Ch. 66..70: Blind Billionaire Bride Chapter 66-70
Chapter 66 Ex-Girlfriend
Benjamin drove Ria and Ziggy to the location of the association parry. It was a big fancy hotel. There was a long line of Limousines, Benz, BMW, Bentleys, Lamborghini trucks and other expensive sports cars. As Benjamin drove close to the entrance, she could see all the people walking in and she felt like she did not look like them. The fancy clothes and suits and flashing lights from the paparazzi.
“Ziggy.. I.. don’t think I can do this..” Ria said shakily.
“Ria just relax, I’ll walk you to Ian Bryant. The party is not a big deal and all you have to do is smile, shake a few hands and look pretty for Ian Bryant because he is the main man.” Ziggy said in a calm tone.
Look pretty for Ian? That sounded more like ma’am Elise. Ria thought. “I can do this…” She breathed out.
Ria made the bold steps out of the car looking as graceful as possible. “Wow! Who is she?!”
“She is so gorgeous!”
“Oh! Look it is Ziggy Gray!”
“She must be his date!”
These were the handful of comments from the reporters around as they rushed to take pictures. Ria was blinded by Paparazzi camera flashes. The bouncers tried to caution them as they were packed behind red ropes yelling and taking pictures.
“A minute please.. Ziggy Gray!”
Ziggy waved at them in an elegant style with a smile plastered on his face. He wrapped his arm around Ria as he led her through the blind lights. And she suddenly wished that it was Ian holding her. How do celebrities put up with the lights on daily basis? Ria mused.
It took them more time to get to the door because the paparazzi kept asking Ziggy questions about the woman beside him.
“This is so annoying.” Ria mumbled.
“Be glad it is me. You would have seen more drama if it was the most wanted bachelor in Chicago.” Ziggy whispered to her.
Ria knew he was talking about Ian Bryant. The inside was over packed and crowded. People were hoarded all around and this was just the lobby.
“You did well Ria at least you didn’t fall or trip.” Ziggy commented.
“I couldn’t do that not with a twenty million dollar diamond hanging on my neck, ear and wrist.” Ria muttered but enough for him to hear her.
Ziggy chuckled. “The diamonds are enough to get rid of your nervousness. Huh?”
And she is only doing this because of Ian Bryant. Ziggy led Ria to the nearest elevator and she started feeling nervous again because people stopped to stare at her. She found a few people whispering in each other’s ears while staring in her direction.
“Are you okay?” Ziggy asked.
“Yes… I.. am.. fine.” Ria stuttered.
“Remember the diamonds.” Ziggy whispered in her ears after they walked into the elevator.
“I need to collect myself. I only need to act cool and calm if I am going to make it through tonight.” Ria bantered internally.
The ride to the top floor was long. Ria did feel a little exposed in the dress and she worry that the back of the dress would slip down and her ass would be out in the open plus she wasn’t wearing a bra under the dress. And the no bra dress added more to the nervousness.
When the elevator dinged and the door opened Ria inhaled and exhaled a quick breath before they stepped out into the hallway. Ria grabbed Ziggy’s arm again and they walked down the hallway. Few people were standing around and they stared and whispered at the sight of Ria Robert walking with the famous and top most model in the country.
“Her dress is too revealing.”
“Does she have a plan to seduce all the men at the party?”
“She must be crazy.”
Ria heard people say behind her. “I knew it.” She mumbled.
“If you let that get to you then you will never survive the night.” Ziggy said.
All Ria could do was nod her head as she reminded herself that she was doing it for the man who has helped her life and is still helping her life.
“In addition, I am glad Ian Bryant seems to have an understanding with a woman now. This is the first time he is coming to this party with a date.” Ziggy added.
“Really?” Ria sounded surprised.
“Yes, you are the first woman. And I must say that Ian Bryant is lucky to have you by his side.” Ziggy let out a soft laugh.
“No! It is the other way round. I am lucky to have Ian Bryant by my side!” Ria countered within herself.
Ziggy and Ria walked up to a set of door and two men opened the door when they got close. The room was filled with rich people of fancy million dollars outfits, accessories and services. White tables were set up at the side of the room and waiters roamed around the area and there was hardly any way to walk.
“Look, Ian Bryant is on the other side of the room.” Ziggy blurted out when he caught a glimpse of Ian.
“Where?” Ria asked while following Ziggy. She tried to look for Ian but she couldn’t see him.
Eyes were plastered on Ria as Ziggy walked her through the room. All Ria did to avoid their stares was look down at the ground and followed Ziggy as if she was blind.
“You have to get used to it. You will be a star soon.” Ziggy said.
“What star?” Ria head snapped up at him.
“A fashion star or should I say Icon. Ian told me about your business.” Ziggy replied.
“He did?” Ria pouted her lips.
“Yes, he didn’t stop talking about it while I gave him a sketch of how you would turn out tonight. So you have to learn to get through with events like this party.” Ziggy responded.
Ria sighed. This was going to be a long night! Ria had a conclusion in her mind that she would still have to give this diamond back to Ian even though he bought it for her.
Talking of Ian, Ria spotted him as they got closer. His brown hair sleeked back that it fitted his sculpted face perfectly. Ian was dressed in a black suit which matched with a black tie, shoe and light brown handkerchief folded with just a triangle point sticking out of his breast pocket. He was different! He looked more handsome with the champagne glass in his hand. His smile almost blinded Ria while he was talking to another man.
As Ziggy and Ria walked closer, Ian gave a quick glance but had to quickly turn back for a second stare. His eyes opened wide just staring and moving them to look over every inch of Ria Robert.
“Ian! I brought your date as promised.” Ziggy said with a smug smile on his face. “I present her to you.” He slipped his arm out from Ria’s arm.
Ian was still lost in trance. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Ziggy went to him, balled his fist and gave him a smack at his back. Ian jumped all the way back to reality.
“Your date.” Ziggy pointed.
“Oh! Thank.. you.. Ziggy.” Ian stuttered.
“Anytime.”
Ian leaned close and planted kisses on Ria’s cheeks. She saw the look on the other man’s face. He was amused as he stared at her!
“Your date is very beautiful Ian! It would be rude not to introduce us.” The man said.
“Of course! Harvey, this is Ria Robert. Ria meet Harvey Wesley the deputy president of the BMW association. He also owns the largest construction company in Chicago.” Ian introduced.
Ria hesitated before sticking out her hand for him to shake it. “It is a pleasure to meet you.”
Harvey grabbed the wrap of her fingers and slowly pulled them up to his lips and planted a kiss just above her knuckle. “Meeting a beauty like yourself, the pleasure is all mine. You are beautiful.” Harvey complimented.
Ria’s immediate impression of this guy is that, he is a sweet talker and he better not get any silly ideas in his head.
“You flatter me.” Ria forced a small smile on her face.
“A woman like yourself deserves much more than mere flattery. I mean my words.” Harvey grinned.
Ria wasn’t comfortable with this guy. Ian sensed it too even as he was losing his mind over a simple dress and her new look.
“Harvey would you please excuse us, I would like to talk to my date alone.” Ian requested.
“Of course! It is almost time for my speech. Good to see you again, Ziggy Gray.” Harvey gave Ziggy a stern handshake before disappearing into the crowd.
“I’ll also take my leave.” Ziggy said.
“Thank you once again.” Ian shook hands with Ziggy before he exited the room.
Ria raised an eye brow at Ian when he covered the inch left between them. “You look beautiful.” He complimented and her cheeks flushed pink.
“Of course! I am wearing a twenty thousand dollars dress, a ten thousand dollars heels, a five thousand dollars make up and a twenty million dollars diamond all on my body.” She pointed out.
Ian rolled his eyes. “Stop being concerned about the money. And trust me, you will still look beautiful even without the accessories.”
And Ria realized she was blushing too much from his compliments so she shied away from it. “I must admit that you are the prettiest woman here tonight. So be careful of the other women.” This man sure has a way of getting to her.
Ria and Ian grabbed a few glasses of champagne before the dinner party started. She was amazed at all the people Ian introduced to her. Ria got to meet a couple of people, famous business owners, oil tycoons and fashion designers some who admired the dress she made for Amber Foundation children. Some of the people Ian introduced Ria to had attended the event and they had received her cards while some watched the event on national television channels.
Ria admitted that walking and talking around all these people was actually kind of interesting. And for the champagne, she has never had one before and it was pretty good but she didn’t drink too much.
“Everyone…” A man on the stage said into the microphone. The spotlight came on him. It was the same guy, Harvey Wesley!
“I would like to start out by telling you thank you for attending the party. And on behalf of Amber Foundation, Madam Charity is saying a big thank you to everyone that attended the last party. And she is also using this medium to appreciate Ian Bryant for donating a sum of five million dollar to the foundation.” A spotlight found Ian in the room. “And BMW is saying thank you too for giving the sum of three million for today’s dinner party.” Harvey completed.
People turned to them and began to clap. He donated such huge amount of money to the foundation and for the party too?!
“That’s quiet generous of you.” Ria said to him.
“Well I do like helping others when I can.” Ian replied.
The spotlight disappeared and reappeared back on the stage. “Now ladies and gentlemen, I bring to you Charles Willard, the president of the association!” Harvey started the clap and everyone joined in.
An elderly man with white hair and wearing a grey suit stepped on the stage. “Hello everyone.” He said.
“That man you are seeing up there is the richest man in Connecticut.” Ian said.
“Really?” Ria looked back at the aged man on the stage and she couldn’t help but wonder what it feels to be the richest.
“I would like to start by thanking you all for coming to this year’s party. This association is still bent on making the country a better place!” Everyone began to clap again. “And I hope you all enjoy the evening. Thank you.”
They clapped as the man stepped off the stage. Charles and Harvey disappeared below the crowd level.
“Let us grab something to eat at the table.” Ian said
“Thank GOODNESS! I am hungry!” Ria said to herself.
They both turned towards the direction of where the table was but Ian stopped on track. Ria saw a woman standing in front to them. She was dressed in a skimpy red cocktail dress and if it was lifted higher she would be showing the world her ass. She was well toned like a model walking on a runway, her skin was tanned gold and her hair was blond and her chest was large too.
“Please tell me, this is your new woman right?” The woman said.
Ian met her eyes and tensed up. “Valeria.” He said. Immediately his arms came around Ria’s waist ad he squeezed her closer.
Her eyes turned away from him and stared directly at Ria. And Ria could see the woman sizing her up.
“Ian, don’t be rude. You should introduce me to your new woman here.” She cracked a fake smile on her face.
“Darling, this is Valeria.”
What?! Did he just call her darling?!
“And Valeria, this is-”
Valeria interrupted Ian as she held out her hand for Ria to shake it. “We used to date and you are?”
Ria cringed at the word date and the fact that this woman standing in front of her is Ian Bryant’s ex girlfriend! Well Ian hasn’t told her anything about his past girlfriends or relationships.
Did she live with him when they were together? Did they go on these rich dates outside the country? How much did he loved her before the break up? Did he envision a future with this woman? Different questions flooded Ria mind at that moment as she tried to imagine Ian’s relationship with Valeria.
“Ria Robert. It is a pleasure to meet you.” She replied with a half smile.
All of a sudden, Ria started to feel like Ian invited her to this party on purpose just to warn off his ex girlfriend! He called her darling and even squeezed her to his side when he saw Valeria.
Harvey Wesley came up behind Valeria. “Valeria, can I talk to you for a second?” He said to her.
Valeria looked at Ria before giving Harvey a hard nod. “Alright.” She mumbled reluctantly.
Harvey winked at Ian before pulling Valeria along with him. Ian heaved a sigh of relief. “I am -”
“It is ok.” Ria cuts him off quickly.
Ian stared at her in shock as she bit on her lower lip and clenched her fist. “Listen Ria, Valeria and I -”
“Ian, I said it is okay.” Ria interrupted him again.
Pang of anger shot through her as she recalled the look on Valeria face while she was sizing her up. Perhaps was Valeria thinking Ria wasn’t up to Ian’s standard of women?
“Okay, let us grab something to eat.” Ian pointed to the table.
“I am not hungry.” Ria said.
Ian closed his eyes. “Ria.” He reopened his eyes but Ria looked around to avoid his gaze.
She saw this man out of the corner of her eyes. He was searching the room as if looking for someone desperately. He was dressed in a brown suit, his black hair wasn’t gelled back, instead it fell naturally on his face.
And Ria didn’t know why he seems to hold on to her attention but he did.
Chapter 67 Blood ties
Ria saw this man out of the corner of her eyes. He was searching the room as if looking for someone desperately. He was dressed in a brown suit, his black hair wasn’t gelled back, instead it fell naturally on his face. And she didn’t know why he seems to hold on to her attention but he did.
Ria looked back at Ian who had a confused look on his face. He must be wondering why she changed her mind about the food. She balled her fist for some second and relax. She shouldn’t make a scene out here because she met his ex girlfriend today. It shouldn’t bother her!
Ria drew in a deep breathe. “I understand that you and Valeria used to be together.” She said.
“Listen Ria, it is not the way she-”
“Wow! Look what we have here!” A voice interrupted Ian.
Ria glanced up and saw the man that caught her attention earlier on. “I have been searching the whole room to find you, Ian Bryant.” He said before his gaze fell on her. His eyes did a slow crawl from her face to her feet and back to her face again. From his expression Ian knew he liked what he saw.
A smile formed on his face. “Drake-” He stretched his hands without waiting for Ian to do the proper introduction.
“Drake Robert, chief executive officer of Limos company.” He introduced.
Ria’s heart skipped beat at his words. Limos company?! It echoed in her head as she tried to figure out which Limos was his company? Could it be the same Limos?
Ian cleared his throat. “Ria meet Drake Robert. He is one of the most successful business men in Idaho.” He introduced.
What?! Did he just say Idaho?! So this man owns a company named Limos and it is in Idaho!
“And Drake this is Ria Robert.” Ian completed the introduction.
“Ria Robert? What a coincidence. I mean, Robert meeting another Robert. You must be a successful business woman because all Roberts tend to have a great reputation and success in whatever we set our mind on.” Drake winked although his hand still hanging in the air. “It is a pleasure to meet a beauty like you.” He said.
And slowly Ria took his hand. “Nice to meet you.” She said in low tone.
Ria tried to put two and two together in her head. It can’t be possible! This man can’t be who she is thinking he should be? But she needed to be sure!
Drake held Ria’s hand for a bit as he stared at her. “Perhaps Mr Drake are you related to Frederick Robert?” Ria asked with a false smile.
Drake shook his head. “Yes. He is my father.” Ria withdrew her hand gently. “Have you met him?” He asked.
“No… no.. I only… heard about him.” Ria stammered.
Her knees became weak and it was as if she was going to hit the ground anytime soon. No! No! It couldn’t possibly be happening right now! But it is happening. Ria’s heart beat accelerated at the realization that this man is Fredrick’s son!
Slowly she turned to Ian. “I’ll be right back.” Her vision was getting blurry at the tears that threatened to spill anytime soon.
“Are you okay?” Ian asked in a concerned tone.
“Yes.. I need to use the toilet.” She replied sharply. It was the most perfect excuse she could think of at that moment.
“Okay. Just go out the door -”
Ria walked away at a close run before Ian could finish his statement. To be honest, Ria doesn’t want to accept what her mind was telling her. She ran for about two minutes and people stopped to stare but she didn’t care! What was going on in her mind was more than their stares!
Finally, she managed to find the female toilet and luckily for her no one was inside. Hot tears burned down her cheeks as she looked at herself in the large mirror close to the sink. She clenched her fists tightly almost causing the knuckles to crack.
Anger and fury roared within her and she screamed out when she couldn’t take it anymore. “No!” She placed her palms on her mouth to stop herself from screaming again.
“No.” Ria muttered.
That murderer! The one who killed her parents was still doing so well! Frederick Robert has a son and she just met him!
Ria sobbed and beat at her chest because of the pain that was going to rip her heart apart. She recalled that day. That terrible night those assassins killed her parents! And that monster sent them to kill her parents just because he wanted her father’s inheritance!
“I… can’t take… this anymore.” Ria sobbed.
All those years she couldn’t do any thing because she was a blind and hopeless girl! But now she could see. Over the years, Ria has been trying to find a way to get back at Frederick for what he did to her parents and for the pains he has caused her!
Every mental images Ria formed with words of that night came to her and all she could think of was getting revenge on Frederick Revenge.
“I will make him pay for his crimes! I will inflict pains on him and watch him plead for his life! I will do all it takes to bring him down and Limos even if it means me taking law into my own hands!” Ria seethe her teeth in anger even as she said those words to herself.
Soon Ria heard a tap on the door and she quickly grabbed a tissue and dashed it over her cheeks.
Drawing in a deep breathe, Ria hope that she could bluff her way through the next minutes without Ian noticing the tears at the party.
Ria opened the door and tried to keep her face shadowed. “Ria.” Her head snapped up when she heard Ian’s voice.
He was standing at the door. “I was worried that you won’t be able to find -” His voice trailed off as he searched her face and all her hope of hiding the ravages of tears bashed. A tear strayed down her right cheek.
“Ria.”
“I was able to find-”
Ian already stepped inside and the door closed behind him before she could finish her sentence. “What’s wrong?” His hands reached out to her cheeks as he gently lifted her face.
“You have been crying?”
“No… I am fine… Believe me.. I wasn’t crying.” She sniffled.
Of course! Ria was a mess! And she wanted nothing more than to burrow into his arms and just lose herself until she regained self sufficiency but she wouldn’t do it. She can’t let him know anything!
“Ria talk to me, what’s going on? Is it something about the party? Or is there anything you want? I can do it.”
Ian’s obvious sincerity made tears hover again but she blinked them back impatiently. She was not a crier but her hormones are just in a real mess for her to behave this way.
“I don’t need anything.” Ria replied.
Ian shook his head impatiently though this time he was to gently when he said, “You must be really tired. Do you want to get out of this lame party?”
Ria thinks it is best if she went home now. She doesn’t think she can be able to survive the rest of the dinner when she knows the son of the one who killed her parents was in the same room with her. No wonder he had caught her attention!
“Yes, I want to go home.” Ria said to Ian.
Ian removed his jacket and wore it around her. “Let us go.” He held her hand and they stepped out to the hallway.
Chapter 68 A vengeful mission
Ian has no idea what had gone wrong with Ria and he couldn’t stop thinking about it. Was it something he had done or said to her? It must be Valeria walking up to them and telling Ria that he used to date her. Ian concluded.
But what was that sudden change after Drake Robert introduced himself? Ian doesn’t know! And as much as it bugged his mind he can’t even figure out why she had cried in toilet! And the problem was that Ria wasn’t talking or even say a word since they left the party.
Ian replayed everything in his mind to see if he had missed something. Ria’s usually animated, expressive and approachable face was closed the moment she opened that door. Her expression was so distant!
Even when he had tried to talk to her about the progress of her workplace she had responded to the conversation over politely, cold and somewhat absent. Something was definitely wrong!
The Limousine driver pulled into the private driveway in Ria’s home. She got out of the car without saying anything and immediately Ian did the same too. He followed her to the front door still wondering what had made Ria change so suddenly.
Ria stood at the entrance and expected Ian to say goodnight but again he didn’t do what she expected. Instead Ian just stayed and his eyes studied her.
Several seconds passed by in silence before he cleared his throat. “I am really glad that you attended the party as my date.” He said as if it was a confession. Still she didn’t say anything.
“Ria.” Ian leaned in closely and paused.
Ian figured that it must be Valeria that triggered her mood swing this time. He blamed himself for not telling Ria about Valeria before she showed up at the party. He worked his courage before speaking up again. “Ria, I want you to listen to what I have to say. The truth is, I have thought about you since the day we met at the park.”
Ria definitely didn’t want to talk about that day and not today. Although Ria knew how much she had started to think about him since he stepped into her life to help her but she didn’t want to accept it. Especially not now that the air around them seemed to have taken a shift to intimacy.
So instead she said. “I should probably go in and rest. You should do the same too. It is late.”
Ian ignored the exit line and just went on to looking into her eyes. “It is almost like I have been carrying around a part of you since then.”
And certainly Ria realized that she had been carrying around a part of him ever since she started suspecting that she might possibly be attracted to him too. But again, it is not something she wanted to say and she doesn’t want to feel the effect of his words within her.
“Listen Ria.” He tried to hold her hand but she hid them behind her back.
“Don’t do this to me, Ian.” She whispered.
“Don’t do what to you?” He looked straight into her eyes.
The stern look made it hard for her to maintain her train of thought. Did he have to look at her that way?
“Don’t compliment me. Don’t be too nice to me. Don’t try to make me believe that-”
“What do you want me to do? Insult you?” Ian asked.
“That’s not what…” Her voice broke off when tears was about to spill down her cheeks again.
Ian leaned forward just slightly though. Was he testing her resolve? Was he wondering what she would do if he touched her? Or was he going to kiss her again?
“Let us just be business partners and… nothing more.” It took her a lot of courage to say that to him
Ian breathed out heavily. “Is that what you want?” He asked.
“Yes.” Ria said before she even decided which it was.
But her own tone was almost a whisper because her resolve was really weak. And at that moment, her gaze attached itself to his lips but just as she thought he was going to close the inch and press his lips on hers, he took in her words and drew back.
“Maybe. You are right.” Ian said.
There was actually a part of Ria that told her that no she wasn’t right! A part of her that craved that almost kiss but it shouldn’t be happening.
So Ria drew back too and stood a little taller. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” Ian muttered.
Ria removed the jacket hanging around her shoulder and she gave it back to him. “Sleep well.”
Ian turned back to his car while Ria slipped inside when the car drove away. Then Ria realized that she felt something for him! She was even more attracted to him now! But with what she just found out tonight, Drake Robert, Frederick Robert and the decision to get revenge there was no way she could give in to being attracted to Ian Bryant. She had too much at stake.
Tears burned down her cheeks when she recalled the look on Ian’s face when she had clarified things. Business partner and nothing more.
“Miss Ria.” Ma’am Elise called.
Ria went to her quickly and wrapped her arms around her immediately. “Ma’am… Elise.” She sobbed.
Ria lasted about two minutes in tears. Her hands were shaking when ma’am Elise led her to the couch.
“What’s wrong?” Ma’am Elise asked.
Ria took in a shaky breathe. The thought of her parents set the tears flowing again. “Just relax and tell what happened at the party.”
Ria nodded. “I.. I.. met Frederick’s son at the party.” She said.
“What?!” Elise jaw dropped. “Hold up… no.. wait… which Frederick?”
Ria stood up and paced the room. “The same one that ordered the killings of my parents!”
“Unbelievable!” Ma’am placed her hands on her mouth.
“This guy came to Ian and introduced himself as Drake Robert.” Ria cried.
“How sure are you that he is your uncle’s son? I mean, he could be another Robert.” Ma’am Elise scrunched up her face.
“He is the chief executive officer of Limos company in Idaho. And I even asked if he was related to Frederick Robert. He said yes that… Frederick is his Father.” Ria explained.
“Oh my God!” Ma’am Elise gasped in shock.
“I was shocked too… and I couldn’t stand him.” Ria sobbed.
“Is he friends with Mr Ian?” Ma’am Elise demanded.
“It seems Drake Robert is Ian Business Partner.” Ria answered.
Ma’am Elise stood up and went to her. “At this point, I suggest you tell Mr Ian the whole truth.” She blurted out.
“What?! No!” Ria declined.
“Listen Miss Ria, it is the best option. Telling Mr Ian the truth will make things easier for you.” Ma’am Elise persuaded.
“No.” Ria shook her head in disagreement.
“Why?”
More tears flowed down her face. “You don’t understand? Ian is my present.” She sobbed.
“But you can let him know your past too.” Ma’am Elise suggested.
Ria shook her head from side to side. “No, I can’t tell him. I don’t want him to get caught in my past.”
“I understand what you are trying to say. But you know, if you explain things to him with Mr Ian’s connection he could file in a case of reinvestigation on your parents death. You are a living witness which is enough to put Frederick Robert behind bars!” Ma’am Elise tried to make Ria understand her points of view.
“No, I can’t tell him about it. Ian already has too much to handle and I don’t want him to know about it. I’ll sort things myself.” Ria wiped her tears with the back of her hands.
“How?” Ma’am Elise asked.
“Just wait and see.” Ria replied with a stern look on her face and she balled her fists in anger.
Ma’am Elise shook her head slowly when she saw Ria’s expression. Revenge! A bloody one and it might get Ria in trouble in the end!
“I’ll deal with Frederick Robert alone. I swear it, I’ll destroy him.” Ria gritted.
Ma’am Elise was quick to figure that Ria was willing to take law into her hands! And right at that moment, Ria swore that she would bring Frederick down when the time comes! She was determined to destroy him even if she ends up dying after the fight! She would avenge her parents death and make him pay for his crimes! She concluded
Deep down in Ria’s heart, there was a great fear and it was not the fear of getting revenge or what would happen to her in the course of getting revenge on Frederick. But it was the fear of Ian Bryant finding out what she used to be eight years ago.
What would he do? Would Ian Bryant reject her? She thought deeply.
Ria shook her ahead slowly. The best way to avoid his rejection or distance is to hide her past! The thought of not seeing Ian again made the tears flow again and this time she couldn’t control it.
Ria motioned towards her room while Ma’am Elise was lost in thought on how she could possibly change her mind on this quest for revenge.
Chapter 69 Mr Responsibility
Ria lay down on the couch staring at the ceilings above. “Now tell me what’s going on in that mind of yours?” Ma’am Elise said as she walked into the room from the room.
“Nothing.” Ria mumbled.
“Nothing? Or you don’t want to tell me about it?” Ma’am Elise asked.
“I don’t know.” She answered.
“Then let me guess, you are thinking about Frederick Robert and the perfect plan to destroy him.”
Yeah! Ria was thinking about the perfect plan to destroy him!
“So you still want to leave Mr Ian out of your vengeful plans?” Ma’am demanded after she realized what was possibly going through Ria’s mind.
“Yes, I am leaving him out of my plans and I am not changing my mind.” Ria sat up and was almost leaving to the sitting room when she heard her cellphone ringtone.
She walked back to the couch to check the phone. It was Ian!
Ria looked at ma’am Elise suspiciously as she answered the call. ‘Hello.’
‘Hi Ria. Are you busy at the moment?’ Ian asked.
Ria looked away from ma’am Elise. ‘Not really.’
‘Yes or no?’
‘No.’
‘Good. Benjamin is on his way to bring you somewhere.’
Ria forehead creased. ‘Where?’
‘Ria, you and I both know that we need to talk.’ Ian answered.
‘Alright.’
‘I’ll be waiting for you.’ And then the line dropped.
Ria frowned at ma’am Elise. “Did you tell Ian?” She asked sternly
“About what?” Ma’am Elise furrowed her eyebrows.
“My past.” She answered.
“No. You already made it clear that you don’t want him to know about it. So I don’t have any right to tell him about it.” Ma’am Elise responded with a shrug.
Then Ria relaxed. “Okay… I’ll just go ahead and change my clothes.”
“I promised to visit Loretta at her sister’s place whenever I am less busy so I will take advantage of the free time now to see her.” Ma’am Elise said.
“Alright.”
“Bye.” Ma’am Elise made her way to the door
******************
The driver pulled up in front of an enormous steel gate. Benjamin pressed the car horn and the gate opened slowly at it will. Ria wondered where she was as she could hardly believe her eyes when the car drove into the compound. There was a medium sized house in it and with a beautiful garden which had a fountain at the center.
Ben parked the car in the small garage. “Mr Ian is waiting inside.” He said.
Ria only gave him a short nod. She had tried getting Ben to tell her what was going on? And where they are headed but the young man couldn’t say much. The only words Benjamin said was that Ian asked him to drive her to where he was and nothing more.
Ria came out of the car and moved to the front door. She pressed the doorbell and Ian opened up with a bright smile on his face.
“Hi.” She greeted.
“Come in.” Ian stepped aside for her to walk into the house.
Ria concluded that Ian had invited her to his house, where he lives! The house was neat and nicely furnished with modern interior designs to maintain a standard home. It was a luxury! A white marble floor, beautiful blue couches and glass table with a complete set of home appliances in a living room.
Ian waited for Ria to stop glancing around before he said. “How are you?”
“I am fine. And nice apartment you have in here.” She complimented.
Ian shook his head in disagreement. “I don’t live here.” He tucked his hands in his pocket.
Ria raised a brow. “Who owns this place?” She asked. But no response came from him. “Ian, what’s going on?” Her eyes scanned the area again.
“This is your new home.” Ian answered.
Ria turned to face him sharply. “What?!” Her jaw dropped and her eyes widened in shock and surprise.
“Since your place is far from the workplace and school so I put things together here. It is easier to get to those places from here.” Ian responded.
Ria was stunned. Ian waited for a response which never came from her until he said, “I’ll be right back. You can check out the whole place.” He walked out of the house.
Ian felt that a moment without him there with her would bring Ria back to reality. He went to Ben to get the car keys from him. “You can go ahead. I’ll give you a call if I need you.”
“Alright sir Ian.” Ben bowed slightly before he walked away.
Ria took a step forward. It was hard to hide her surprised look. Ian put up this place for her?! And slowly she made her way to other parts of the house.
It was a three bedroom apartment. The master bedroom was breathtaking! It had a king sized brass bed with an ornate scroll design on the head board and footboard as well as four tall posts that almost reached up to hold a fringed canopy. The mattress was covered in a hand stitched county quilt and stacked with four fluffy pillows covered in fur. It matched different patterns in the quilt. There was a drawer next to the bed and matching dressing table plus a fainting couch and two overstuffed chairs.
Ria motioned towards the bathroom and as she did, she couldn’t help marveling yet again at the room itself and the bathroom connected to it. The bathroom was so full of luxury, it has a navy blue marble floor, countertop shower stall and wainscoting halfway up the walls. It also had a sunken tub with a whirlpool she could switch on at the touch of a button, and an octagonal stained glass window on the wall behind it.
Ria wondered about Ian. He was offering so much. And it means the world to her that he was willing to do so and not that she expected anything different from him. Considering everything she had learned about him, this is who Ian Bryant is even to the world.
Ria was refusing to add to the burdens already in his life because she has never expected someone else to deal with her problems but Ian was always there anyways.
“Ria.”
Ria heard his voice and she quickly wipe the tear that had strayed down her right cheek. She stepped out of the bathroom as the bedroom door opened and Ian popped his head in
“Is everything okay?” Ian asked.
“Yes.. yes.. everything is in good place.” Ria answered.
Ian studied her for a second. He stepped in and went to her. “What’s wrong?” He tilted her face so Ria could look straight into his eyes but she avoided his gaze.
“Nothing is wrong. Ian, I am just-”
He interrupted her sentence. “I wasn’t sure about what you would like to have in your room. Tell me do you want me to fix something in here for you? Just name it.”
“No.. no… Ian everything is in here is okay. And thanks for your concern.” Ria replied.
Ian shook his head impatiently. “Listen Ria, this is not just concern. The truth is I care so for you.” His voice low and gentle.
Ria had to make an effort to keep her jaw for dropping again. Ian care for her! And what’s with the tone in the way he said it? The man always find a way to break her resolve.
When Ria didn’t say anything, Ian tugged her into his arms to hold her tightly as he whispered into her hair. “Ria, I care for you. And seeing you like this, with those tears you are trying to hide from me and I must admit that it is tearing me apart to see you hurting this way. And I wouldn’t mind if you tell me what’s going on in your mind. Please Ria, whatever it is we can talk about it.”
Ian waited for her to say just one word but Ria clung on to him! And with Ma’am Elise words ringing hard in her mind Ria fought that urge to cry and tell him everything.
Ria snuggled closer as if he was going to run away from her. She couldn’t tell him! Ian can’t know about it! Things would change between them and it would happen drastically if he knows about it!
He would reject her. Ria was sure of it. Ian Bryant would leave if he knew who she was when she was with Lucas! Any man would leave!
And she wasn’t ready to lose Ian, not now that she was beginning to accept her feelings for him. She couldn’t bear the thought of not seeing him again! So it is best to keep him out of it. He shouldn’t know about her past or plans of revenge!
“Ian, I am just happy.” Ria managed to say as she blinked back the tears that sat at the corners of her eyes.
Ian let her go. “You are happy about this place?” He asked.
“Yes I am happy about everything.” She replied with a half smile on her face.
“Then I am happy with the choice I have made.” He paused. “You like it?”
Ria nodded and that made Ian smile broader. “Why didn’t you tell about it?” She pouted.
“I wanted it to be a surprise.” Ian answered.
“And I must say that I am surprised.” Ria smiled.
Ian chuckled. “So have you checked the other rooms?”
“Yes.”
“One is for the kids and the other room is for ma’am Elise. I just thought that she might want to move in with you and that would save her from paying bills from whatever you pay her.” Ian explained.
“Yeah you are right but I doubt if ma’am Elise will agree to move in with us.”
Ian held out his hand and she took it. “Why?” He asked as they made their way back to the sitting room.
“I have persuaded her to move in with us once but she refused.” Ria answered.
“And she didn’t give you any specific reason?”
“The reason is best known to her. I’ll try to talk to her about it again.” She sank onto the couch and Ian settled beside her.
“There are some issues we have to discuss. So let us start with what happened at the party.” Ian sighed.
Ria rubbed her palms together. “Alright.”
“I understand that you want things on business level and I am not going to push you hard on that. And like I said -” He stopped.
There was a new glint of determination in his eyes that made Ria a little nervous.
“I care for you and I mean it.” He added.
“Ian -”
“Listen Ria…” Ian moved closer to cover the inches left between them and he caught her hands in his hands too.
“I know that I have a reputation for being mr responsibility. And I must admit that my obligations and full responsibilities to the corporation and my family have scared off a few women in the past.” He sighed.
“And about Valeria, I met her at the party last year. We did spend the night together and some other times too but she wanted something more than just spending time together. And the thing was I was never willing to make any drastic change with the women I have dated. Don’t get me wrong by thinking I don’t want to have a family. I have always wanted a family of my own but I only intended to wait until I found the right person.” Ian stopped still looking at her.
He was waiting for her! He was certain of his feelings but telling Ria about it would scare her away and he wasn’t ready to push her too hard. He doesn’t have to make the big decision now.
There was still enough time and when the times comes they would still get to that stage in the business relationship.
His reason for explaining how he was to Valeria, his past with women and the mention of wanting a family of his own made Ria’s hand jerk in anxiety.
Ian squeezed her hand more tightly as he continued “I am sorry it had seemed like Valeria and I were a big thing or that it looked like I used you to make her stay away. Please forgive me.”
Ria gave a short nod. “I am not mad at you anymore.”
“Anymore? So does that mean you were mad at me before now?” Ian demanded.
“Not really. Although I didn’t expect to see your ex girlfriend at the party.” Ria replied.
Ian kissed their locked hands. “I am sorry.” He apologized again.
And then Ian expected her to tell him about herself too, maybe her past but he waved it off after a long moment of silence between them.
“You can start packing the things at your place. I already arranged a truck that will move your belongings down here.” He said.
“Okay.”
“How long will it take to pack up your stuffs? So I can give the moving company a specific date.”
“We don’t have much things to pack just clothes, the machines and the stuffs in the kitchen.” Ria answered.
“A day or two?” He asked.
“Two days.” Ria replied.
“Then let us kill two birds with one stone. The designers said that your workplace will be ready in two days time so we can move the machines and some other things before bringing your loads down here. Or what do you think?”
“It is a good idea but will the truck driver agree to it?” Ria let go of his hand to itch the bridge of her nose.
“I’ll talk to him about it. If he agrees to stop by at the shop first before driving down here then that’s good.” Ian responded.
“If the company says no then we will have to pay extra.” Ria said.
“We will still have to pay extra if we move on different days. I think it is the same thing.” Ian retorted.
“Isn’t that -”
“Too much?” He completed her intended statement.
“Don’t worry I can handle it.” Ian stared intently at her.
They lapsed into silence for about a minute and Ian interlocked their hands again.
Ria cleared her throat. “I am starting school next week.”
“Really?”
Ria nodded. “I already-” A beeping sound from Ian’s pocket interrupted her.
“Excuse me.” He let go of her hands and reached for the phone in his pocket.
‘What’s up Ramsey?’
‘I am at the printing house sir.’
‘Is the work ready?’ Ian looked straight at Ria.
‘Yes I have the invitation cards and business cards.’
‘Okay.’
‘Should I take it down to the office?’ Ramsey asked.
‘Bring it to Ria’s home, I’ll meet you there.’ Ian instructed.
‘Okay sir.’ Ramsey hang up the call.
“The cards are ready.” Ian stood up from the couch.
The invitation cards are meant for the launching of “Ria Robert Couture” and the new business cards has the designs of the brand name on it. Ian planned to launch her business and give out the card to some of his business associates and staffs. Mrs Perla is the party planner for the launching of Ria’s business and she offered to give the cards to customers patronizing her store. The launch party is in two weeks time!
“We should leave now. Ramsey is on his way to your house.” Ian said.
“Okay.” Ria stood up and followed closely beside him.
“You haven’t given me any update on those dresses you are making for that day.” He held her hand again.
“Everything are almost ready.” Ria answered.
Ian opened the door for her to slide into the car. “And moreover have they supplied those materials I ordered?” He demanded.
“No until tomorrow. We will start working on the new designs as soon as they deliver the materials.” Ria answered.
“Okay.” Ian shut the door before walking around the car to get into the driver’s seat.
He drove out of the compound and secured the gate with a remote while Ria filled him in about her new designs.
Chapter 70 Dreams come true
CHICAGO, UNITED STATE OF AMERICA
AT RIA ROBERT APARTMENT
TWO WEEKS LATER
It was time! The day to launch “RIA ROBERT COUTURE” after several weeks of setting up! The inside was what one could imagine as high decorations, white walls, windows and the huge glass entrance has Ria’s designer brand “RRC” engraved on it.
Clothing racks filled with clothes, glittery gowns and silk dresses in different style and beautiful color schemes. These dresses were designed and made by Ria and with the help of her sewing team, ma’am Elise, ma’am Loretta, Cassidy, Phoebe and Phoenix. They had spent weeks working on each dresses to put it up for this day.
Dresses over the whole sections. There were a lot of them. Two ladies standing at each rack to attend to people. Due to the publicity and invitation that has been sent out, people showed up for the event. So many people walked in and out of the building most especially high and mighty people of high class intelligence.
It was a sight to bear! A dream come true for Ria Robert.
“This is incredible!” Ma’am Elise screamed.
“Yes! I am super excited because people really turned up for the launch party!” Cassidy clapped in excitement.
“Yeah. I think giving out the invitation cards really helped.” Ma’am Loretta added
“Hey, have you guys seen Phoebe and Phoenix around?” Ria demanded as she grabbed her dress from the single rack.
“They must be with Mr Ian.” Cassidy replied
“He is here?” Ria asked again as she stared down at her dress. She hasn’t seen him since he left her new home last night.
“Yeah. I saw Mr Ian with his mother a while ago.” Cassidy responded.
“Well… maybe he just came in because I haven’t seen him too.” Ma’am’Loretta added.
“You should get dressed now.” Ma’am Elise said to Ria.
“Oh yes! It is almost time for your speech.” Cassidy said as she checked her wrist watch.
Ma’am Elise steered Ria around after she wore the gown and she also helped to zip the dress open at the side. Ria stepped carefully into the centre and carefully shifted the gown into place around her body.
“Did you add more weight in just few days?” Ma’am Elise giggled as she zipped the dress properly.
Cassidy and ma’am Loretta laughed too. “I think she did.” Ma’am Loretta said as she dropped down a beaded stiletto silver heels.
Ria was excited over the dress she had made and everything that was happening today. Ria quickly put the five inches heels on that Mrs Perla had gifted her in the morning and she found them surprisingly comfortable. Cassidy also helped in wearing the accessories on Ria.
“How do I look?” Ria swirled around for her team to see her.
The dress was a shocking deep blue and strapless gown with a form of fitting bodice and it flowed out in stunning billowy waves of fabric to the floor. Her hair was styled elegantly into a bun sitting at the top of her head and tendrils wisps around her face. Her makeup has been flawlessly applied too by a professional make up artist hired by Ian Bryant from Ziggy’s agency.
“You look beautiful!” Cassidy clapped with a bright smile on her face.
“I think we all looked beautiful in our stunning dresses!” Ria giggled.
“Now let us show Miss Ria to the world!” Ma’am Loretta enthused.
They all rolled into laughter and a soft knock sounded on the door. “Come in.” Ria replied.
A lady stepped in and bowed slightly. “It is time.” She said.
“Oh! We will be out soon.” Ma’am Elise said to the lady.
“Let us go.” Ria and her team filed out of the office.
A rostrum was set up at the center part of the room that it didn’t affect the racks around. They stepped into the crowd as Ria eyes searched the room for Ian.
“Look! He is over there!” Ma’am Elise pointed towards a direction.
Ria looked towards the direction and her eyes found him. Ian was taller than most of the men around him. He wore a custom tailored tuxedo that fit him perfectly like a groom about to walk down an altar. No doubt, this man seems to always connect with her on a new levels. He really does.
Ian Bryant stood tall, looking so handsome, so sexy and so mischievously sweet on top of everything else. Ian was talking to his familiar business associates and then he came to an abrupt halt when his eyes saw Ria heading towards him as she greeted people along the way with the brightest smile on her face.
Ian gasped lowly trying to take in Ria’s beauty and her breathe caught at the same time when their gaze met. Damn! He loves every inch of this woman.
Ian excused himself from the group and he walked few steps to meet up with her. “Wow! You look so elegant and beautiful.” He complimented.
Ria’s cheeks flushed pink. “Thank you. And you look stunning too.”
“Oh really?” Ian flashed her a bright smile.
“Yes.” Ria nodded.
“Thanks for wearing the diamonds. I think it found the rightful owner.” Ian pointed to the twenty million dollars diamonds he had bought for her.
Few days after the business men and women party, Ria tried to give the diamonds back to Ian but he refused it saying that he had bought it for her. Ria declined the gift and stated that it was too expensive and that she couldn’t own such valuable accessories. Then Ian blew her mind away by telling her that she was more expensive than the diamonds! He was persistent. In the end, Ian managed to persuade Ria to accept it as a gift from him. Ria knew there was no point arguing with Ian since he wouldn’t listen so she accepted the diamond and with a promise that she would keep it safe and not lose it.
“I should be the one thanking you, Ian.” Ria held his right hand.
“For what?” He asked.
“Everything.” Ria said in a tight whisper.
Ian leaned closer and whispered to her. “Like I always say, I am happy with the choice I have made.” He planted a kiss on her cheeks before locking their hands properly. The gesture made Ria’s heart heart skipped a beat at a time as she could feel her cheeks blushing.
“Hello everyone.” The famous master of ceremony said into the microphone as he stood on the rostrum. Everyone turned to face him.
“Shall we?” Ian asked her.
“Sure.” Ria nodded and she slid her arm into Ian’s as they motioned towards the rostrum.
“We are all here for the launching of this new business in the state and to also celebrate with the owner.” The master of ceremony started his introductory speech and everyone clapped.
Ria exchanged pleasantries with Mrs Perla when she got to her side. Ma’am Elise, Cassidy, Ma’am Loretta and the kids were standing close too.
“Now let us welcome the lady of the day! The latest business woman in our state and also the newest clothe designer in the fashion world!” Everyone began to clap.
“It is no other person than… Ria Robert!” The master of ceremony called out and the clapping increased.
She walked to the rostrum with everyone taking in the beauty of Ria and the elegance of her dress. She could see everyone and everywhere from where she stood. Ria Robert didn’t prepare any speech in a note but she is depending on her heart to deliver the words.
The clapping ended abruptly and Ria began. “I don’t have much to say but I have a few words to share with everyone present here today.” She paused to steal a glance at Ian and they made a close eye contact. He gave her a thumbs up urging her to continue with her unprepared speech.
“In life, you need to have steps to turning your dreams to reality but at the same time taking hold of those dreams isn’t an easy task to accomplish. And it is not about having a dream but it is about having the courage to act on it.” She stopped again.
“I was once a blind lady with a dream to becoming a famous clothe designer. You might be wondering how possible that would be because of my disability. The truth is I was blind but I had a dream. At that point being disabled made that dream seemed like a burden to me because I was hopeless. Nevertheless, that dream I saw as a burden became a vision and that vision was so bigger than me. But along the line I wrote down my dreams and also placed it in my heart so I won’t forget it.” Ria stopped to study the expression on their faces.
Everywhere was surprisingly silent! She had everyone’s full attention! Then she continued “Being disabled is not an excuse to be a failure.” Ria blinked back tears as she shared the words of her late mother. She promised that she wouldn’t shed a tear today because it was a happy day! And even if she was going to cry then it would be tears of joy!
“Those are the words of my late mother and I held on it promising her that I won’t be failure.” She continued after a momentary pause.
“You know, God can do anything far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! And I am grateful to God and to the people in my life. To my greatest companion-” Ria looked straight at ma’am Elise who was now wiping tears at the corners of her eyes.
“She was my eyes when I couldn’t see, my guardian and my support in hard and good times. And I don’t know if there would be a Ria Robert today if you hadn’t stepped into my life to help me. I love you so much, ma’am Elise.” Ria smiled.
Everyone clapped. “We love you too mommy!” Phoebe and Phoenix screamed at the top of their voice from the crowd.
“I love you too.” Ria waved at them as she muttered.
Then she continued after the clapping ended. “And to the one who I’ll forever be indebted and grateful to-” This time she focused on Ian. “I haven’t said this to you before but I am confessing it now that you are nice, kind, compassionate and the most wonderful man I have ever encountered. You brought the greatest joy into my life which is helping me and making my dreams into reality. Ria Robert Couture is in existence because of you and I am grateful for everything that you have done, Ian Bryant.”
Everyone clapped again. Ian couldn’t control his emotions for Ria. He was joyful at this woman’s words to him. He could hardly believe that Ria considered him as most wonderful man.
“A big thank you to my sewing team, ma’am Loretta and Cassidy we worked together to make these dresses you all are seeing and I also appreciate Mrs Perla Bryant for her support. It is amazing to have such a motherly figure in my life because all she ever does is care and support me.”
Mrs Perla flashed her a smile from the crowd. She was happy to be a part of Ria’s success story.
“If you are discouraged and feel as though your dream is dying, don’t give up! Don’t give up too soon on your dreams! Keep going. Keep dreaming that dream God has put into your heart. I mean it is always too soon to quit and remember winners never quit and-”
“Quitters never win!” The crowd chorused.
“Thanks for coming!” The people present clapped as she disappeared below the crowd level.
“Congratulations on your business.” Ian gave Ria a bouquet which Ramsey brought to him not too long ago. He kissed her cheeks.
“Thank you.”
“And that was awesome Miss Ria!” Cassidy exclaimed.
“You didn’t prepare a speech but I felt those words and Elise felt it too because she didn’t stop wiping her face.” Loretta giggled.
“Those are deep words and they make me so emotional right now.” Ma’am Elise sniffed.
Ria moved to ma’am Elise. “Now look at what you have done to these babies.” She pinched her cheeks gently.
“She is so emotional.” Cassidy pouted.
“Congratulations Ria.” Mrs Perla had a very bright smile on her expression.
“Thank you ma’am.” Ria replied.
“Come on ma’am Elise! Today is a happy day!” Cassidy cheered.
“Yes I know. Trust me I am not sad… these are tears of joy. I am just happy. Miss Ria, congratulations on fulfilling your dream.” Ma’am Elise sobbed.
Then Ria hugged her. “Thank you.” She whispered into her ear.
It was only ma’am Elise that could really relate to those words about Ria’s dreams. Ma’am Elise knows her whole story and how Ria has worked really hard to fulfill these dreams and also what she has been through in the last eight years.
“You deserve the best.” Ma’am Elise said to Ria after she calmed down.
It was the best feeling! That joy of fulfilling your dreams! Ria blinked back tears again as she wished her parents were alive to see this day. Then she would have been the happiest person in the world today.
“Sir, the media houses are waiting.” Ramsey whispered to Ian.
“Mommy, can we share the candies and towels now?” Phoenix asked Ria.
“Yes my love.” Ria replied.
“Thanks mom!”
“And a kiss too.” Phoenix added.
Ria crouched down to their sizes and they placed kisses on her cheeks before racing off to the office to grab the items they want to give out to people. They had bought the candies with their savings. Phoebe and Phoenix both insisted that they would give out candies to people when Ria told them not to worry about it but she had to agreed in the end.
“Ria, it is time for the interview.” Ian said to her.
Ria looked at Mrs Perla. “Can you handle it?” Mrs Perla asked.
Ria was silent. The representatives sent from the national TV were waiting patiently outside the building.
“I can tell them to leave if you don’t-”
“No.” Ria cuts him off.
It was already planned that she would be interviewed today. So telling them to leave without any good reason isn’t a good idea. Moreover it is going to help the visibility of her new business.
“I will do it.” It is just an interview anyways but she was still a bit nervous about it.
“Alright.” Ian smiled.
Ria drew in a deep breathe as she followed Ian outside the building.
“I know for sure that the interview on National Tv and few words to other media houses would help boost Ria Robert Couture popularity across the country.” Cassidy whispered to her aunt who nodded in agreement.
Author’s note: But little did Ria Robert know that her appearance on National Tv would bring destruction to another fellow.