi god was now staring back at me. He was an absolute heart-stopping, spine-tingling, gorgeous god of a man.

Drawing a quick breath of courage, I swallowed my nerves and walked towards him.

"That's my girl!" I hear Jessica hype me from behind. I was really doing this.

"What's up?" I said to him.

"Other than my heart rate right now?" he replied with an infectious smile.

I blushed. This was too good to be true.

"You're gorgeous," he continued. "My eyes glued on you instantly the moment I saw you."

How was he saying everything I wanted to say to him.

"I'm Chris." he introduced himself, his hand stretched out for a handshake.

"Stella..." I replied softly as I told his hand.

Chris's hand was warm and firm, and the spark I felt when our hands met made my breath hitch. He held my gaze with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine.

"Stella," he repeated, his voice smooth. "A beautiful name for a beautiful woman."

I couldn't help but smile. This man was not just charming; he was mesmerizing. "Thank you," I managed to say, feeling the heat rise to my cheeks.

"Can I get you a drink?" Chris asked, his eyes never leaving mine.

I nodded. "Sure."

He led me to the bar, his presence magnetic. I could feel the envious stares of other women as we passed. Jessica gave me a thumbs-up from the dance floor, her grin so wide it practically lit up the room.

"So, Stella," Chris said, leaning against the bar, "what brings you here tonight?"

I hesitated for a moment, then decided to be honest. "Celebrating some big changes in my life."

He arched a perfect brow, his curiosity piqued. "Big changes? Do tell."

I sipped the drink he handed me, feeling a bit bolder. "Maybe I'll tell you someday."

"Fair enough," he replied, raising his glass. "To new beginnings."

"To new beginnings," I echoed, clinking my glass with his.

We spent the next hour talking and laughing. Chris was not only stunning but also witty and surprisingly down-to-earth. For the first time in a long while, I felt seen-really seen.

As the night wore on, the chemistry between us became undeniable. Every brush of his hand, every glance, every smile-it all felt electric. My nerves were a distant memory, replaced by a heady mix of excitement and desire.

"Would you like to get some air?" he asked, his voice low and inviting.

I nodded, my heart racing. "Sure."

He led me outside to a quieter part of the club, the cool night air a welcome contrast to the heat between us. We stood close, the city lights casting a soft glow around us.

"Stella," he said, his voice almost a whisper. "I don't usually do this, but there's something about you... I don't want this night to end."

I felt my pulse quicken as his words hung in the air. This was my chance to let go, to do something spontaneous and wild.

"Then don't let it," I replied, surprising even myself with my boldness.

Chris's eyes darkened with desire, and before I could second-guess my decision, he closed the distance between us. His lips met mine in a kiss that was both tender and passionate, sending a jolt of electricity through me.