My Billionaire Stepmother and Seven Sisters

The morning sun peeked through the grand windows of the mansion, its golden light casting a warm glow over the lavish dining room. Seated at the long, ornate table, I swung my small legs back and forth, still not used to the overwhelming luxury that surrounded me. The rich scent of freshly baked bread and warm milk filled the air, yet my appetite remained hesitant.

Seated beside me, my new mother—no, my stepmother—Emma., gently placed a warm hand on my head. "Eat, my love," she said softly, her voice filled with warmth.

I looked down at my plate, filled with an assortment of delicious foods, and pursed my lips. I wasn't used to eating such extravagant meals. Back at my uncle's house, meals were simple, often scarce, and I had to eat quickly before someone else snatched my portion. The habit was still ingrained in me.

Sophia, noticing my hesitation, smiled before picking up a spoon. "If you won't eat by yourself," she said, scooping up a bit of rice and tender meat, "then let Mama feed you."

My eyes widened at her words. Mama? She called herself my mama? My heart clenched, but I stayed silent. Before I could react, she gently brought the spoon to my lips, waiting patiently for me to open my mouth.

Feeling a strange warmth settle in my chest, I hesitated before slowly parting my lips. The food was warm, flavorful, and melted on my tongue. I wasn't sure if it was the taste or the tenderness in her actions, but something about it felt… different.

"There we go," she said with a pleased smile. "Good boy."

I chewed slowly, sneaking a glance at her. Her eyes were soft as they watched me eat, filled with an emotion I wasn't sure how to name. I expected her to stop after one bite, but she continued feeding me, her movements careful and affectionate, as if she cherished this simple act.

As much as I wanted to resist, I let her.

After breakfast, I thought we would stay home, but instead, Emma. took my hand, leading me outside. A sleek black car was parked in front of the mansion, the chauffeur already standing beside the open door.

"Where are we going?" I asked cautiously.

She crouched to my level, tucking a stray lock of my hair behind my ear. "Just the two of us," she said with a gentle smile. "Mama wants to spend some time alone with you."

The word 'Mama' made my stomach twist, but I said nothing. Instead, I let her lift me into the car, buckling my seatbelt with the utmost care before she settled beside me.

As the car moved, she held my hand, her thumb stroking my small fingers. I wanted to pull away, but something about her touch made me feel… safe.

Our first stop was an exclusive shopping mall, the kind where only the wealthiest people could enter. The moment we arrived, store employees lined up at the entrance, bowing deeply as we passed.

"Welcome, Miss Emma.."

"Good morning, Madam!"

They all spoke with unwavering respect, their eyes filled with admiration and fear. But the moment they saw me, their expressions softened.

"Oh my, is this the young master?"

"He's so adorable!"

Their gazes made me uncomfortable, and I instinctively hid behind Emma.. She chuckled, kneeling to my level. "Don't be shy, sweetheart." Her hands gently cupped my face, coaxing me to look at her. "You're my precious little one. Everyone here is just happy to see you."

I swallowed hard, unsure of what to say.

She took my hand again and led me inside. As we walked, employees rushed to present all sorts of expensive things—clothes, toys, shoes.

"Anything you want, darling," Emma. said. "Just point, and it's yours."

I hesitated. "I don't need anything."

Her eyes softened. "It's not about need, my love. It's about making you happy."

I frowned, staring at the toys in front of me. Back at my uncle's house, I never had my own toys. I only played with old, broken ones that no one wanted. The thought of getting something new—something only for me—was overwhelming.

Seeing my hesitation, Emma knelt beside me, picking up a stuffed lion. "This one," she said, holding it out. "I think it looks strong and brave. Just like you."

Something about her words made my heart skip. Slowly, I reached out and took the plush toy, feeling its softness against my fingers.

Emma.'s smile widened. "Then we'll take it."

After shopping, she took me to a private yacht. The ocean breeze kissed my skin as we sat on the deck, the waves rocking us gently.

Emma sat beside me, pulling me onto her lap. "Isn't it beautiful?" she whispered, pointing at the endless blue horizon.

I nodded, resting against her without realizing it. She smelled nice—like flowers and something comforting.

"Do you like it here?" she asked, her arms wrapping around me protectively.

I hesitated. "I think so."

She chuckled. "I'll take that as a yes."

We sat in silence, her fingers combing through my hair. I didn't push her away this time.

Later that night, back at the mansion, Emma tucked me into bed. The stuffed lion she bought me rested beside me.

As she stroked my hair, she hummed a lullaby, her voice soft and soothing. My eyelids grew heavy, and before I knew it, I was drifting off to sleep.

Before I fell completely into dreams, I heard her whisper, "I love you, my little one."

And for the first time, I didn't flinch at her words.