Their Betrayal Made Me His Bride

Chapter 2

The moment I hung up, a message from Shayne popped up. "Babe, is the selection over? How'd it go? Wren's feeling sick again, calling out for her sister nonstop. My heart aches for her. If you got the money, send it over fast. The doctor said we can't wait any longer."

Staring at those deceitful words, my stomach churned violently. I rushed into the bathroom and puked my guts out.

The woman in the mirror looked pale, with heavy dark circles under her eyes. I'd only slept ten hours all week just to pass the Holt family's preliminary round. I'd barely dared to drink any water, trying to keep my figure up to their standards. I'd worn myself down to this wreck of a state, all to save a pair of backstabbing snakes.

I splashed cold water on my face, and my gaze went cold as I stared at my reflection. Drying my hands, I typed a reply to Shayne. "It just ended. The money's already in the hospital's account. I'll head over later."

He replied instantly. "That's amazing! You're the best, babe! Wren and I will wait for you!"

I let out a cold scoff and tossed my phone into my bag.

Thirty minutes later, a black Rolls-Royce pulled up downstairs. The driver opened the door respectfully. "Ms. Jensen, Mr. Holt is waiting for you at Nightfall."

Nightfall was the most exclusive luxury playground in the capital. I was led to a private suite on the top floor. As the door swung open, a mix of booze, cigarette smoke, and expensive perfume washed over me.

Sterling sat on the central sofa, swirling a half-full glass of red wine, his eyes holding a hazy, dangerous glint. Every head turned to stare the second I stepped inside.

I walked over stiffly. He didn't offer me a seat. Instead, he slid a glass of hard liquor toward me. "Drink it."

A cocky playboy beside him grinned and chimed in. "Sterling, you really think she can handle it? Bet she passes out after one sip."

Rage flashed across Sterling's eyes. He slammed the wine glass hard against the table, making everyone in the room hold their breath. "Watch your tone. Winnie is my fiancée. Now — what should you call her?"

Scared out of his swagger by Sterling's anger, the playboy broke out in a cold sweat. "Win-Winnie... I was way out of line just now. I'll take three shots as punishment!"

I froze for a second, looking at Sterling in confusion.

He let out a low chuckle and pulled me into his arms, casual as anything. "Winnie, do you know why I chose you?"

I shook my head.

"Because you're honest. Every other woman wants both the money and the reputation. You? You just want the cash."