Nine Month Contract

by Amy Daws • 2024 • 358 pages

4.08

32.6K ratings

Romance Contemporary Contemporary Romance

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Plot Summary

Mountain Life and Sibling Rivalry

Wyatt's mountain life disrupted by brothers

Wyatt Fletcher, a rugged mountain man, lives a secluded life in the Colorado mountains with his brothers, Calder and Luke. Their peaceful existence is often interrupted by sibling antics, particularly Calder's mischievous behavior. Wyatt, yearning for solitude, is constantly challenged by his brothers' presence and their shared history of pranks. Despite the idyllic setting, Wyatt feels a void in his life, hoping to fill it by becoming a father. His brothers, however, are skeptical of his plan to find a surrogate, leading to tension and humorous exchanges.

Surrogacy Ad Sparks Chaos

Calder's prank leads to unexpected opportunity

Calder, the prankster, posts a humorous surrogacy ad on Craigslist without Wyatt's knowledge. The ad, intended as a joke, catches the attention of Wyatt's niece, Everly, who takes it seriously and decides to help her uncle find a surrogate. This unexpected turn forces Wyatt to confront his desire for fatherhood and the unconventional path he's chosen. The ad's fallout brings the family together in a mix of support and skepticism, highlighting the brothers' unique dynamics and Everly's determination to assist her beloved uncle.

Trista's Unexpected Proposal

Trista offers a unique surrogacy solution

Trista Matthews, a spirited and independent woman, responds to the ad, intrigued by the opportunity to help Wyatt while pursuing her own dreams. She proposes a non-traditional surrogacy arrangement, suggesting they bypass the agency and handle the process themselves. Her candidness and practicality appeal to Wyatt, who is drawn to her straightforward nature. As they navigate the logistics of their agreement, a mutual respect and understanding begin to form, setting the stage for a partnership that challenges both their expectations.

A New Life on the Mountain

Trista adapts to mountain living

Moving into the barn apartment on Wyatt's property, Trista brings her potbellied pig, Reginald, and a sense of adventure. She quickly adapts to the rustic lifestyle, finding solace in the mountain's beauty and the companionship of Wyatt's goat, Millie. Despite initial reservations, Wyatt and Trista develop a routine, balancing their individual needs with the shared goal of creating a new life. Trista's presence brings unexpected warmth and energy to the mountain, challenging Wyatt's solitary nature and opening his heart to new possibilities.

Surrogate and Mountain Man Bond

Friendship and attraction grow amidst challenges

As Trista and Wyatt navigate the complexities of their surrogacy arrangement, a genuine friendship blossoms. Wyatt's protective instincts and Trista's resilience create a bond that transcends their initial agreement. Despite the unconventional circumstances, they find comfort in each other's company, sharing moments of vulnerability and laughter. The mountain becomes a backdrop for their evolving relationship, where mutual respect and unspoken attraction hint at deeper connections. Together, they face the challenges of impending parenthood, discovering that their partnership is more than just a contract.

Tensions Rise at Family Gathering

Family shower overwhelms Trista emotionally

At a baby shower organized by Everly, Wyatt's niece, Trista is overwhelmed by the Fletcher family's generosity. They shower her with gifts, including a custom chair from Calder and a significant donation from Max for her future animal sanctuary. Trista, unaccustomed to such affection, is moved to tears and retreats to the barn. Wyatt follows, apologizing for the overwhelming display. Trista reveals she has felt the baby move and shares her desire to amend their surrogacy contract, wanting to be part of the child's life. Wyatt, overjoyed, confesses his love and suggests tearing up the contract entirely, envisioning a future together.

Wyatt's Jealousy and Trista's Resolve

Wyatt's jealousy strains their relationship

Wyatt struggles with jealousy when he sees Trista interacting with his brother Calder. Despite their agreement to keep things casual, Wyatt's feelings for Trista deepen, leading to tension. Trista, feeling suffocated by Wyatt's possessiveness, insists on maintaining boundaries, reminding him that their arrangement was meant to be a business transaction. Wyatt's protective nature clashes with Trista's need for independence, causing a rift between them as they navigate their complex emotions.

Emotional Revelations and Hospital Visit

Trista's fainting spell reveals deeper issues

After fainting due to stress and not eating, Trista is taken to the hospital by Luke. Wyatt rushes to her side, filled with concern. During their time in the hospital, Trista opens up about her past, revealing her struggles with abandonment and her fear of becoming too attached to the baby. Wyatt listens, realizing the depth of her pain and the barriers she has built to protect herself. This moment of vulnerability brings them closer, as Wyatt reassures her of his unwavering support and love.

Trista's Awakening and Wyatt's Plan

Trista embraces her feelings for Wyatt

After a heartfelt conversation with her sister, Trista realizes she has been pushing Wyatt away out of fear. She acknowledges her love for him and the baby, deciding to embrace the family she has found with the Fletchers. Meanwhile, Wyatt, determined to win Trista over, devises a plan to show her the stability and love she deserves. He enlists the help of his brothers to create a welcoming environment, hoping to convince Trista to stay on the mountain and build a life together.

A New Beginning for Family

Trista and Wyatt commit to a future together

As the baby shower continues, Trista and Wyatt share a private moment, reaffirming their commitment to each other and their future family. Trista agrees to stay on the mountain, and they discuss plans for their life together, including the possibility of more children and expanding her animal sanctuary. The couple's love and determination to overcome their pasts set the stage for a new beginning, as they embrace the challenges and joys of building a family together.

Characters

Wyatt Fletcher

Rugged mountain man seeking fatherhood

Wyatt is a strong, silent type, living a secluded life in the Colorado mountains with his brothers. Despite his gruff exterior, he harbors a deep desire to become a father, driven by a sense of legacy and the loss of his own father. Wyatt's journey is marked by his struggle to balance solitude with the need for connection, ultimately finding unexpected companionship in Trista.

Trista Matthews

Independent woman embracing vulnerability

Trista is a strong, independent woman who initially views her surrogacy arrangement with Wyatt as a business transaction. However, as she becomes more involved with the Fletcher family, she begins to confront her fears of attachment and abandonment. Her journey is marked by a growing acceptance of love and vulnerability, ultimately leading her to embrace a future with Wyatt and their child.

Calder Fletcher

Playful brother with a caring heart

Calder is the mischievous middle Fletcher brother, known for his pranks and humor. Despite his lighthearted demeanor, Calder shows a deep care for his family, particularly in his support for Wyatt and Trista. His gift of a custom chair for Trista demonstrates his understanding and appreciation of her place in their family.

Luke Fletcher

Calm mediator and supportive brother

Luke is the youngest Fletcher brother, often acting as a mediator in family conflicts. His calm and supportive nature provides stability within the family dynamic. Luke's involvement in Trista's hospital visit highlights his protective instincts and his commitment to ensuring her well-being.

Everly Fletcher

Energetic niece and family glue

Everly is Wyatt's spirited niece, whose enthusiasm and love for her family play a crucial role in bringing everyone together. Her organization of the baby shower and her efforts to include Trista in the family highlight her role as a connector and cheerleader within the Fletcher clan.

Plot Devices

Surrogacy Ad

Humorous ad leads to serious opportunity

The surrogacy ad, initially posted as a prank by Calder, becomes a pivotal plot device that sets the story in motion. It introduces Trista to Wyatt and creates a unique opportunity for both characters to pursue their dreams. The ad's unexpected consequences highlight the themes of family, connection, and the unconventional paths to parenthood.

Mountain Setting

Idyllic backdrop for personal growth

The Colorado mountains serve as a symbolic and literal backdrop for the characters' journeys. The isolation and beauty of the setting reflect Wyatt's internal struggles and desire for solitude, while also providing a space for Trista to find peace and purpose. The mountain becomes a character in its own right, influencing the narrative and the characters' development.

Unconventional Surrogacy Arrangement

Unique approach to parenthood

The decision to bypass traditional surrogacy channels and handle the process independently is a key plot device that challenges the characters' perceptions and relationships. This unconventional approach allows for deeper exploration of themes such as trust, friendship, and the complexities of modern family dynamics.

Analysis

Exploration of unconventional family dynamics

"Nine Month Contract" delves into the complexities of modern family structures, highlighting the unconventional paths to parenthood and the importance of connection and support. Through the lens of surrogacy, the story explores themes of love, vulnerability, and personal growth. The characters' journeys reflect the challenges and rewards of embracing change and building a family beyond traditional norms. The narrative underscores the significance of community and the transformative power of love, offering a heartwarming tale of resilience and new beginnings.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Nine Month Contract about?

Unconventional surrogacy journey : The story centers on Wyatt, a mountain man seeking a surrogate to have a child, and Trista, a woman who responds to his unusual ad, leading to a unique and evolving relationship.
Family and personal growth : It explores themes of family, love, and personal growth as Wyatt and Trista navigate their unconventional arrangement, challenging their expectations and desires.
Beyond a business deal : The narrative delves into the complexities of their connection, showing how a business agreement transforms into a deep emotional bond, blurring the lines of their initial contract.

Why should I read Nine Month Contract?

Unique character dynamics : The story offers a compelling look at the relationship between a stoic mountain man and a spirited, independent woman, creating a dynamic that is both humorous and heartfelt.
Emotional depth and growth : Readers will be drawn to the characters' emotional journeys as they confront their pasts and embrace new possibilities, making for a deeply satisfying read.
Unconventional love story : It provides a fresh take on the romance genre, exploring how love can blossom in unexpected places and under unconventional circumstances, challenging traditional notions of family and relationships.

What is the background of Nine Month Contract?

Rural Colorado setting : The story is set in the rugged and isolated Colorado mountains, which plays a significant role in shaping the characters' lives and their interactions.
Modern surrogacy context : It explores the complexities of modern surrogacy, including the emotional, legal, and financial aspects, while also challenging traditional views on family and parenthood.
Family dynamics and history : The story delves into the Fletcher family's history, including their close-knit relationships, past traumas, and the impact of their father's death, which influences Wyatt's desire for a child.

What are the most memorable quotes in Nine Month Contract?

"I want to open a wildlife rescue facility...Surrogacy ads started popping up on Facebook...and before I knew it, I was begging the surrogacy agency in Denver to give me a chance." : This quote reveals Trista's practical motivations and her determination to achieve her dreams, highlighting her resourcefulness and ambition.
"I can be kind of possessive when it comes to those I love." : This quote reveals Wyatt's underlying nature, hinting at his protective instincts and the potential for intense emotions, which become central to his relationship with Trista.
"We're not here for a long time, we're here for a good time." : This quote, inscribed on the memorial bench for Wyatt's father, encapsulates the family's philosophy and serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest, influencing Wyatt's decision to pursue fatherhood.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Amy Daws use?

Dual POV with emotional depth : Daws employs a dual point-of-view narrative, allowing readers to delve into the inner thoughts and feelings of both Wyatt and Trista, enhancing the emotional impact of their evolving relationship.
Humor and banter : The author uses witty banter and humorous situations to lighten the heavier themes, creating a balance between emotional depth and lightheartedness, making the story engaging and relatable.
Foreshadowing and callbacks : Daws uses subtle foreshadowing and callbacks to create a sense of interconnectedness, hinting at future events and reinforcing the themes of fate and destiny, adding layers of meaning to the narrative.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The pet goat, Millie : Millie, Wyatt's pet goat, initially seems like a quirky detail, but she becomes a symbol of his softer side and his capacity for care, highlighting his hidden emotional depth.
The red barn : The barn, where Trista lives, is more than just a living space; it represents a place of refuge and growth, symbolizing the characters' journey toward self-discovery and connection.
The use of "Lucky" : Wyatt's nickname for Trista, "Lucky," initially seems like a casual term of endearment, but it evolves to represent his belief in their connection and the serendipitous nature of their relationship.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

The mention of Robyn : The brief mentions of Robyn, Wyatt's past love interest, foreshadow the emotional baggage he carries and his fear of vulnerability, which are later explored in depth.
Trista's research on lesbian blogs: Trista's research on lesbian blogs for surrogacy information is a subtle callback to her open-mindedness and her ability to find unconventional solutions, highlighting her resourcefulness.
The "belly buddy babysitter" phrase : The repeated use of the phrase "belly buddy babysitter" by the surrogacy agency highlights the impersonal nature of the traditional surrogacy process, contrasting with the genuine connection between Wyatt and Trista.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Trista and Johanna's bond: The unexpected bond between Trista and Wyatt's mother, Johanna, reveals a shared understanding of motherhood and a deep emotional connection that transcends their initial roles.
Trista and Everly's friendship: The friendship between Trista and Everly, Wyatt's niece, highlights the importance of female support and mentorship, showcasing how Trista finds a sense of belonging within the Fletcher family.
Wyatt and Max's shared vulnerability: The shared vulnerability between Wyatt and Max, particularly after the loss of their father, reveals a deeper emotional connection between the brothers, highlighting their shared grief and desire for family.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Everly Fletcher: As Wyatt's niece, Everly is a catalyst for change, initiating the surrogacy process and acting as a bridge between Wyatt and Trista, highlighting her role as a family connector.
Calder and Luke Fletcher: Wyatt's brothers, Calder and Luke, provide both comic relief and emotional support, showcasing the complexities of sibling relationships and their influence on Wyatt's journey.
Johanna Fletcher : Wyatt's mother, Johanna, offers a maternal perspective and a sense of acceptance, demonstrating the importance of family support and unconditional love, particularly for Trista.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Wyatt's fear of vulnerability: Wyatt's gruff exterior and initial desire for a contractual surrogacy stem from his fear of vulnerability and his past heartbreak, which he tries to avoid by maintaining emotional distance.
Trista's need for independence: Trista's insistence on a non-traditional surrogacy and her initial focus on the financial aspects stem from her need for independence and her fear of relying on others, rooted in her past experiences.
Calder's desire for connection: Despite his mischievous behavior, Calder's actions are often driven by a desire for connection and a need to ensure his family's happiness, highlighting his hidden emotional depth.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Wyatt's internal conflict: Wyatt struggles with his desire for control and his growing feelings for Trista, creating an internal conflict between his need for solitude and his yearning for connection.
Trista's fear of attachment: Trista's fear of attachment and her struggle to accept help stem from her past experiences with abandonment, making her hesitant to fully embrace the love and support offered by Wyatt and his family.
The brothers' shared trauma : The Fletcher brothers' shared trauma from their past relationship with Robyn and the loss of their father influences their interactions and their approach to relationships, highlighting the lasting impact of past experiences.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Trista's vulnerability at the baby shower: Trista's emotional breakdown at the baby shower, where she is overwhelmed by the Fletcher family's generosity, marks a turning point in her journey as she begins to accept love and support.
Wyatt's confession of love: Wyatt's confession of love for Trista, coupled with his desire to tear up the contract, signifies a major emotional shift, as he embraces vulnerability and commits to a future with her.
Trista's acceptance of help: Trista's decision to let Wyatt take care of her after her fainting spell and her subsequent acceptance of his help marks a turning point in her journey as she begins to trust and rely on others.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

From contract to connection : The relationship between Wyatt and Trista evolves from a business agreement to a deep emotional bond, highlighting the transformative power of shared experiences and vulnerability.
Sibling rivalry to support : The dynamic between the Fletcher brothers shifts from playful rivalry to genuine support, as they come together to help Wyatt and Trista navigate their unconventional relationship.
Individual to family : Trista's journey from an independent woman to a part of the Fletcher family showcases the importance of community and the transformative power of love, as she finds a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The long-term impact of the past : While the story resolves the immediate conflicts, the long-term impact of Wyatt's past relationship with Robyn and Trista's childhood trauma remains open-ended, leaving readers to ponder the lasting effects of past experiences.
The future of the rescue center : The future of Trista's wildlife rescue center is left somewhat open, allowing readers to imagine the possibilities and challenges she will face as she pursues her dreams.
The nature of their relationship : The exact nature of Wyatt and Trista's relationship, beyond their commitment to each other and their child, is left somewhat open, allowing readers to interpret the depth and complexity of their bond.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Nine Month Contract?

The initial surrogacy ad: The humorous and unconventional surrogacy ad posted by Calder can be seen as both a catalyst for change and a disrespectful act, sparking debate about the ethics of using humor in such a sensitive situation.
The "farm way" insemination : Trista's suggestion to use a "farm way" insemination method, while practical, can be seen as both empowering and controversial, challenging traditional views on conception and intimacy.
Wyatt's possessiveness: Wyatt's possessiveness and controlling behavior, while rooted in his protective instincts, can be seen as both endearing and problematic, sparking debate about the balance between love and control.

Nine Month Contract Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

A new family is formed : The ending sees Wyatt and Trista embracing their unconventional family, with Trista giving birth to their daughter, Stevie, and the couple committing to a future together, highlighting the transformative power of love and acceptance.
Breaking down barriers : The story concludes with Wyatt and Trista tearing up their contract, symbolizing their decision to move beyond the confines of their initial agreement and embrace a future built on genuine connection and love.
A hopeful future : The ending leaves readers with a sense of hope and optimism, as the characters embark on a new chapter in their lives, surrounded by family and love, suggesting that unconventional paths can lead to the most fulfilling outcomes.