章)The grandeur of the Hilton Hotel was a stark contrast to the somber mood that enveloped the Johnson family.
In the midst of a charity gala, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were preoccupied with a distressing matter. "What do you mean, sell... Emma?" Mr. Johnsons voice was tinged with shock.
"Keep your voice down," Mrs. Johnson, whose maiden name was Williams, whispered urgently. "Its not as crude as you put it. They merely need to borrow Emmas womb for a while."
Mr. Johnson frowned, his concern evident. "Whats the difference?" he questioned.
"Theres a world of difference," Mrs. Williams explained. "If we sell her, Emma would no longer be part of our family. But if its just a loan, once she bears the child, shell be free."
"But..." Mr. Johnson hesitated.
"There are no buts," Mrs. Williams pressed on. "Theyve promised us ten million dollars. The company is in dire need of funds, and our son, Ethan, is still waiting for his surgery. If you agree to let Emma be a surrogate, all our problems will be solved!"
The temptation in her words was undeniable.
"But Emma wont agree," Mr. Johnson worried. "Shes about to get engaged to Charles."
"Leave that to me," Mrs. Williams eyes darkened with determination.
Emma Johnson, unaware of the conversation, was feeling lightheaded after drinking what she thought was just fruit juice. Mrs. Williams had insisted on bringing her to the gala and had generously gifted her a limited-edition gown. Suspicious of the sudden generosity and the