"Sir, I have a potential solution for you to consider. Why not seek out a woman who is open to a contractual marriage? You could marry her and opt for insemination, which doesn't require traditional intercourse to achieve pregnancy. It's essential, however, to ensure that the woman has a healthy uterus, as this significantly increases the chances of a successful insemination. You can draft an agreement that once you have a child, the marriage will end, and custody will be granted to you, along with a financial promise. I am certain there are women willing to enter into such an arrangement."
"Insemination?" I found myself intrigued by Leo's suggestion; it seemed like a feasible option.
"Exactly, sir."
"Then your first task is to find a healthy woman. It's crucial that she leads a healthy lifestyle so that the child can develop well in her womb. I'll provide an initial payment of 250 million, and upon the child's birth, I'll pay 5 billion, along with additional luxuries for her when she becomes my wife," I stated confidently.
"Sir, may I submit my interest?"
# POV Sheira
I blinked several times as the scent of antiseptic filled my nostrils; I realized I was in a hospital. I could hear two men conversing nearby. As I opened my eyes, I confirmed my suspicion: two men in dark suits stood before me.
"What are they doing here with me and Arsen?" I whispered, wanting to speak but holding back as I listened to their discussion about insemination. I was taken aback by the amount one of them mentioned.
"God, is this your answer to my prayers? I could transform my life, and my mother's as well," I thought, gripping my hands in contemplation of our future. I pushed aside my ego, reminding myself that I had to find a way to save Mama.
"Sir, may I express my willingness to participate?" I finally spoke up, causing both men to turn their heads in surprise, having not realized I had regained consciousness. They exchanged looks before one of them inquired about my condition.
"Miss, you're awake?"
"Yes, I've been listening to your conversation. May I volunteer?" I asked again, hope shining in my eyes. The man with a commanding presence stepped closer, scrutinizing me with an impassive expression.
"Are you married?"
"No, I've never been married."
"Very well, we need to conduct an examination."
I was then taken to the OBGYN's office, where the doctor confirmed that I was healthy and that my womb was suitable for insemination.
"Based on the examination results, Miss Sheira's womb is in good condition. If you’re serious about proceeding with insemination, I believe there shouldn't be any major issues as long as she maintains a healthy lifestyle," the doctor informed us.
"Is she still a virgin?" one man suddenly asked, catching me off guard.
"Yes, sir," the doctor replied with a smile.
After the examination was complete, I was escorted home by a man whose name I didn't yet know. Throughout the ride, I nervously clenched my fingers, reconsidering the decision to rent out my womb. Was this really the path I wanted to take?
"Why would you want to rent your womb to me? You're still a virgin and have never been married. You're so young—aren't you worried about your decision?" the man next to me asked seriously.
"I want to improve my life and my mother's. I need money for medical expenses and our daily needs," I explained.
"Understood. By the way, what's your name?" he finally asked.
"Sheira, sir."
"I'm Felix. I'll prepare the wedding contract, and you'll receive further information from Leo," he said.
"Miss Sheira, I'm Leo." So, I now know both their names. It seemed that Leo was Felix's personal assistant, as he had been diligently following his instructions.
"Thank you, sir," I said as the car came to a stop at my house.
Before I got out, Leo asked for my phone number so he could provide updates. Should I feel happy or sad? The only thing I knew for sure was that I was relieved to finally have money for Mama's treatment, even though it would mean sacrificing my future. I had made my decision fully: I wouldn't back down—this was all for Mama.
"It’s only until you give birth, Sheira. After that, you’ll be free, and the money can be used for Mama’s medical bills. I hope it changes both of our lives for the better," I murmured, trying to reassure myself.
-//-
"Sheira, what time did you get home last night?" Mama's question caused me to pause; I had returned in the early morning hours. Mama had fallen asleep on the couch waiting for me.
"I'm sorry, Mama. I didn’t mean to worry you or keep you up," I replied, feeling guilty. If it weren't for the situation with Arsen, I would have been home sooner.
"It's alright. How was work today?" Hearing Mama's question reminded me of last night, intensifying my frustration with Arsen for trying to trap me. However, I couldn't share this with Mama; I was worried it would jeopardize her health again.
"Everything went smoothly. Just stay calm, Mama; hopefully soon, I'll be able to earn enough for your hospital visit," I reassured her.
Mama smiled, but I could see the sadness behind her eyes. "I'm sorry, Mama. I feel selfish," she said, lowering her face. I gently lifted her chin to meet my gaze.
"Why would you say that?"
"If only I had been more patient, and chosen to endure, none of this would have happened, dear. You wouldn’t have to struggle through life and live in these conditions," she sobbed, drawing more tears from me as well. I had to remain strong in front of her, though.
I shook my head slowly. "Please don’t say that, Mama. I’m actually grateful because you chose to leave. Our situation is much better than living with that woman," I said as my anger flared at the thought of my father’s abandonment and Mira's manipulations. Each memory fueled my desire for revenge.
"I promise, we’ll be fine. Trust me," I said earnestly. While we were talking, I noticed a car pull up in front of our house. I knew who it was: the person I despised most.
"Mama, I’ll face him," I said, though I felt reluctant. I had to stop Arsen from coming into the house and talking to Mama about what had happened the night before.
"Are you sure, dear?" Mama asked, uncertainty evident on her face. I reassured her that everything would be fine.
"What do you want here?" I confronted Arsen, my annoyance clear, determined to keep him from entering my home.
"Sheira, I'm sorry," he said, kneeling before me, which shocked me completely.
"What are you doing? Stand up!" I glanced around nervously, fearful neighbors might see this. I stepped back from him.
"No, not until you forgive me," he insisted.
I didn't want to engage with Arsen; his stubbornness annoyed me. "Fine, I forgive you, but please stand up and leave," I urged.
"Sheira, I know you haven't genuinely forgiven me. What I did was wrong, and I’m sorry for playing with your feelings," Arsen said, igniting my anger.
"That's enough, Arsen! I don’t want to hear your excuses. Just leave my life and never return," I replied firmly. He looked at me, perhaps hoping for a hint of forgiveness. I returned his gaze with disappointment, leaving no doubts about my feelings.
"I can't stay away from you, Sheira," he said, still kneeling. I scoffed at him.
"What, are you still not done manipulating me?" I retorted.
Arsen shook his head. "No, I never intended to play with you. To be honest, I have feelings for you. I love you, Sheira."
I stared at him, disbelief washing over me. "Love?" I shook my head quickly.
"Forget those feelings, Arsen!"
"Why? Is it because your mother is my stepmother and you feel we can’t be together?" he asked.
I was taken aback; did he really think that? I didn't hate his mother—that was just the surface of my emotions. I had been hurt too much by Mira, by Arsen, and now he was confessing love? Was he out of his mind?
"Sheira, please answer. Can you open your heart to me? I promise to be better, and I’ll make you happy. Just give me a chance," he begged.
"No, I can’t." Arsen's hopeful gaze met mine.
"Why, Sheira? Please don't use our family ties as an excuse."
"No, there’s another reason."
"What is it?" he asked, curiosity ignited in his expression.
"I'm about to marry someone else."