Ch. 51..55: Blind Billionaire Bride Chapter 51-55

Chapter 51 Start a family

“You look pretty Alexis.”

Bay complimented the maid who had a pretty red rose sitting in her her hair. She moved a chair at the dinning and sat in it.

“Thank you, miss Bay.” Alexis replied with a smile as she dished out food.

Bay picked up a spoon and stuffed food in her mouth. “Wow! This is so good! Delicious!” She have Alexis a thumps up.

Minutes clicked by and Bay became irritated at the taste of food in her mouth. All of a sudden, bile rose up at the back of her throat from the taste of the food she complimented earlier on. Immediately Bay placed her hands over lips as she ran to the bedroom at a fast speed and then into the bathroom. She emptied out the contents in her mouth.

Bay heard footsteps in her room. Mrs Sander walked into the bathroom and held her daughter’s hair up behind her head. “Are you okay?” She passed Bay some papers from the toilet roll.

“I am fine.” Bay nodded with her head feeling so light and dizzy.

Bay lifted a hand to pull herself up with her mom trying to help her by the side. She staggered a little with her vision getting blurry by seconds.

“Bay, are you okay? Bay? Bay!” Mrs Sanders called out but soon her voice faded off as Bay’s eyes rolled to the back of her head and darkness claiming her as its own.

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

LIMOS COMPANY

“So how is the company fairing?”

Mrs Robert Frederick asked his son after sipping on a glass of champagne.

“Dad, the company is doing just fine. I have been able to run it well.” Drake replied.

“Yeah I know, you are doing a great and that’s why I am so proud of you!” Mr Frederick chuckled.

Now Drake began to wonder why his father suddenly showed up at the company. Frederick Robert hasn’t been to the company for months now. Drake doesn’t want his father at the company anymore. He expected that his dad should sit his butt at home with his wife because he is in charge now!

“Look Drake, I know I shouldn’t be here but we need to have this conversation.” Mr Frederick said.

“What conversation?” Drake asked.

Mr Frederick cleared his throat. “I can see you are very busy with the company’s affairs but have you ever thought of getting married and having kids?”

“What?!” Drake’s jaw dropped at his father’s unexpected question.

“You heard me son. I want children. I want to see those little things playing around our home. It is high time you settle down with a woman and start your own family.” Mr Frederick stated clearly.

“Dad-”

“Find a woman.” Mr Frederick interrupted him.

“Listen dad, can we not talk about starting a family now?”

“Why shouldn’t we talk about you starting a family?” Mr Frederick scrunched up his face.

“I am a busy man. I am a work oriented man and I don’t have the time to start a family.” Drake responded.

“Don’t be all work and no play. I was able to have my own family as well as running the company.” Mr Frederick emphasized.

“Dad, I am not ready to start a family. I have better dreams for the company and starting a family now will stop me from fulfilling it.” Drake stated with a frown on his face.

“No, starting a family is not going to affect your dreams for the company. Hold up…” Mr Frederick paused to study his son.

“What?” Drake fumed.

Mr Frederick cleared his throat. “Drake, I haven’t seen you with any woman. Perhaps, are you having problems with your sexual system?” His voice came out in a rasp.

“I am fine dad. I don’t have any problems. I just don’t have the time for women.” Drake replied with a shrug.

“You should make out time. Do I need to hit seventy before I get to see your children?!” Mr Frederick voice was unusually high.

“No dad.” Drake grumbled.

“So get a woman.”

“It is not that easy to find a woman. Dad, you don’t expect to just go into the street and pick any woman. I am busy.” Drake pointed to the files on his desk.

“Okay. If you are too busy to find a woman then I will find a woman for you. A beautiful and a good woman.” Mr Frederick sipped his champagne again.

Drake furrowed his eyebrows. “Dad, don’t try to do it.”

“As a matter of fact, I already found a pretty lady that will interest you.” Mr Frederick chuckled.

“Who is she?” Drake asked.

“Her mom is a very good friend of mine.” Mr Frederick answered.

“A very good friend or one of your ex girlfriends?” Drake closed the blue print file he just signed.

Frederick Robert laughed. “Serena Sanders is just an old friend and we used to be good business partners.”

“Sanders?” Drake repeated.

“Yes. Serena Sanders, she is the wife of late Rex Sanders the famous Architect in the state.”

“Oh! You mean Sanders Architectural Firm!” Drake remembered.

“Yes. Serena Sanders took over the company after the death of her husband.” Mr Frederick explained.

“Is she architect?” Drake questioned.

“Yes and her only daughter is also an architect.” Mr Frederick set the glass on the table.

Drake looked up at his father. “Is she famous? I mean.. Serena Sanders daughter.”

Mr Frederick shook his head. “She is not famous because Serena did a good job at hiding her from the public. I am sure that’s why you haven’t heard about her.”

“So have you met her?” Drake asked again.

Mr Frederick was ready to answer all questions because he could see that his son seemed interested in the topic. “Yes. I met her when she was about sixteen years old.”

“That’s a long time ago.” Drake rolled his eyes.

“Yeah. But I can assure you that you will like Serena’s daughter. She is not one of those rich spoilt heiress. Serena took her time to raise her well after Rex passed on.”

Drake picked up another file. “Interesting.”

A bright beam flashed Mr Frederick’s face. “So should I set up a meeting?”

“I will think about it.” Drake replied.

“That’s a yes. Don’t disappoint me if Serena agrees to let you meet her daughter.” Mr Frederick pointed at his son.

Drake nodded. “How is your wife doing?”

“Your mom is fine. Oh! That’s reminds me! I was with Jack Bryant two weeks ago. We met at the gulf centre in Alabama and from what I found out he doesn’t know anything about his corporation anymore.” Mr Frederick said.

“His daughters are the ones heading the branches while his only son is overseeing their activities.” Drake inscribed his signature on a file.

“Yeah he told me.”

“And I was with Mrs Perla weeks back. We were supposed to sign a deal but it didn’t work out.” Drake looked straight at his father.

“Why?” Mr Frederick arched his brows.

“The old lady insisted on forty five percent of the deal because they will be shipping the goods to Idaho. Forty five percent is too much for such a deal so I insisted on thirty percent but she refused.” Drake explained.

“You should have informed me about it. I would have talked to Jack or Perla directly. I have a good relationship with everyone in Bryant’s family.” Mr Frederick retorted.

A frown creased Drake’s expression. “Dad, I am in charge of the company now so let me run things here.”

Mr Frederick threw his hand up in surrender. “Alright. So are you giving in to Perla’s request of forty five percent?” He asked.

“No. I am agreeing to giving out just thirty percent in the deal.” Drake replied.

“Listen son, you know it is not bad to give them forty percent while we have sixty percent.” Mr Frederick said in a calm tone.

Drake shook his head in disagreement “No dad. The forty five percent they are requesting is for just the shipping process. That’s a whole lot of money and I want us to have the best of this deal!” He pointed out.

“Then I suggest you strike deal with another shipping company. I am certain other shipping company will agree to your terms no matter what.” Mr Frederick suggested.

Drake heaved out a sigh of frustration. “Dad, you and I know that Lint corporation is still the best in shipping things to Idaho. The guarantee is sure and safe.”

“So what do you want to about this deal?” Mr Frederick asked.

“I will set up a meeting with Ian Bryant and talk to him about it.” Drake answered.

“And you think Ian will accept the thirty percent you are willing to give?”

“I will persuade him.” But that’s easier said than done. Drake knew Ian must have warned his mother about the deal. At this point, Drake doesn’t know how he would be able to get the best of this deal. Just when Drake thought Mrs Perla Bryant was a soft cookie, she insisted on forty five percent without changing her mind!

Mr Frederick cleared this throat again. “Just make sure that we keep partnering with Lint Corporation. I don’t want our company to lose it value with Lint Corp.” He stood up to leave.

His words sounded like a threat to his son. Drake wondered if something would happen if his company stop partnering with Lint Corp.

“Sure dad.” Drake mumbled as he stood up from the swivel chair.

“I hope so. Take care.”

Drake followed his father out of the office.

Chapter 52 A baby for Drake Robert

IDAHO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

AT THE HOSPITAL

Bay could hear hushed voices as she laid on a bed. Where am I? She thought. Bay pry open her eyes before closing them again quickly due to the lights above in the ceilings.

“She is awake.”

Bay heard someone say and the words sounded very close to her. Finally she opened her eyes again and blinked rapidly to clear her vision. A woman dressed in a white coat was standing by the side of the bed.

“Bay, you are awake.”

She heard a familiar voice say gratefully. “Yes. What am I doing at the hospital ?” She tried to get up but the doctor stopped her.

“You shouldn’t move yet.” The female doctor pushed her back down lightly.

Bay frowned in confusion. “What happened?” Her voice came out as a rasp. She looked at her mother who passed her a glass of water. Bay noticed the concerned look her mother shot at her even as she accepted the glass and drank from it.

“Why am I here?” Bay asked again.

“You don’t know why you are the hospital?” Mrs Sander arched her eyebrows.

“Know what? What should I know? I woke up not too long and found myself in the hospital so how am I supposed to know?” Bay demanded with clear annoyance clear in her tone.

The female doctor and Mrs Sanders exchanged glances. Bay watched her mother shut her eyes as the doctor cleared her throat hesitating a little before speaking.

“Listen miss Bay, you are expecting.”

“I am.. I am what?” Bay’s mind was blank. She couldn’t comprehend what the female doctor just said.

“You are pregnant.” The female doctor announced after some seconds of silence.

You are pregnant. Those words echoed in Bay’s head and she tried to process it.

“I’ll leave her with you, Mrs Sanders. She needs to get more rest. Ensure she drinks more water and she should always take the prenatal vitamins.”

Bay could hear the doctor explaining things to her mother whose eye were on her with her lips pressed together. “I am pregnant.” Bay said within as she caress a hand over her belly.

There is a life in her stomach and she didn’t know. She never thought of it. It has never occurred to me that she could possibly be pregnant.

Almost ten weeks and she haven’t heard from Drake Robert. He never called and Bay has been finding it hard to accept what her heart has been telling her. She didn’t want to agree that the night well spent didn’t mean anything Drake Robert. Bay refused to accept that Drake could have really chalk things up, everything they shared that night to a mere fling. That night means a lot to Bay and she had expected a call which never came!

Now she is pregnant! She is carrying Drake Robert’s child! This wasn’t how Bay expected things to turn out for her.

“Who is the father?”

Bay stunned out of thought when she heard her mother’s voice. How would she explain things to her mom? Tears gathered in her eyes but Bay knew she has to be strong for her baby! At that point, Bay concluded that she would tell her mother the whole truth. And if perhaps her mother decides to disown her for this reason then she would leave town and raise her child alone because it was obvious that Drake won’t accept the child. He thinks Bay is a whore and she doubt it if he knew that he took away her virginity that night.

“How did you manage to get yourself into a mess like this?” Mrs Sanders demanded.

Bay’s jaw dropped slightly. “A mess? You are calling my child a mess?” She furrowed her eyebrows. She decided again that she won’t have this discussion with her mom.

Bay wanted to get out of bed but her mom held her down. “You need to rest.”

“No, I don’t need to rest. A mess? This is my child and it doesn’t matter how I became pregnant!” Bay yelled at her mother as tears dropped down her cheeks.

Mrs Sander sat at the edge of the bed and held her daughter’s hands. “I am sorry. Listen Bay..” Her voice trailed off. She reached out to wipe her daughter’s cheeks and Bay relaxed a bit. “You are my sweet child and I am not going to leave you because you are pregnant. Please just tell me the father of your child.” Her voice was so calm.

Bay swallowed hard. “No mom. It is really hard to explain how I got my baby.” She sobbed.

Finding it hard to explain things to her mother made Bay realize so many things at that point.

What was she thinking? Going to an extent of acting like a whore just to spend some time with the man she fell in love with on a business show.

“You can tell me about it.” Mrs Sanders persuaded.

“I am sorry mom.” Bay apologized.

“Yes I know. I know, you are sorry.” Bay nodded in agreement. “So just tell me the truth so we can know what to next.”

“What to do? What to do next? In what way?” Bay raised a brow.

“Yes what to do about this situation.” Mrs Sander said.

Bay let go of her mom’s hand immediately. “I am not having an abortion!” Bay screamed at her mother.

Mrs Sanders eyes widened in shock. “No.. no.. I am not suggesting an abortion! How can I even think of such for my own daughter? This is my grandchild! And I just want know who impregnated you!” She gritted still trying to control her angry towards her child.

“Mom….” Bay cried.

Mrs Sanders let out a shaky breath “Bay, tell me the truth because I haven’t seen any man around you. So I-”

“And whose fault is that mom?! Whose fault is it that I don’t have a man in my life?” Bay snapped at her mom.

“Bay!”

“I am twenty four years but you still treat me like a kid! I was never free! Ever since dad passed on, I have been feeling like a caged bird. I leave home and head to school then back home, no social life, no meeting up with friends and I never even had a boyfriend! I couldn’t fall in love even in college because you had eyes everywhere to look out for me. And each time I want to mingle or love someone, somehow they slapped it right to my face that I was a momma girl. Even after graduating from college, I thought things was going to change but it didn’t. I gave you everything you wanted mom. I was a good girl, I had good grades, graduated with a first class degree in architecture. I studied hard thinking If I did maybe things would change instead you only made sure that I always go to work everyday and draw out more structures for our clients. All I do is work my ass out at the firm, build bridges and constructing buildings. You didn’t give me the freedom I craved for.” Bay rushed out her words as more tears streamed down her cheeks.

Mrs Sanders was shocked by her daughter’s sudden outburst. “I fell in love again and made a decision that I would find that love. And I did find him and I met the one my heart beats for but I did the most stupid thing anyone who was naive could have done. And if only I had experience on how to start a proper relationship then maybe all this won’t have happened! But trust me, I won’t give in to the thought of regret because of what I did. I gave myself to the one I love but its just so sad that he doesn’t care. They say he is a bad guy but I am not buying that because for the first time in my lifetime I had a real conversation with man and I flowed with him freely that night. I was happy to be with him in just one night!” Bay stopped talking with her chest rising and falling.

“Who.. who is he?” Mrs Sander asked shakily.

“Drake Robert.” Bay confessed.

Mrs Sanders eyes widened in shock. “What?! Drake Robert?!” She gasped out.

Bay shook her head in agreement. “Drake Robert is the father of my child.” She swallowed the lump which formed at the back of her throat.

“Listen Bay… are you sure.. that Drake is the man that fathered.. your child?!” Mrs Sanders stuttered.

“Yes, I have never been with any man. The night I spent with Drake was my first.” Bay answered.

A tear slipped down Mrs Sanders cheeks. “But why didn’t you tell me you were in love with Drake Robert?”

“What would you have done? Call him up and tell him about it? No! If I had told you about my feelings then you would have grounded me for life!” Bay shot back at her mom.

Mrs Sanders moved closer to her daughter. “No.. no.. no Bay… please don’t talk like this -” Her voice broke off and Bag could see the tears dropping freely down her mother’s cheeks.

“I am sorry. I didn’t know you felt like a caged bird because of my rules. Believe me, I waited for you to bring home someone you love but you didn’t. Then I concluded that you aren’t ready to settle down with anyone. I am sorry my love… I am so sorry for treating you like that. But I only set those rules because-” She paused.

“Because of what mom?” Bay asked.

“I made a promise to your father that I would raise you well to be the best. I didn’t want you to be like other kids who goes sleeping around all in the name of having fun. I wanted you to be a strong willed woman with a great sense of dignity and integrity.” Mrs Sanders replied.

“So did you get that now? Mom, look at me. I am pregnant and I am sure the father doesn’t want his child. Drake isn’t ready for commitment.” Bay cried.

“No Bay, you can’t be sure of anything yet.”

“This is the truth. About ten weeks ago I dropped a note for Drake before leaving the hotel but he never called. If he wants something with me then he should have at least sent a text. He won’t accept my baby.” Bay failed at controlling her tears.

Mrs Sander shook her head in disagreement. “Bay please calm down and listen to me. I will blame myself for everything that has happened. But I want to believe that you are the best thing that has ever happened to me and I am proud of you. I am still proud of you even now that you are carrying a baby in your womb. My grand child.” She placed her hands on Bay’s belly with a s smile displaying on her lips.

“The reason why I said you should have told me you loved Drake is because I know his father, Frederick Robert. He used to be close to your dad.” Mrs Sanders added.

“Really?” Bay sniffled.

“Yes. And you have met him once when you were almost sixteen.”

“I don’t remember. But what do I do now?” Bay mumbled.

“You are not too young to become a mother. So I want you to know that we are in this together. And I must admit that this is fate.” Mrs Sanders smile grew broader.

“Fate?” Bay’s forehead creased.

“Yes I met Frederick Robert few days ago and he said his son is yet to find a good woman. He asked me if you were married and told him no and then he suggested that we have dinner at their home so he can introduce you to his son. You have been so busy at work that why I didn’t tell you about it. I had planned to tell you after breakfast today but you passed out in the bathroom.” Mrs Sanders recounted.

Bay could hardly believe what her mother was saying. “I wasn’t going to force you to meet Drake if you had turned the dinner down but now that you are carrying his child you have to meet him. We have to let them know that you are pregnant.” Mrs Sanders said in a rush.

“It is pointless to meet him. Drake won’t believe me.” Bay countered.

“So do you want to raise your child without a father?” Mrs Sanders demanded.

Bay didn’t respond. “I’ll take that as a no. So we are meeting the Roberts. We will explain things to them and if Drake denies his child then we will run a paternity to prove to him that he is responsible for the pregnancy.”

Bay felt her hands itching to caress her stomach. “This is going to be a huge change.” She pointed to her belly.

“You are right. But don’t worry, I will take care of you.” Mrs Sanders replied.

Bay nodded. She tried to smile but it turned out to be a fake one. She got lost in thought. Will Drake accept his child even after the paternity test proves positive? The baby is the joy Mrs Sanders thinks would bring her daughter closer to the man she loves deeply.

Well being with Drake is what Bay wanted but something is quite not right. Why? Just why does Bay thinks something is not right? And it turned out that Bay is bothered about her child not growing up with a father because even losing her father at a tender age was a huge blow for her.

Chapter 53 Caught in the act

CHICAGO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

LINT CORPORATION

“Sir Ian.” Ramsey popped his head in at first.

“Yes, Ramsey.” Ian looked up from the system.

“I just received a call from the interior designers.” Ramsey said as he walked into the office.

“So what did they say?” Ian asked.

“They are ready to check out the place.” Ramsey replied.

“Alright send the address to them. You still have the keys right?” Ian glanced down at the system again.

“Yes sir.”

“Good…” Ian tapped on the desk softly with his index finger. “Do I still have any meeting today?” He requested.

Ramsey’s eyes were now glued to the tablet. “No more meetings sir but Limos Company sent an official mail around eight o’clock and it stated that the CEO wants to see you.” He answered.

“Drake Robert isn’t ready to give in to our demand of forty five percent of the deal so that can wait. I will attend to the issue later.”

Setting up Ria’s place is more important to Ian Bryant even though Ria Robert thinks they are just business partners! And she has been doing things strictly on business! That’s the deal so Ian Bryant is also just going with the flow and see how the thing goes.

Ian was super relief and excited when Ria didn’t yell at him last night after she found out the truth about his previous plans. And he was glad that he was able to man up and explain things to her. To be honest, his make up plans would have involved taking her on a date or a picnic but Ria wants to keep things on a business level with him. Strictly business!

“What should be the response to the email sir?” Ramsey asked in a polite tone.

“Send an official email to Limos and tell them we are not changing our mind. It is a forty five percent or no deal at all.” Ian stated.

Ramsey nodded in understanding. “Okay sir. Anything else?”

“Since you said that I don’t have any meeting…” Ian paused to check his wrist watch. The time was 10:45 a. m and Ria hasn’t called him. Ian had told her that he would be free by 10:00 a. m so he has been expecting at least a flash to remind him or notify him that she was ready. Or has she taken a taxi to the store? Ian pondered.

“Ramsey.” Ian called.

“Yes sir.”

“Go and meet those designers while I meet up with Ria. You wait for us at the place.” Ian instructed.

“Okay sir.” Ramsey bowed slightly before exiting the office.

Ian picked up his cellphone and dialed Ria’s number but she didn’t pick up the call. “What’s wrong?” He mumbled.

Ian dialed Ma’am Elise number and she picked on the first ring. ‘Hello ma’am Elise.’ He sighed in relief when she picked up the call.

‘Oh mr Ian, how are you doing today?’

‘I am fine. Please is Ria there with you?’

‘No. Is she not with you?’ She asked in a surprised tone.

‘No. We both agreed that I would come and pick her up by 10:00 or anytime she is ready to go to the store but she hasn’t called me.’

‘She went out not too long ago. So I guess she is still at the kids school.’

‘Is everything okay with the Phoebe and Phoenix?’

‘No problem at all. The school principal called today and said that she wants miss Ria to make a new design for the school uniform.’ Ma’am Elise explained.

‘So she will be at the school as we speak right?’

‘Yes. But I was hoping she would have called and told you about it. Well maybe she didn’t want to stress you. I can send the school address to you to meet up with her.’ Ma’am Elise offered.

A bright beam displayed on his face. “I would really love that, ma’am Elise.”

‘Okay. As soon as I drop this call, I’ll send it to you.’

‘Thank you, ma’am Elise.’ Ian hang up the call.

He stood up from the swivel chair and walked out of the office. “Ramsey, tell Ben to bring the keys to me downstairs.’

“Okay sir.” Ramsey acknowledged.

Ian’s phone beeped. It was a message from Ma’am Elise.

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

OWEN THOMAS INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

Ria listened to Principal Brenda as she talked about the complaint of parents at the last PTA meeting. “The parents complained that the school uniform is so old fashioned. So they want something smart on the kids.”

Ria shook her head. “Something like this…” Principal Brenda showed Ria a design on her phone. “A parent suggested this at the meeting but I feel this might turn out to be is too short for the kids.”

“This is way out of it. This design looks like a club dress.” Ria complained. The dress was short! There is no way Ria would allow Phoebe come to school in something like this.

“What do you suggest?” Principal Brenda heaved a sigh of frustration. It was so obvious that the issue was beginning to stress her out.

“We can make it longer, I mean pass knee length or I make another design for you.” Ria replied.

“Make it pass knee length a bit and then add your designs too.” Principal Brenda said.

“So are you changing the color of the uniform? Or you want to maintain the initial color?” Ria asked.

“No, I don’t intend to change the color only the style and pattern.” Principal Brenda responded.

“Okay.” Ria shook her head in understanding.

“So how do we go about it?” Principal Brenda requested.

“Will you be the one buying the material so I can make a sample?” Ria asked.

“Yes please.”

“Okay. I’ll be busy for sometime -”

Principal Brenda interrupted her sentence “So you won’t be able to help us?”

“I will be able to help as soon as I finish the work at hand. I will start if you are ready by that time.” Ria answered.

Principal Brenda screwed up her face. “Miss Ria, I am ready. Look, I am tired of receiving calls from parents asking if the new design is in progress.”

“I am sorry about the stress. Let’s do this…” Ria paused. “Okay.. I will make out time for you. So please get the materials and I will make a sample so you can show it to the parents.” Ria replied.

“Thank you, miss Ria. I really appreciate it.”

Ria brought out a notepad and pencil and wrote down the necessary things to make a sample of the uniform. “Here.”

Principal Brenda collected the paper from her. “I will call you as soon as I select a material. Thank you once again, Miss Ria.”

Ria stood up from the chair. “You are welcome.”

Principal Brenda did the same too. She followed Ria out of the office, they walked down the silent hallway and then out of the building.

“Bye, Miss Ria.” Principal Brenda waved before walking back inside the school.

Ria glanced down at her watch, it is five minutes passed eleven. “Ian must be very worried.” She mumbled.

They had agreed that he would bring her to the store but plans changed after she received a call from Principal Brenda. The old lady sounded so desperate so Ria couldn’t turn her down. So Ria decided had to see her first before heading to the store.

Ria took out her cellphone from her handbag. She saw six missed calls from Ian and two missed calls from ma’am Elise. She didn’t hear the phone ring because it was on silent.

“Perhaps, is he at home waiting for me? What if the call is to inform me that he can’t make it? Oh my goodness, maybe I shouldn’t have agreed to him driving me to the store.” Ria bantered loudly.

The cellphone in her hand vibrated. She looked at it and saw Ian as the caller’s ID.

‘Hello -”

‘Were you ignoring my calls?’ Ian said as soon as she picked the call.

‘No. I am sorry. I was busy.’

‘Where are you?’

‘I am at the kids school.’

‘Stay right there I am coming to pick you up.’

‘No.. no Ian, you don’t have to come pick me up. I am already outside the building and ready to hail down a taxi.’

‘Ria, wait for me. I am almost there.’

No it can’t be! If Ian is still at the office then she would have to wait for long. The drive should be about twenty five minutes from his office.

‘I am in a taxi now!’ Ria lied. She was just about to cross the street and stop a taxi.

The truth is, she doesn’t want Ian to stressing himself to drive from the office to this place, then to the store and back to her place before he leaves for his place too.

‘What? You are in a taxi?’ Ian sounded like he knew she was lying to him.

‘Yes.’

Ian chuckled. ‘Turn around.’

‘What?’

‘Ria, turn around and look down the block.’ He instructed.

Ria did as he said and she saw his figure leaning against his car at the end of the block on the other side. He waved at her.

Ria disconnected the call. “What have I done? How did he get here? Ma’am Elise must have given him the address.” She let out a heavy breathe before crossing the street.

Ian entered his car and drove to her side and stopped right in front of her. He motioned to Ria to come in but she was too embarrassed to even look at him. She lied and he caught her in the act!

Chapter 54 A man of his words

CHICAGO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA

Ian entered his car and drove to her side and stopped right in front of her. He motioned to Ria to come in but she was too embarrassed to even look at him. She lied and he caught her in the act!

“You can pay me if you don’t want a free ride.” Ian said with a bright smile on his face.

Ian’s decision to act like he didn’t know Ria lied to him made things awkward for her. She slipped into the car while avoiding his gaze.

“To the store or your place?” He asked when the car moved into motion.

“To the store.” Ria whispered.

“I am not familiar with the stores.. so be precise.” Ian interjected

“Downtown side line twelve.” Ria fiddled with her fingers.

“Come on Ria, don’t give me that look.” Ian chuckled. Their gaze met but Ria looked away quickly. “It doesn’t suit you.”

Ria swallowed hard trying to find the right words to say to him. “I am.. sorry.” She stuttered.

“If I may ask, why are you sorry?”

“I am sorry for not calling you on time to tell you plans changed and -”

“If you are this sorry and sober so why didn’t give me a call?” Ian shrugged.

Ria sighed. “I just felt that it would be a whole lot of work for you. Driving to this place, to the store, to my place and then back to your home. I don’t want you to go through the stress because I feel it would be tiring to drive me around.” She confessed.

“Ria, I suggested it.” Ian said. But Ria doesn’t want him to go through all that because of her. “I am the one driving and I am not complaining. You should have called me.”

“I was just trying to be considerate and -”

“Remember what I told you in China?” Ian cuts in sharply. Ria tried to recall what he said during those periods. “I explained my type of person to you and even gave instances. I am a man of my words. I don’t back out on my words, I do whatever it is I set my mind on and I do all it takes to make it happen. So please keep that in mind.” He stated in a stern tone.

Perhaps does Ian have this feeling that Ria is doubting his care and being nice to her? “I am sorry.” Ria shook her head in acknowledgement.

“So now you have to make up for saying that you were already in the taxi when in the real sense you are still by the road side. I don’t want to use the right words.” Ian stopped talking and stole a glance at her. Lying was the right word.

“Is that a fair deal? I mean making things up to each other?” He asked.

“Alright.” Ria replied. Although she has no idea of how to make things up to him.

“You don’t have to make things up to me at the moment. You can do it some other time.” Ian said as if he was seeing through her mind. Ria think that’s better! Making up some other time.

“But when the time comes, I just hope that you make up by having dinner with me, or go on picnic, or visit the beach… something like that.” Ian added.

Ria forehead creased. She looked at him and their gaze met again but Ian looked away this time.

He cleared his throat. “Never mind. I was just joking about it. Forget I said those things to you.” He focused on the road ahead.

Then Ria nodded slowly. It was better that way. She would act like she didn’t hear him say those words. But then a voice said into her mind, it would be cool! Dinner or picnic with Ian Bryant!

“Apart from the store will you be visiting any other place?” Ian spoke up after some minutes passed in silence.

“No. I don’t have any other plans aside checking into various stores and that’s if I don’t get the silk and lace at the store I am familiar with.” Ria replied.

“Okay. Can we head right to your work place after picking up the materials at the store?” Ian requested.

“Why?”

“The designers are waiting at the place to check and also know what you want for it.” Ian responded.

“Have you met with the designers?” Ria asked.

“No, I haven’t met them in person. We have only been chatting on phone. But Ramsey is with them as we speak.” Ian answered.

“Okay.” Ria mumbled.

“So what’s up with Phoebe school?”

“They want to change the design of the school uniform.” Ria briefed him about her meeting with the principal.

Ian nodded. “But how did they find out you can do it? Are they aware that you are a seamstress?” Ian made a turn into a rowdy street.

“No, it was Phoebe. She told her teacher about me and even took my collections to school without me knowing.. just to show her teacher that I can make the uniforms.” Ria giggled.

“She is smart! And I know for sure that she is just trying to help out with the business.” Ian laughed too.

“So her teacher told the principal. Then I received a call from her this morning.” Ria completed.

“So will you be able to do the two jobs at the same time. I mean the foundation work and the school uniform.”

“I already told her that I will be busy in the next two weeks but I offered to make a sample. So if she likes it then I will take the job on after I am done with the foundation work.” She explained.

“Good. But you still need extra hand to help aside ma’am Elise. Why don’t you try to hire someone?” Ian suggested

“Yeah. Ma’am Elise and I planned to place an advert on our website.” Ria shook her head in agreement.

“Wait what about Cassidy? She once told me that she would like to work with you.”

Ria remembered something immediately. She totally forgot her promise to call Cassidy!

“I doubt it if she would be chanced to help because of school works.” Ria replied.

“You are right. They should be close to the end of exams now so why don’t you talk to her about it.”

“Okay. I will call her by the end of the day.” Ria agreed.

“Alright.”

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

AT CASSIDY FAMILY HOME

“What’s up sis?”

Cassidy looked at her twin brother, Caleb when he greeted her. Caleb flopped down on the couch and groaned.

“I am good. You?”

“Fine.”

Cassidy grabbed the television remote from the table before he reached for it. “Don’t you even think about it.” She hid the remote under her skirt.

Caleb stood up and came to the couch she sat on. “Don’t come near me, Caleb.” She warned.

“Cassidy, let me have the remote I want to watch soccer.” He tried to find the remote.

Cassidy twisted and turned. “Go and watch soccer in your room.” She pushed him away and he fell back on the couch.

“If you don’t give it to me then I will take it with force.” He pointed to her skirt.

“You dare not try it!” She glared at him. This time she was already up from the couch before Caleb could grab her. She circled the couches as he tried to catch her. “Catch me if you can.. big boy!” She stick out her tongue at him.

“Can I have a moment of peace in this house?”

Cassidy stopped running around when she heard her mom’s voice. “Mom, it is Cassidy!” Caleb pointed at her.

“No!”

“She won’t allow me watch soccer. Silly girl still watching cartoons at your age.” He hissed out.

“Caleb.” She called out to him when he grabbed his sister

“Let me go!”

Caleb raised Cassidy up and placed her on his shoulder. “I will teach you how to be a good girl.”

“Let go of me!” Cassidy screamed as he moved her around

“Caleb!” Mrs Taylor screamed and he stopped.

Everywhere was going in circles when he dumped Cassidy on the couch. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head. Caleb snatched the remote from the couch and tuned in to a soccer station.

“Why can’t you watch that soccer in your room?” Mrs Taylor asked.

“The television stopped working.” Caleb replied.

“What’s wrong with it?” Mrs Taylor sat on the couch.

“I don’t know mom.”

Cassidy folded her arms and thought of how to get back at Caleb. “Can we talk?” Mrs Taylor asked.

Cassidy nodded while Caleb hummed a response without looking away from the television. “Your Aunt wants to move to Chicago.” Mrs Taylor announced.

“Which Aunt?” Caleb asked with a raised eyebrow.

“My sister, Loretta.” Mrs Taylor replied.

“Oh no.. not aunt Loretta.” Caleb rolled his eyes.

Aunt Loretta lives in Denver. She is the seamstress Cassidy mentioned to Ria Robert who taught her how to use the machine.

“Is she moving in with us?” Cassidy asked.

“Yes.” Mrs Taylor nodded

“No way.” Caleb grumbled. He doesn’t like Aunt Loretta because he thinks she is too strict. “Oh mom, please tell me you are kidding.” He said.

“Do I look like a clown? My sister, Loretta is moving in with us.” Mrs Taylor stated in a stern tone and a serious look on her face.

What’s wrong? Something is not right. Cassidy pondered. The Aunt Loretta she knows will never think of leaving Denver. Aunt Loretta loves that hometown too much. Mrs Taylor had once suggested to her sister to move in to Chicago but she refused.

“But.. why the sudden change of mind?” Cassidy voiced out her thought.

“Her ex husband won’t let her rest. He wants to get back with her.” Mrs Taylor answered.

“What?!” Cassidy gasped out.

“He is psycho!” Caleb groaned.

“So she realized that leaving Denver is the only way to avoid his trouble and make him stay away forever as long as he doesn’t find her.” Mrs Taylor sighed.

Loretta’s husband had cheated on her. One time he met his high school love and fell in love with her again. He requested for a divorce and Loretta had no choice but to let him go. A funny story but it is quite deep because it really hurt Loretta.

“Four years has passed and now he wants to gets back with her? Who does that? And what happened to his stupid high school love?” Cassidy gritted in anger.

“I agree that moving out of Denver is the best option for Aunt Loretta. But mom does she have to move in with us?” Caleb asked.

“She wanted to get a place but I told her not do that. What’s the essence of staying apart now? She is my sister and I have a big space that can accommodate her.” Mrs Taylor answered.

“Why mom? You should let her rent her own apartment.” Caleb grumbled.

Mrs Taylor raised her brow at Caleb. “What’s so wrong in telling my sister to move in with me? Do you want need the other empty rooms?” She demanded.

“Well it is obvious someone doesn’t want Aunt Loretta here. But there is nothing he can do about it. As you have said mom, our place is big enough to accommodate Aunt Loretta. Let her move in with us.” Cassidy stick out her tongue at her brother.

“Yes. This place is the best place for her because I also don’t want her to stay alone.” Mrs Taylor said.

“It would be fun to have Aunt Loretta around!” Cassidy clapped her hands in excitement. “Wait thinking of it now.. Aunt Loretta can work with Miss Ria!” She blurted out.

Cassidy rushed to sit next to her moon on the couch. “When is she coming?” She demanded.

“She is moving in tomorrow.” Mrs Taylor answered.

“Tomorrow?!” Caleb gasped in shock.

“Do you have any problem with my sister moving in with us?” Mrs Taylor demanded with clear annoyance in her tone.

“Don’t mind Caleb, he is scared of aunt Loretta. Plus he won’t be able to keep late nights, hang out with his friends at the clubs and do anyhow with Aunt Loretta being around!” Cassidy laughed.

Caleb shot her a glare. “If that’s the case… you can as well move out of the house and move in with your rich girlfriend.” Cassidy added.

Mrs Taylor shot her daughter a surprised look. “He is dating a rich kid?!”

“Yes.”

“Don’t mind her mom.” Caleb frown deepened.

“He is lying.” Cassidy managed to stiff a laugh.

“I am not dating her anymore!” Caleb stormed off to his bedroom.

“Woah! Aunt Loretta is moving in! Caleb won’t be me around boss anymore! No snatching of remotes and taking the larger share of everything!” Cassidy giggled in excitement.

“That’s enough. Don’t make your brother angry anymore. He already gave up in the fight.” Mrs Taylor pointed at the remote.

“I don’t need it anymore. I am super excited because I will introduce miss Ria to my aunt!”

“Do you think Miss Ria needs someone? And will your aunt agree to work as a seamstress for someone else?” Mrs Taylor questioned frantically.

“Speaking of Miss Ria.. You are right! I should call her and tell her about my aunt! Or maybe I should go and see her?” She rushed out her words.

“I’ll talk to your aunt about it.” Mrs Taylor said.

“Mom.. I’m heading out.” Cassidy stood up from the couch.

“Where are you going?”

“Miss Ria’s place! I need to have this conversation face to face and not on the phone.”

“Okay. Don’t stay too long.” Mrs Taylor settled to watch a movie.

Caleb came back to the living room to get his cellphone. “Who the heck is… miss Ria?” He demanded with a scrunched up face.

“None of your business!” Cassidy replied in an unusual raised tone as she made her way to her bedroom.

Chapter 55 The nicest man on earth

AT RIA ROBERT APARTMENT

“Will you come in and have tea or coffee or soda?” Ria asked when Ian pulled up in front of her home. She thinks inviting Ian in for a drink is fair enough to make it up to him.

Their visit to the store went well. Ria was able to pick out good materials to make the dress samples for Amber Foundation. Ian was right there with her and he was even the one that picked the hot pink colored silk at the store and they both went to the workplace after buying the necessary materials. Ramsey introduced the designers to Ria and Ian and they were able to discuss on how the place should be set.

On their way back home, Ria told Ian her plans of using whatever she makes from the Amber Foundation’s deal to pay the designers. But Ian insisted that Ria should save up the money or use it to purchase the equipments she would be needing for her business. In a nutshell, Ian just wants to pay for the setting up of Ria’s sewing business. In the end, Ian was able to convince Ria not to bother herself about the workplace. They both agreed that Ian would pay for the setting up because Ria doesn’t have any money to set up such place. And Ria doesn’t know how she would thank Ian Bryant for everything he has done for her.

Ian checked his wristwatch. “We can do that some other time.” He replied.

Did Ian Bryant just say no to a drink invitation with Ria?! She never expected him to reject her offer for a drink!

Ian went on to studying Ria with those eyes that were so intense. “I need to see someone before calling it a day.” He added quickly.

Seeing someone again? And who is he seeing this time? Ria pondered. She shut out the thought of asking him about the person immediately. She shouldn’t be bothered about it! They are just business partners so whoever he is seeing is none of her business! Ria reminded herself.

“Alright.” Ria replied.

“Just give me a call if you need anything.” Ian said.

Ria just simply nod her head even though she won’t be calling him for anything. “Bye, Ian.” She waved at him. Ian started the car and drove away.

Ria met Cassidy when she stepped into the house. “Hello Miss Ria!” Cassidy greeted with a bright smile on her face.

“How are you, Cassidy?” Ria smiled.

“I am fine. And-”

Ria interrupted her. “Oh Cassidy.. I am really sorry for not calling.” She apologized.

“I understand. Ma’am Elise told me that you have been really busy with work.” Cassidy replied.

Ria shook her head in agreement. “What do you have in there?” Ma’am Elise pointed to the bag she was holding.

“It is the materials for the dress samples.” Ma’am Elise collected the bag and set it down on the couch to check it.

“Ma’am Elise told me about your contract with Mrs Perla. I am so happy for you!” Cassidy clapped in excitement.

“Yes Cassidy. I planned to call you to ask if you would be chanced to help me with the dresses.” Ria requested.

“Oh yes! I would be happy help you!” Cassidy grinned as she joined ma’am Elise in checking out the set of materials.

“But what about school?” Ria asked.

“We are on break now. I wrote my last paper yesterday.” Cassidy answered.

“Really?” Ria sat on the couch to pull off her sandals.

“Yeah. We are on three weeks break. Oh! It is so good to be out of school! No morning classes! No test! No exams!” Cassidy huffed a sigh of relief.

“The break happened at the right time.” Ma’am Elise said.

“So that means you will join I and ma’am Elise to make all the dresses.” Ria heaved a sigh.

“Miss Ria, do you remember that my aunt I told you about? The one in Denver.” Cassidy asked.

“Your aunt that taught you how to sew.” Ria said.

“Yes.. yes.. she is moving in with us tomorrow. I purposely came here to ask if she can work for you.” Cassidy itched her eyebrows.

“Is she a seamstress?” Ma’am Elise asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yes! She knows a lot about sewing!” Cassidy answered.

“Wow! Miss Ria, that’s a good idea. We don’t need to place an advert on the site anymore. Cassidy can talk to her aunt to work with us?” Ma’am Elise demanded.

“Yes.” Cassidy nodded.

“Well we don’t need to place an advert anymore. But will your aunt agree to work with us? You know she is an experienced seamstress and she might just decide to work on her own here.” Ria stated.

“No my mom didn’t mention it that she is going to start her sewing business here in Chicago. Trust me, Miss Ria your designs are amazing! I am sure my aunt will be glad to work with you!” Cassidy enthused.

“Okay. When she arrives talk to her about it.” Ria took out her phone from the bag.

“Should I bring her over if she agrees to work with you?” Cassidy questioned.

“Sure Cassidy.” Ria answered.

“Okay.”

“This color of silk is pretty.” Ma’am Elise complimented.

“Ian picked that color. He told me that it is called hot pink among the shades of pinks.” Ria clicked on google on her phone.

“Really?!” They gasped.

Ria moved to the couch they sat to show them the color. “Look at it.”

“The lace and color of silk fits in perfectly. And I am sure the kids will like the dress when we are done!” Cassidy commented.

Ma’am Elise snapped her fingers in the air. “Not just the kids but Mrs Perla, Madam Charity and everyone at the event will love the dresses! And when Miss Ria’s place is ready rich and classy people will patronize us!” A happy smile grazed her expression.

“Celebrities too.” Cassidy added and they all laughed.

“So what was the outcome of the meeting with the designers?” Ma’am Elise asked after packing the materials back into the bag.

“They said the place will be ready in a month time if they get paid soon.” Ria responded.

“About the payment we can’t pay them yet because we are still yet to discuss price with Mrs Perla and I wish I had the money so I can pay them and they can start work soon. But setting up a place like that is a whole lot of money.” Ma’am Elise said soberly.

“Ma’am Elise, you don’t need to worry about the payment. Ian promised to pay for everything.” Ria said.

“Really?!” Cassidy eyes widened.

“Yes.” Ria mumbled.

“Oh! That’s so kind of him!” Ma’am Elise face brightened.

“We both agreed that he would pay for setting up while I also contribute to the payments of the equipments.” Ria clicked on her note to mark the things she spent her money on for today.

“That’s how he is.. I mean Mr Ian…” Cassidy said. “He is really kind.. and nice.” She completed.

“Cassidy, if I may ask how are you related to Ian? Because I found out that Mr Griffin is not your dad.” Ma’am Elise asked.

Ria and Ma’am Elise exchanged glances. They haven’t had the chance to talk about it with Cassidy.

“I am sorry, Miss Ria.” Cassidy said in an apologetic tone.

“It is okay, Cassidy. You don’t have to feel bad about it.” Ria replied sincerely.

“The truth is I am not related to Mr Ian or Mr Griffin. Mr Ian used to be close friends with my late brother. And ever since my elder brother’s demise, Mr Ian took on our responsibilities. He is the one paying for our college fees, he gives us monthly allowances and also paying other bills too. Plus he even bought a house and a car for my mom.” Cassidy stated her clear relationship with Ian Bryant.

“He is doing all that for your family?” Ma’am Elise asked with a surprised look on her face.

“Yes. Mr Ian said that he is making it up to my brother for being a good friend to him.” Cassidy answered.

Making things up to people must be part of Ian. Ria said within. She had thought he was only doing the making up thing with her with a hidden motive but she was wrong! And being nice and kind must be part of him too!

“Miss Ria, don’t be surprise if Mr Ian insists on doing everything for you. That’s just his personality. In the Bryant family, Mr Ian is known for being Mr Responsibility.” Cassidy giggled. “And I am sorry for deceiving you. I also want you to know that Mr Ian is not pretending to you! He really wants to help you.” Cassidy was sincere with her words.

She is right! Ria already realized that a long time ago. Ian isn’t a pretender! Everything Cassidy said about Ian proves a lot about him which Ria has seen but she is refusing to acknowledge it. She was doubting him but not anymore!

Ria had to admit that Ian Bryant is the nicest man on earth! Ria already grew fond of Ian and along the line she has learnt that there are still good men in the world. Men like Ian Bryant and not the type of men she knew.

The category of men Ria had met were monstrous in mature. She saw men as beasts in humans clothing! And maybe things would have been different if Ria didn’t go through what she went through eight years ago.

Her perspective about men was beginning to change because of one man-Ian Bryant.