Chapter 1

At my birthday party, I had an accidental one-night stand with Ethan, the boy next door I’d chased for ten years.

When I woke up, he was already getting dressed, looking down at me with cold disgust.

"This is a really cheap trick, Chloe."

I looked at the glass of non-alcoholic juice on the nightstand. I didn't explain. I didn't argue.

I just ignored the aching soreness in my body, went straight home, and completely cut off contact with him for three whole months.

The next time I heard from him, his mother had dragged him to my house to ask for a favor.

"Our stubborn boy is finally ready to settle down! They're planning the engagement! Chloe, you majored in interior design, right? Can you help them renovate their new house?"

I froze in the kitchen, spilling the hot soup all over my hand.

My mom happily patted my arm.

"Wait, did you two actually make it work? I always said my girl might not be the smartest, but she’s definitely thick-skinned. You actually snatched Ethan!"

The atmosphere instantly turned awkward. Ethan’s face went pitch black.

"Chloe, is it fun to spread rumors? Even if you lie and say we’re having a baby, I will still never marry you!"

Both of our mothers froze.

Mrs. Davis immediately apologized, "What nonsense are you talking about? Chloe is a good, respectable girl. Stop acting like a jerk!"

She turned around and slapped Ethan's arm repeatedly.

I took the opportunity to speak up. "It's fine, Mrs. Davis. But I really can't help with the house."

I looked down and gently touched my belly. "I actually am pregnant. Exactly three months."

I smiled and added, "But don't worry, all three of you. The baby isn't Ethan's."