Ch. 16..20: Blind Billionaire Bride Chapter 16-20

Chapter 16 A dress from a seamstress

Ruth rushed to the door when she heard the bell jangling. She met bright Cassidy at the entrance. “Hi.” Cassidy raised her eyebrows because she was meeting the maid for the first time.

“Good morning.” Ruth smiled.

“Cassidy! Ruth, let her in.” She heard Mr Griffin’s voice boomed.

“Good morning, Mr Griffin.” Cassidy greeted as she stepped into the house.

“How are you, Cassidy?” Mr Griffin asked.

“I am good.” Cassidy answered.

“How is school?” Mr Griffin smiled.

“I am fine, mr Griffin. So where is Mr Ian?” Her eyes scanned the large beautiful area.

“He is in his room.” Mr Griffin answered.

“Okay. So she is a new worker here right?” Cassidy pointed at Ruth who was already walking off to the kitchen.

Cassidy rolled her eyes knowing that it was Mrs Perla’s work to bring in new maid. “Mr Ian called me up last night that he needs my help with something.”

Mr Griffin arched his eyebrow. “He should be here soon.” He cleared his throat.

Soon Ian bounced down the steps leading to the sitting room. “Hi Cassidy.”

Cassidy moved over to the couch to sit on it. “Hello Mr Ian.” She waved.

“Thanks for coming.” Ian sighed.

Cassidy shook her head. “What do you care for, Cassidy?” Mr Griffin asked.

“Don’t worry, I am fine.” She answered.

Ian looked at Mr Griffin. “Please get her favorite juice. Lemon Juice.” He smirked before turning to look at Cassidy.

“No -”

“You have to take something. So lemon juice is it?” Ian cuts off her intended statement.

“Alright.” Cassidy nodded.

“I’ll be right back.” Mr Griffin walked away while Ian settled down on the couch facing Cassidy directly.

“How is Caleb doing?” Ian questioned.

“He is fine. Actually he and mom sent their greetings.” Cassidy responded.

Mr Griffin came back with a tray filled with a full glass of lemon juice and crackers and he gave it to Cassidy.

“Mr Griffin, you have to join us.” Ian said when the old man was about leaving again.

“Me?” Mr Griffin raised an eyebrow and pointed a finger at himself.

Ian shook his head positively. “Yes, this is about Ria.”

Mr Griffin gasped out in realization. “Oh! Okay. Miss Ria.” He figured why Ian had called Cassidy over. He settled down beside Cassidy and waited for Ian to start the conversation.

“You and Caleb’s birthday is next week right?” Ian asked after clearing his throat.

Cassidy nodded slowly. “Yes, it is next week Saturday.”

Ian and Mr Griffin exchanged glances. “Yeah I was right. So I have been.. thinking of getting a dress for you so you can wear it on that day.” He stammered.

Cassidy looked at the men with a confused look on her face. “Actually Mr Ian… you don’t have to get me a new dress. You have been good to us and you have also done a lot for us. So I don’t think it is necessary to get me a dress.” She declined.

Ian leaned forward and clasped his hands together. This has to work out. “Cassidy, I want to get that dress for you as a present. And I will also do the same for Caleb too.”

Ian thought of who would be Mr Brown’s daughter overnight. And then the twins birthday had popped up in his mind. Ian concluded that instead of getting a dress for Cassidy at the boutique or a fashion house Ria would make the dress. He was so happy when that idea occurred to him. It was the perfect option to get close to Ria.

“I still don’t think it is necessary because I have no plans of throwing a big party.” Cassidy replied.

Ian signaled to the old man to say something that would convince the young girl to accept his offer. Mr Griffin cleared his throat. “Cassidy, you don’t have to reject his offer of getting you a present. I mean.. it.. it.. it is your 18th birthday so you have to look beautiful on that day.” He stuttered not knowing what to say.

“There is no need for a dress since we won’t be throwing any party at home.” Cassidy repeated.

“Listen, I want to throw a party for you guys. You can invite your friends to celebrate with you. I already arranged some money to buy lots of things to have the party.” Ian rushed out his words.

Cassidy studied his expression. “Really? But isn’t that too much?” She grumbled.

“It is just a token, Cassidy.” Ian answered.

“Look Cassidy, we have seen a talented seamstress to make a perfect dress for you.” Mr Griffin chuckled in an unusual tone.

A smile broke out on her face. “Alright. But I am only accepting it because it is my birthday soon.”

“Thank you, Cassidy. I am always glad to help you.” Ian leaned back again with a small smile on his face. The first stage was getting Cassidy to accept his offer to buy her a dress and it has worked out.

Cassidy smiled faded. “Mr Ian, you said that you needed my help with something.” She reminded him.

“Yes, I really need you. And the help is to go to the seamstress workshop and take your measurement.” Ian responded.

Cassidy furrowed her eyebrows. “That’s not me helping you with anything. It is like you are helping me instead.”

Ian looked at Mr Griffin who signaled to him to go on with the plans. “It is a great help to me.” Ian said.

“Okay.” Cassidy answered in a low tone. Something is quite not right. Ian looked so disturbed and unsettled. What are these men hiding from her? She wondered.

“So now Mr Griffin will drive you down to the seamstress house to get your measurement for the dress.” Ian instructed.

“Mr Ian, I think we should tell her who the seamstress is and what she looks like.” Mr Griffin suggested.

“Yeah. Cassidy, the seamstress name is Ria and she is blind. So you have to be careful of whatever you say when you get there and make sure you get along with her.”

Cassidy was confused. “Is that even possible? How can she sew if she is blind?” She questioned frantically.

“Cassidy, yu will see for yourself when you get there.” Ian heaved a sigh.

“Okay.” Cassidy mumbled.

“Mr Griffin, please come with me so I can give you some money to give to the seamstress.” Ian stood up from the couch and Mr Griffin did the same to follow him to his bedroom. This has to work out. Ian said to himself several times even as he waved goodbye to Mr Griffin and Cassidy.

IN RIA ROBERT’S APARTMENT

“Mom, when will ma’am Elise be back from the store? She has been gone for too long.” Phoenix glanced up at the wall clock.

Ria stopped the machine wheels to answer the little boy. “Relax Phoenix, she will be back soon.” She replied.

“But they have been gone since the past two hours.” Phoenix grumbled.

“Phoenix, it is not easy to select a material at the store. The issue is that if you don’t see it at one store then you go to the next and sometimes you have to go into five to six stores before getting the type of material you desire.” Ria explained.

“Is it that hard?” Phoenix asked. He wondered at the same time how Ria has been able to buy materials all by herself.

“How did you-”

“I have people at each stores that I always call to help me. It is a long story so I’ll tell you later. Don’t worry you will go with ma’am Elise next time so you can find out a lot of things about the stores.” Ria managed a smile on her face.

The doorbell rang. “Maybe they are back. I’ll get the door.” He stormed his feet.

“Careful Phoenix.” Ria cautioned as he raced to the door and unlocked it.

“Mom! It is Mr Brown!” Phoenix coaxed.

“Mr Brown?” Ria repeated as she tried to process the face of the owner of that name. “Oh Yes! The man that came in yesterday to get a dress for him daughter.” She mumbled.

“Mom, should I let him in?” Phoenix voice was loud.

“Let him in Phoenix.” Ria instructed.

“Okay mom.”

Seconds later, Ria heard footsteps in the room. It has two different sounds and she was able to process two presence excluding Phoenix.

“Good afternoon, miss Ria.” Mr Griffin greeted.

“Good afternoon, Mr Brown.” Ria stood up from the machine and subconsciously she rubbed her palms together to stay calm.

Cassidy was surprised by the name used to address the old man. Her eyes watched the blind lady behind the sewing wheels and she couldn’t help but gasp out in shock. What on earth is going on here?! She mused.

“I am here with my daughter.” Mr Griffin added.

Cassidy didn’t argue about his words in her mind because Mr Griffin is like a father figure to her.

“Okay. Please take a seat.” Ria replied.

Mr Griffin looked around the area and he figured that the woman who had attended to him wasn’t around. “I can stay outside if you aren’t comfortable with my presence here.” He looked straight at her.

“No.. no you can stay.” Ria answered.

“Hi, I am Cassidy.” She said after Mr Griffin instructed her to do so with an eye contact.

“Call me Ria.” She responded.

“What a nice name. It is so nice to see you.. my dad already told me about you.” Cassidy stammered.

Ria forced a smile on her face. “Phoenix, please get the style books.” She instructed.

“Which one?” Phoenix asked.

“Volume three. The dress Mr Brown picked is in that volume.” Ria answered.

“Okay mom.” The little boy went in search of the book.

Chapter 17 She is an inspiration

Phoenix checked the small book shelf and brought out volume three style book which had the collections of Ria’s work. He gave it to Cassidy who was busy staring at Ria.

“Here Ma’am.” Phoenix said.

“Thank you.” Mr Griffin took the book from him instead. He opened the book and showed Cassidy the dress he had picked the other day.

“Wow.” Cassidy mumbled as she exchanged glances with Mr Griffin. “Miss Ria, these designs are pretty.” She complimented.

“Thank you.” Ria replied.

“Do you like this one?” Mr Griffin pointed to a short dress.

“No, it is too short. I don’t want my legs to be exposed. But I really like the one you already picked for me.” Cassidy replied.

“Is that what you want?” Mr Griffin asked again.

“Yes.. dad.” Cassidy forced a smile on her face.

“Okay miss Ria, we’ll go for the same dress.” Mr Griffin said.

Without being told what to do Phoenix went in search of the measurement book and grabbed a high stool for Ria to sit on. He led Ria from the sewing wheels to where he placed the stool. Cassidy watched Ria with admiration as she gave out instructions to the little boy even as she took the measurements. Phoenix did a great job at calling out the numbers on the tape rule and he jolted down the measurements.

“That’s all?” Cassidy mumbled when Ria dropped her hands and placed the tap rule on her neck.

“All done.” Ria said to Cassidy who went to sit beside her so called dad.

“How much is the payment?” Mr Griffin asked.

“Three hundred dollars.” Ria answered.

“Three hundred dollars?” Cassidy repeated. She was surprised that the bill was too small for such an elegant dress. One would pay more at the mall or boutique for such an outfit.

Ria’s price list are affordable and elegant. “But don’t you think-” Mr Griffin nudged Cassidy’s side to silent her.

“I have the cash with me.” Mr Griffin said as he brought out five hundred dollars and handed it to the little boy.

Initially Ian Bryant had given him three thousand dollars for the dress. Phoenix looked at the old man then back at the girl beside him. “One.. two.. three.. four..” He arched his brows when he realized it was more than the price Ria mentioned.

“Mr Brown, this is a five hundred dollars.” Phoenix said.

Phoenix gave the money to his mom. She counted the five notes in her hand. “Five hundred? Your fee is just three hundred dollars.” Ria added.

“Yes I know. The three hundred dollars is for the dress and two hundred is for the little man here.” Mr Griffin paused hoping to hear a word from Ria but then he continued when she didn’t say anything. “I like the fact that he is willing to help and hardworking. He is smart too.” Mr Griffin added with a grin on his face. He was trying so hard to get on the blind lady’s good side for the sake of Ian Bryant. He can’t afford to mess up this plan.

Phoenix walked away from the area. “Thank you, sir.” Ria said.

“You are welcome.” Mr Griffin replied.

“Phoenix say thank you to Mr Brown he gave you some money.” Ria said. The little boy was busy searching for the phone book to take down their numbers.

“Thank you, Mr Brown.” Phoenix smiled when he came back to the area. He gave the book to the old man. “Please put down your numbers.”

“Alright.” Mr Griffin collected the book from him.

“When will you be needing the dress?” Ria asked.

“Next week Saturday.” Cassidy replied.

Ria shook her head. “Just put down your numbers so we can call you up whenever the dress is ready. You will get it before the due date.” They pen down their numbers in the book.

“Here you go little man.” Mr Griffin returned the book to Phoenix.

“I guess we are done.” Cassidy mumbled.

“We’ll take our leave now.” Mr Griffin and Cassidy stood up to leave.

“Please wait!” Then Phoenix rushed off again to a large box close to the table and took out two hand towels. It was designed with Ria’s logo imprinted on it for every customer. “Thanks for your patronage.” Phoenix grinned sheepishly.

“Oh thank you.” Mr Griffin chuckled softly as they started towards the door.

“Please kindly tell your friends and family about us.” Phoenix accompanied them.

“Sure.” Cassidy replied before she and Mr Griffin stepped out of the house.

Phoenix closed the door and raced to where Ria sat. She counted two notes and gave it to the little boy. “Put this in your safe box.”

“No.” He declined.

“I want you to have it.” Ria said.

Phoenix began to pick up some pieces of clothes on the floor around the sewing area and he dropped them in a polytene bag. “No mom, put it in the company safe so we can get another set of towels.” He replied.

“I gave ma’am Elise money to buy some towels already so we can take it to the printing press tomorrow. Just keep the money in your safe.” Ria said.

“Okay.” Phoenix accepted the money reluctantly.

“I should finish up this dress.” Ria mumbled.

“Let me help you.” Phoenix led Ria to the sewing machine and helped her settle down before he rushed to the room to drop the money in the safe under the bed.

******

IN IAN BRYANT MANSION

Ian was busy signing off some contracts in the study room. His cellphone pinged. He thought it was a call from Mr Griffin about the visit to Ria’s place but it was Josie.

Ian picked up the call. “Hello Josie.” He said.

“Hello Ian.” Josie sounded excited over the phone.

“You seem to be in a good mood, what’s the news?” Ian asked.

“I called to inform you that Lauren and I spoke to Lexi at the club last night.”

Ian sighed. “So what did she say?” He questioned.

“Well she was scared after we did the calculations. Lexi had no choice than to confess everything to us.” Josie answered.

“So what is it? Is she pregnant? Is dad the father of her child as she claimed?” Ian demanded.

“Lexi is not pregnant.” Josie responded.

“Thank goodness. Case solved.” Ian seethe his teeth even as he heaved a sigh of relief.

“No. The case is not solved yet because she has to pay for what she did. This is pure blackmail! What if her evil plans had gotten dad into trouble then our faces would have been on the news boards by now. Piper is suggesting that we threaten her with a lawsuit just to be sure she won’t come after dad again.” Josie sounded pissed now.

“Okay, I understand what you are trying to say. But instead of a getting a lawsuit or threatening her, why don’t we just get a promissory note from our lawyer and have her to sign it. That’s enough assurance to prove that she won’t do anything stupid again.” Ian suggested.

“Yeah. Ian, that’s a very good idea. I didn’t even think about it.” Josie sighed out loudly.

“Okay. I will talk to the lawyer.” Ian replied.

“Okay. I’ll tell the rest about it.” Josie disconnected the call before Ian could say goodbye.

A knock sounded on the door few minutes later. “Come in.”

Mr Griffin walked in with Cassidy behind him. Immediately Ian stood up from the desk and walked his way around it to settle on the couch. “So how was your visit to Ria’s place?” He asked anxiously.

Mr Griffin cleared his throat. “Well it was good and we worked according to the plan.” He answered.

Ian clasped his palms together. “Did Ria-” he paused and looked at Cassidy. “Are you okay, Cassidy?” He asked after noticing her face was wet. It looked like she has been crying!

The young lady’s head was down with her eyes glued to her laps. “She has been crying since we left Ria’s place.” Mr Griffin replied.

“Cassidy, why are you crying?” Ian’s voice was low.

Cassidy sniffed as she nodded slowly. “She.. she-” Her voice trailed off.

Ian stood up and went to sit beside her while Mr Griffin moved to another couch. “Is it about what you saw? Is it about Ria?”

Cassidy swallowed hard. “Yes.. it is such a pity. I feel bad for her condition. She is so good and talented. It was really hard to believe that she could do such a thing despite her disability. And if only miss Ria could see then she would have done better than the way she is now. Look, the little boy even gave us a branded towel.” She brought out the towel from her handbag.

“I know she is good.” Isn mumbled as he looked at the logo on the towel.

“She needs help.” Cassidy cried out.

Ian reached out to hold her hands. “It’s alright.” He mumbled.

Cassidy looked up at him. “Isn’t there something you can do to help her? I am sure she can see again with the help of an eye surgery.” She rushed out her words.

“Yeah I know an eye surgery can probably heal her but I don’t know about her health problems. I am still working on how to get to know her better. Look Cassidy, I really want to help Ria but it seems impossible because of her view about men.” Ian said in a calm tone.

“Yes, I noticed that she doesn’t feel too comfortable with a man in the same space. She looked so nervous and scared when Mr Griffin said his first word.” Cassidy explained with a raised eyebrow as she recalled the look on the blind lady’s face when they had walked into her house.

Ian nodded. “Yes, you are right.”

Cassidy sniffed. “But why? Why is she like that?” She asked.

“Cassidy, I don’t know. I have no idea of what she has been through in the past.” Ian replied. He wants to get to know everything about the blind lady.

“How did you find out about her?” Cassidy let go of Ian’s hands to wipe her face with the towel.

“At a park.” Ian recounted how he had met the blind lady with two children.

“I like her. And I really want to get close to miss Ria because I see her as someone who is determined to achieve her dreams. She is more like an inspiration to me.” Cassidy sniffled.

Mr Griffin and Ian exchanged glances. This must be the perfect time to bring in Cassidy into the plan. “Cassidy, can you help me find out more about Ria?” Ian requested.

Cassidy stared intensely at him. “Listen Cassidy, I don’t want you to think I am trying to use you in any way but it is just that I want to help Ria. Lately, I have been doing some researches about eye defects and remedies just to know about her conditions. I have enough ideas but I-”

“What should I find out from her?” Cassidy interrupted him.

She is in! He thought. “I need you to find out about her health problems and probably.. why she is uncomfortable with men around her.” Ian answered.

“But isn’t that too personal?” Cassidy furrowed her eyebrows.

“Not really. But you also want to get closer to Ria right?”

“Yes.” Cassidy nodded.

“Then you have to know some certain things to get close to her.” Ian stated.

Cassidy shook her head in agreement. “Okay.”

Ian exchanged a quick glance with Mr Griffin while Cassidy closed her eyes. “Will you help me?”

Cassidy reopened her eyes. “Yes.” She agreed.

“Thank you, Cassidy. So when will your dress be ready?” Ian stood up from the couch with a bright smile on his face. Cassidy agreement to help find information about Ria has just given him a glint of hope that his plans would work out.

“Miss Ria didn’t give us a specific day but she promise to give call us before Saturday.” Cassidy answered.

“Oh well, I am also glad to inform you that Ria didn’t charge half of the money you gave me.” Mr Griffin said.

“Really?” Ian forehead creased.

Mr Griffin brought out the money from his wallet. “She charged just three hundred dollars and then I gave the little boy two hundred dollars.” He explained.

“Why didn’t you just give everything to her? She must be in need of money.”

Cassidy rubbed her palms together. “Mr Ian, she won’t have accepted it if Mr Griffin had offered that much to her.”

Mr Griffin grinned at her. “I even had to tell her that the two hundred dollars was to compliment her boy for his hard work. He is smart though.” He gave the money to Ian.

“Alright. You can have it.” Ian collected the money and gave it to Cassidy but she refused it.

“No.. no I still have the money you sent last week. I should head back home now.” Cassidy stood up.

Ian moved closer and grabbed her wrist. “You should have it.” He placed the money in her palm. “Don’t ever refuse anything coming from me.” He ordered.

Cassidy shook her head in response. “Mr Griffin, please tell Ben to drive her home.” He instructed.

“Okay sir.” Mr Griffin replied.

“Cassidy, please extend my greetings to mom and Caleb.” Ian placed a kiss on her forehead.

“Thank you, Ian.” She smiled.

“Take good care of yourself. I’ll text you later.” Ian accompanied her to the door. Cassidy waved him goodbye before walking away with Mr Griffin.

Chapter 18 Keeping her company

Ria stopped the machine as soon as she heard the doorbell. Slowly she stood up from the stool and walked to the door. No one was home to help her get the door but she knew the number of steps in her head. Phoebe and Phoenix are in school while Ma’am Elise went to the salon to style her hair because her cousin is getting married tomorrow.

“Who is that?” Ria asked loudly.

“Hello Miss Ria, it is me. Cassidy, Mr Brown’s daughter.”

“Oh! Cassidy! Okay!” Ria unlocked the door and twisted the knob.

“Good morning, miss Ria.” All of a sudden Ria felt solid arms around her. Cassidy just hugged her.

Ria was surprised by the gesture. “Good morning, Cassidy.” Ria forced a smile on her face when the young lady retreated. “Please come in.” She opened the door wide for Cassidy to step in.

“You are here for your dress right?” Ria asked.

“No, I am not here for the dress.” Cassidy answered.

Ria screwed up her face at the response. If Mr Brown’s daughter is not here for her dress then why is she here? Ria pondered.

“Miss Ria, you don’t have to panic. No, I mean it is fine if the dress is not ready.” Cassidy rushed out her words.

“Your dress is ready.” Ria replied.

“Oh really?!” Cassidy asked in a surprised tone.

“Yes. Actually we planned to call in the evening so you will come and get the dress tomorrow. But it is a good thing that you are here.” Ria responded.

“Yeah.” Cassidy nodded.

“Please take a seat.” Ria gestured as she pointed at the couches. She tried so hard not to miss her step count even as she conversed with the young lady.

“Thank you, Miss Ria.”

“I’ll get your dress.” Ria found her way to the large table filled with dresses and she tried to identify Cassidy’s dress from the package that has been registered in her head. Ria picked one and traced the writing on it. “This dress is not hers.” She mumbled.

“Should I come and help?” Cassidy asked.

“No it is fine. I can find it.” Ria picked two other packages which didn’t read her name with the tape on it.

Ma’am Elise had wrote down Cassidy’s name on her clothe before heading out but Ria just can’t figure out where she had placed it among the other dresses. But luckily for Ria, she picked two more packages before she found Cassidy’s dress. A smile formed on her lips after she felt the letters on the tape.

Ria made an attempt to meet Cassidy but she met her halfway. “You found it!”

Ria shook her head. “Yes, here you go.” Cassidy collected the dress. “You can try it on and check yourself in the mirror over there.” She pointed towards the direction of the mirror.

“I would really love to try it.” Cassidy was so excited as she unwrapped the package but she hasn’t forgotten her purpose for being at Ria’s house. “Are you the only one home?” She asked.

“Yes.” Ria replied.

“What about your little boy?” Cassidy’s eyes scanned the area.

“He has gone to school. No one is home with me at the moment.” Ria answered.

“So are you always home alone most time?” She questioned again even as she took out the dress.

“No, ma’am Elise is always here with me.” Suddenly Ria heard Cassidy scream and she became scared thinking something bad had happened to her or she didn’t like the dress.

“Are you okay?” Ria asked fearfully.

“Yes! I am just happy about the dress. Let me try it on!” Cassidy slipped out of her clothing to try the dress. “Wow! It is amazing! This is so elegant and gorgeous! And it really looks good on me!”

Ria heaved a sigh of relief. “Okay.” She calmed. Thank God, it is a compliment and nothing bad. Ria had thought Cassidy didn’t like the dress.

Cassidy noticed Ria trying to take in a deep breathe. “I am sorry if I scared a bit. I am just excited.” She apologized.

“No.. no.. it is okay. So do you like the dress?” Ria asked.

“Yes! But like is really an understatement. I love it!” She enthused.

“I am happy that you love it.” Ria tried to smile to encourage her customer.

“But honestly Miss Ria this dress is worth more than three hundred dollars.” Cassidy commented.

“If you say so.” Ria turned and managed to find her way back to the machine and she settled on the stool.

“Well Miss Ria why do you charge lowly?” Cassidy demanded.

“It is not low. For my type of business three hundred dollars is a lot of money.” Ria answered.

“So what about a twenty thousand dollars?” Cassidy giggled.

“That’s a whole lot of money!” They both giggled.

“Well not all our prices are low. We make expensive dresses depending on the type of materials they want for the dress and sometimes they bring in whatever clothe they want to use for the dress too.” Ria explained.

“You are right. And also does your price have anything to do with people around?” Cassidy pulled off the dress.

“Kind of. If we decide to charge higher most people won’t get a dress from us.” Ria answered.

“Well maybe that’s because you don’t reside in the rich area. Your clothing business would do so well if you are in an area for the rich.” Cassidy packed the dress roughly back in it place.

“Exactly.. the people in this area are not that wealthy. You know, everyone is just trying to survive. But we have been making more money from online orders.” Ria agreed to her point.

“You sell your clothes online?” Cassidy looked straight at the blind lady.

“Yes, we just started though. It was ma’am Elise idea to start selling the dresses online so she is in charge of that.” Ria answered.

“Wow! That’s amazing! It is a great idea!” Cassidy smiled.

“You can say that again. Did you fold the dress back in properly?” Ria demanded.

Cassidy laughed when she looked at the package. “I didn’t do it well. How do I fold the dress back in it place properly?”

“Bring it.” Cassidy went to meet her and she gave her the dress and the nylon to Ria.

“This is how to do it.” Ria showed Cassidy how to fold a gown neatly and she placed it in the package. “It is so ea-”

“You know.. I really like you, miss Ria.” Cassidy’s words interrupted her.

“You do?”

“Yes, a whole lot although I barely even know you. I just like the fact that you are talented and hardworking despite your condition.” Cassidy confessed.

“Thank you. I’ll just get a bag to put this in for you.” Ria stood up from the stool. She counted her steps again as she walked to the large box and took out a customized paper bag, her brand logo was imprinted on it. “Here you go.” She dropped the dress in it and gave it to Cassidy.

“Thank you.” Cassidy admired her.

“You are welcome. And happy birthday in advance.” Ria managed a small smile on her expression.

“Thank you once again.” Cassidy smiled.

Ria expected Cassidy to leave after that but she didn’t make the attempt. “Perhaps Miss Ria, can.. I stay till ma’am Elise returns?” She asked in a low tone.

Ria thought Cassidy wanted to stay because she was home alone and might be scared of leaving her behind. “You don’t have-”

“I can help with some things too.. like getting pieces of clothe together, fixing buttons, whipping dresses and all of that.” Cassidy rushed her words.

“You can do all that?” Ria asked as she rubbed her palms together.

“Yes, I can do a lot of things only if you let me.” Cassidy replied.

“But won’t your dad be worried about you?” Ria questioned.

“I am free and I don’t have classes today. I’ll text my dad to let him know that I am staying extra time with you.”

“Okay, you can stay.” Ria agreed.

“Thank you, miss Ria!” Cassidy said happily.

“You are welcome. Please make yourself comfortable.” Ria’s hands dropped to her side.

“So what do I do now? Actually I can use the machine.” Cassidy led Ria to the sewing machine she used to sit on.

“Really?”

“Yes, I can use it so well.”

Ria placed her hand on the machine. “Okay, let us start by fixing a thread in the machine over there.” She pointed to the machine next to hers.

“Where is the thread?” Cassidy asked.

“It is in a bowl next to the table.” Ria answered.

Cassidy rushed to the table to get the thread. “Got it!” She was silent for a while but Ria felt her presence close by. “I fixed a black thread in it!” She clapped.

“Can you help me amend an old lady’s dress?” Ria requested.

“Sure. Where is it?”

“On the smallest couch.” Ria pointed to the area.

Cassidy rushed to the couch again. “Which of the dresses should I pick?”

Ria tried to remember the color of the old lady’s dress. “Ma’am Elise packed three dresses together. Yes! She said it is a pink dress!” She remembered.

“Yes, I have seen it!” Cassidy dragged a stool close to the machine and she examined the dress.

“The old lady complained about-”

Cassidy cuts in sharply. “I just have to stitch up the torn side, fix the worn out zip and there are set of lines down here. I think the dress is a bit too long for the old lady right?”

Ria nodded her head. “Yes, the old lady actually complained that the dress is long and oversized. Ma’am Elise must have traced the down part for adjustment purpose.”

Cassidy shook her head in understanding. “So I have to follow the line, trim the down part and adjust it. Do you have the old lady measurement?”

Ria tapped her finger on the machine gently. “Yes. Phoenix wrote down her measurement. It should be in the book.”

“So where can I find the measurement book?”

“On that large table where you picked the thread.” Ria answered.

“Okay.” Cassidy went in search of he book. “What’s her name?” She asked some seconds later.

“Mrs Beatrice.” Ria heard the flipping of pages.

“Okay, it is right here. I will start by adjusting the first dress since it is more easier for me.”

About a minute later, Ria heard the sound of the machine wheels. “She can actually use the machine.” She said within.

“Cassidy.” Ria called and she stopped the machine.

“Where did you learn to use the machine?” Ria asked.

“My aunt taught me. She stays in Denver and she is also a seamstress like you. I lived with her for a year so I had no choice but to learn the trade.” Cassidy answered.

“So you learnt sewing in a year.” Ria said.

“Not really. I have known some aspect of sewing since I was a kid. I used to travel to her place during the holidays. Let us just say that I loved sewing even as a child.” Cassidy wheeled the machine slowly to hear a response from Ria.

“Okay.” They lapsed into silence only for the machine wheels sound to grow louder but it stopped again soon.

“What about you?”

“Me?” Ria pointed a finger at herself.

“Yes. How long have you been a seamstress if I may ask? No, please just tell me about yourself.” Cassidy hoped that the blind lady would fill her in about things that concerns her life so she would tell everything to Ian Bryant.

“Cassidy, if I tell you about myself then I don’t think we can work today.” Ria giggled.

“Of course we can work and talk. I mean, you talk and I listen and ask questions if necessary.” Cassidy said.

“Okay. Well.. I didn’t just wake up one morning and decide to be a seamstress. Sewing was the only thing I was used to when I was a kid because my mon was a seamstress. And it was like the only option for me plus my mom inspired me.” Ria explained.

“Oh! She taught everything!” Cassidy commented.

“Yes she did.. and I just had to learn because I wanted to be useful to myself. My mom would always say being disabled is not an excuse for me to be failure. It only means that you can’t say because you are disabled then you won’t make something good in life or thrive to achieve your set dreams. I worked on myself and learned a lot of things with the help of my parents.” Ria swallowed the lump that was starting to form in her throat.

Recalling how good they were to her always and the way they had tried so hard to put a smile on her face. It was all gone now, she was left with memories and each time she remember how they had died it saddens her whole system.

“Were you born blind or you lost your sight in car accident?” Cassidy asked as she noticed the blind lady gripping the edge of the machine.

“I was born blind.” Ria replied.

“And have you thought of undergoing an eye surgery?” Cassidy asked again.

Will Ria ever forget that night? The pleadings, the screams, her parents last words to her and the sounds of the gunshots that has traumatized her for years. Maybe it was a bad idea to let Cassidy stay to help her. Ria thought.

“Yes.. it is what I have always wanted for myself. But I don’t have enough money for the surgery yet.” Ria answered in a low tone.

She waited for Cassidy to talk but she heard nothing. Silence, she liked it that way. But Cassidy broke the silence too soon. “What.. what if someone offers to pay your medical bills? Will you accept such person’s offer?”

This conversation won’t end. “Yes I will accept the offer as long as that help is not from a-” Ria paused and she swallowed hard “.. a man.” She completed.

Ria won’t accept any help from a man. She believed that no man would ever help a woman without asking for something else in return. Just like how Lucas had spared her life but he used her thinking he was doing her a great favor of living.

Ria clasped the edge of the machine again to stop the screams and horrible voice of Lucas that tried to form in her head. Calm! Calm! Calm! She chanted in her head. Ria was trying so hard not to let those horrible days take the best part of her but no it won’t stop. She heard the voice. She keeps hearing it every time she is close to a man. Ria shook her head from side to side. It was as if she was battling with a demon inside her head.

“Are you okay? Miss Ria?” She felt Cassidy’s hand on her shoulder.

“Yes.. yes.. I am fine.” Ria was so close to having a panic attack.

“Are you sure?” Cassidy asked as she withdrew from her.

“Yes Cassidy.” She feigned a smile.

Cassidy went back to sit down. “So why won’t you accept any help from a man?”

Ria’s fake smile grew broader. “Nothing serious. It is just something relating to my past.” She managed to say and hoped that Cassidy won’t ask anymore questions.

Chapter 19 A New Idea

Ria’s fake smile grew broader. “Nothing serious. It is just something relating to my past.” She managed to say and hoped that Cassidy won’t ask anymore questions.

Cassidy wheeled the sewing machine focusing on amending the dress for some minutes. “Well Miss Ria everyone has a story to tell.. about their past.” She said.

“You have a past too?” Ria asked. She didn’t realize how foolish that question was until she said it. Immediately Ria also thought that the question would stop Cassidy from asking her questions for now. Who likes to discuss about their past with people?

“I have a past too but it is nothing big. I’ll tell you about it. It is just that I broke up with my first boyfriend two weeks ago after I found out he cheated on me with my best friend.” Cassidy replied in a sad tone.

“I should be blamed for what he did actually.” She added quickly.

“Why?” Ria asked.

Cassidy heaved a sigh. “Jake wanted sex but I wasn’t ready for it. Well you know how guys are if don’t give them what they want then they get it elsewhere just to make you feel guilty or bad.” She pouted.

“You still don’t have to blame yourself. It is not your fault that Jake cheated on you with your best friend.” Ria’s voice was so calm.

“I expected Jake to understand my decision. Even before we started dating, I told him I wasn’t ready to have sex until my wedding night and he agreed. Jake said he respected me for that decision. But a month later, he started asking me for sex anytime I go visiting at his place. He asked me to prove to him that I truly love him by having sex with him but I couldn’t do it. I don’t have to give myself to him and go against my will just to prove that love him. So I am sure Jake intentionally slept with Betty just to hurt me.” Cassidy narrated.

Ria didn’t miss the sadness in her tone at the loss of two loved ones. “Let us say that Jake might have thought you would come begging him when you find he was having an affair with your best friend.”

Cassidy snorted. “Yes, you are right but he is a fool to think that way. I didn’t beg him. Although it was painful but I didn’t even shed a tear because of him. Someone like him doesn’t deserve a drop of my tear.” She seethe her teeth in anger.

“And Jake doesn’t deserve a girl like you. No relationship between two people can survive if it is based on material benefits. We should not give things to people with the expectation of getting something in return. Love in a relationship goes a long way than having just sex.” Ria said.

“Yes my mom said the same thing and that’s why I decided to announce the breakup so he won’t feel important. Jake was so shocked when I ended the relationship, he didn’t expect that I would do such a thing because he knew that I loved him so much.” Cassidy giggled as she remembered the look on her ex boyfriend’s face when she had announced the break up even after they had gone on a fun filled date.

“So what about your best friend?” Ria asked.

“She stopped talking to me like I care. Our friendship is over.” Cassidy snorted.

There was a time in Ria’s life when she had made such a decision. Ria promised herself that she would keep her innocence until her wedding night. Madison was still a virgin when she met Nathan and he had cherished and respected her for being undefiled at such age. Well Ria had thought it was going to be easy for her to also maintain such stance since she was blind. She had dreamt of finding true love someday just like her parents. Ria had no where to go or any boy to meet but she never thought of a criminal coming to take her away and defiling her. It has never occurred to her that such could happen in one night. Lucas took her innocence and dignity! And now that childhood decision was of no use anymore.

“Men are evil.” Ria mumbled to herself but Cassidy heard it clearly.

“I wish them the best in life. I just want to focus on the betterment of my life.” Cassidy said.

“Will I ever feel loved? Will I ever fall in love like any human? No! No man will ever fall for a woman who has been physically violated by criminals! Men are cruel and evil! They deserve no happiness! They should all rot in hell where they truly deserve as a devil’s incarnate!” Ria bantered within.

“Miss Ria, are you having issues trusting men?” Cassidy’s question stunned Ria out of her thoughts.

Ria didn’t respond. She has no plan to reveal her past to a total stranger she just met few days ago. And Ria had no plan to tell anyone about it. “Miss Ria-” The door bell rang cutting off Cassidy’s sentence.

Ria sighed in relief. Saved by the bell! “I will get the door.” Cassidy stood up and went to the door.

Ria heard ma’am Elise exchanging greetings with Cassidy. “Oh it is good to see you.” Her voice was closer now.

“Welcome back, ma’am Elise.” Ria greeted.

Ma’am Elise went to meet Ria. “Is everything okay?” She asked.

“Yes, I am fine.” Ria replied.

“I can see you have a company.” Ma’am Elise looked back at Cassidy.

“Yes. Cassidy is here.” Ria shook her head.

“I had to beg the stylist not to take too long because I was worried since you are home alone.” Ma’am Elise dropped the paper bags on the floor.

“You should have taken your time.” Ria said.

“Yes I know but I wasn’t at peace knowing that you are home alone.” Ma’am Elise sighed.

“Cassidy offered to stay with me anyways.” Ria felt the fabrics on the sewing machine.

“Yes I didn’t want to leave because she was alone.” Cassidy responded.

“Oh! You are so considerate! Thank you, Cassidy.” Ma’am Elise smiled.

“Stop making it sound like I am a kid who needs a nanny.” Ria muttered.

Ma’am Elise laughed. “Come on Miss Ria, I am just worried about you.”

“So how -” Ria was interrupted by a beeping sound.

“Oh! That’s my phone. I’ll get it.” Cassidy rushed to where she dropped her bag on the couch and she took out her cellphone. It was Ian Bryant. “Hello. Yes, I have the dress. Yes, I will be home soon.” She said quickly.

“Your dad?” Ma’am Elise asked when Cassidy turned to look at them.

“Yes. Miss Ria, I am sorry I have to leave now.” Cassidy apologized.

“It is alright.” Ria replied.

“And I am sorry I won’t be able to finish up what I started.” She apologized again.

“I understand. You can go ahead. Thank you for offering to help me.” Ria flashed her a small smile.

“Alright.” Cassidy went ahead to embrace Ria. “Bye, Miss Ria.” Even Ma’am Elise was taken aback by the gesture.

“Yeah bye.” Cassidy was acting like she has known Ria for a very long time.

“I will accompany you to the door.” Ma’am Elise offered and Cassidy followed her.

And soon the door clicked. “Ma’am Elise, I am almost done with your dress.” Ria said when she came back.

“Was Cassidy adjusting the old lady’s dress?” Ma’am Elise demanded.

“Yes, she can use the machine. Cassidy knows a lot about sewing too.” Ria responded as she tried to focus on the dress on the machine. She had lost track of where she stopped because of the conversation with Cassidy.

“Really?”

“Yes, you can see what she has been doing.” Ria shook her head.

Ma’am Elise took the dress and looked at the part she had adjusted. “She is good.” She complimented.

“Actually she is extremely a good company. Cassidy is calm and knowledgeable and it was nice to have her around.” Ria admitted.

Ma’am Elise studied Ria’s expression, she looked somewhat happy. “Miss Ria, it is good to hear that coming from you. Oh! That reminds me Sophia transferred the money for her dress.”

Ria nodded in acknowledgement. “Please call the delivery girl.” She instructed.

Ma’am Elise packed the paper bags filled with groceries. “I already called her at the salon. She is busy making other deliveries but she should be here anytime soon.”

“Okay.” Ria muttered.

*********

LINT CORPORATION

Ian Bryant didn’t let Cassidy settled down before he bombarded her with questions. “How is Ria doing? Is she fine? So how was it? I mean did the plan go well?”

Cassidy rolled her eyes as she settled on the couch. “Relax Mr Ian, one question at a time.”

Ian tried to relax. “Alright. So did you find out anything?” He demanded.

“Yes, I found some things about her.” Cassidy nodded.

“Tell me about it.” Ian said.

“I am sure now that Miss Ria is having issues trusting men because it is something about her past.” Cassidy stated clearly.

“Her past?” Ian repeated.

“Yes but she doesn’t want to share it with anyone. I understand that she didn’t tell me because we are still strangers.”

“Are you saying Ria had issue with men in the past which led to her distrusting my kind?” Ian questioned with a scrunched up face.

“I think so.” Cassidy shook her head.

“Did you ask her about her sight?”

“She was born blind. And I asked if she has ever thought of getting a surgery.” Cassidy replied.

Ian stood up from the couch and he walked to the small fridge. “What did she say?” He asked.

“Miss Ria said yes but she doesn’t have the money.”

Ian Bryant came back with a cold bottle of water. “Cassidy, my main plan is to help Ria see again. I can foot the medical bill.”

Cassidy collected the bottle of water from him. “Miss Ria won’t accept your offer. She told me that herself that she isn’t going to accept a help from a man.”

“She said that?” Ian arched his eyebrows.

“Yes. I think it is related to what happened in the past.” Cassidy opened the cap of the bottle of water.

Everything is still not clear to Ian Bryant. He hasn’t gotten enough information to convince him that he knows a bit about the blind lady. “Cassidy, you still have to help me get more information about Ria.”

Cassidy gulped down half of the liquid that cooled her body. “Listen Mr Ian, I suggest you get close to her yourself. There is no need to play hide and seek in this game.” She blurted out.

“How can I do that? You just said Ria doesn’t trust men. She won’t even accept me to help her.” Ian said.

“Yes, this is a great chance for you. Mr Ian, I feel you should be straightforward with her. It is not cool pretending to someone like her, I mean like me going to her house to get more information about her. I want to be with her freely and learn to sew.” Cassidy admitted.

“You want to learn how to sew?” Ian asked.

“Yes, I know about it though and I even helped her out today.” Cassidy replied.

Ian sat back on the couch. “Cassidy, I understand your point. I also want to be close to Ria but she won’t allow me. I am a man.”

Cassidy looked straight at him. “You can make it work. Miss Ria might have closed heart to love but I have a strong believe that you can win her heart with your kindness and good nature. And it is so obvious that you feel something for her already.” She winked.

Ian smiled. “I don’t know.. but I think so. I can’t really explain it but she just bothers me.” He admitted.

“Miss Ria looks broken and she just needs someone like you in her life. Mr Ian, you have a good nature. You are nice, cool and always ready to help anyone. And I am sure you can make Miss Ria trust men again.” Cassidy counted her fingers as she stated his good qualities.

“You think so?” Ian sounded so unsure.

“Yes.” Cassidy nodded.

Ian rubbed his palms together. “Oh Cassidy, I wish it was that easy.” He let out a shaky breathe.

“It is easy.” Cassidy replied.

“How?”

“I think I have an idea or a plan to help you win Miss Ria and make her trust you.” Cassidy said with a bright smile on her face

Chapter 20 Her angelic friend

Ian stopped pacing the small area around the couches. “Cassidy, do you really think this idea is going to work?” He looked straight at Cassidy who sat on the small couch with her eyes glued to her phone.

“We just have to give it a try.” Cassidy replied with a shrug.

“Well, what if she refuses to come around?” Ian asked.

“Then let us hope she shows up and everything works according to plan.” Cassidy looked up at him with a small smile on her face.

Ian walked back to the large desk. “That’s not the answer to my question. But it is alright.” He looked away from Cassidy and glanced down at Ria’s card on the desk.

“Go on and give her a call.” Cassidy urged him.

Ian picked up the card as he sat down on the swivel chair. “Do you know which of these numbers belongs to ma’am Elise?”

Cassidy nodded. “The first belongs to Miss Ria herself. The second is the home line and then the third number is for ma’am Elise.”

Ian dropped the card on the table again. “Why didn’t you just go straight and tell me that the third one is for her?”

Cassidy rolled her eyes. “Well, I was just thinking you might need to call Miss Ria someday.” She shrugged.

“That’s enough. This is going to be hard but I hope it works.” Ian sighed.

“Okay, I just hope she agrees to meet up with you.” Cassidy glanced back at her phone to continue the game she was playing.

“Yeah, I hope she agrees.” Ian dialed ma’am Elise number and she picked up on the second ring.

“Hello.” He said.

“Good afternoon.” Ma’am Elise voice boomed over the phone.

“Ma’am Elise…” His voice trailed off.

“Yes. Yes. Ma’am Elise is on the line.” She paused and continued. “Who is on the line?”

“Ian.” He looked up at Cassidy.

“Ian?” Ma’am Elise repeated in a low tone. She tried to remember where she heard that name last.

“We met at Ainsley-” Ian prompted her.

“Oh! Ainsley Hospital!” Ma’am Elise completed.

“Yes ma’am.” He mumbled.

“And you are the man that retrieved miss Ria’s purse from that thief!” She blurted out.

“Exactly.” Ian replied.

“Why didn’t you come and get a dress done for your wife? After all I gave you the business card for that reason and I was expecting you to give us a call.” Ma’am Elise said.

“Oh really? I am sorry for not calling ever since you gave me the card. And Mrs Elise-”

She interrupted him sharply. “Yes.”

“I.. I don’t have a wife.” Ian replied.

“Oh.. you.. don’t have a.. wife.” Ma’am Elise stuttered.

“Yes.” He nodded.

Cassidy moved from the couch to listen in on the conversation. “But… Mr Ian.. you should have aunts, sisters and female friends.” Ma’am Elise added.

“Yes.”

“So why haven’t you patronized us. Mr Ian, get a dress at our place and a trial will convince you.” Now the conversation is heading to another direction entirely, he didn’t call to have someone persuade him to get a dress.

Ian Bryant cleared his throat. “Ma’am Elise, I gave the card to a friend who wanted to make a dress for his daughter.” He took the cellphone away from her ear to whisper to Cassidy. “What was that name Mr Griffin told them?”

“Mr brown.” Cassidy whispered.

“Oh yes! Ma’am Elise his name is Mr Brown.” He informed her.

“Oh! Oh my God! You directed Mr Brown to our workplace! I didn’t know because he didn’t give me a precise name!” Ma’am Elise sounded excited over the phone.

“Yes.” Ian responded.

“Thank you, Mr Ian. We already gave Cassidy her dress the day before yesterday and she liked it!” Ma’am Elise added.

“Yeah I saw the dress too. It was stunning.” Ian furrowed his eyebrows when Cassidy shook her head.

“Wait are supposed to say that… No! It might blow the secret!” Cassidy mouthed.

“Mr Ian, thank you once again.” Ma’am Elise giggled.

“Go straight to the point now.” Cassidy mouthed again.

Ian turned on the speaker of his cellphone. “You are welcome. So ma’am Elise I was thinking of setting up a meeting for just me and you. I mean we really need to discuss some things about -”

Ma’am Elise cuts in. “Do you want to get a dress?” She asked.

Ian looked up at Cassidy who was now very close to his face. “This is not going to work.” He wrote down in a clean sheet.

Cassidy nodded. “It is going to work. Get a dress!” She said lowly.

“Yes ma’am Elise, I want to get a dress for–”

“Niece.” Cassidy whispered.

“My niece… yes my niece she is just nine years old.” Ian rushed out his words.

“Oh! That’s great! We make dresses for kids too.” Ma’am Elise coaxed.

“Go straight to the point now.” Cassidy jolt down on the sheet.

“And the meeting is not only about making a dress for my niece. We can talk about some other things too.. like business.” Ian read out what Cassidy had written down on the sheet.

“Business? Okay! I love that Mr Ian!”

“Yeah. So when should we meet up?” Ian asked.

“I am less busy now. We don’t have much work at hand.” Ma’am Elise replied.

“Can we meet now?” Ian requested.

“Sure. It is fine by me.” Ma’am Elise agreed.

“I work at Lint Corporation.”

“Lint corporation has many branches which of the branches should I visit?” Ma’am Elise questioned.

“The main office. Someone will be waiting outside to bring you to my office.” Ian answered.

“Okay, I will be there soon.”

“I will be expecting you.” Ian replied and she disconnected the call.

“The plans will work.” Ian sighed out loud when he dropped the phone on the desk.

“Yes, I just have to call Lauren and inform her I want to get a dress for Mia.” Ian leaned back in the chair and rubbed his temples.

“Please do so while I talk to Mr Griffin. I missed his calls earlier on.” Cassidy yawned.

“Okay. Please call me Ramsey.” Ian instructed.

“Sure.” Cassidy exited the room.

***************

IN RIA ROBERT APARTMENT

“Miss Ria.” Ma’am Elise called on her way out of the kitchen. No response. “Miss Ria.” Ma’am Elise called again.

Sometimes hearing ma’am Elise call out her name and how she talks makes Ria extremely happy. “Yes, ma’am Elise.” Ria answered from the couch she sat on trying to do her eye exercises.

Eye exercises is mainly meant for blind people to recognize things normal human could see. Ria learnt to recognize things when her parents enrolled her into a school for the blind. The teachers spent their time teaching the disabled how to do things on their own, how to read and write without anyone’s help. And Mr Nathan Robert had even gotten a private teacher to help his daughter identify things like visual images and some other things she needed to know easily. But Ria was a bit slow in learning how to do things on her own but with time she had managed to catch up. Then Madison Robert had thought her daughter how to identify fabrics. Clothes materials by it textures, quality, designs and most especially how to use the sewing machine.

The eye exercises and lessons has helped Ria learned to do things herself. She knows every part of the apartment, she can cook and find things easily as long as no one moved it from it initial place.

When Andrea died, Ria had to start going to stores herself. To be honest, it wasn’t easy the year Andrea died. It was a very tough year for her because Ria had to learn to do the things Andrea would do for her, like going to the grocery store and others. Most times she receives help from people as long as it wasn’t from a man. But one thing Ria couldn’t do was use the cellphone to relate with people online and advertise her business. It was Andrea’s job to look after Ria and the business but after she died no one was there to help anymore.

But all the same thanks to Andrea who helped Ria counts steps along the way, around the house, every angles and from their home to every regular places they always visit. Ria has taken notes of every steps in her head and a diary. And then after Andrea’s demise, Ria had to leave alone and survive.

Surviving. Actually, it is what Ria has been doing right since when she was born. It was a good thing she met ma’am Elise. She became Ria’s second Andrea, her eyes and her angel. Things got back to normal the moment Elise stepped into Ria’s life. She is a blessing. She has helped the business with her good communication skill that has brought more people to them. Ma’am Elise works as a babysitter and care workers at times aside Ria’s sewing business. To be honest, Ria truly doesn’t know what would have become of her if Elise wasn’t in her life now.

Anyways, Ria is always thinking that she wouldn’t have survived or maybe she would have had things in a harder way and who knows probably she would have given up on life. But all Ria could see in her life is that God has been so good to her. He always has this way of bringing good people into her life the moment she needs one but at the same time it is just so sad that they always end up leaving her behind-Death. So cruel! Taking away good people and leaving the bad ones to live on the earth.

And at some point, Ria started thinking if she was a bad luck. Perhaps a jinx. And over the years, Ria Robert has been trying to fight off this voice that keeps whispering into her mind that she is a bad luck.

“You are not a bad luck.” Another voice would say and Ria claimed it in her head and mind.

“I am not a bad luck.” And not only that, Ria had even compose, a rhyme from her mother’s words which she had taught Phoebe and Phoenix.

“I am a blessed child. I am destined to be great. I am not giving up on my dreams.” And lastly which she didn’t add to the rhyme she taught the kids. “I will never give in to the thought of suicide.”

Suicide? Yes, Ria has tried to commit suicide once when Andrea was alive after they moved to Chicago. Ria started feeling like she was a burden to Andrea because she worked two jobs at a time to fend for them. That day, Andre came in from work before Ria could stab herself. She talked some sense into Ria’s head and she never thought that her death would cause Andrea more trouble. Andrea was her angelic friend. An Angel in human form.

At this point, Ria keeps praying nothing bad happens to ma’am Elise, Phoenix and Phoebe. “Miss Ria, I am heading out.” Ma’am Elise said

“Huh?” Ria itched the bridge of her nose.

“I want to go out now.” Ma’am Elise repeated.

“Yes I heard you but you said that no outing this morning.” Ria replied.

“Yes. I-”

Ria interrupted her. “Ma’am Elise, are you seeing someone?” She teased her.

Ma’am Elise bursted into laughter. “Miss Ria, well I wish I am seeing someone. Anyways, I am not seeing anyone at the moment.”

“Okay, so where are you going?” Ria asked.

“Mr Ian just called. He wants to see me.” Ma’am Elise responded.

“Who is Mr Ian?” Ria questioned.

“Mr Ian? You don’t remember?” Ma’am Elise arched her eyebrows.

“I don’t-”

“Mr Ian is the man that got your purse back from a thief and the guy we saw at the hospital.” Ma’am Elise reminded her.

Ria furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. “Okay. But why does he want to see you?” She demanded.

“He wants to make a dress for his nine years old niece. And I think he doesn’t want to come here with her because of..” Ma’am Elise paused to study Ria’s expression.

“Me right?” Ria mumbled.

“I didn’t say that.” Ma’am Elise said in a low tone.

“Okay.” Ria shook her head.

“Can I go to see him?” Ma’am Elise questioned her as she packed few things into her handbag.

“Sure.” She forced a smiled on her face.

“I’ll go ahead.” Ma’am Elise walked closer to Miss Ria.

“Bye.” Ria waved.

“Take care.” Ma’am Elise gave her hands a small squeeze before she exited the room.