Sold to Alpha Calix

Pearl - POV

Walking into my tiny room, I felt the weight of exhaustion from working two jobs. Tiredly, I dropped my handbag and sank into a chair. Scrolling through my phone, I saw messages from friends inviting me to a reunion at a posh restaurant. I hadn't responded because every penny I had was reserved for my younger brother's medicine. He had been diagnosed with a rare illness that required expensive hospital treatments.

An advertisement on my phone caught my eye. It was an offer to become a surrogate mother, promising a payment of $500,000. The money would not only cover my brother's medical bills but would also help with my expenses. The website seemed legitimate. Hesitating only a moment, I began filling out the form. Later, I had a quick meal and tried to rest despite the reminders of the loans I owed for my apartment.

The following day, my phone rang, jolting me from sleep. It was only 8:00 am, and I still had an hour before work. The call was from a surrogacy agency. "Ms. Pearl Rist, I am Bethany, calling from Mama surrogacy. We have news. You've been shortlisted as a surrogate by a client who wants to meet you today." I sat up, suddenly wide awake.

"I've been shortlisted already?" I exclaimed in surprise.

"Yes, Ms. Pearl. We'd like you to come to our office. Our client will be here at 10:00 am," Bethany informed me.

"Alright, please text me the address," I responded.

"Just a heads up, wear formal attire," Bethany added.

"Got it. Thanks," I replied before hanging up. I paused, processing what was happening. I'd be helping a couple who couldn't conceive by carrying their child for them. Taking a deep breath, I decided there was no turning back, especially with the financial help it would offer.

I quickly showered and grabbed a granola bar for breakfast. I chose a cream-coloured formal skirt paired with a black blouse, and slipped into my pump heels. After applying light makeup to maintain a professional look, I checked myself in the mirror. Satisfied, I picked up my handbag and phone and headed out.

The surrogacy office is located in a posh business tower. I checked the time, relieved to see I was punctual. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Bethany, who led me to the waiting area. The client had yet to arrive.

I felt a wave of nervousness wash over me. Just then, the door opened, and a striking man walked in. He was dressed impeccably in a suit and had a commanding presence. Tall, well-built, and with deep black eyes that caught mine, he looked every bit like a modern-day Hercules. My breath caught in my throat as our eyes met.

"Ms. Pearl, meet Mr. Calix Ryde," Bethany introduced, "He's the client wanting to discuss surrogacy with you."

I extended my hand, "Nice to meet you, Mr. Ryde. I assume Mrs. Ryde will join us shortly?" He replied with a hint of coldness, "I'm single, but I want a child. Is that an issue?" Quickly, I shook my head, indicating I had no objections.

"We should discuss this privately," Mr. Ryde suggested. Bethany nodded and excused herself, leaving us alone. I sat across from him, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety. He started reviewing the form Bethany had given him, and I braced myself for the upcoming questions.

"You're twenty-three years old?" he inquired, looking up.

"Yes, that's correct," I replied.

The papers rustled as he continued reviewing. "According to the medical report you provided, you seem to be in good health," he observed, then his expression shifted slightly. "You live in Stale Lake?" he questioned with a hint of concern. I sensed his reservations; Stale Lake wasn't known for its upscale neighborhoods, but it had affordable apartments that suited those like me who were trying to save on rent.

"Yes, I live there," I responded, my voice wavering slightly.

Mr. Ryde looked at me intently. "Are you certain about becoming a surrogate? You seem to have some reservations," he remarked, noticing my unease. I felt a warmth rise to my cheeks under his sharp gaze and averted my eyes. When nervous, I have a habit of fidgeting with my thumb.

"What makes you think I'm second-guessing this decision?" I questioned.

He replied calmly, "I'm good at observing people. You appear uncomfortable with the idea of carrying someone else's child."

"I'm committed to this. Please share your conditions and explain how we will move forward?" I asked, asserting myself. The urgent need for money to help treat my younger brother's rare illness drove my decision.

He nodded. "I have specific conditions." He handed me a piece of paper where he'd jotted down the details.

Half of the payment, which amounts to $250,000, will be given upon signing the contract.

I must relocate to his apartment in Manhattan.

I can't work two jobs and must prioritize the unborn child's well-being.

All medical tests and sonograms will be attended alongside Mr. Ryde.

For a year, my choices and movements will be under the direction of Mr. Calix Ryde.

I read through the conditions, taking a moment to process them. When I looked up, I met his intense dark eyes. Was he serious?, I'd be trading my freedom for money. The thought was unsettling. I frowned, processing the list.

"What are these rules?" I questioned.

"I can't just move in and give up my freedom. I get the other conditions, but that's too much," I added firmly.

He responded coldly, "You're unfamiliar with surrogacy and its complexities. Do you have anyone to care for you? In my penthouse, there's a maid. I'm rarely home, so don't assume I have any ill intentions towards you." His gaze was distant and disinterested.

"I can't just take your word for it, Mr. Ryde. I need guarantees in writing. What do you mean by 'selling my freedom'? And how can I be sure you won't take advantage of me?" I questioned.

"To ease your concerns, I'll include in the agreement that I won't touch you. If I breach that, you can sue me. You'll follow my instructions for one year while you carry my child. After that, you're free to live your life," Mr. Ryde explained.

"Decide by the end of the day. I have other potential surrogates waiting," he said, leaving abruptly. I watched him walk away, feeling overwhelmed.

The list of conditions he'd provided weighed heavily on my mind. Unable to focus on work, I called in sick, knowing I had a crucial decision ahead. What shall I do?

My phone rang as I was about to enter my home and reflect on Mr. Ryde's offer. Without checking the caller ID, I answered,

"Hello?"

"Ms. Pearl, this is Nurse Geeta. I wanted to inform you about a new treatment to help your brother recover faster. There's a limited medicine supply, so we need to know if you want us to reserve some for him," she explained.

"How much will it cost?" I asked, anxiety clear in my voice, anticipating additional expenses.

"The treatment will cost $100,000. It's a six-month dosage, and by the end, your brother should be able to move again," Nurse Geeta explained. I realized she had mentioned this before, but I had forgotten.

"Thank you for the reminder, Nurse Geeta. Please order the treatment for my brother," I responded.

She added, "Alright, but remember, t