Ch. 56..60: Blind Billionaire Bride Chapter 56-60

Chapter 56 A new worker

Ria heard the door bell jangled and she stood up to answer it although she wasn’t expecting anyone that morning.

“Good morning, miss Ria!” Cassidy greeted cheerfully. They exchanged pleasantries and Cassidy introduced the woman she brought along. “Miss Ria meet my aunt.”

“Loretta.” The woman said.

“Ria Robert.” She shook hands with Loretta. Ria sized her up. She should be about the same age with ma’am Elise or quite older probably in her early forties.

“Nice to meet you, Miss Ria.” Loretta replied.

“Please come in.” Ria stepped aside for them to walk into her home. “Please take a seat.” She led Loretta to the couch.

“Where is ma’am Elise?” Cassidy asked.

“She went to pick an old lady’s dress down the street. She should be back soon.” Ria answered.

“Okay…. so what are you doing?” Cassidy didn’t sit down but she went straight to the machine.

“I am still on Amber Foundation’s work.” Ria responded.

“What do I need to do?”

“Just relax a bit. Ma’am Elise already shared the works so you will start working when she comes back.” Ria smiled.

Cassidy rolled her eyes. “Just show it to me-”

“We have a visitor, Cassidy.” Ria gave her a wink.

“Oh! Sorry Aunt Loretta! I am just so excited!” Cassidy giggled.

“Please get juice for her.” Ria instructed.

“Okay.” Cassidy dropped the cross bag around her on the couch before she walked off to the kitchen.

“She can be very naughty.” Loretta said.

“And sweet at the same time.” Ria added.

Loretta nodded in agreement. “Cassidy told me about you… and the Amber foundation’s work.”

“Yeah that’s what we are dealing with at the moment.” Ria nodded.

“I don’t have to think much about it. You can just tell me more about it and what I need to do.” Loretta clasped her hands together.

Ria explained in full details. She already made a sample of the dress. She finished it the day before and sent it to Mrs Perla who liked it! And she called to tell Ria that she wants the dress for the kids within the selected ages.

Ria went to her store and they agreed on a price which is for her to pay three hundred dollars for each dress. But Mrs Perla said the dress was worth than that so she offered to paid five hundred dollars for a dress. The pay was good! Enough to buy more machines and do some other things like paying Ma’am Elise and Cassidy and now Aunt Loretta. Mrs Perla even gave Ria the option of buying materials from their textile branch at a lower price. She gave Ria the number of her daughter in charge of the branch but she was directed to the manager of the warehouse by her secretary. And it pays well buying from the textile branch warehouse than the store!

“They will deliver the rest of the materials soon so we can start work fully.” Ria ended.

“Have you taken the kids measurement?” Loretta asked.

“Yes. We went there yesterday. Didn’t Cassidy tell you that we went there yesterday?”

Loretta smiled. “We didn’t talk much because I have been busy with my sister.” Loretta answered.

“Okay.”

“Can I see the design?” Loretta requested in a polite tone.

Cassidy gave her a glass of or orange juice. “Sure.” Ria went to the large table and took the sample she had made and also the sketch in the drawing pad.

“Wow! This is really nice.” Loretta complimented after checking the dress out. The drawing design was almost perfect like the dress itself.

“I told you!” Cassidy exclaimed. “Remember I said she is good.” She added quickly.

Loretta nodded. “I am impressed.”

The door opened and Ma’am Elise stepped in. “Miss Ria-”

“Ma’am Elise.” Cassidy interrupted her.

“Hello Cas-” Ma’am Elise voice trailed off when her gaze fell on Loretta who also arched her brows. “Loretta… Hill?” She said. It sounded like she knows the woman.

“Elise.” Loretta stood up from the couch.

“Do you know each other?” Cassidy asked as she exchanged confused looks with Ria.

“Perhaps, are you Loretta Hill?” Ma’am Elise wanted to be sure.

“Yes. Loretta Hill!” Loretta enthused.

“Oh my God! Loretta! It is really you!” Ma’am Elise placed her palm on her mouth.

“Elise!” Loretta walked closer and they embraced each other.

Loretta and Elise know each other but how? Ria thought. “Oh my goodness.” She mumbled when she figured the connection!

Ma’am Elise used to live in Denver with the woman who took her in and raised her before she moved to study in college here in Chicago!

“It is so good to see you again, Elise!” Loretta withdrew from the embrace.

“What a small world.” Cassidy muttered.

“Where have you been all this while Elise?! You just disappeared in Denver without any trace!” Loretta demanded.

“Oh no come on Loretta, I was in Denver some years ago when Mrs Hope died.” Ma’am Elise replied.

“Can someone please explain the connection?” Cassidy cleared her throat.

“We used to classmates in high school.” Ma’am Elise said.

“We were seat partners and close friends in high school until she left Denver to study in Chicago.” Loretta added.

“Oh! Now I understand!” Cassidy snapped her fingers. These few words from her aunt explains it all! Loretta and Elise both sank onto the couch. “And.. don’t I get a reward for bringing you ladies back together?” Cassidy pouted.

“Of course!” Ma’am Elise giggled.

“A token for you when we get back home.” Loretta added and they all laughed.

“I am so happy to see you.” Ma’am Elise held Loretta hands.

“Are you into sewing too?” Loretta asked.

“Yes.. she taught me and I am also working with her.” Ma’am Elise replied with a bright beam on her face.

“That’s good, Elise. I am so happy to see you.” They embraced each other again.

“I should take a picture.” Cassidy brought out her phone from the handbag that was on the couch close to her.

“Hmm now.. I think these two needs some space. There is a lot of catching up to do! And I don’t see us talking business now!” Ria murmured to herself as she takes in a sharp breathe.

“Cassidy, let us go down to the store quickly.” Ria said.

“Do you need to buy something?” Cassidy looked up from her cellphone.

“Yes.. yes.. I am yet to buy the zips and buttons. And I also need to withdraw some cash at the machine for grocery.” Ria responded.

“Okay.” Cassidy dropped her phone into her bag.

Ria grabbed her purse from the table. “Ma’am Elise, I will be right back. Ma’am Loretta please feel at home.”

“Thank you, miss Ria.”

“See you later!” Cassidy said before she and Ria walked out of the house. “Hmm you are actually leaving by this time because them.” She said when they stood on the porch.

“Yes. They need to chat and catch up on old times.” Ria sighed.

“Yeah. Miss Ria, you are right.” Cassidy nodded in agreement as they bounced down the small stairs.

Chapter 57 Good news for Drake Robert

“Oh finally! Sir Drake, you have decided to visit us!”

Drake was greeted by a plump old woman with gray hair and very red cheeks. “Good evening, ma’am Dora.” Drake spun towards the old lady to embrace her. Ma’am Dora runs things around Robert family home.

“What do we have here? You are looking younger and beautiful every day.” Drake exclaimed.

“Really? Thank you, sir Drake.” Ma’am Dora blushed even more as the hug ended. “How are you doing?” She touched his forehead to feel his temperature.

“Ma’am Dora, I am fine. Thanks for you concern.” He held her hands and kissed them.

“Hmm it is pretty obvious. Mr Robert is waiting for you.” Ma’am Dora replied.

“Where is he?” Drake asked.

“The dinning room.” Ma’am Dora replied as she stepped aside for him to walk into the house.

“Okay. I’ll talk to you later.” He winked.

Drake motioned toward the dinning room and he heard laughter erupting from the section as he walked closer. All of a sudden, Drake stopped to stare at the faces at the dinning table. This time it wasn’t just his parents but they had visitors. Who are they? He looked at both women. They look pretty much alike. Mother and daughter.

“Oh! Why didn’t he just tell me I was going to meet Serena Sanders and her daughter when he called me at the office.” Drake cursed under his breathe at the sight of both women.

About Frederick Robert, he was super excited on phone when he invited his son home and Drake had wondered why. Well now he knows-It was about this matchmaking plan. But why does Drake feels like there was more to this whole thing? He hated the fact that his father was making so much effort to help him start a family when he can’t even hold down a relationship!

“Oh son!” My mom said.

The old lady Drake had looked up at him while her daughter face was glued to the plate. He hissed. He hate ladies like this, so shy and timid and definitely not his type of woman.

“Drake meet Serena Sanders.” Mrs Robert introduced.

“Nice to meet you ma’am.” Drake settled in a chair and poured himself a glass of champagne.

“And here is her daughter I told you about Bay Sanders.” Mr Frederick added

Drake Robert looked up at the lady properly this time and their gaze locked. She looked like someone he had met. He stared intensely at her and tried to recall where he must have come across this face.

“Bay?” Drake mumbled. He sounded like he had heard that name. Perhaps have they met before now? He pondered deeply.

“Son isn’t she pretty?” Mrs Robert asked as she placed her hand on her son’s hand.

Mr Frederick noticed the way Drake’s keen eyes was watching the lady. “Son, perhaps have you met Bay before now?” He blurted out.

The question stunned Drake out of thought. He studied Bay’s expression, there was a knowing look on it and it struck Drake immediately when recalled where he had seen this face. Hell no! It can’t be possible! She is the same lady he had picked at Tessa Club some weeks back. She is the same Bay he spent the night with weeks ago!

Drake scrunched up his face. Tessa club? The hotel? What was she doing there when his father had vouched that she is a good woman? Why was she at the club? He mused.

“Drake. Have you met Bay before now?” Mr Frederick called.

“Yes dad.” Drake replied.

He heard sighs from everyone around the table. “That explains it.” Mr Frederick added.

“Dad. Explain what?” Drake asked in a low tone.

It doesn’t explain anything! He only met her just once and they had fun right in one night. Yeah Drake knows but he doesn’t even remember her up until now.

“Listen Drake, Bay already explained things to us.” Mrs Frederick said with a bright beam on her expression.

What did she tell them? That they had sex and he paid her the very next day and asked her to leave? Drake wondered.

Mr Frederick cleared his throat. “I think at this point we don’t have to waste time anymore.” He said.

“What… what do you mean dad?” Drake stuttered. He was confused. And he couldn’t even tell why the atmosphere around this woman he had slept with weeks ago was so tensed.

Mr Frederick and his wife exchanged glances while Serena pats her daughter’s back. “I have good news.” He chuckled.

Drake thought he was about to spill words about matchmaking him and this woman together again.

“I am so glad to inform you that you would be a father soon. ” Mr Frederick blurted out.

Drake eyes widened in absolute shock. “What?!” His jaw dropped immediately. His father’s words echoed in his head-you would be a father soon.

“Bay is pregnant.” Mrs Frederick said in a calm tone. She couldn’t hide the happiness that welled up inside of her as she said those words to her son.

Drake gasped out in shock again. “Wait.. hold on everyone… that’s impossible.” He chuckled. “She can’t be pregnant.” He looked straight at the Sanders.

No one said anything else and it gave him the chance to think. “Bay is pregnant! Hold up, if she is pregnant how does that make me the father of her baby? We only had sex about nine weeks ago and we used protection. So how did she get pregnant?” He pondered within deeply.

Drake found himself laughing out so loud. These ladies must be joking! Trying to pass him someone else’s child! He thought.

“My daughter is carrying your child.” Mrs Serena said.

“My child?” Drake snorted.

“Drake-”

He interrupted his dad. “Did your daughter not tell that she is a club girl.. or a night worker so any man would have gotten her pregnant. Not me.” He gritted.

“What did you just say?” Mrs Serena’s mouth dropped slightly in disbelief.

“Ask your daughter where we met the first time.” Drake pointed at Bay. “We both met at the club, she stripped for me and spent the night at a hotel and I paid for her service. So what does that tell you?” He demanded. He was disappointed that his dad tried to cajole him to marry someone like Bay Sander who is nothing but a town’s whore.

“Listen to what she has to say. You-”

“No mom.” Drake stood up. “She is a town’s whore so that child she is carrying is not mine.” Annoyance was now clear in his tone.

“It is your baby.” Mrs Frederick countered.

“It is true that you picked her up from a club but the most important fact is that my daughter has never been with any man til she met you that night.” Mrs Serena stated confidently. Annoyance clear in her voice but was only trying to stay calm.

Drake laughed. “Really?! I won’t take this from you and your daughter. How do you expect me to believe that-” He stopped.

Images of that night with Bay flooded his mind. Bay never acted like she was a virgin and she never mentioned it to him. She wasn’t nervous and neither did she ask him to be careful. Perhaps was it because they were both half drunk that night after finishing a bottle of champagne! It was hard to tell if she was a virgin or not!

“I need prove that I was her first man.” Drake stated these set of words slowly.

“What?!” They all gasped out in shock and surprise.

And again, Drake recalled the bloodstain he had seen on the sheet when he was trying to find his wristwatch! He had thought she saw her period over night!

“Damn it!” He uttered profanity. Why didn’t he realize that bay would have requested to take a shower before leaving that morning if it was her period!

“I can’t believe this is happening. Let us go Bay.” Mrs Serena instructed her daughter. They both stood up to leave.

“Serena, we can talk things out.” Mrs Frederick begged.

“There is nothing to talk about Vivian. Let us go, Bay.” Mrs Serena picked her purse.

Drake and Bay’s gaze met again and he noticed the tears that dropped down her cheeks. Immediately the feeling of guilt washed over him. Now what has he done?! Bay and Serena left the dinning area with Mrs Frederick following closely behind as she plead with them.

“Shit!” Drake thought of how he managed to get himself in a situation like this one.

“What do you have to say, Drake?” Mr Frederick asked.

“Serena, we can have a proper conversation about this situation.” Mrs Frederick pleaded.

Drake rubbed his temples continuously. “If your son is insisting that this child isn’t his then let us run a paternity test.” He heard Serena say to his mom.

Maybe that would be a better option because he is still finding it hard to believe! How come she is pregnant when they had used protection? As far as he could remember, Drake has never gone raw with any woman in his whole life. He had always played his game right.

“Oh no! no! Damn it!” Drake cursed in a tight whispered.

The shower! They had sex in the shower before sleeping that night! He didn’t even realize that until now! Drake clenched his fist! What has he done? Bay is pregnant but it is so clear that he isn’t ready to be father!

Mrs Vivian came back to the table. “I need the truth! Drake, did you have sex with Bay in the shower without using protection?!” She demanded in a raised tone.

“Yes.” He replied. “But it doesn’t-”

“Now don’t you dare try to deny that baby! It is your baby!” Mrs Vivian shot her son a glare and anger was evident in her eyes.

Drake tried to control his anger. He hate it when he makes silly and stupid mistakes! Now he is one step ahead to be a father! Does that mean he has to divide his attention into two, one for work and the other for the baby?

“You know we can run a test if you are doubting it.” Mr Frederick said.

“No need for a test. The date he slept with Bay corresponds with the result.” Mrs Vivian countered.

Then the child is for Drake Robert.

“It is not a bad idea to be a father.” Mr Frederick said with croaked smile.

Drake sighed in frustration. “Now don’t tell me I have to take Bay to the altar right away just because she is carrying my baby!”

Mrs Vivian went to her son and place her hand on his shoulder. “You don’t know how happy we were when Serena told us about the baby.” She said.

“When did she tell you about the baby?” Drake asked.

“Serena explained things to us about three days ago.” Mrs Vivian replied.

“So why am I just finding out now?” Drake asked again.

“We wanted to make it a surprise thinking it would make you happy.” Mr Frederick responded.

“Surprise?” Drake snorted.

He knows his parents are both super excited about the baby thing because it is what they wanted! Having a fella running the house like his dad use to say.

“Even Bay only found out few days ago.” Mrs Vivian added.

“You have to apologize to the Sanders.” Mr Frederick grounded out.

“Yes son. You need to apologize for humiliating Serena and her daughter.” Mrs Vivian pat his shoulder gently.

“I will talk to Bay tomorrow.” Drake mumbled.

“Why not now?” Mrs Vivian asked.

“I have a meeting with an investor online.” Drake lied.

“Okay just make sure you apologize to them then we can think of what to do next.” Mr Frederick stood up to leave for the bedroom.

Drake knew he won’t be seeing the old lady! The next conversation should be between he and Bay Sanders. But Drake wasn’t sure he was ready to go on a marital journey with Bay not to talk of accepting the fact that he would be a father soon.

Chapter 58 Acceptance

Out of frustration, fury and anger, Mrs Serena barged into the luxury living room and she threw her purse on the couch aggressively. She was more disappointed because Mr Frederick Robert had portrayed his son to be a young and responsible man but Drake Robert turned out to be the opposite of everything his parents said about him.

“Drake Robert is rude, mean, a spoilt brat and he has no regards for anyone! He is a foolish young man who is also irresponsible and I have never seen a man like him! He doesn’t deserve my child! Bay deserves a better man!” Serena thought within herself.

And if only Drake wasn’t Fredrick’s son she would have slapped him in the face when he denied his child! How dare he deny it when everything proves that the baby is for him!

“Mom.” Bay called in a low tone but her mother didn’t respond. Then she tried to touch her mother but Mrs Serena turned and stopped her with a hand up in the air.

“I want to be alone.” Mrs Serena mumbled.

“I am sorry.” Bay whispered as she blinked back tears that threatens to spill anytime soon.

Mrs Serena relaxed and looked up at her daughter. “Bay, please go to your room and rest.”

Bay nodded slowly and made her way to her room. She blamed herself for everything. At that very moment, Bay began to regret the decision she had made. The last thing she wanted was to see her mother unhappy but sleeping with Drake had brought her mother pains and now she was also caught in between her irrational steps. Bay knew her mother felt humiliated when Drake said he picked her at a club.

Mrs Serena was heartbroken because all she ever wanted was to raise Bay as a good woman but she was considered a town’s whore by a man who had picked her up at a club. That’s the last thing a parents would every want to hear about his or her child.

But Mrs Serena blamed herself for everything! She blamed it on the fact that her rules had deprived Bay of some certain things all in the name of wanting to raise her well and for her to be the best among the list of successful women in Idaho. Mrs Serene felt like she had failed in her responsibility as a good mother. Did these things also happen because she wasn’t all that close to Bay? Wasn’t she close enough to her daughter that they could talk about things a child ought to know? She pondered deeply.

“It is all my fault. I should be blamed for everything.” She whispered.

Mrs Serena concluded that the mother to child bond wasn’t strong. No cordial relationship because she was too busy with work at the firm before Bay took over.

“I am sorry Rex.. I failed you.” Mrs Serena sobbed silently.

She sank onto the couch and cried in silence but minutes passed and she calmed. Mrs Serena Sanders decided that she won’t turn against her daughter. If Drake doesn’t want his child then it is fine. He wasn’t needed in Bay’s life anyways. He was just a sperm donor.

“I’ll take care of my daughter and my grandchild.” Mrs Serena gritted in determination.

To hell with Drake if he doesn’t want to accept his responsibility as a father! They would both raise that child and in the best way! Mrs Serena Sanders promised.

******

NEXT DAY

AT SANDERS ARCHITECTURAL FIRM

Bay Sanders sat at the desk lost in thought. She couldn’t concentrate on work because she was thinking about what happened at Drake’s family home. Drake doesn’t want his child! It was obvious that Drake wasn’t ready to take on the responsibility for his own flesh and blood!

Bay’s hand wondered to her belly. There is a life growing in her belly, her baby and her joy. She won’t take it out even if Drake fails to accept it.

“What if people wonder how I got a baby? What if people close mock me about having a child without a father?” Bay shut her eyes as she envisioned the images of people at the office talking behind her back and saying bad things about her and the baby.

Bay reopened her eyes as fierce overprotectiveness welled up within her. “It is none of their business! My child will grow well in my arms. And to hell with Drake if he doesn’t want his baby!” She concluded.

Bay heard a soft knock on the door. “Please come in.” She said.

The secretary named Lucy popped her head in. “Miss Bay, someone is here to see you.”

“Who?” Bay asked.

Lucy stepped into the office. “He said that his name is Mr Drake Robert.” She replied.

“Drake?” Bay repeated as she arched her eyebrows at the same time. Why is he here? Is she ready to face him? Her heartbeat accelerated even as she gave Lucy a short nod, a sign to let Drake into the office.

Seconds clicked by and the door opened wide revealing Drake Robert and he walked into the office.

“Thank you.. Lucy.” Bay dismissed her.

“Good morning, Bay.” Drake greeted.

Bay told herself that she shouldn’t act like a little girl who doesn’t know what she wants. She has to woman up and talk things straight with him.

“Good morning, Drake Robert.” Bay replied boldly after taking in a handful of breathe to fill her lungs.

Drake stared at her. “Don’t I deserve a seat?” He asked.

You definitely don’t deserve one! Bay wanted to slap it to his face but she held back her harsh words.. “Please take a seat.” She pointed to the couch.

Bay stood up from behind the desk to settle on the couch facing Drake whose eyes was watching every of her movement. She sat with his legs crossed.

“So how are you?” He asked sounding like he care about her well being.

“I am fine. Thanks for your concern.” Bay responded.

“And the baby?” Drake asked again.

“Now the baby?! The baby is fine! And we will be fine without you on our side! Definitely!” Bay said within herself.

Drake waited for her response while he leaned forward and rested his elbows on his thighs.

“Fine.” Bay replied sharply.

Drake cleared his throat. “We need to talk.” He said.

Talk about what? That she is not carrying his child! Hell No! Bay is not ready to listen to his heartbreaking words! He doesn’t want his child so be it! She accept it!

“We have nothing to talk about anymore.” Bay blurted with a deep frown on her expression.

Drake raised his brows. “I know, you are doubting my baby and that you don’t want it. And it is fine by me. So we don’t have anything to talk about here. And forget about convincing me to take it out even if you know it is yours because I won’t have an abortion.” Bay said sternly. Her heart was beating rapidly and she could feel her hands almost trembling.

Drake stared at her in shock. The thought of abortion never even occurred to him. His Adams apple bobbled up and down as he calmed. “Are you done?” He asked.

“What?” Bay furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. Oh well she was not done talking! She has a lot to say to him! She would like to remind how foolish he has been to have denied his baby!

“I want to -” Drake paused as he watched her trying to control her heartbeat.

Somehow Bay found herself relaxing at his intense stare. “I apologize for what happened last night.” He completed his intended statement.

Apologizing for humiliating her mother? For denying his child? And for calling her a whore? Everything.

“I was shocked to see you at our place and my parents didn’t tell me about the baby before I met you again. I chalked things up between us as a fling so I was surprised you turned up pregnant.”

Thinking about it now that’s true. Drake didn’t deny knowing Bay but he only claimed that she can’t be carrying his child.

“And about the baby I denied it because I didn’t know it was your first and also considering the fact of how we met at club. I just thought that the baby could be for the other men you were seeing but I was wrong and slow in realizing that the baby could be mine.” Drake stopped expecting a response from her but she didn’t say anything.

What made him change his mind? Bay thought.

Drake continued. “I saw the bloodstain on the bed when I was about to leave the hotel.” He confessed.

Drake saw the stain? Well she never thought about any stain on the sheet. Bay tried to block the images of that night. She had realized that the sex in shower without protection must have made her pregnant because Drake had released into her. Actually Jessica helped her realized it. So what about the note? Bay mused.

“Why didn’t you call me?” Bay heard herself say in low tone.

Damn it! Bay knew she has the weakest will on earth! Some minutes ago, she was determined to get rid of Drake Robert but now she was concerned about the note she had left him.

“Note?” Drake muttered.

“Yeah… I actually… I dropped a note that morning.” Bay whispered. She studied his expression and it kind of struck her that Drake didn’t see the note. So it is better not to talk about it.

“Never mind.” Bay said as she fiddled with her fingers.

“I saw the note.” Drake answered.

He did?! He saw the note but he didn’t even bother to call! Oh! He chalked things up to a fling.

“I saw the note but I left it at the hotel.” Drake said with sincerity in his tone.

“Okay.” Bay nodded slowly.

So Drake saw the note and he left it back at the hotel. Jessica was right! That night meant nothing to him! Bay should have accepted it right since when her best friend was telling her that one night didn’t mean forever in Drake Robert’s world.

And Bay was quick to conclude that she has been a fool to think that Drake felt something for her!

She should be hating him but right now seeing Drake made every fiber of her being stand up and take notice of him. He looked handsome in his neatly tailored black suit.

Bay really want to end this whole drama of loving Drake Robert and she just want to dedicate her life to raising her baby.

Drake sighed. “I apologize for that too. And I am here because I want to take on the responsibility of the child. It is my baby too so I don’t have any choice but to be the father.” He completed the sentence with another sigh.

Bay’s head snapped up and she locked gaze with Drake. What does that mean?! Drake wants his child! He want to be a father! Happiness and hope washed through Bay Sanders.

“I will make out time from my busy schedules to always check up on you and the baby.” Drake added.

“Does that mean I will be seeing Drake more often?” Bay bantered internally.

“Just give me a call if you need anything.” Drake stood up and dropped his complimentary card on glass table. He was almost leaving when he said, “Apologize to your mom on my behalf.”

Bay managed to nod her head since her voice failed her. “Take care.” Drake said finally and he walked out.

Bay let out a shaky breathe when the door clicked closed and her fingers drew circles on her stomach. A smile formed on Bay Sanders lips against her will or maybe she just want to smile and feel the happiness.

Drake Robert accepted his child.

Chapter 59 Little Angels Home

“Don’t forget to get the hand towels too!” Ma’am Elise reminded loudly from the kitchen.

“Oh! Yes!” Cassidy exclaimed and then rushed to the large table to grab the pack of towels.

Ma’am Loretta sat on the couch arranging clothes into a set of big paper bags. Fifteen days has passed since Lint Corporation textile branch warehouse supplied the materials and Ria and her team have been able to finish seventy dresses for the children at Amber Foundation.

To be honest in the process of making the dresses, Ria had to admit that it wasn’t an easy task but they did it anyways! Ma’am Elise, Ma’am Loretta, Cassidy, Phoebe and Phoenix and Ria. During the course of making the dresses, Ma’am Loretta and Cassidy spent most of their time at Ria’s place and they had even slept over at some point so that they could finish up few days before the Amber Foundation Annual Party date.

The Five – Day Event was set to start in two days time so Ria and her team are taking the dresses to Little Angels Home.

“Everything is set.” Ma’am Loretta said with a sigh.

The door bell rang. “That should be Mr Ian. I’ll get it.” Cassidy said as she made her way to the door.

Yesterday on phone, Ian offered that he would be the one to drive Ria and her team to Little Angels Home so Ria especially has been expecting him to show up.

“Good morning.”

Ria heard someone say at the door. It was a familiar voice but not Ian’s. She turned and saw his personal driver named Benjamin.

“Where is Mr Ian?” Cassidy asked him.

“Mr Ian is quite busy at the office so he sent me to drive everyone to Little Angels Home. Did I come too late?” Benjamin responded.

Immediately, a wave of disappointment hit Ria. Why didn’t Ian just call to inform her that he couldn’t make it before sending his driver? Ria was already anticipating the company of Ian. She had been pinning for his company because she hasn’t seen him since for the passed few days.

Now Ria felt offended that Ian couldn’t make it here when he had insisted that he would go with her to the orphanage home. But why is she so mad because Ian didn’t show up?

Ma’am stood up from the couch and carried some of the paper bags. “You are just right on time! We are ready to leave for the orphanage. Please take these bags to the car.” She gave few of the bags to the young man.

The paper bags were filled with clothes which they already packed and taped with each kids name on it.

“Okay, ma’am Loretta.” Benjamin replied.

“Let me help with the rest of the bags.” Cassidy went back to the couch to get the remaining bags to the car.

“I shouldn’t be disappointed!” Ria scolded herself when it occurred to her that of the two of them, she was behaving a whole lot more unbusinesslike than Ian.

Ian spends most of his time at work, calling Ria once or twice in a day to check up on her and coming over to say hi just once or twice in a week while Ria on other hand was expecting more from him. A part of Ria wanted things to be different. She wanted more than Ian just calling once a day and seeing him once in a while. The truth remains that Ian is keeping things businesslike while Ria is pinning for his company all day and even offended that he didn’t show up today! And it only means that Ria needed to practice what she has been preaching. Strictly Business!

Beginning immediately, by putting a stop to the latest disappointment that was running rampant in her. But getting rid of that disappointment was easier said than done because no matter how hard Ria tried, she couldn’t seem to stop wishing that Ian was here to drive her to Little Angels Home.

“Drink this before leaving.” Ma’am Elise gave Ria a glass of apple juice.

“Thank you.” Ria smiled. She gave the glass back to Ma’am Elise after drinking little of the juice.

“You might need this too.” Loretta handed her a bottle of water.

“Everything is set.” Cassidy announced with her arms folded across her chest as she stood by the door.

“Let her go with you.” Ma’am Elise suggested.

The initial plan was that Ian and Ria would move the dresses to the Little Angels Home while Ma’am Elise and Cassidy would go and see Principal Brenda. Ria already made the samples of uniforms along the line with Amber Foundation’s works and she had informed the principal that Ma’am Elise would bring it today. Ma’am Loretta would stay back at home to have a rest and probably take care of the kids when they get back from school.

“Cassidy, will you go to the orphanage with Miss Ria?” Ma’am Loretta asked.

“Yes! Yes! Yes!” Cassidy replied happily.

“Okay. Elise and I will go to the school.” Ma’am Loretta added.

“No ma’am Loretta, please stay back at home and have some rest.” She hasn’t been feeling well but she was now on medication.

“No.. no I am fine. I will go with Elise to the school and please don’t turn me into an old lady.” They all laughed while Ma’am Loretta moved to pack the sample of uniforms. They all laughed.

“Okay. See you later.” Ria said to them before leaving with Cassidy to the car.

She settled in the backseat while Cassidy sat next to Benjamin at the front space. Her phone binged. It was a message from Ian.

‘I am sorry for not meeting up as planned. Something came up at the office so I had to stay back and attention to it. I’ll make it up to you whenever I am less busy. I promise. Please take care.’

“Ben, what is Mr Ian doing at work?” Cassidy asked.

“He should be in the meeting with the board of directors now.” Ben answered as the car glided into motion.

“Okay. But how do you know?” Cassidy asked again although she was just trying to create a conversation with him.

“Mr Ian told me that himself before I left the office.” Ben responded.

“Okay.” Cassidy mumbled.

“What should I send to him?” Ria muttered under her breathe.

‘Okay I understand.’ Ria typed but she deleted it because it sounded too simple and Ian might think she is mad at him.

‘Cassidy and I are on our way to the orphanage now. Thanks for sending Ben!’ She sent the text.

Cassidy and Ben were now engrossed in a conversation. Her phone vibrated. Message from Ian again. Is he typing in the meeting? She wondered.

‘You are welcome. Send me a text when you arrive at Little Angels Home.’

‘Alright.’ Ria texted.

And she waited for another response which never came from Ian Bryant.

*********

AMBER FOUNDATION : LITTLE ANGELS HOME

The SUV turned off the main road onto a private driveway. The driveway was lined on both sides by Red oak trees with the branches reaching out to each other to form an arc overhead that blocked most of the sun scorching rays. Little Angels Home was a three storey mansion. When the building came into view, Ria could hardly believe her eyes. It was beautiful and well decorated in preparation for the upcoming annual event. Ria noticed the people in the large garden and they were all dressed in the same uniform trying to set up the area for the event.

Cassidy and Ria came out of the car. Ria looked on and saw Mrs Perla who smiled immediately their eyes made a contact. Cassidy spun towards Mrs Perla to hug her as if she was greeting her mother or her favorite aunt. Actually Cassidy is free with anyone and Ria loves her cheerful spirit.

“Ria.” Mrs Perla came to her side with a plump older woman with extremely gray hair, very red cheeks and nose.

“Mrs Russell meet Ria Robert. Ria, this is mrs Russell and she runs things around here whenever Madam Charity isn’t around.” Mrs Perla introduced.

Ria hasn’t seen the old lady on her visits to the orphanage home. She recalled that a workers said Mrs Russell was receiving treatment at the hospital. Ria held out her hands to the old lady. “It is so nice to meet you ma’am.” She smiled.

“I am pleased to meet you too.” Mrs Russell replied.

“The dresses are in the car.” Ria said looking at Mrs Perla.

“Oh! Please bring the dresses inside.” Mrs Perla instructed.

“The kids are so excited about their dresses.” Mrs Russell said with a bright smile.

Cassidy went back to the car and she and Ben brought the paper bags out.

“What about Ian? He told me that he would be here with you.” Mrs Perla requested as they made their way into the mansion.

“He is busy at work.” Ria replied. Well it still pained her that Ian wasn’t here with her.

“Okay. I’ll give him a call.” Mrs Perla helped with the door allowing Benjamin and Cassidy to go in first then Mrs Russell before she and Ria both stepped into the mansion.

“Miss Ria!” The children screamed when they got to the waiting section.

“They have been really waiting to try their dresses!” Mrs Russell giggled.

“Hello children!” Ria greeted cheerfully.

“Hi Miss Ria!” The children screamed out in unison.

“How are you doing today?” Ria asked.

“We are doing fine!” They chorused.

Ria noticed Cassidy waving at the little girl she had liked the day they came to measure the children.

Chapter 60 This Feeling Of Love

The meeting with the board of director has ended. Ian Bryant sat at the desk handling the hundreds of mundane tasks that running the corporation required. His thought was on Ria and he was so eager to finish up and go and see her.

Ian’s looked away from the paper he was about to sign when his cellphone binged. He checked the caller’s ID hoping it was Ria but it turned out to Harvey Wesley! An old friend. They both attended the same high school and college and Harvey Wesley owns the best construction company in Chicago.

Ian sighed and picked up the call. “Hello Harvey.” He said.

“Hey Ian! Long time buddy!” Harvey’s voice boomed over the phone that Ian had to shift the device away from his ear.

Ian turned on the speaker and placed the phone on the desk. “Yeah dude. It has been a while.” They both laughed.

“Yeah. So how are you man?” Harvey asked.

“I am cool, Harvey. And it is really nice to hear to you again.” Ian replied.

“I sincerely apologize for not calling to check up on you man.” Harvey chuckled deeply.

“Likewise dude.” Ian said.

“So what’s up with you? I mean.. what have you been up to lately?” Harvey added.

Ian chuckled. “Harvey, it has been just work and loads of paperwork.” He responded.

“I expected this response from you. I know it is a great work to run a corporation as large as your family’s own. And I guess being a CEO is tiring.”

“You are no different, Harvey.” Ian replied.

“Don’t try to compare us. I am different! I run just one company while you are running a whole corporation that has several branches. Man… that’s big and great work! And I must say that you would barely have time to hang out or any free time but just work, work and work.” Harvey countered.

“Hey man. Come on Harvey, it is not that bad!” Ian chuckled.

“But it is the truth buddy.” Harvey retorted.

“No.” Ian argued.

“You seem too busy to me. Ian, you became work oriented ever since you became a chief executive officer. I mean… you are not the Ian I used to know.”

“Yeah. I changed Harvey. I have so much responsibilities but you must also know that I am not really all work and no play.” Ian replied.

“Really?” Harvey croaked out.

“Yes Harvey.”

“Who is all work and no play? Ian Bryant! Eighty percent of the American population knows this fact about you. And I can’t see where you will have time for a wife and kids.” Harvey did the tsk tsk sound.

“Wife and kids? There you go against Harvey!” They both laughed. “Did you call to remind me that I am yet to get married.” Ian demanded after a hard laugh.

“Yes! This is a reminder!” Harvey coaxed. And Ian laughed again. “Don’t mind me buddy.” Harvey said.

Yeah! Ian doesn’t have to take his words seriously because that’s Harvey Wesley’s personality. He could be very funny and also annoying with his words whenever he teases someone. Harvey is a family man, a father of two and married to one of the top most models in the United State of America. But Harvey doesn’t have to remind Ian that he was yet to start a family.

“Well I called to invite you to a party.” Harvey said.

“What party?” Ian questioned.

“Oh my goodness! Now he doesn’t remember.” Harvey feigned a gasp.

“Please tell me about it, Harvey.” Ian requested.

“BMW ASSOCIATION PARTY!” Harvey grounded out.

“Oh!” Ian mouthed.

“Now you know.” Harvey added.

“Of course! Thanks for the reminder. So when and where is it holding?” Ian demanded.

“In about three weeks time. We had to set things that way because of Amber foundation’s annual party. Three weeks is enough time for everyone to rest and prepare for the big day.” Harvey explained.

“Yes, you are right. That’s so thoughtful of the board.” Ian agreed.

“So will you be there?” Harvey asked.

“I don’t -”

Harvey interrupted him. “Your presence at the party is really important so make out time Ian. Who knows you might find your heartthrob at the party this year.” They rolled into laughter again.

“Harvey, stop the teasing game already. I don’t need to find an heartthrob at the party.” Ian chuckled. Well he has someone whom his heart beats for-Ria Robert.

“You sound different. Formally, you would have agreed to come to the party immediately without me persuading you. Tell me what’s going on?! Are you coming with someone this time around? A woman you are madly in love with?” Harvey demanded.

Ian was silent. He was thinking about Ria. Would Ria agree to go with Ian to the party if he ask her to be his date?

“Ian, are you there?” Harvey called out.

“Yes Harvey.” He replied.

“Look man, if you aren’t sure about anything yet just beep me so I can hook you up with someone before that day.” Harvey offered in a concerned tone.

“No thanks Harvey. I’ll attend the party.” Ian responded. He won’t be hooking up with another lady when Ria is already in his life.

“Okay. I will send you the invitation soon.” Harvey sighed in resignation.

“Alright.” Ian replied.

“And we could grab a drink before that day too.” Harvey suggested.

“I will give you a call, Harvey.” Ian said.

“Okay. Bye, Ian Bryant.” Harvey disconnected the call before Ian could utter his goodbye response.

Harvey Weasley is the current deputy president of the association. The BMW means BUSINESS MEN AND WOMEN. It is an association for popular and wealthy businessmen and women in America. The party is more or less for the all rich people in the state and beyond.

The annual party is a time when you get to meet new people and probably make new business partners and connections. Unlike Amber Foundation annual party, it is a day event and mostly held on a Sunday evening. The event is more like a dinner party with media houses storming the whole place.

Ian Bryant has to be there to represent his corporation. He doesn’t want Harvey to hook him up with any lady like last year. At the last one, Harvey had introduced a lady to Ian at the party. Her name was Valeria and she was a Jeweler like his mother.

Ian and Valeria had flowed freely that night and somehow they ended up spending more time at the hotel. To Ian Bryant, it was nothing but a fling and a moment of enjoyment. But three weeks after Ian met Valeria and the connection was still there she started pestering him to introduce her to his family members especially his mother. It was so obvious that she wanted something more than just spending good time together. Valeria wanted commitment and Ian wasn’t ready for such which he already stated since the night of the party. So in the end, Valeria got mad at Ian when she also sensed that nothing would work out between them.

Ian Bryant is not a saint! He has been with women in past and not too many but a few. And the truth remains that, he has never felt anything this strong with any of those women like how he feels for Ria Robert.

Honestly, Ian doesn’t know why he has been acting differently since he met Ria. He doesn’t know why he can’t seem to get her out of his mind until he followed his heart to help her out of misery.

Ian looked forward to seeing Ria and sometimes he can’t seem to concentrate on work if he hasn’t given her a call or text in a day. There are so many things Ian wants to do with Ria but she only sees him as a business partner. Maybe it is the best thing to do. Acting as a business partner has gotten Ian closer to Ria than he ever expected. She is exceptional among all the women he has met.

Ian’s heart beat rapidly whenever he is with her and he gets this flutter in his belly anytime he watch her smile and laugh. Ian Bryant loves that inexplicable thing about Ria that made him come alive and more happy than he has ever been with any woman.

Ian Bryant loves Ria Robert but does she feel the same way for him? Ian is doubting if Ria would ever fall in love with him. That fear he saw months back was still evident in her eyes. There was no love in her eyes but only fear. The fear of being touched by a man.

And Ian hated it! He always sense it each time he leaned close to Ria, too close and sometimes when he tried to touch her like just holding hands with her.

What could it be? What could have made her that way? Ian pondered deeply. Ian is aware that Ria is only trying to act calm and cool around him. She is not settled yet. He knew Ria isn’t convinced that he mean no harm to her.

Ian just wants to make her happy. He want to be the reason behind her smile. But that fear about her past was hindering him from inching closer to her heart. What does it entails? Could it be that someone took advantage of her? He mused.

And whatever her past entails must be really bad. He just wished that Ria could open up to him so they can conquer those fears together. But he can’t do anything since she doesn’t want him to know or maybe he doesn’t deserve to know. Ian concluded that he shouldn’t try to find out if Ria doesn’t want him to know about it. He should focus on the present and possible future. So he would just let it slide and not bother about her past.

Ian decided that he would only focus on Ria. If she is having issue trusting men then he would work on himself until he is able to prove to her that he is worth a chance.

“Her past doesn’t matter to me. I will make sure Ria trust men again. And I am sure as time goes on she will be free with me and open up to me about it.” Ian concluded.

A knock sounded on the door. “Come in.”

Ramsey popped his head in. “Sir, the designers just called.” He stepped into the office.

“What did they say?” Ian asked.

“They are moving in the furniture today.” Ramsey answered.

“Alright.” Ian shook his head in understanding.

“Sir, do you need anything?” Ramsey requested.

“Yes Ramsey. Please get the contact of the best advertising agency in the state.” Ian ordered.

“Okay sir.” Ramsey bowed slightly before he exited the office.

Ria’s workplace is almost set! And as a matter of fact Ian Bryant is pretty impressed with the designers works! They have carved out the exact designs he had envisioned in his mind from the moment he decided to establish Ria’s sewing business.