Sold To Alpha Calix: The Pact of the Wolf

By Tracy Tauro

Pearl is a hardworking woman with two jobs, struggling to make ends meet. Despite her efforts, she still can't afford her brother's medical bills. Desperate, Pearl signs up on a website to become a surrogate mother, thinking it could solve her financial woes. Unbeknownst to her, the contract she signs isn't just for surrogacy—it's a deal that compromises her freedom.

Enter Alpha Calix, an influential wolf leader desperate for a mate and heir. Unable to find a suitable partner, he seeks a human surrogate website. When he chooses Pearl based on her application, he sees her as a vulnerable woman. However, an unexpected attraction grows between them, leaving Calix puzzled. But how will Pearl react when she discovers the truth about Calix's identity and that the child she carries isn't entirely human? Faced with the reality of birthing a wolf child and the cold, possessive nature of Alpha Calix, will she flee in fear, or will an unexpected romance bloom between the woman and the wolf?                               ( Book 1 of the series)

• Language: English
• Publisher: Publishdrive
• Release date: Apr 23, 2024

Book preview

Chapter 1 Sold My Freedom (Part 1)

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?

Chapter 2 Sold My Freedom (Part 2)

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, the outstanding bills need to be settled before we can add this new amount.

I'll arrange the payment by tomorrow, and then you can order the treatment, I promised. After hanging up, I knew I had to act fast. This was a golden opportunity to earn the money needed to help my brother, the only family I had.

I dialed Bethany's number and informed Bethany that I agreed to Mr. Ryde's conditions and wished to relay my decision to him. Exhausted, I sank onto the couch. By evening, the contract was ready. I visited their office to sign it, and soon after, Mr. Ryde transferred the funds. I was taken aback by the substantial amount now reflected in my account, feeling relief and happiness.

Pearl, Mr. Ryde's voice broke my focus from the phone. I looked up into his eyes. Starting today, you'll be staying in my penthouse.

I need to pack my clothes and belongings, Mr. Ryde, I replied.

There's no need to pack; I will provide everything for you, Mr. Ryde assured me. Please, call me Calix. I nodded in response.

I joined him in his lavish car, and as his driver steered us towards our destination, an uncomfortable silence filled the space. I used my phone to pay the medical bills to distract myself and texted Nurse Geeta the hospital debt amount had been settled. I felt a weight lift off my shoulders, happy that half of my debt was now cleared.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Calix gazing out of the window, lost in thought. It made me wonder. He was the CEO of a massive tech company, Hackstine. Why hadn't he found a woman to marry and start a family with? Maybe he wasn't interested in romantic commitments, just seeking an heir to his vast business empire.

When we entered the penthouse, a well-dressed maid greeted us with a smile. She looked more put-together than I felt. Rona, this is Pearl. Please ensure she's comfortable and order clothes in her size. Calix instructed. Rona nodded as Calix headed to his room.

Rona guided me to a spacious bedroom with a plush bed that looked more inviting than my cramped couch. For the night, Rona lent me some of her clothes. They were a bit loose, they'd do until mine arrived. After a long soak in a luxurious bathtub, I donned Rona's clothes and sank into the soft bed, instantly falling asleep. But deep down, I felt a lingering unease, like I'd stepped into a bigger problem, and I wondered what lay ahead.

*******

The following day, a knock at my door roused from sleep me. Rona stood there, accompanied by a woman with a clothes rack, all in my size. Groggily, I checked the time and realized it was already 9:00 a.m. I'd overslept, which was unusual for me.

Rona said. I'm sorry for waking you, but Mr. Ryde is waiting. You have a doctor's appointment. I then recalled Calix mentioning this. In a hurry, I got dressed. When I met Calix, I could tell by his expression that he wasn't pleased.

Sorry for being late, I said, smiling embarrassedly. Calix just sighed in response.

We need to proceed with the medical check-up before the embryo process starts, Calix explained.

Arriving at the hospital, I felt nervous. They conducted various tests, including a mental health evaluation, inquired about my diet, and asked if I consumed alcohol, which I didn't. We then waited in a room for the results. Surprisingly, they mentioned the results would be ready in just an hour. I realized that with enough money, you could expedite processes with advanced technology instead of waiting an entire day.

Calix was engrossed in a phone call, and I admired him. He was handsome, and I was embarrassed to be so taken by him. Just then, the doctor announced, Ms. Pearl, your reports are ready. Calix ended his call, and the doctor explained that my health was in good shape. We could proceed with the embryo implantation. I gave my approval, and the embryo was implanted in my uterus within a week. I was instructed to be cautious, engage in light activities, and avoid lifting anything heavy.

After the doctor's visit, I settled into a chair at home, curious about Calix's background. Given his prominence, I figured I could find information about him online, since he'd likely not share personal details with me directly. I opened my laptop and searched for Calix Ryde.

I discovered he was an only child. Tragically, his mother passed away during childbirth, and his father died a year ago. I felt a pang of sympathy; I had lost my mother to illness, and my father abandoned us shortly after my younger brother, Jarvis, was born. As I scrolled, I saw a photo of Calix with a stunning woman rumored to be his girlfriend. However, articles suggested he ended the relationship after discovering she was unfaithful. He had been single for quite some time since then.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Rona was in the shower, and Calix was out, so I went to answer the door. To my surprise, the striking woman from the pictures stood there. Her name was Delia.

"Who are you? Where's