Hired a Gigolo, Got a Billionaire

Chapter 446 Madeline's POV Mia and I had found a strategic spot to watch the activity. Two fallen logs formed natural benches on a small rise that gave us a perfect view of the entire competition area. It was comforting to be able to participate without exposing myself to the obvious physical risks of building a bridge. I'd only need to cross at the right moment. "Look at Zoey," Mia said, laughing as she pointed at the energetic figure darting back and forth across the Kensington construction zone. It was impossible not to laugh.

Zoey was clearly in full competition mode, gesturing dramatically as she directed the placement of each plank, personally testing the strength of every rope, and occasionally shouting instructions at team members like a general commanding her troops. "She's taking this very seriously," I commented, watching as she practically flew from one end of the structure to the other. "You'd better have a solid strategy to win this," we heard Christian say to Marcus, who was measuring something with a rope, "or I'm the one who's going to pay for it tonight." Mia and I exchanged amused looks.

The dynamic between Christian and Zoey was fascinating to watch. She was pure competitive energy, and he very clearly loved every second of it. "They're perfect together," I murmured, noticing the way Christian smiled as he watched her determination. "They really are," Mia agreed. "She brings out his fun side, and he calms her emotional storms." We kept watching as the first phase unfolded. Team Ross had chosen a more methodical approach, their members working in small, organized groups. Team Montgomery, on the other hand, seemed to be dealing with internal disagreements.

of the builders, clearly unhappy with their progress. Our team, though, was operating like a well-oiled machine. Marcus had naturally taken on the role of chief engineer, while Christian coordinated material logistics. And Zoey... well, Zoey was being Zoey, making sure everyone kept up the frantic pace she believed was necessary to win. "Madeline," a familiar voice

took the cup. "Hey, what about me?" Mia complained dramatically. "I'm your favorite sister!" "You're not eating for two," Marcus shot back, smiling at me before heading off to rejoin the construction. I let out a heavy sigh as soon as he was out of sight, and

this baby might be Marcus's and Dominic would come after us because of it," I admitted, 1/3 taking a small bite of the surprisingly good sandwich. "Now... now I feel safe with Marcus. But at the same time ...I'm scared the baby isn't his, and that he'll be deeply disappointed." Mia shrugged with her usual, effortless calm. "Marcus's already decided the baby is his," she said simply. "And you?" I asked, genuinely

who spoils the kid rotten and then disappears the moment he starts crying or needs a diaper change." I laughed at her brutal honesty. "If you're okay with it, then I'm okay with it," she concluded pragmatically. I laughed again, but the conversation had brushed up against something that had been bothering me for days. "It's

about him in bed." "Honestly, there's nothing to vent about," I replied, heat rushing to my face. "It was incredible." Mia laughed out loud, but