Chapter 2 My Ex, My Client

SERENA'S POV

She laughed joyfully, "Oh, it's a wonderful man. I'll explain everything when you get here. I'll text you the address. Can you make it?"

Still in a daze, I replied, "Sure, Mom. I'll be there in a few days. Let me pack my things."

"No baby, can you come today if possible? I know it's impromptu but please? There is a lot to do and I need you around."

"Oh okay, fine. I'll be there in two hours."

As I hung up, Katy re-entered the living room with a bottle of Cadila, my favorite creamy drink and two glass cups.

"Sorry Kats, but I can't stay. Mom just told me she is getting married."

She blinked in surprise."For real dude! Omg, your mom is such a lucky woman"

"Yeah, except she didn't ever tell me she was dating anyone. I gotta go, I'd let you know what happens later."

After a brief hug, I dashed out of her house and made my way to my own apartment. I hurriedly packed a few essentials into my small suitcase, wondering what had prompted my mom to take this unexpected step.

I was slightly worried about her too because I didn't even know who this man was. My mom knew how to make impulsive decisions sometimes and I just had to be sure she was in safe hands.

My mom and I grew slightly apart when she moved away two years ago. She was a reporter who was offered a job at a larger station in Washington DC. She only returned to New York a week ago and I hadn't been able to see her yet as I was so preoccupied with work.

Taking a drive to her location, I found myself standing before a sprawling mansion at exactly 7 pm. My jaw dropped; my mom seemed to have landed herself in the lap of luxury.

Approaching the gate, the security guard asked me to state my name and who I was looking for.

"Serena Santos and I'm looking for my mom, Julia Santos." I answered.

The guard inquired through the intercom. Once confirmed, he welcomed me, and I stepped into what appeared to be a billionaire's paradise. The grandeur of the house left me awestruck.

As I reached the doorstep, my mom swung the door open before I could ring the bell. Dressed in elegant clothing, adorned with expensive jewelry, she looked radiant, almost like a different person. She had a sweet floral scent which was different from her usual fruity fragrance.

In a bear hug, she crushed me against her, "Serena, my love, it's been too long! I've missed you so much."

Returning the embrace, I couldn't help but notice the transformation in her appearance. There was a glow, a vibrancy, and an air of happiness that I hadn't seen in years.

"I have missed you too, Mom." I stroked her cheek."You look so beautiful."

She smiled widely."And so do you, you are practically glowing! I am so eager to show you my new family. Come in, sweetheart. Perfect timing; you're just in time for dinner, " she said, leading me inside.

As we approached the dining area, she proudly introduced the occupants at the table.

"Serena, meet my sons. Cameron and his twin brother, Kaden, " she said, gesturing towards the young men seated.

"And this is the man I'm going to marry, their father, Mr. Dan Lodge, " she continued, introducing the patriarch of the family.

Except my eyes weren't looking at anyone else, but fixed on Cameron, my ex boyfriend I hadn't seen in a year. He was right there in the flesh!

My eyes widened in surprise. And what the hell, he had a twin brother?

If I was eating something right now, I would have probably choked.

Dan Lodge, my supposed stepfather, flashed a warm smile and gestured for me to take a seat."It's good to finally meet you, Serena. Julia has spoken such beautiful things about you. And you're such a beauty, just like your mother."

I gave a small smile as I took a seat right next to my mother."It's great to be here, " I managed to reply, still struggling with the sudden turn of events.

Cameron, my ex-boyfriend, cleared his throat and greeted, "Welcome, Serena." His voice carried a hint of formality, and I responded with my fakest smile, avoiding direct eye contact. Instead, my gaze was fixed on the display of a large roasted turkey at the center of the table.

Kaden, Cameron's twin brother, remained silent, and indifferent, as if I was invisible. Well, that was pretty rude. Cameron, on the other hand, looked oddly pleased to see me, a cheeky grin playing on that handsome face of his.

Taking a closer look at both brothers, I noticed the subtle differences that set them apart. Cameron, with his dark brown curly hair cut short, sported a few days' worth of stubble on his face. His eyes, a deep green, complemented his tanned skin and there was the chiseled jawline, broad shoulders, and muscular build. The rugged charm that had once drawn me in was still undeniably present.

And then that damned earring on his left ear that still made me swoon.

On the other hand, Kaden possessed a different allure. His wavy, light brown hair framed his face, and deep hazel eyes were emphasized by thick, dark eyebrows. His lips were heart-shaped, and a square jawline added a touch of ruggedness. I couldn't see it properly, but was that a tattoo at the side of his neck? If it was, it was surely pretty hot. Dan Lodge was quite a good looking man himself, no wonder he had given birth to two Greek gods.