The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 103

The next morning, the four little rascals seized the chance while their mom was out and snuck away from Sunset Villa Estates, heading straight for the Austin Group headquarters.

All the way there, they buzzed with excitement, though a nervous energy lingered in the air.

In the car, Noah put on his most serious face and warned their driver, Louis, in a stern tone, “You can’t tell Mom we snuck out, got it?”

Louis glanced at them in the rearview mirror, clearly uncomfortable. “Boys, I really can’t do that. If your mother finds out, I’ll be in a world of trouble.”

Ethan crossed his arms defiantly, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “If you dare tell her, we’ll spill the beans about you sneaking out with Ann last night.”

Louis’s hands tightened on the wheel, a look of panic flashing across his face. How did the boys know about his secret date? He let out a helpless sigh. “You little gentlemen are making things really difficult for me.”

Aiden scooted forward, his big eyes pleading. “Please, Mr. Louis? Just this once? We only want to see our stepdad.”

Louis hesitated, torn. “It’s not that I don’t want to help you, but if anything goes wrong, how would I explain this to your mother?”

Evan frowned, determined. “What could go wrong? Don’t worry, we’re not going to wander off. We’ll just take a quick look and come right back.”

Louis still looked uneasy. “But—”

Noah cut him off, pulling a thick wad of cash from his pocket and thrusting it toward Louis with an air of authority far beyond his years. “Enough talk. This is more than a few months of your salary. Keep our secret, and it’s yours.”

Louis stared at the money, eyes wide, clearly tempted. After a moment’s hesitation, he caved, grinning as he pocketed the cash. “Well, if you insist, I’ll make sure your mom never hears a word about this.”

A moment later, Louis added, “But you’d better be careful when you see Mr. Austin. Don’t cause any trouble, okay?”

Noah stepped forward, all business. “We’re here to see Dylan.”

The receptionist blinked. “Mr. Austin? Do you have an appointment?”

Ethan shook his head. “No, but just tell Dylan we’re his kids. Trust me, he’ll want to see us.”

At that, the receptionist’s smile soured. “Mr. Austin isn’t even married. What kids? Go play somewhere else. Trying to scam people at your age—unbelievable.”

Aiden’s cheeks flushed bright red. He stamped his foot and protested loudly, “We’re not lying! Your Mr. Austin already married our mom!”

The receptionist folded her arms, her tone dripping with disdain. “Little ones, don’t make things up. Mr. Austin’s always been single. There’s no marriage, and certainly no kids.”