Chapter 4 Chapter 4

Aubrey Clinton 

With a surge of determination, I nodded. “I’m done with him, Scarlet. I’m filing for divorce and starting anew. I want my life back, my career and everything else I've lost.”

Her face lit up with pride as she nodded in agreement.

She leaned closer and placed a comforting hand on my knee. “You’ve got this, Aubrey. I will always be here to support you. And this house is more than big enough for both of us, you can stay here for as long as you need.”

I turned and locked eyes with her, a small smile forming on my lips. “Thank you, Scarlet,” I said, as she enveloped me in a warm hug.

From the moment Daniel brought home his adopted son, claiming he felt a deep sense of pity for him, I made the difficult choice to set aside my dreams and my career as a mechanical engineer designer for his sake.

For three long years, I dedicated myself to caring for him, his son, and managing his home, convinced that this was my purpose. 

I can still picture vividly how frail and unhealthy Zack appeared on that first day Daniel brought him to me. Determined to make a difference in his life, I poured all my energy into nurturing him until he blossomed into the vibrant and clever young boy he is today.

His classmates often envied him, but that admiration stemmed from the countless hours I invested in his upbringing. Yet in the process of giving so much of myself to others, I began to lose sight of who I truly was.

As the day drew to a close, I finally mustered the courage to call my lawyer and request the drafting of my divorce agreement.

“Mrs. Black, are you certain about this decision?” Mr. Grey asked, his tone cautious. “I must remind you that there is a significant risk you could end up with very little if you proceed. Your husband has been the primary breadwinner for years, and you haven’t held a job in quite some time.”

“I understand, Mr. Grey,” I replied, determination evident in my voice as I continued. “But I can no longer endure this miserable marriage. I want a divorce.”

I could hear him sigh on the other end of the line. “Very well,” he muttered. “I will prepare all the necessary clauses.”

Once we finalized the details and I ended the call, it felt as though a heavy burden had been lifted from my shoulders.

Next, I dialed my former racing team owner's number, hoping they still had an open position for me.

A few months ago, he had reached out, this was not his first attempt- inviting me to return to the team. At that time, I had turned him down, wanting to prioritize my family instead.

“Hello?” A raspy voice responded on the third ring.

“Hi, Mr. Nicholas, this is Aubrey Clinton,” I said, trying to sound professional. “I’m calling to inform you that I’m ready to return to work, if there’s still a position available for me.”

There was a brief silence before he replied, “Aubrey, I’m sorry, but that won’t be possible anymore. Our performance this year hasn’t been very strong.”

At that moment, disappointment washed over me. “I understand,” I replied, but unwilling to give up so easily, I pressed on. “I’m eager to work hard and contribute to the team. Could we at least meet to discuss this?”

After another long pause, he responded again, “I’m sorry, Aubrey. We’re actually considering selling the company right now, so I can’t make any commitments at this time. It might be best for you to explore other opportunities.”

A subtle smile crossed my lips as I nodded, even though he couldn't see me. "I understand. Thank you for your honesty," I replied.

After ending the call, I placed the phone down forcefully on the couch, feeling a wave of uncertainty wash over me.

What should I do now?- This question lingered in my mind as I grappled with my next steps.

As the days passed, I submitted a job application to the Lockwood Empire. In the meantime, I immersed myself in analyzing Formula 1 race videos, studying the racing strategies of various teams from the past three years during my hiatus. I wanted to prepare myself for any upcoming opportunities.

At the same time, I assisted Scarlet with household tasks and took care of her two adorable twins. Their cuteness was irresistible, and I found great joy in their company.

I spent countless hours playing with them, their giggles and coos filled me with happiness. Feeding them, changing their diapers, and rocking them to sleep became some of my favorite moments.

However, amidst all this joy, I've been feeling a bit off lately too. From experiencing fatigue to rounds of nausea and sudden surges of emotion for no clear reason.

It happened so many times that I tried to dismiss it as mere stress. After all, I had been pushing myself too hard for days now.

THREE WEEKS LATER

The clock struck past 12 PM, and I still hadn't managed to get out of bed. 

This morning, I awoke feeling weaker than usual, and the nausea was intensifying. I had no idea what was wrong with me.

Finally, I mustered the energy to rise from my bed. I took a refreshing shower, dressed in something light and comfortable, and stepped out of my room. As I made my way downstairs, I found myself craving chicken wings soup, though I couldn’t explain why, but it was very clear that this was what I wanted.

Later that evening, my phone buzzed on the table, prompting me to reach for it eagerly. Unlocking the screen, my eyes widened in shock and excitement as I read the message.

“Congratulations, Ms. Clinton! This is a representative from the Lockwood Empire. You have been selected as a candidate for an interview. Please come in for your interview the day after tomorrow at 10 AM.”

I let out a joyful squeal, bouncing on the sofa with excitement. However, just then, a wave of nausea hit me again, prompting me to make my way quickly to the bathroom.

After I finished throwing up, I glanced in the mirror and a troubling thought suddenly struck me- could I possibly be pregnant?

No, it can’t be possible- I thought, shaking my head vigorously. 

But then again, I remembered clearly that I didn’t take any contraceptive pills after the unprotected sex. 

•

The next morning, I found myself sitting anxiously in the bathtub, waiting for the test results.

As seconds turned into minutes, a cold sweat began to form bead on my forehead when those two red lines finally appeared, shocking me to the core.

I stared at the pregnancy kit in my hand, my heart racing wildly.

I am… PREGNANT?!!!

I closed my eyes and leaned softly against the tub frame, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. 

At that moment, I was unsure of how to feel. 

I knew I am happy, but at the same time, uncertainty wouldn’t stop creeping in. 

What was meant to be a one-night encounter had transformed into an unexpected pregnancy. 

And it was for a gigolo of all people!