Hired a Gigolo, Got a Billionaire

Chapter 605 Gwen's POV Bella grabbed my hand as we walked downstairs together, still chatting about the panna cotta she'd saved so carefully. "And there's strawberry sauce," she explained excitedly. " Grandma Martina said it's the best part." "It definitely is," | agreed, smiling at her genuine excitement. We reached the kitchen, where the smell of fresh coffee and homemade bread filled the air. Nick was already there, leaning against the counter while talking to Martina as she stirred something on the stove. Paula was setting plates and silverware on the big wooden table.

When we walked in, all eyes turned to us. | helped Bella climb onto one of the tall stools at the counter, making sure she was steady before turning around "Good morning," | said, trying to sound casual even though | could feel the three of them watching me in very different ways. "Good morning," Martina replied with a warm smile. "Sleep well?" Before | could answer, and definitely before | could come up ---- with some excuse about where I'd spent the night, Nick stepped closer. "Gwen," he said, holding out his hand.

| placed mine in his, feeling his fingers lace through mine in a way that felt natural. Comforting. He gently pulled me closer, not letting go even when we stood side by side facing his family. "So," he began, something nervous in his voice. "Gwen and | have something to tell you." The kitchen fell completely silent. Even Martina stopped stirring the pot. Nick glanced at me quickly, like he was looking for courage or permission. | gave a small nod. "We're dating," he said finally, squeezing my hand as he spoke. " Officially." Paula let out a loud huff, rolling her eyes dramatically.

As tough as she tried to seem, | knew she was happy for us. "Finally!" Martina exclaimed, coming toward us with her arms ---- open. "I thought you'd never admit the obvious!" She pulled me into a tight hug that smelled like spices "Welcome to the family, my dear," she whispered in my ear before stepping back to hug her son too. Bella was the

"Easy, easy, sweetheart," Nick laughed, scooping her up. " Breathe." But Bella was far too excited to breathe calmly. "L knew it! | knew it would work!" she said, practically vibrating with

we're getting married tomorrow, right? These things take time." Bella frowned, clearly unimpressed with that information. "But you'll get married someday, right?" she asked with all the seriousness a seven-year-old can muster. "Like, when you grow up more?" My face burned instantly. | stared at the floor. The table. Anywhere but Nick. He squeezed my hand and gently pulled me closer. "We're going

his daughter's expectations. And somehow, that was more reassuring than any grand promise. "Okay," Bella agreed, apparently satisfied. "But only if | get to be the flower girl when it happens." "Deal," Nick said, kissing