Chapter 4

Before Julian could even investigate, the scandal had already spread like wildfire through our social circle.

Since Victoria Vance had been so passive-aggressive on Instagram,

My parents, under my suggestion, didn't miss the chance to kick them while they were down.

What started as whispers behind the Vance family's backs quickly became public gossip.

"Did you hear? The new girl Julian brought home used to be a hostess at The Velvet Room. Everyone knows what goes on there."

"Exactly. No wonder the Sterling family agreed to the divorce so quickly. They were disgusted. Men really will eat trash just because it's outside their house."

"I heard some guy named Marcus Kane used to keep her. He was the one who got her the retail job where she snagged Julian.

There are probably other guys too. Julian is basically wearing a giant neon green sign on his head."

Victoria Vance clearly had no idea about Lacey's past.

She was probably furious. Word was that if the baby didn't need breastfeeding, she would have kicked Lacey out of the house on the spot.

Julian’s situation was even more embarrassing.

Victoria could hide at home, but Julian had to show his face at work every day.

Some arrogant rival even went up to Julian to mock him face-to-face:

"Julian, man, women are like shoes. Only your feet know if they fit. Some shoes look brand new, but you never know how many guys have already worn them."

The man laughed sleazily.

Julian’s veins looked ready to pop, but because of the other man’s powerful family, he could only slam the door and leave.

Behind him, the room erupted into loud, mocking laughter.

The grand wedding Lacey had bragged about was completely canceled. Instead, all I got was a late, low-key invitation for a simple baby shower.

It looked like the Vance family was holding off on giving Lacey a legal ring.

Seeing me stare at the invitation, Sebastian Cole leaned in.

"What's got you so focused?"

My thoughts were pulled back. I looked up and stroked his face, replying casually, "Nothing. Are you done with classes?"

I had "picked up" Sebastian at a VIP lounge.

Maybe women just have a natural savior complex.

At the time, I was supposed to be "grieving" my divorce, but in reality, I was having the time of my life with my girls at a private club.

When I went out for some air, I stumbled upon a drunk, fat businessman grabbing Sebastian outside my private suite, trying to force himself on him.

Maybe it was because I had had a few drinks.

My body moved faster than my brain.

I threw my limited-edition Hermès clutch straight at the back of the businessman's head.

"Ow! Who the hell—"

The man groaned, holding his head as he spun around furiously.

But when he saw it was me, the anger on his face froze. It shifted from rage to shock, and finally to a flattering, awkward smile.

"Miss Sterling?"

"My bad, my bad! I didn't know he was yours, I swear..."

"Get lost!"

The man didn't dare argue. He bowed and scrambled away.

I looked Sebastian up and down. He had a clean, artistic vibe, long hair, and looked almost delicate from behind.

But he was a fresh face. Definitely not a regular at the club.

"First day on the job?"

He stood in the shadows.

Looking embarrassed, he nodded stiffly.

"How old are you?" I asked, my voice calm.

"Twenty-one."

"A student?"

"Fine Arts, junior year."

"Why are you here?"

Sebastian bit his lip, hesitating before speaking. "I needed money. Someone told me I could make quick cash here. I didn't expect..."

I raised an eyebrow, understanding immediately. He had probably been tricked into coming here.

Clean, beautiful, and extremely pleasing to the eye.

My heart stirred.

Julian had his little plaything, so why couldn't I, Serena Sterling, have some eye candy of my own?

"Ten million dollars. Stay with me for a year."

"I'll give you an apartment, a car, and money. Just be good, look pretty, and don't cause trouble."

"Got it?"

Sebastian held his breath.

The color drained from his face and then rushed back. Finally, he seemed to accept his fate.

"Got it."

And that was how I "adopted" Sebastian Cole.

Sebastian rubbed his soft hair against my palm. "Yeah, classes are done."

"No classes for the next two days. I can stay with you."

I smiled.

"Good. There's a gala tomorrow night. Come with me."