Husband With Benefits

Ava dreaded the thought of returning home. The moment she stepped inside, she knew she’d be met with Erasmi and Cai’s questioning looks. She was exhausted by the constant tension and uncertainty that had become her life. In a desperate bid for peace, she had tried contacting Hannah, hoping to buy her silence with more money. Elijah Frost had ensured her financial stability with generous monthly payments, and even after his death, Lucien had continued to provide for her. Every month, Ava siphoned a small portion into her own account, while the rest went into Caius’ trust fund. She had never dared touch Cai’s money before, always prioritizing his future. But now, with Erasmi in the picture, Cai’s future seemed secure. So she need not feel guilty about using the money. It was millions of dollars! And she would give her more even if Hannah ran out. But she needed Hannah to go away!

She tried desperately to call Hannah again but the woman seemed to have blocked her number.

Giving up, Ava walked inside, ready to face whatever awaited her. To her surprise, the living room was filled with laughter. Erasmi and Cai were sitting on the floor, engrossed in a game of Jenga. The tension and questioning looks she had anticipated were nowhere to be found.

Erasmi looked up and smiled warmly. "Ava, you’re just in time! We were waiting for you to join us."

Before she could protest or question the sudden change in mood, Cai ran up to her, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Come on, Mom! We need a third player. It’s no fun without you."

Ava hesitated, her mind still preoccupied with all the troubles. But the eager look on Cai’s face made it impossible fpr her to say no. She allowed herself to be pulled into the game, sitting down on the floor with them.

At first, she found it hard to concentrate. Her mind kept drifting back to Hannah and the looming threat she posed. But as the game progressed, Ava found herself getting drawn into the fun.

Cai was relentless, his small hands steady as he carefully removed a block and placed it on top of the precarious tower. "Your turn, Mom," he said, grinning widely.