From rejection to unexpected surrogate

A few months later, Chantel found herself in labor and was rushed to the hospital. After a few hours, she gave birth to a boy and a girl. Throughout the night, Henry stood by her side, providing support and taking care of both Chantel and the babies. It was during this time that Henry developed an immediate love for the children and considered them his own. As the weeks went by, Henry took on the responsibility of caring for the kids, often playing with them and carrying them in his arms before heading to the office.

After a month, Henry's love for Chantel reignited, and he confessed his feelings to her. He expressed his desire to adopt the children and marry Chantel. However, Chantel couldn't forget about the mysterious man who had gotten her pregnant. She often found herself lost in thought, standing by the window. One day, Henry entered the room unnoticed by Chantel, who was deep in her thoughts. He approached her from behind, gently touching her waist, and she smiled, turning to embrace him. Curious about her thoughts, Henry asked when he had entered the room. Chantel admitted that she hadn't noticed his arrival due to her preoccupation. She shared her worries about the invisible man who had fathered her children and questioned his motives. Concerned, Henry asked if she was afraid that he might return for the kids. Chantel nodded, her anxiety evident. Yes, I am concerned about the situation because it could potentially lead to significant issues with your character," she explains. "You have no reason to worry, which is why I have made the decision to marry you legally and adopt the children," he assures. "Do you believe that if this mysterious man who impregnated you brings a cake for his children, you will return to him because he is their father?" he inquires, as Chantel gazes at him. "Why would you think I would do that to you? I love you and I promise to stand by you, no matter what. You were there for me when I needed help the most. I love you not only because you have accepted my children as your own, but also because you were my first love. We have always vowed to support each other, and I will continue to uphold that promise," she declares, resting her head on Henry's chest as he wraps his arm around her waist. "I love you too, and I vow never to harm you," he replies, causing Chantel to smile. Andrew continues to ponder Chantel's whereabouts, sipping his whiskey. Claire enters the room and is dismayed to see Andrew drinking again. She approaches him quickly, snatching the glass from his hand. "What do you think you are doing?" she demands angrily, raising her voice at Andrew. "If you weren't infertile, I wouldn't be so concerned that another woman has taken my children," he retorts. Claire is deeply hurt and furious, striking him hard in the face as tears well up in her eyes. "How dare you call me infertile? You promised to stand by me, and now you are making a mockery of me by insulting me," she cries. "Explain to me, how are you not infertile? That is the reality, you are infertile. It has been months, and I am certain by now she would have given birth, yet I am unable to see my children. You know what, I do not want to see your face until I find Chantel and my children," he declares before storming out of the room in anger. Claire's mother overhears everything, and Claire breaks down in tears, rushing to her room. "Mother! Have you heard the audacity of his words towards me? He dares to say that he no longer wishes to lay eyes upon me. Instead, he desires Chantel and their children. Why am I always destined to be the loser in this cruel game of life? Chantel took Henry away from me when we were but children, and now my own husband..." Claire's voice trembles as tears stream down her face. "Do not wallow in despair, my dear. Instead, take action to reclaim your husband, rather than shedding tears," her mother advises, causing Claire to lift her head. "Mother! I am doing everything in my power to find her, and you know that," Claire says, her voice filled with sorrow. "I am not referring to that, my dear. I speak of devising a plan to conceive a child and preserve your marriage, safeguarding your secret," her mother interjects, and Claire stares at her in disbelief. "Mother! That is not a wise idea. Andrew is already furious, and I must allow him time to calm down," Claire says, her anger rising at the mere thought of involving Chantel. She stands up abruptly. "I deeply regret ever involving Chantel. I need to go out and clear my head," Claire declares before leaving her mother's presence. "I promise you, Chantel, that I will find you. And when I do, I will make you pay for the sorrow you have brought upon my daughter's life," her mother vows, her anger evident as she storms out of the room. Some time later, Chantel steps out of her car accompanied by a nanny and her children. She enters a store to purchase food for her little ones. Meanwhile, Claire has parked her car nearby, lost in her thoughts. As she raises her head, she spots Chantel and can hardly believe her eyes. How can Chantel be so well-dressed? How can she afford a nanny and a driver? Claire hides, inching closer to confirm if it is truly Chantel, still doubting and struggling to comprehend. The driver eventually takes them away, leaving Claire in a state of confusion. "Could that truly be Chantel? Or are my eyes deceiving me? No, it cannot be her. How did she acquire a nanny and a driver?" Claire questions herself, stopping one of the store workers to seek answers. "Excuse me, miss," she politely addresses the staff. "Um... I was wondering if I could inquire about the lady who just left with two children and a nanny. Would it be alright if I asked you about her?" she asks with a smile. "Oh! You mean Miss Chantel," the staff responds, returning the smile. In that moment, Claire becomes convinced that her eyes were not playing tricks on her. "Yes, Chantel is my friend, and I've been searching for her for a long time. Before I could even step out of the car, the driver took her away. Would you mind giving me her address?" she requests, still smiling. "Mr. Henry Williams is going to be her husband, and I've heard that he wants to legally adopt her children. It's wonderful news," the staff reveals, and Claire's mind starts racing as she hears Henry's name. "Thank you for the information," she says as the staff departs. "Henry wants to marry Chantel and adopt the kids. No, I won't allow that to happen. Andrew needs to know about this," she declares, rushing back to her car and driving off, lost in deep contemplation. "I can't let Chantel have Henry. I will ensure that I take the kids away from her and make sure she loses Henry as well. I will make sure she experiences all the pain she caused me," she vows, her cellphone ringing just then. She quickly answers, knowing it's her mother on the line. "Hello, Mum. There's a major problem. I saw Chantel with the kids, but the worst part is that she's with Henry, and he's ready to marry her and adopt the kids," she nervously explains, continuing to drive. "Where are you at the moment?" her mom asks. "I'm on my way to Andrew's office to tell him the news," she replies. "Great! Once you're done, come back home. Chantel will face the consequences," her mom says. Claire ends the call and continues driving quickly. A few minutes later, she arrives at her husband's company and parks her car. She quickly gets out and rushes to Andrew's office. Upon entering, she is shocked to find her husband in a compromising situation with his secretary. Claire drops her handbag in disbelief, and Andrew stands there in shame while the secretary hastily leaves the office.

Claire eagerly awaited Andrew's input on her thoughts as she gracefully settled beside him on the opulent bed. With a gaze filled with anticipation, she gently inquired, "Pray, enlighten me with your musings, my dear Andrew." Andrew, deep in contemplation, shared his audacious plan, his voice laced with a hint of mischief. "I have been pondering the notion of discreetly drugging her, my love. Under the cover of night, we shall engage in passionate intimacy, only to return her to her quarters unbeknownst to her.

If, by some fortuitous turn of events, she were to conceive, she would be left in a state of bewilderment as to the identity of the father. In that moment, we shall feign compassion and treat her with utmost care until she delivers the child. Once the baby is born, we shall legally adopt the precious soul, making you a mother. To ensure our tranquility, we shall have her sign a contract, forever relinquishing her claim to the child, and we shall banish her from our lives." Claire, overcome with excitement, rose from her seat, her eyes gleaming with delight. "Oh, my darling, what a splendid idea! I am utterly enamored with your plan." Andrew, however, interjected with a note of caution. "But for now, my love, you must maintain a facade of kindness towards her. Cease your harsh words and treat her with gentleness." Claire, in agreement, nodded gracefully. "I promise, my dear, I shall exhibit composure and grace until our scheme comes to fruition." Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Chantel diligently prepared her employer's favorite dish. Unbeknownst to her, Claire silently approached, her presence casting a shadow over Chantel. Startled, Chantel dropped the spoon she held, her heart racing with fear. Claire, however, gracefully retrieved the fallen utensil and placed it delicately on the table. Chantel, anticipating another confrontation, braced herself for Claire's wrath. "I apologize, ma'am Claire. I did not intend to knock over the spoon," she says, already feeling nervous. Claire notices her nervousness. "It's alright, Chantel. It's my fault. I startled you, and I am sorry," she says, surprising Chantel with her apology. "I apologize for my earlier behavior towards you this evening," Claire says, and Chantel can hardly believe that Claire is apologizing to her. Claire has always despised her since the day she entered the house, not wanting her husband to hire her as their personal maid. However, Andrew took pity on her after hearing her story. "Ma'am, I am already preparing your favorite meal for dinner. I apologize for it being late, as I know you dislike eating late," she says, and Claire smiles. "It's alright, dear. Both my husband and I have lost our appetite, so there is no need for you to continue cooking. You can just leave it and go to bed," she says, surprising Chantel with her recent act. "Are you sure, ma'am?" she asks, and Claire looks into her eyes, already upset because she will have no choice but to treat Chantel nicely since she is useful to her. "I would prefer not to repeat myself, Chantel," Claire says, and Chantel is about to leave the kitchen. However, Claire stops her and walks to the fridge, taking out a glass of orange juice. "You should take this to Andrew. He is in the living room," she says, and Chantel takes the glass and juice from her politely before leaving the kitchen. Unbeknownst to Chantel, Claire discreetly drops a powerful sleeping pill into the glass of juice she left in the kitchen. She uses the spoon to mix it, noticing that Chantel is about to enter the kitchen. Claire pretends to serve herself apple juice. "Ma'am, that is my job. I am supposed to serve you the apple juice," Chantel says, and Claire smiles. "It doesn't matter. I have already served myself," Claire says, expecting Chantel to take her juice. Isn't that your drink over there? You should really have it. Don't be shy," she says. Chantel smiles and walks over to the drink, taking a sip. Claire smiles and leaves the kitchen. Chantel finishes the entire glass, while Claire watches from a distance. An hour later, Chantel is fast asleep when Andrew enters her room to take care of things. However, Claire is overcome with jealousy and can't bear to be in the same room while Andrew is intimate with Chantel. The next morning, Chantel feels that something strange happened while she was asleep, but she can't remember what it was. Weeks later, after a visit to the doctor, Chantel discovers that she is pregnant. She is at a loss for words, while Andrew and Claire are overjoyed. "What!? How is this possible? I don't remember having sex with anyone," she says, tears welling up in her eyes. "But the test results clearly show that you are three weeks pregnant," the doctor explains. Chantel protests, claiming it's impossible, but Claire interrupts her. "Didn't you hear the doctor? He said you're pregnant. He wouldn't lie about something like that," Claire says, at a loss for words herself. "It's okay, Chantel. We'll take care of you and your child," Andrew reassures her. Chantel is surprised but still puzzled about how her pregnancy could have happened. Chantel went for a scan a few months later and found out she was expecting twins, a boy and a girl. Claire and Andrew were thrilled, and Chantel was happy too. However, she felt guilty because she didn't know who the father of her twins was. She also had no clue who he could be. A month later, Chantel discovered that Claire and Andrew were only pretending to be nice to her because they wanted her children. Feeling trapped, she decided to escape from the house. Unfortunately, there were bodyguards at the gate, so she had to use the back door. Chantel ran as fast as she could, but Claire noticed and instructed the bodyguards to chase after her. Sadly, Chantel got knocked down.

The man driving the car that struck Chantel steps out of the vehicle and gazes into her eyes, revealing himself to be her childhood friend Henry. Chantel was Henry's first love when they were children, and he has been tirelessly searching for her for a long time. Concerned for her well-being, he rushes her to the hospital, his nerves betraying his fear that something terrible has happened to her. As the doctor emerges from the ward, Henry quickly approaches him. "Doctor, please update me on Chantel's condition," he anxiously inquires, his curiosity piqued.

"She is doing well, and her babies are also in good health," the doctor responds, unaware of Henry's disappointment, as he had assumed Chantel was already married. "May I see her, doctor?" Henry asks, unable to contain his eagerness to lay eyes on her once more. "Certainly, she is awake now. You may go in," the doctor replies before departing. Henry enters the ward, a smile spreading across his face, while Chantel wonders who he is. "Chantel!" he exclaims, leaving her puzzled as to how he knows her name. "Who are you?" she softly inquires, prompting Henry to gaze into her eyes and move closer to her bedside, taking a seat beside her. "I understand you must be wondering how I know you. You may have forgotten about me, but I will never forget about Chantel," he declares, leaving Chantel still unable to comprehend. "Why are you so emotional?" she asks, noticing Henry's gaze shift towards her belly. Feeling a sense of shame, she follows his gaze and realizes her own condition. "I have been searching for you since I returned from the U.K. Your stepmother informed me that you had run away from home. I understand, but now you should recognize me," he explains, triggering Chantel's memory of him as her childhood friend Henry. "Henry!" She softly called out his name, tears streaming down her face. "Yes, it's me, Henry," he replied. Chantel struggled to contain her emotions as tears continued to fall, and she tightly embraced him. "I searched for you everywhere, but it seems like I've already lost you, and I found you at the wrong time. I think it's too late," he said. Chantel was overwhelmed with guilt because she didn't know who the father of her children was. "Tell me what happened? Why were you running?" he asked, looking into her eyes. "Do you want me to call your husband? You can give me his phone number so we can find out where you are," he suggested, pulling out his cellphone. Chantel stopped him. "You don't need to do that," she said, leaving Henry wondering why. "But why?" he inquired, as tears continued to fall from her eyes. "I am not married, and I don't have a boyfriend or anyone to run to right now," she confessed. Henry was puzzled by what she meant. "What do you mean?" he asked, and Chantel felt ashamed to reveal what had happened. "I don't know how I got pregnant, and I don't know who the father of my children is," she admitted. Henry was shocked. "Children?" he asked, taken aback. "Yes, children. The doctor confirmed that I will be giving birth to twins, a boy and a girl," she revealed. "But how can you not know the father of your children?" he questioned, and Chantel looked into his eyes. "I was working in the Smith's house as a maid," she explained, and Henry was shocked. "How is that possible? Your dad is a very influential person, and everyone knows that. Why would you be working as a maid?" he asked. Chantel wiped away her tears, but they continued to fall as she felt overwhelmed. "I was chased out of the house by my stepmom, and she lied to my dad that I had left home. She told him that I ran away with a guy," she revealed, and she wept. "Why did you not explain to your father that your stepmother forced you out of the house?" he inquired. "I couldn't inform him because my stepmother threatened to harm me and my father if I attempted to return home, so I had no choice but to stay on the streets," she replied. Henry handed her a tissue to wipe away her tears, and she did so. "What about Claire, your stepsister?" she asked. "After you left, Claire was taken to Canada. I'm not certain if she has returned or not because when I tried to go back to our house, I discovered that my dad and stepmother had also moved to Canada. So, I don't think Claire will come back to the country," she explained, unaware that her former boss, Claire, was the same stepsister she was referring to. "Are you certain that your father will leave the U.S. after everything he has worked for? Do you think he will ever forget about you?" he questioned, causing Chantel to ponder Henry's words. "I don't know what to believe," she admitted. "What if your stepmother fabricated all these stories so that you would never be able to find them again?" he suggested, and Chantel contemplated his words. "You're right about that, but I don't know how to locate them," she confessed, as Henry gazed at her and held her hand. "I will assist you in finding your family again, especially your father. I will help you reunite with him," he promised, bringing a smile to Chantel's face and filling her with happiness. "Thank you so much, Henry," she expressed her gratitude. "Why did you run away from the Smith family?" he asked. "I observed that their kindness towards me was merely a facade, driven solely by their desire to bear my offspring. This realization compelled me to flee from their clutches, which ultimately led to the unfortunate incident of being struck by your vehicle. I implore you, kind sir, to extend your assistance. May I find solace within the confines of your abode for a brief period?" she beseeched, her voice filled with desperation. Henry, moved by compassion, responded, "Indeed, you are most welcome to reside in my humble abode for as long as you require, until you regain your strength. I vow to stand by your side, offering unwavering support and protection, regardless of the circumstances." Chantel, overwhelmed with gratitude, embraced him tightly. "I am eternally grateful, Henry. I cannot fathom a life without your benevolence," she expressed. Henry reciprocated the embrace, holding her close. Just then, a nurse entered the room, conducting various medical examinations to ensure her well-being. After assessing her condition, the nurse informed Henry, "She shall be discharged today, sir. However, I urge her to exercise caution in the future, considering her delicate state." With those words, the nurse departed, leaving Henry and Chantel to contemplate the journey ahead.