The Billionaire’s Surrogate Sin

Chapter 7: The Midnight Consultation

Since you're ready to keep moving, here is the next installment for your draft.

The "Doctor" Julian hired didn't look like a physician. He looked like a scientist—cold, clinical, and far too focused on the tablet in his hand. They were in the mansion’s private medical wing, a room of white light and stainless steel.

"The patient is ready," the doctor said, looking at Julian, who was leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed. "You may leave, Mr. Vane. The physical examination is private."

"I’m staying," Julian said. His voice was a low, unshakable command.

Elara’s heart did a nervous skip. She was sitting on the edge of the examination table, her hands gripped so tight her knuckles were white. "Julian, the doctor is right. You don't need to be here for this."

Julian walked forward, his presence shrinking the room. He stood right in front of her, his knees nearly touching hers. He ignored the doctor entirely.

"The contract says I have full oversight of your health, Elara," he murmured, his eyes searching hers. "After what I saw in the garden today, I don't trust anyone else to be alone with you."

The doctor cleared his throat, sensing the tension. "Very well. Miss Vance, I need to check your vitals. Your heart rate seems… exceptionally high."

"She’s nervous," Julian said, his hand suddenly reaching out to cover hers on the table. His palm was warm, solid, and surprisingly grounding.

"I’m not nervous," Elara lied, though her pulse was thundering against her ribs. "I’m just… aware of the situation."

"Good," Julian whispered, leaning down so only she could hear. "Stay aware. Isabella is watching you. The staff is watching you. But I am the only one you need to answer to."

The doctor began the check-up, but Elara could barely feel the blood pressure cuff or the stethoscope. All she could feel was Julian’s thumb slowly stroking the back of her hand, a silent, possessive rhythm that told her he wasn't just protecting his heir.

He was protecting her.

When the doctor finally left to prepare the vitamin regimen, the room fell into a heavy silence. Julian didn't let go of her hand.

"Isabella told me about the merger," Elara blurted out, unable to keep the secret any longer. "She said—"

Julian placed a finger over her lips, silencing her instantly. The touch was electric.

"I know what she said, Elara. I know exactly who Isabella is." His eyes darkened with a flick of something that looked like pain—or perhaps just raw, unadulterated desire. "Don't worry about her. Worry about the fact that the more I see you in this house, the less I care about the contract, and the more I care about the woman who signed it."