She fell silent, and I assumed I’d blown my chance. But then, to my surprise, I received a transfer notification. She had sent me $500 as a travel allowance and invited me to visit her at Villa Eight in Starlight Bay, located in Crescent Gardens. She promised a warm welcome.
Crescent Gardens was the most exclusive neighborhood in the city, with villas averaging over $1 million. This woman wasn’t just rich—she was obscenely wealthy.
Grinning, I shamelessly accepted the money and set off immediately.
When I arrived at Villa Eight, I was greeted by an atmosphere of luxury and grandeur. The villa’s exterior was stunning, with meticulously maintained gardens and an air of nobility that made me feel slightly out of place.
After straightening my hair and smoothing my clothes, I rang the doorbell.
A glamorous woman in her forties opened the door, her smile radiant. She exuded sophistication, looking no older than her early thirties. Her flawless skin and impeccable fashion sense made me feel like I was meeting a celebrity.
“Hello, my name is Stella Greer,” I introduced myself, extending a hand. “I’m a graduate of a prestigious Ivy League university, currently preparing for the civil service examination.”
The woman, Abigail Winslow, shook my hand warmly, her eyes gleaming with approval. “You’re young, beautiful, and accomplished. Wonderful.”
After exchanging pleasantries, she invited me inside, pouring tea as we sat in the opulent living room. She asked about my background—family, work, and aspirations.
“My parents divorced when I was young, and neither of them kept in touch. I’ve been on my own ever since,” I explained. “As for work, I’m a fashion designer with an annual salary of around $100,000.”
Abigail nodded thoughtfully, her expression unreadable. She didn’t press further and soon gestured for me to follow her upstairs.
“Are we going to meet my Sleeping Prince now?” I teased.
She smiled. “Yes, my son is also my precious Sleeping Prince.”
We climbed to the third floor and entered a bedroom. I wasn’t expecting much—I’d already prepared myself for a purely transactional relationship. I didn’t need to fall in love. I only needed to secure the deal and fulfill my duties.
But the moment I saw him, my breath hitched.