Page 24 of Doctor Billionaire's Surprise Baby

"Simone, you already have a positive impact on people, whether you realize it or not," I insisted, my voice full of conviction. "Just look at how much you've helped me in such a short time. And you might think you're damaged, but you got nothing on me, baby." She laughed brightly, making me laugh, too.

“So, what are your big dreams and fears in life?” Simone looked at me in expectation of the answer. When I paused a little longer than she expected, she waggled her eyebrows, cutting the seriousness of the question. But it still poked something deep inside of me.

"Well," I hesitated. "Most of my dreams revolve around my career. But my biggest fear is… I don’t know. Is it cliché to say my biggest fear is failure?"

“That’s not cliché at all,” Simone said, shaking her head. "From where I'm standing, you're busting through all your fears. You're living in a foreign country, learned about a really complicated area of study, and are running an amazing clinic. To hear that you're worried about failure? Well, that's a little surprising to me. You're such an amazing person, whetheryourealize it or not."

"Simone," I murmured, my voice low and intimate. "I don't think I've ever met anyone quite like you."

"Likewise," she replied, leaning her head back on her seat. The sparkle in her eyes as she looked at me gave me a comfortable, warm feeling.

The jet's engines hummed around us, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere that left us alone with our thoughts and desires. Theair between us seemed charged, crackling with an energy that was both exhilarating and terrifying.

"Maybe it's the altitude," I suggested with a playful wink, "but there's something about being up here that makes me feel… free."

"Free?" she echoed, swallowing hard as she registered the heat in my eyes.

"Like anything is possible," I clarified, reaching out to brush a stray curl from her forehead. "And that, for once, we can be honest with ourselves and each other."

My hand lingered on her cheek, our eyes locked in a silent conversation that spoke volumes. In that moment, I knew that the connection we had forged over the past few hours was unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. And as much as I wanted to deny it, I couldn't ignore the spark of desire that flared within me every time I was around her.

The idea of going on this trip together was possibly the best idea I've had in a long time. I couldn't wait to explore Italy with Simone and escape from my busy work life just for a little while.

I had no idea where any of this would end up going, but I was happy I was going somewhere with Simone.

Chapter 9

Simone

Acar picked us up as our private jet landed in Milan. This, in itself, made me feel like a rockstar. Hugo moved easily in this world of the super rich, as if it was second nature for him. I realized I had never seen this part of him before. As we drove to his family home, the houses got bigger and bigger, each one more stunning than the last, nestled amidst lush greenery. The quiet hum of expensive cars passing by was the only sound that pierced the otherwise tranquil atmosphere. I felt like an intruder in this world of wealth and luxury, a visitor from another planet.

As the car slid through the imposing iron gates, I couldn't help but stare in awe at the grandeur of Hugo’s childhood home. I’d never actually been to his home while we were here. Seth hadn’t either, and it always felt like such a mystery. But this was more than I ever imagined. The immaculate garden and pristine façade were a far cry from my own modest upbringing. Even theair felt different; crisp and perfumed with the scent of freshly cut grass and blooming flowers. My heart raced as it dawned on me just how starkly our worlds contrasted.

"Welcome to Villa Barone," Hugo announced a little sarcastically, but his deep voice resonated with warmth and pride. He squeezed my hand reassuringly, sensing my unease as I took in the opulence of my surroundings.

"Wow," I breathed, unable to come up with any other response.

We got out of the car. Hugo had a quick chat with the driver, and we walked hand in hand toward the house.

"Are you okay?" Hugo asked, noticing my furrowed brow and distant gaze.

"Of course," I replied, forcing a smile onto my lips. "It's just... so different from what I'm used to."

He chuckled softly. "I know it can be a bit overwhelming. But don't worry, you'll fit right in. Just be yourself."

I appreciated his optimism, but the knot in my stomach refused to loosen.

“Hey, before we go in, I have something for you.” Hugo pulled a small box from his pocket. “I wanted to do something more special, but it wasn’t ready until just before we left.”

I opened the box to find the biggest diamond I’d ever seen. It had a vintage style and sparkled in the sun. I couldn’t stop the gasp.

“Hugo, this is beautiful.”

“Not nearly as beautiful as you, Simone.” He took the ring and slipped it on my finger, clasping my hand in his.

“Ready?”

“Do your parents know yet?” I asked, gesturing to the diamond covered by his large hand.

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