Ch. 1..5: Blind Billionaire Bride Chapter 1-5

Chapter 01 The Inception

CHICAGO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

BRYANT MANSION: IN IAN’S ROOM

The door swung open revealing a well built man at the entrance with a deep frown grazing his face. He was left with no choice than to open up the door after knocking several time but got no response.

“Young master.” Owen called out to Ian Bryant who pretended to be asleep in his bed. “Young master Ian.” He repeated but got no response.

“Good morning, sir Ian.” Owen greeted as he went to the window and pulled up the curtains.

“Shut the fuck up Owen! And get the hell out of my room!” Ian Bryant threw a pillow at his bodyguard but it didn’t get to the target. The eighteen years boy was so pissed.

“Young master-”

Ian interrupted him. “Can’t you fucking see that I am sleeping?!” He threw his alarm at Owen but he dodged it.

“Please forgive me Sir Ian but the big boss wants to see you.” Owen did well at dodging everything the young master threw at him.

“You are so annoying! Go and tell that old man that I am sleeping.” Ian Bryant commanded his bodyguard as lay back down on the bed.

“But the big boss knows you should be awake by this time.” Owen replied.

“Tell just go and him that I am sick and can’t come to see him.” Ian instructed.

“I am sorry young master but I can’t tell him that to the big boss.” Owen responded with a straight face.

“You are such an idiot Owen! You should do as I say because you are my bodyguard! You fool!” Ian Bryant hissed out.

“Forgive me sir, I am well aware that I am your personal bodyguard but Mr Bryant pays me.” Owen closed the door and walked closer to the bed.

Ian sat up on the bed and pointed his finger at his bodyguard. “But you should be most loyal to me. You are so annoying Owen!” He lay back down and threw the blanket over his face.

“Sir -” Owen was cut off by the opening of the door as Mr Jack Bryant walked into the room.

“What are you still doing in bed by this time?” Mr Jack Bryant baritone voice echoed in the room.

“Sleeping.” Ian mumbled but enough for his dad to hear him.

“Get up Ian, today is Lorna’s birthday and she is expecting you to be the first person to give her a present.” Mr Jack Bryant reminded him.

Ian knew what’s happening today and that’s why he didn’t want to get up from the bed. “Listen dad, I am not a kid anymore. To be honest, I am sick and tired of giving gifts to Lorna every year for no specific reason.” He complained from under the blanket.

Mr Jack Bryant walked closer to the bed and removed the blanket from his son’s body. “Get ready in five minutes.” He said in a commanding tone.

“Five minutes?” Ian screwed up his face.

“Yes and look your best. I don’t want Mason to take your place in Lorna’s heart.” Mr Jack Bryant replied with a serious look on his face.

“Well I hope he takes my place in Lorna’s heart.” Ian pouted.

Mr Jack tucked his hands into his pocket. “Then if Lorna falls in love with Mason instead of you be ready to -”

“Leave the state and stay with Aunt Elise in Idaho or go into the military or lose your inheritance.” Ian completed his dad’s intended statement. He has heard these same words over and over again.

“Exactly. So make your choice this minute.” Mr Jack Bryant uttered in a stern tone.

Ian got out of the bed and reluctantly walked into the bathroom. He choose to give a gift to Lorna rather than go into the military, lose his inheritance or even leave the state to stay with his aunt in Idaho.

*****

IDAHO, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

IN ROBERT HOME

Mr Nathan Robert unlocked the door and entered their small house but he saw no one in the living room as expected. “Honey..” He called out to his wife as he motioned towards the kitchen knowing that she might probably be there cooking.

Mrs Madison Robert smiled at her husband when he walked into the kitchen. She wiped her hands on a clean and dry napkin before walking up to meet him. “Welcome home.” She hugged him.

“Thank you.” Mr Nathan placed kisses all over his wife’s face and she giggled happily. “Where is Ria?” He asked about his daughter.

“She is in her room.” Mrs Madison Robert replied.

“What is she doing alone?” Mr Nathan questioned in a worried tone.

Mrs Madison turned away to check on the stew. “Ethan brought his clothes earlier so she is helping him to amend it.” She responded.

Mr Nathan placed his hands on his waist with a furrowed eyebrows on his face. “Oh honey, I told you not to allow her use the needles or even machine to amend dresses.” He reminded her.

“Oh! Come on Natty, stop acting like you don’t know Ria. She won’t listen.” Mrs Madison looked at her husband.

“Yes you are right, I know she can be stubborn but you should at least try to dissuade her from doing some certain things by herself like using the needles. I don’t want her hurting herself with a needle.” Mr Nathan pointed out.

Mrs Madison shrugged. “Well for me, I don’t want her to stop using the needle or learning to use machine. I love what she is doing and you should be glad she want to do something even with her condition.” She countered.

Mr Nathan drew in a deep breathe. “Okay… okay… please just keep an eye on her.” He raised his hands up in surrender.

“Yes I will keep an eye on her.” Mrs Madison replied.

Mr Nathan smile grew broader which caused his wife to raise her eyebrows slightly. “You look happy.” Mrs Madison said.

Mr Nathan went to his wife. “Of course I am happy because I have you and Ria in my life.” He said wrapping his hand around her waist. “But guess what?”

Mrs Madison smiled. “Just say it Nathan you know I am not good at guessing.” She pulled away from him.

“Well.. well I am done with the inheritance process so the lawyer called me and said I can have access to my own inheritance from next tomorrow.” Mr Nathan said with excitement in his tone.

Mrs Madison screamed and hugged Nathan. “Oh my goodness! This is great news!”

“Yes, once we have that money then Ria can get her eye surgery done. You will get a very bigger space enough to fit in like five to six sewing machines and we will be able to live in a very big house.. our dream house then all our dreams will come true.” Mr Nathan stated his plans.

Tears clouded Mrs Madison’s eyes as she embraced her husband tightly. “Yes my love! Yes! Yes! My love!” She screamed happily.

Mr Nathan pulled away from the embrace. “I love you.” He said.

“I love you too.” Mrs Madison leaned up and placed a quick kiss on her husband’s lips.

“We should tell Ria about it too.” Mr Nathan suggested and his wife nodded in agreement.

Chapter 02 Murdered in cold blood

 

IDAHO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

“BANG! BANG! BANG!”

Mr Nathan Robert heard a loud bang on the door and he couldn’t help but frown deeply when he looked at the alarm clock next to their bed. The time was 3:45 a. m in the midnight so who could be at the door?

“It is way too early for anyone to be here.” Mr Nathan grumbled. But maybe it is one of his wife’s customers that is here to collect his or her dress even though it was way too early to come for a dress. He thought.

Mr Nathan rubbed his sleepy eyes as he made his way to the door deciding that whoever was out there would receive glares and words for knocking at this hour.

“Who is out there?!” Mr Nathan yelled angrily when the bang came on the door again.

“I am so sorry, Mr Nathan but I am here to get my dress from Mrs Robert.” A feminine voice said.

“Please come back to get your dress in the morning.” Mr Nathan replied.

“Please Mr Robert, I have an interview as early as 7:00 a. m.” The feminine voice said again.

“Please come back by 6 or 6:30 to get your dress because my wife is asleep right now and I don’t want to disturb her.” Mr Nathan was about walking back into the room when he heard a masculine voice.

“Open this damn door or else I will break it down!”

That might be her husband and he sure meant business. Mr Nathan thought. And not wanting anyone to bring down the door he replied. “Okay.. okay.. Just a minute let me get my wife to give you the dress.”

“No… Mr Robert don’t wake her up just open up and let me get my dress and leave.” The feminine voice countered.

Mr Nathan yawned out loudly. Well most of his wife’s customers always come in to get a dress whenever she is not around to attend to them. “Are you sure you can identify your dress?” He asked.

“Yes Mr Robert.” The feminine voice replied.

Mr Nathan Robert walked back to the door and immediately he opened it a hard blow landed on his right eye. Mr Nathan screamed in pain which awaken his sleeping wife and blind daughter. Madison became frightened when she got to the living room to she see four well built men and a lady. They were all dressed in black outfits and masks on their faces and with guns in their hands.

“Who are they Maddie? She only said that she wanted her dress.” Mr Nathan winced in pains as he touched his bloodshot and swollen eye.

“Shut the fuck up!” The gang leader snarled at him.

“Dad, are you there?”Ria asked holding the walls trying to find her way to the sitting room.

“Bring the girl here!” The leader who was in his thirties gestured to one of his guys to bring Ria closer.

“Please what do you want from us?” Mr Nathan demanded after realizing that they are dangerous humans with weapons..

“You will find out very soon.” The gang leader replied.

One of the men dragged Ria to the centre of the room and sat her down forcefully beside her mom and dad.

“My child.” Madison mumbled as she touched her daughter.

“Mom.” Ria wrapped her hands around her mom quickly.

“Lock the door speedy.” The leader instructed and one of the guys named speedy went to lock the door.

“Please.. who are you?” Mr Nathan asked in fear.

“Mr Robert, we are the money make life gang.” The leader laughed wickedly.

“Money make life gang? Please… I.. don’t know what you want.. from us. But we have no money.” Mr Robert stammered.

“Well many know us in Idaho as MML.” The leader replied and the Robert gasped out in fear.

“Do you know us now?”

They all nodded fearfully and the gang laughed out loud. The leader dragged Ria away from her mom and caressed her cheeks while she shivered in fear.

“Please.. don’t.. touch her.. she is just a little girl.” Madison pleaded.

“Your daughter is a beauty, Mr Robert.” He tried to kiss Ria on her lips but she avoided him which was surprising to him. “Can your blind daughter see me?” He chuckled at his own question. How can a blind girl see him?

“She can’t but.. she can only feel.. things around her.” Mr Nathan replied shakily.

“What’s her name?!” The leader demanded.

“R.. I.. A. Her name is Ria.” Mr Nathan answered.

“Hmm… a beauty with a nice name. Ria do you know who the MML are?” The leader asked.

Ria nodded slowly. “We are really famous boss.. even the blind one know us.” Speedy joked and they all laughed.

The money make life gang are notorious robbers and hired assassins. Every young and old souls in Idaho know the MML but no one has ever seen their faces before and all effort to apprehend them have proved abortive.

“Perhaps should we take her with us Kelly?” The leader asked the only female among them as he grabbed Ria’s jaw.

Kelly rolled her eyes. “She is blind. And she will be of no use to us.” She replied out of jealousy.

He sat down on the closest couch “She will be Kelly.. because she is giving me a hard on.” The leader said pointing to his already protruded member down his pant which caused his team to laugh again.

“Boss, we can take her with us so she can serve you for a very long time.” Speedy replied.

“No.. no.. please don’t take her away. She is just a little girl. Please just tell me whatever it is you want.” Mr Nathan pleaded.

Madison crawled to the couch that the leader sat on. “Please don’t take her away from us.. she is our only child.” She held on to the leader’s leg. “She is just a little girl.” She begged.

“Well I like little ones.” The leader replied as he kicked Madison hands away and speedy threw a kick in her stomach and she screamed in pain.

“Mom!” Ria screamed as the leader released her. She tried to find her way to her mom but Kelly dragged her hair and held her down to a spot.

“Please don’t hurt my family.. please tell me what you want I am willing to pay you.” Mr Nathan begged.

“How much do you have with you?” The leader asked.

“I don’t have enough money but I can spare you… a five hundred dollars.” Mr Nathan stuttered.

The leader chuckled deviously. “You are so poor Robert. A poor man like you can’t pay us.”

Mr Nathan looked up at the leader. “Please that’s all I made from my driving and minor jobs yesterday.”

The leader did a tsk tsk sound. “Well I am not here for your money.” He collected a brown envelope from one of his guys and threw it to Nathan.

“I need you to sign these papers then I and my team will leave in peace.” He said in a flat tone.

Mr Nathan eyes scanned through the papers in the envelope. “It is the paper work to the inheritance your late father left for you so all you have to do is sign it.” The papers contained the transfer of inheritance to someone.

Tears clouded his vision. “Did Frederick send you guys.. to get me to sign these papers so he can have all my inheritance?” Mr Nathan asked.

“That’s none of your business just sign it!” The leader snapped.

Frederick is Nathan’s step brother. Frederick is an illegitimate child of Mr Frank Robert but he is the new CEO of Limos company. Mr Robert loves his mistress Antonia but ignored his legally married wife Emma because she couldn’t bear him a child after ten years of marriage. Antonia became Mr Robert mistress in the eleventh year of his marriage to Emma then she had a son. Fortunately Emma had her own son two years after Frederick was born.

Mr Nathan has never felt like a son to his dad and things got really worse for him after his mom passed away when he was barely sixteen. He was maltreated by Antonia and her son and went through series of hardship in their hands until he left home when he was eighteen. Nathan became a chauffeur and all sorts of jobs at that age just to put himself through college forgetting home completely but it was so unfortunate that he couldn’t get a better job after he graduated. Nathan had every chance to leave the state but he didn’t want give in to the thought because Idaho was where he was born and where his mom was laid to rest.

Nathan met Madison in a local factory where he worked as a truck driver. She was the seamstress in charge of sewing the workers wears. Madison is not so educated because she had dropped out of high school when she couldn’t afford to pay the tuition fees and she had no one to turn to because she was an orphan. When Ria came into the picture, at two results proved that she was blind and a solution was provided. Nathan started working several jobs per day just to feed his family and save up for his daughter’s eye surgery. They were happy with the little they had on the table and one could call them a happy family despite being poor.

On sick bed, Mr Frank Robert made his will and gave his companies to Frederick and he left millions of dollars for Nathan but it wasn’t compared to the value of the companies he willed to his illegitimate child. One day, Nathan Robert received a call about the death of his father and that he has some inheritance.

Nathan was not interested in owning any of his father’s properties but his wife convinced him to accept it for their daughter’s sake. Nathan also knows that with his inheritance, Ria could get her eye surgery and he would even have enough to get a big space for wife’s sewing business and also live the good life they have always envisioned. Nathan got a lawyer and used his saving for the inheritance process. Everything was fine, he had received a call that he could have access to the money and they were happy their dreams would come true. But Frederick has hired this gang to make him sign the transfer of inheritance document.

Mr Nathan shook his head in disagreement. “No.. no… I can’t sign it.” He declined.

The gang exchanged glances. “You’ll sign this papers and let me and my gang leave.”

Fury crashed over him as he looked straight at the leader. “No I won’t sign this papers! I won’t give my inheritance to that bastard!”

Madison looked up at her husband. “Nathan, please sign it.. just do it and let them go.” She pleaded with her husband.

Nathan shook his head. “No.. Maddie.. Ria has waited for too long.. Ria needs that money.”

“Dad just sign it.. sign it.. we will raise another money for my surgery.” Ria mumbled. She was scared of what this gang would do to them if her dad doesn’t do what they want.

“But Ria, that will take more time to save up for such huge amount of money.” Nathan swallowed hard even as he looked at his blind daughter being pinned down.

“Do it.” Ria sobbed.

“No! I won’t sign it! Look you can kill me. I would rather die than give my inheritance to that bastard!” Nathan said in a raised tone.

The leader pointed the gun at Madison and he pulled the trigger.

“Madison!” Nathan dropped down to his feet.

Ria figured her mom has been shot from her father’s words and the sound of the gun. “No.. no.. mom!” She struggled to free herself.

“I hate stubborn people! Don’t waste my time!” The leader coaxed as Nathan crawled to his wife’s bloody body. She was shot in the chest.

“Mom.. mom.. mom..” Ria sobbed.

“Take the girl to her mother’s body.” The leader instructed Kelly who dragged Ria to where her parents sat.

Ria traced her hand on the floor until she felt her mother’s hand. “Is she dead? Mom.. please.. talk.. to me.. Dad do something!” She cried.

“Ria.. my child.. always.. remember… that.. I lo.. love.. you.. and.. hold.. on.. to.. our dreams.. if -” Her voice trailed off.

“No.. no.. Maddie.. wake up.. I am sorry Maddie!” Nathan cried as he embraced his wife’s lifeless body.

“Mom!”

“Enough!” The leader snarled. Ria and Nathan became silent suddenly . “I hate sad dramas. Now are you ready to sign it? Robert, I’ll advise you sign it or she will be the next.” He pointed the gun at Ria.

“Sign it dad and let them go.. I don’t want to lose you too.” Ria pleaded.

The leader threw the paper and pen to Nathan. He laid his wife on the floor and with his bloody hand he signed the papers in tears. All their dreams crashed in one night. He had spend a lot on the inheritance process which was a huge sum of money his dad had left him. He had planned to pay for Ria’s eye surgery and establish his wife’s sewing business but he won’t be able to do any of that anymore. His whole dreams of buying a better house and making his family happy is gone with just his signature. Why did Frederick have to come after him when he has everything?

“Good of you, Robert.” The leader collected the paper and grinned wickedly. “But you know we can’t just leave like that anymore. I was willing to help if only you had signed the papers without me wasting my expensive bullet on your wife. But I am really sorry.” He pointed the gun at Ria.

Nathan raised his hands up. “Please don’t kill my daughter. I beg you. Please leave.. I already signed the papers.” He begged.

“No if I spare your lives you will tell the cops that Frederick sent us.” The leader smirked.

“No, I promise I won’t tell it to anyone. I’ll leave town as soon as you leave.. before daybreak. I’ll never mention it to anyone.” Mr Nathan rushed out his words.

The leader laughed. “So smart of you Robert.. but I don’t believe you. What would you tell the cops about your wife’s body? Frederick already paid for your lives.”

“Please don’t kill my dad.” Ria cried.

“Oh sorry about that beauty but don’t worry you will be fine without your dad… or maybe you will be with them soon too.” The leader gestured to Kelly to take her away.

“Let me go.. Dad.” Ria struggled blindly as Kelly dragged her away from her parents.

“Say your last prayers, Robert.” The leader pointed the gun at him.

“No please don’t… kill my dad.” Ria pleaded as hot tears burning down her cheeks.

Nathan looked at his daughter. He knew this was the end. “I love you, Ria.” And then she heard it again just like the first time-the sound of the gun.

“Dad! Somebody help!” Ria screamed out.

Kelly placed her hands on Ria’s mouth. “What do we do with her boss?” She asked.

Ria struggled to free herself. The leader pointed the gun again at Ria but dropped it when they heard a distance siren.

“Damn it! Someone called the cops!” She uttered and pushed Ria away. She was about shooting Ria.

“Don’t shoot her.” The leader stopped her.

“Why?” Kelly asked with a raised eyebrows.

“I want her.” He pointed to his erected member.

“But you can’t take her here! The cops are around the area!” Kelly argued.

Speedy hit Ria with the bottom of his gun and she passed out and slipped to the floor.

“Why speedy?!” The leader looked at him.

“We don’t have time to waste.. she is fine!” Speedy answered.

“Carry her! Come on! Move it! We have to leave!” The leader said as Speedy threw Ria on his shoulder and they all rushed out of the house.

Chapter 03 Physically violated

IDAHO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

AN UNDERGROUND HOUSE

Frederick walked into the dark office with only a dim lamp on the table providing brightness around the area. “Lucas, did you manage to get my brother to sign the documents?” His voice was loud and it echoed in the room.

“Yes, the job was a success.” The gang leader replied with a grin on his face.

A smug smile formed on Frederick lips when he saw Nathan’s signature. “He got blood on the papers?” He arched his brows.

“Yeah, his wife’s blood and he signed it with his bloody hands. Don’t worry, you can make a copy of it.” Lucas replied.

Frederick nodded in agreement. “Good job Lucas I know you won’t fail me.” One of his men in suit dropped a black box on the table and passed it to Lucas.

The box was filled with money. “Remember our deal Frederick.” Lucas said as Speedy closed the box after examining it.

“Aside this money I have to get 2% of that your brother’s inheritance.” Lucas added.

“Yes Lucas. I will send my men to you next week as soon as I have my stupid step brother buried beneath the earth.” Frederick chuckled.

Lucas nodded. “He is dead right? You made sure he breathe his last right?” Frederick demanded.

“Yes I killed him and his wife.” Lucas demonstrated with his hands how he had fired the gun at the couple.

“What about their child?” Frederick asked.

“I had fun with her in my car before dropping her off a cliff.” Lucas answered.

Frederick smiled happily as he stood up and shook hands with Lucas. “Thank you for the job well done.”

Lucas grinned. “It is nice doing business with you. Call me whenever you need my gang again.”

Frederick shook his head before walking out of the office with his men.

Speedy cleared his throat. “Why did you lie to him?”

Lucas looked at Speedy. “He might insist on killing the girl himself.” He replied.

“But boss don’t you plan to kill her?” Speedy asked again.

“I plan to kill her but not yet.” Lucas answered.

“What if he finds out that she is still alive and right here in our den?” Speedy grabbed the box on the table.

“Frederick is out of the picture now. He will never find out the girl is alive. And I just want to have fun with that little angel.” Lucas said rubbing his member that was getting erected.

“It has been a while boss.” Speedy laughed.

“Yes… and I don’t know why that little girl turns me on so badly.” Lucas chuckled.

“It must be because you have been too busy to even look at any woman.” Speedy said

“Where is she?” Lucas demanded.

“Kelly locked her up in your room.” Speedy answered.

“Is she awake?”

Speedy shook his head positively. “Yes boss.”

Lucas stood up from the chair. “Speedy, take care of things while I toy with my little Angel.”

He tapped on the desk before walking out of the office.

IN LUCAS ROOM

Ria was curled up in a corner of the room with tears dropping down her cheeks as she thought of her parents. Ria had wondered where she was when she regained consciousness. Ria knew this place wasn’t her home and she thought of what they would do to her.

Lucas walked into his room but didn’t see Ria in his bed. “Ria.” He called in a childish tone.

Fear gripped Ria immediately at the sound of his voice and she didn’t answer. Lucas only heard her soft sobs around his room. Soon he figured where she sat, he went to her and tried to touch her.

“My little angel is crying.” Lucas pouted.

She felt him so close to her. “Don’t touch me you monster!” She cried.

“Don’t be rude to me!” Lucas grabbed her and carried her to the bed.

“Let me go! Let me go! You monster!” Ria struggled in his hands as Lucas dropped her on his bed before climbing on top of her. Ria tried to fight him off but he was too strong.

“Hey bunny just stay clam so that you won’t get hurt.” Lucas tried to kiss Ria and on an impulse she moved her hand and a slap landed across his face. It came as a shock to him. No one has ever dared to hit him.

He loosened his hold on her as she crawled blindly around the bed. “You are a monster! You have no shame! You killed my parents you beast!” She cried out.

Lucas grabbed her again and he made a hit on her face. “I was thinking of going easy on you.” He grabbed her hands and placed it over her head. “But you just broke one of my rules! No one dares to touch me! I’ll have you roughly because it has been a while since I have been with a woman.” He gritted in anger before kissing her full on her lips.

Ria tried to avoid his lips but he grabbed her jaw and gave her a rough kiss. “Please.. don’t do.. this to me.” She said when he kissed her neck.

“Don’t blame me Ria but you affect me in a strong way.” Lucas said amidst kisses. He let her go, removed his belt and tied Ria’s hands with it before pulling off his trouser.

“Please..”

Ria knew she was about to be forced into something she never dreamt would ever happen to her. “Please don’t.. don’t do it.. I beg you.” She pleaded with more tears dropping down her cheeks.

“Don’t blame me Ria.. blame that greedy uncle of yours for hiring me to do this job.” Lucas grimaced.

Ria gave up as she grew weak and tears burned down her cheeks slowly as pain surge through her body. There was no point in fighting anymore and she silently cursed the day she was born into this wicked world. Lucas killed her parents and now he has forced himself on her.

At that point, Ria made a promise that if she ever survive in Lucas hands she would definitely take revenge on Frederick for the death of her parents and for causing her so much pain.

Chapter 04 Let us call you mom

CHICAGO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

EIGHT YEARS LATER

“Miss Ria! Miss Ria!” The children who used to live next door but now lives with her called out her name from the sitting room.

“Phoebe, Phoenix, I am in the kitchen!” Ria said loud enough for them to hear and in no time they were already beside her.

“Hey guys, how are you doing?” Ria asked as she cleaned her hand on a napkin to give them a high five.

“We are fine!” They chorused and Ria laughed.

“So what are you cooking?” The little man named Phoenix asked.

“Well I am just trying to prepare lunch.. or have you eaten at Ma’am Elise’s place?” Ria asked.

“No, ma’am Elise is not at home.” Phoebe answered.

“Okay now both of you should go inside the room and take a shower and after that you will eat your lunch-”

“Then we will tell you what happened at school today!” Phoenix completed her intended statement.

Well that’s how they do all the time. Phoebe and Phoenix both get the chance to tell Ria whatever happened at school or in their various classes each day.

“Okay miss Ria!” They both rushed out of the kitchen.

Telling Ria what happened in school is one of the best moments to her. Phoenix would argue for his turn anytime Phoebe wasn’t ready to stop talking and sometimes he ends up crying and Ria has to pet him with a chance to write in the measurement book. Phoebe and Phoenix are both siblings.

FLASHBACK

Phoebe is ten years old while Phoenix is seven years old. They used to live next to Ria’s house with their dad, Mr Lawson until he left them alone in their home. Their mom left three years ago after Mr Lawson lost his job and couldn’t fend for the family anymore. Well they actually moved to Chicago a year ago because Mr Lawson thought he was going to secure a better job in the state. The bills of putting his children through school and also paying house bill and others was too much for him being that the minor barman job wasn’t paying well so he felt the only way to escaped his responsibility was running away.

Mr Lawson left his kids alone in the house under the pretense of going to work. Phoebe came to Ria the next day and cried that Phoenix passed out. Ria asked about the whereabout of her dad just to let him know his child was unconscious but Phoebe said he hasn’t returned home since yesterday and that was so unusual of him.

Phoebe led Ria to their apartment right where Phoenix was and truly he was unconscious, his pulse was weak and Ria feared that he was going to die. Then without wasting time Ria instructed the little girl to call Ma’am Elise who stays three blocks away to inform her about it. And ma’am Elise ordered Ria to call 911 and she did as instructed with the help of Phoebe who wouldn’t stop crying.

Ma’am Elise arrived almost immediately after the ambulance came in and Phoenix was taken to the nearest hospital. Mrs Elise and Ria managed to calm Phoebe by assuring her that Phoenix would be fine.

“No, he won’t be miss Ria.” Phoebe whispered and Ria knew there was more to her words.

“What’s wrong?” Ria asked.

Phoebe spoke up again. “We haven’t eaten for days now because our dad didn’t have the money to buy us food.”

“Phoebe if this is about food, I will buy enough for you and your brother. Your brother will be fine.” Ria said.

“No, this is not just about the food.” Phoebe cried.

Ria exchanged glances with ma’am Elise. “Then Phoebe, tell me what is wrong?”

“Dad found out Phoenix was ill but he left us.” Phoebe sniffed.

“What illness?” Ria asked.

“Phoenix was diagnosed of Appendix and dad doesn’t have the money to get his surgery done.” Phoebe explained.

Ria’s jaw dropped immediately. “Do you know where your dad might be?” Ma’am Elise asked.

“He is gone.. he is not coming back again.” Phoebe mumbled.

“What do you mean?” Ria questioned.

Phoebe sniffed again. “I saw the note he left under the TV. He left because we are nothing but a burden to him.” She sobbed loudly.

“Phoebe, perhaps do you know his workplace?” Ma’am Elise asked.

“I went there already.. but a man said he stopped working there about two weeks ago after he got fired for engaging in a fist fight with a customer. And he also got into trouble with the cops so he is probably hiding now.” Phoebe answered.

Ria and Ma’am Elise were speechless not knowing what to do about the situation. So Ma’am Elise pulled the little girl in for a hug.

Phoebe said was true, the doctor confirmed it that Phoenix had appendix and he needed to undergo appendectomy to remove the Vermiform Appendix immediately or he might die. Phoebe had pleaded with the doctor to save her brother that she was going to repay him after she had saved enough little did she know that hospitals don’t work that way.

Ria knew there was only one way to save Phoenix’s life which was using a part of the money she was saving up for her eye surgery to pay up the medical bills. It wasn’t an easy decision to make, she went through a lot to save up that little amount of money but if she decided to keep saving it for her eye surgery then Phoenix would die. Settling the bills would save Phoenix’s life so after much thinking Ria paid for it.

Ria Robert is blind but she can still do some many things with her condition but being dead means it is the end of existence. She doesn’t want that for the little boy that is so full of joy. Ria would always think of what she went through in Lucas’s den and how someone had also showed up to save her.

Phoenix surgery was successful and in few weeks he was back to being the exuberant child that he is. Ria never regretted giving up her money to save his life. But what would become of them now that Phoenix was fine?

Ma’am Elise suggested that they take them to the children center but both siblings refused saying that they would rather starve to death than go to the children center. Ria didn’t want them to wonder about the street or get separated at the children centre so she made another decision to raise them like her own children since she doesn’t see herself trusting any man or have anything to do with one of them not after what Lucas did to her.

Ria and Ma’am Elise decided to become their guardians and ever since then they have been staying with Ria. And the children are happy that Ria had offered to take them in. They both promised to repay her someday but that isn’t necessary because she would keep praying for their dad to get a better job and think of his children. And with the help of ma’am Elise, they have been able to get a court note to raise the children.

FLASH FORWARD

What Phoebe and Phoenix went through three months ago was too much for their mental health especially the part of abandonment by both parents.

“Miss Ria, are we ready for lunch?” Phoenix asked.

Ria giggled. “Sure we are ready for lunch. Sit down and let me serve you.”

“Let me help you.” Phoebe said.

Ria sensed Phoebe’s presence by her side as she looked for a spoon and the little girl handed her one. You might be wondering how blind people go about living their lives like other normal people do. How they can walk without tripping on the ground and without crashing themselves into something that can injure them. You think of how they read, will there be someone who will read them something interesting or stories or the newspaper? You also ask yourself how can they know people? Since there are a lot of bad people out there anything can happen to a blind person such as being robbed.

Many times Ria have always wished that she could see maybe just once. Her eyeballs are always opened but she couldn’t see anything. Ria only relied on her sense of touch. She was born blind and she has learned what normal people usually did using her other senses especially the sense of touch.

Usually disabled people would be discriminated from the rest of the society simply because they did thing much slower and people presumed that blind people could not do things that normal people could do as well. Ria could possibly prove that all these are not true.

Ria Robert started using the needle to mend clothes at the age of seven and she could use the sewing machine in her blind state at the age of twelve. Disable people could not do anything you say? But Ria could pick up a pencil and draw out any design of clothes you can think of according to description. There are other ways for a blind person to function like normal people, one of it is that the other senses would become more sensitive, like the sense of hearing and sense of touch.

“Miss Ria on our way back from school Phoebe said she wants to tell you something when we get home.” Phoenix said.

“What is it Phoebe?” Ria asked as they all settled to eat their food.

“Nothing Miss Ria.” Phoebe replied in a low tone as she shot her brother a glare. “You are such a loose mouth, Phoenix.”

Ria heard Phoebe whispered to Phoenix. “Phoebe, it is fine if you don’t want to talk about it now. We can have a discussion later on.” Ria managed a small smile on her face.

“Of course she wants to talk about it but she doesn’t know how to present it to you.” Phoenix answered.

“Okay.. don’t worry Phoebe tell me whatever it is you want to say when you are ready. And-” Ria paused. “Phoenix, you will read one of your books to me.” She completed.

“Okay… but are you not sewing a dress today?” Phoenix asked.

“I will do it tomorrow.” Ria answered.

“But why not today?” Phoenix grumbled.

“I can’t do anything today because I am expecting Ma’am Elise to bring in the materials.” Ria replied.

“Okay.” Phoenix got back to eating his food.

Phoenix loves the sewing business and one of his favorite aspects of sewing is writing down measurement while Phoebe’s job is to take measurement according to Ria’s instructions and at times to confirm the numbers on the tape rule whenever ma’am Elise is not around and she was the one doing the measuring.

Phoebe and Phoenix have known about these things even before their dad left. They always work together with Ria whenever their dad wasn’t around to watch them at night and during weekends. They all work together on weekends after Ria must have made sure that they are done with school school works. That excitement of calling out measurement whenever Ria is about to cut a dress makes the children do their school works without being told to do so. At ten now, Phoebe can mend dresses of her age and Ria feels indeed blessed to have them around her because the children have been really helpful to her.

They all ate in silence for few minutes until Phoebe dropped her spoon and cleared her throat. “Miss Ria.” She called.

“Yes Phoebe.” Ria answered.

“Well… actually Phoenix and I have been thinking of everything you have done for us. I mean, you have been really good to us and you have done too much for us even what our parents couldn’t do for us. Miss Ria, you enrolled us in a good school, you feed us three times a day and you even give us whatever we need. So we realize that you are just like a mother to us.. and that’s why-” Phoebe shared a look with her brother who winked a sign to signify that she should continue her words.

“Phoebe-”

Phoebe interrupted Ria. “Phoenix and I have decided that we stop calling you miss Ria.”

Ria arched her eyebrows. “So what do you plan to call me?” She asked.

“We want to call you-” Phoebe paused and urged her brother to say the word.

“Mom.” Phoenix completed.

“Mom?” Ria repeated.

“Yes.” They both chorused.

“We want to call you mom since you have decided to raise us as your own children. It’s so kind of you to accept us into your life.” Phoebe added.

Ria was silent as the children waited for her to say something. “Perhaps you don’t like it?” Phoenix asked in a low tone.

Ria waved her hand in the air. “No.. no.. that’s not-” She blinked back tears that threatened to spill any moment from now.

She has never thought of having any kid to call her mom but now her adopted children wants to call her mom. Phoenix exchanged glances with his sister when he noticed the sting of tears in his eyes.

“You don’t have to cry. We only need someone we can look up to as our mother and you fit in that picture.” Phoebe said as they moved closer to her side.

Ria sniffed. “No, I am not crying. I am just a bit emotional at the moment.” She plastered a small smile on her face.

“This is the best thing that Phoenix and I feel we can do now to repay you for helping us.” Phoebe wiped the tears that strayed down Ria’s cheeks with her fingertips.

“Yes. We love you so much too.” Phoenix said.

“Even if we can’t repay you back with a huge sum of money now, we can do well at taking care of you and I am sure someday my brother and I will have lots of money.” Phoebe said again.

Ria raised her hand up until she touched Phoenix face and she managed to pull the both of them in for a hug. “Listen, you don’t have to repay me. Phoenix and Phoebe, you both are one of the best things that has ever happened to me in life. And I love you so much.”

The children hugged her tightly. “We love you too.” Phoebe whispered.

“Mom, we already informed our friends at school that you are our mother.” Phoenix said after Ria released them.

“You did that?” Ria smiled.

“Yes. They are always questioning us about our mom so when we didn’t know what else to say. So we told them you are our mom.” Phoebe said happily

“And they didn’t mock us for having a blind mom.” Phoenix spoke up too.

“Well actually a boy mocked me but others in class defended me. They said that my blind mom was able to put my brother and I in a private school and not a public school. I think that’s enough to prove that you are the best mom in the world!” Phoebe giggled.

“Yeah Phoebe actually kicked the boy’s butt when he tried to mock her.” Phoenix laughed.

“Hey Phoebe, you shouldn’t go about kicking anybody at school. I don’t want you to get into trouble with anyone.” Ria cautioned her.

“Well I am ready to get into trouble with someone who thinks ill of you.” Phoebe pouted.

“Same with me too… I will cut their heads with my homemade sword.” Phoenix demonstrated his animated fighting skills which Ria sensed that he would do.

“Oh my little man! You must be getting better at your fighting skills.” Ria giggled as Phoenix snuggled closer to her again.

“Yes! I am doing great! I am going to protect you too” Phoenix coaxed.

Ria pinched his cheeks. “Thank you for offering to protect me and I am glad that I have been able to help you.”

“Thank you for taking care of us too.” Phoenix kissed her cheeks.

“Since you have haven’t been out for days now so I suggest we all take a walk.” Phoenix suggested.

“Yes! That’s a great idea!” Phoenix jumped in excitement.

“Sure we will do just that when the sun goes down.” Ria replied.

“An evening walk around the park.” Phoebe gave her brother a high five.

“Yes. Go back and eat up so we can wash the dishes before heading out.” Ria instructed them.

“Okay.” The said in unison.

They all ate their meals. Phoebe and Ria washed the dishes while Phoenix was busy arranging the workshop area. Then they both settled to finish up their school works while Ria did a few counting of steps in her head.

When the sun was down, they head out of the house for an evening walk after everything planned was done.

Chapter 05 A thief at the park

Mr Jack Bryant, the founder of Lint Corporation is one of the richest men in the United States of America. Actually on Forbes list, he ranked first as the richest man in Chicago. His corporation is rated top one in America. Lint corporation dabbled in everything, hotels, restaurants, spas, technologies and textiles. It is a multi billionaire industry.

His wife, Mrs Perla Bryant is a famous Jeweler in Chicago. She is the owner of Perla Jewelries, the biggest accessories store in the state. His first child is Josie and she is in charge of the hotels. The second child named Lauren is in charge of the restaurants and spas. The third child is piper and she is in charge of the textiles industry.

The fourth child and only son is Ian Bryant. A tall handsome man. A perfect combination of good looks and wealth. His brown hair is gelled up to fit his perfectly sculpted face. Wrestlers shoulders were part of his muscular physique and a well chiseled chest. His eyebrows are thin and narrow, piercing black eyes and well defined cheekbones. He has a charisma that would entice any woman. He has a domineering attitude and the aura of authority hovered around him. He is twenty six years old.

Ian Bryant has everything, striking good looks, intelligence, riches and women pooling at his feet. He is a billionaire. He is the one overseeing all the corporation activities as the chief executive officer.

The voIp phone on the desk binged and Ian picked it. “Hello sir, the files you requested from the technological branch just entered into my system.” Grace, the secretary said over the phone.

“Transfer it to my system now.” Ian Bryant instructed.

“Okay sir.” Grace replied.

“Grace, please call me Ramsey. I need to talk to him.” Ian added.

Grace hummed a positive response before the line went off. Seconds clicked by and his system beeped signifying files transferred from his secretary’s system. A soft knock sounded on the door at the same time.

“Come in, Ramsey.” Ian said loud enough for anyone outside the door to hear him.

A handsome looking man walked in with the company’s tablet and some paper works in his hands. Ramsey is the CEO’s personal assistant. “Sir, here are the paper works you requested.”

Ian tapped on the desk and his personal dropped the files on it. Being a chief executive officer is stressful and tiring. Ian barely has time for himself or even some breathing space because he is always buried in files, paper works, contracts and deals from several branches of the corporation. And he can’t leave any work undone or else it would affect the smooth running of the corporation.

“Ramsey, do I have any meeting today?” Ian asked.

“Yes sir.” Ramsey replied as his eyes flickered at the tablet to check his boss schedule.

“Who am I supposed to meet after handling these paperwork?” Ian questioned without looking up from the system.

“Sir, you have a meeting with Miss Lorna Simmons.” Ramsey answered.

Ian couldn’t help but roll my eyes. “Please call her and let her know that I am too busy to meet up with her today.” He rubbed his temples gently.

“Olay sir… but Miss Lorna might decide to come here herself.” Ramsey said.

“Well if Lorna comes around just tell her that I am in a meeting with the board of directors.” Ian replied.

“Okay sir but-”

Ian glanced up at his personal assistant. “What is it again Ramsey?” He demanded. Ramsey never gets tired of using the word but especially when it concerns Miss Lorna Simmons.

“Well Sir, you know how funny Miss Lorna can be.. I mean she might decide to barge into the meeting just to see you.” Ramsey stuttered.

Yeah he is right! Lorna can actually do that to confirm if Ian is really in a meeting. “She is such a pain in the neck.” Ian muttered as he placed his palms in his face. “Do I have any other meetings again?” He doesn’t have the strength to deal with Lorna today.

“No sir.” Ramsey answered.

“Are there other files remaining after these ones?” Ian asked.

“No sir.” Ramsey replied.

“Okay.. okay then I will leave the office soon. I need to clear my head.” Ian loosened his tie.

“Should I get the car ready?” Ramsey asked.

“No, I will just take a taxi and probably stop by at a park to relax myself. I don’t need a company.” Ian responded.

“Sir, is there anything else that you need?” Ramsey’s gaze met his boss.

“Hmm yeah… get me my dark glass and a nose mask just to hide my identity.” Ian answered.

“Okay sir. I’ll be right back with the items.” Ramsey bowed slightly before he walked out of the office

******

AT THE PARK

Ria, Phoebe and Phoenix walked down the street, singing a rhyme as they headed straight to a mini park not far to their home. Phoebe held Ria’s right hand with her purse in her other hand just in case they needed to buy something at the park while Phoenix held Ria’s left hand.

“Mom, there are not much people at the park today.” Phoenix said after her eyes surveyed the area.

“Well could it be because today is Friday and not Saturday?” Phoenix asked.

“I am not sure. If you don’t like it here then we can go to a restaurant if you want, Phoenix.” Ria replied.

“Yeah I love that! So we can buy ice cream!” Phoenix jumped by her side.

“That’s a waste of money since we ate before leaving home.” Phoebe scolded her brother with a glare.

“No Phoebe, we don’t have to buy some thing all that expensive. I mean an ice cream will do.” Ria said to her.

“Look mom! There is an ice cream stand over there!” Phoenix screamed in excitement when he saw a man parking his van close to the roadside.

“Where?” Ria asked as if she could see.

“There! Right there.. oh I think he is trying to pack the van under the tree!” Phoenix answered.

“Okay. Phoebe pick some notes from the purse and get two ice cream.” Ria instructed.

“Okay mom.” Phoebe replied.

“I will stay with mom while you get the ice cream.” Phoenix said to his sister.

“Alright. I’ll be right back.” Phoebe gave Ria the purse before racing off to get ice cream.

“Mom, there is a bench over there we should go and sit on it.” Phoenix said

“Will it be easy for Phoebe to find us?” Ria questioned.

“Yes mom. It is closer to the ice cream spot.” Phoenix responded.

And he led Ria to towards the bench as they count steps together but all a sudden a man bumped into her and then the purse slipped off from her hand.

“Hey! Can’t you see?!” Phoenix snapped.

“My purse.. did it fall to the ground?” Ria trembled.

Phoenix checked the floor but it wasn’t there and his eyes trailed on the man who had bumped into Ria. He smirked at the little boy and placed a finger on his lips to silent him. “He just snatched your purse!” Ria heard Phoenix’s cry while she lost her balance when he stumbled in an attempt to get the purse from the man.

“Are you okay Phoenix?” Ria crouched down trying to find him then she touched a part of his body, his leg precisely and he cried. The man ran off too quickly.

“Sorry.. Sorry Phoenix.” Ria whispered shakily.

“I am fine mom.. but that man just snatched your purse.” Phoenix said.

Phoebe heard her brother’s voice from where she stood to get ice cream. “Look that guy running ahead is a thief! He has snatched my mom’s purse!” She screamed but it was as if no one cared about going after the thief since there were just few people at the park.

“Thieves at the park again? I should close up before they come rob my earnings.” The ice cream man panicked.

“Are you okay mom?” Phoenix asked.

“Yes.. yes.. I am fine..” Ria’s voice trembling.

Phoebe rushed back to Ria and her brother. “I will go after him.” She said.

“No.. no.. it is dangerous to go after a thief just let him go. We should take care of your brother. Is he badly hurt?” Ria managed to say.

“Somebody help! He just snatched my mom’s purse!” Phoebe screamed again.

“But the money in the purse is enough to feed in the next two days.” Phoenix grumbled.

“Don’t worry.. I still have enough money at home.” Ria answered.

“It is all my fault. I shouldn’t have suggested getting ice cream.” Phoenix blamed himself in a sad tone.

“No it is not your fault. No one should be blamed for what happened today okay?” Ria mumbled.

“Okay.” They shook their heads.

“Mom, why don’t you just rest a bit before we head back home.” Phoebe suggested.

“Is Phoenix leg fine? Does he have a bruise on it?” Ria asked.

“He is fine.” Phoebe answered before she helped Ria settle down in a bench.

“Are sure your brother didn’t get hurt from that fall?” Ria asked again.

“It is just a scratch.” Phoebe replied.

“We should go home and clean it up. It can’t be infected.” Ria stood up from the bench.

About three minutes later, Ria heard a masculine voice.”Hello.”

Immediately Ria’s body trembled when she heard the voice. “Mom he brought back your purse!” The children exclaimed.

“I didn’t know someone paid attention to me.” Phoebe added.

Ria tried to control her body. Actually what Lucas did to her has imbibed a fear for men in her. If she comes in close contact with them, extreme anxiety and tremors set in within her. Ria never want to get close to anyone of them again.

“I hope everyone is okay? I am sorry about what the thief did to you. I heard her scream while I was on phone so I went after him. Here is your purse.” Ian rushed out his words even as he tried to breathe out heavily at the same time.

Ria didn’t reach out to take her purse back. “Thank you.” Phoebe room the purse from him.

“Thank you for getting back our mom’s purse!” Phoenix thanked him.

“You are welcome.” Ian replied.

“Thank.. you.” Ria whispered in low tone. It was polite enough to say thank you for retrieving her purse.

“I am glad that.. I helped.” Ian replied.

“Let us go home so you can clean up your wound, Phoenix.” Ria said.

“Okay mom.” Phoebe helped her brother up before moving to Ria’s side to hold her hand.

“Bye bye, mister.” Phoenix waved at him.

“Bye.” Ian replied before they walked away from the him.

“Are you okay, mommy?” Phoenix asked her.

“Yes.. yes I.. am.. fine.. I am fine.” Ria stammered.

“But… your palms are sweaty and you are trembling. Is this because of the thief?” Phoebe demanded.

“Am I? I was just shocked.. that someone snatched my purse.” Ria said shakily.

It was true. She couldn’t control the feeling of fear and she was breathing faster than the normal rate.

“That man is a bad guy!” Phoenix hissed out.

“We can hold on a bit if you need to relax your mind.” Phoebe said.

“No let us just go home. We should leave before something else happens to us.” Ria response was sharp and immediate. She didn’t want to stay around because she was feeling like the man was still right behind her.

“Okay mom.” Phoebe muttered.