Page 49 of Doctor Billionaire's Surprise Baby

Chapter 20

Hugo

The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the soft murmur of conversation filled the living room and spilled out onto the patio that was full of twinkling lights and low music. Simone had picked the playlist and it was decidedly more Top 40 than I would have gone with. Which was why it was a good idea for her to choose the music.

Simone moved gracefully among a mixture of her friends and my friends, her curly brown hair bouncing with each step. We thought it was time we had a little party and allow our friends to get to know each other. The way she smiled at everyone made them feel special; it was a talent I admired in her. I couldn't help but let my eyes linger on her petite frame as she adjusted the hem of her simple yellow dress.

It was almost like I hadn’t colossally fucked everything up just a few days ago. We’d barely talked since that night in thekitchen, but unfortunately, we already had this party planned and it would have looked suspicious had we canceled.

I didn’t even understand why I’d acted like that the other night. I knew I felt bad about lying to Simone about needing this fake marriage. But why didn’t I just tell her the truth and ask if she wanted to give this a real chance? She was right. That was what we talked about in Italy. But I – well, I chickened out.

And now everything was probably ruined.

"Hey, Hugo," Austin called out, his blond hair ruffled and his blue eyes sparkling with amusement. "You sure know how to throw a party!"

"Simone deserves all the credit," I replied, taking a sip of wine. My gaze shifted to Logan, who stood by the buffet table, quietly watching the celebration with his kind hazel eyes.

"Man, this food is amazing," Dominic chimed in, biting into a bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil. His strong presence always commanded attention, even when he wasn't speaking. He towered over most of us, his short black hair a stark contrast to his piercing green eyes.

“Simone picked the caterer. She did an amazing job,” I said, pride swelling in my chest as I glanced back at her.

“Well, Hugo. Here’s to you and Simone, I guess,” Seth said, raising his glass and joining our group.

“Thanks, Seth.”

“Salud,” Austin and Dom echoed and raised their glasses as well.

Seth eyed me for a moment, his face filled with some suspicion and I worried for a second he could see through me and the lie I was telling Simone.

After a beat, Seth wandered off to talk to Simone.

Simone had made the entire space – the kitchen, living room, and patio – warm and inviting with candles, soft lighting, and gorgeous flowers. The scent of rosemary and garlic filled theair, a nod to my Italian heritage. The food – antipasto platters, creamy risotto, and decadent tiramisu – showcased Simone's love for her maternal roots.

"Have you tried this limoncello?" Logan asked, offering me a shot of the vibrant yellow liqueur. "It's delicious."

"Simone's grandmother's recipe," I replied, accepting the glass with a grateful nod. The sweet, tangy flavor lingered on my tongue as I watched Simone laugh at something Austin had said. My heart swelled at the sight of her happiness.

"Seems like she's having fun," Dominic observed, following my gaze.

"Yeah," I murmured, feeling a warmth in my chest that went beyond the alcohol. "She really is."

I couldn't help but steal another glance at Simone. Austin was introducing her to his aunt Charlotte, who was like a maternal figure to all of us. She lived in Boston and provided an occasional meal to the group when we were studying. Some of those meals were godsends as we were going through our exams. During those meals, she would discuss the issues we were having, helping us see the lighter side of life. She was right all the time, of course. She was always happy to share in her life experience. Reacting to something Aunt Charlotte had said, Simone's laugh filled the room like an irresistible siren's song.

Her cheeks were flushed from laughter, making her even more stunning. Unable to help myself, I let my eyes linger on her delicate features. As if sensing my gaze, her eyes darted toward me and the look she gave me nearly broke my heart. She looked confused and unsure, like she didn’t know if she should even acknowledge me.

It made me feel like the asshole I was. I needed to tell her the truth so we could move forward.

My heart raced in my chest, pounding against my ribcage as though it wanted to break free. My palms grew clammy, and Ihad to resist the urge to wipe them on my pants. I couldn't help but wonder if she felt the same way – if her heart raced when she caught my eye or if her breath hitched just the slightest bit when our hands brushed against each other.

"Everything okay?" Dominic asked, snapping me out of my thoughts. I realized I'd been staring at Simone for far too long and quickly averted my eyes.

"Uh, yeah, everything is fine," I stuttered, trying to sound casual. "Just lost in thought, I guess."

"Wow, you must be really deep in thought then," he teased, raising an eyebrow playfully. "It's not like you to be so distracted. I've been telling you about my latest client and I don't think you've heard a single word."

"Very funny. I've been listening to you," I grumbled.

"What did I say, then?" Dom pressed.

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