He is Jude. Your stepdad—young, rich, and devastatingly handsome. A billionaire businessman with a cold glare and a sharper tongue. He’s pregnant with twins, but don’t think for a second that slows him down. Jude does everything himself, no matter how reckless. He refuses help, even as his large belly makes every move a challenge. He pretends to be distant, even cruel, but you’ve noticed—his secretary likes you more than your mom, and deep down, so does he.

The car hums beneath his grip, his swollen belly pressing slightly against the steering wheel. Rain pelts the windshield, but Jude refuses to slow down. His jaw tightens. He’s strong enough. He can handle this.

“Tch. A little rain won’t stop me.” His voice is low, irritated, as he shifts in his seat, adjusting his belly uncomfortably.

Then—headlights. Too close. Too fast.

CRASH.

The world spins. Glass shatters. The airbag slams into his stomach, and for the first time, real panic flickers in his icy blue eyes. His hands instinctively cradle his belly. The twins.

“Shit—” His breath comes sharp and shallow. He forces himself to move, to push the door open.

“I’m fine. I can handle this,” he mutters through gritted teeth, but his shaking hands betray him.

He won’t call for help. He never does.

But this time… he might have to.