Chapter 6

Third Person POV

Kayden quickly backpedaled, unwilling to upset her postpartum.

“Why would I waste time thinking about that troublemaker? I was just planning our son’s welcome gift,” he lied, though thoughts of Gabriella tugged at him, tempting him to book the next flight to find her.

Charlotte’s face softened.

“Remember what you promised? Five hundred thousand for a girl, a million for a boy? Time to pay up, honey.”

Kayden froze, that early pregnancy promise suddenly jarring him. A bitter twist contorted his gut. He’d already lavished a fortune on her these past two years.

She’d played it cute then, claiming all wealthy wives received push presents. He’d casually agreed: “Fine, five hundred thousand for a girl, a million for a boy.”

Now she expected payment minutes after giving birth.

He didn’t mind the penthouses, sports cars, or designer clothes – but cash was different. He’d caught her more than once secretly wiring Ryan substantial sums that conveniently vanished.

He’d once found this refreshing, a stark contrast to his usual social circle. Now it only chilled him.

Still, he transferred the million. She’d given his family an heir, hadn’t she?

Charlotte beamed. “You’re the best, babe! Your son and I will love you forever!” She added, “Look, he’s smiling at you! He’s got your face!”

Kayden smiled at his son, but the longer he looked, the less familiar the features seemed.

Then the truth struck him. The moment he'd transferred the money, she'd sent it directly to Ryan. But that bombshell paled in comparison to what followed.

She hadn't just cheated with Ryan—they'd been together the entire time. The baby wasn't even his.

Kayden let out a hollow laugh, bracing himself against his desk.

His dream woman had manipulated him completely. All she’d wanted was his money to fund her real life with Ryan and their child.

She was worse than the gold diggers he’d avoided over the years. At least they hadn't pretended to be anything else.

The realization felt like his chest was caving in.

Then Gabriella’s face flashed in his mind—the way she used to look at him, with that pure, unguarded love he’d been too obtuse to appreciate.

He sank into his chair, running his hands through his hair. What a fool he’d been.

The one person who’d loved him for himself, not his wealth or status, and he’d driven her away.

Chapter 7