《Using Baby Daddy For Revenge》


 The room

    Opening her eyes feeling groggy, her head so heavy, Melissa turned almost falling off the bed.


    Lying on her belly, she lifted her heavy head to scan the room trying to figure out how she got home but all she could remember was two men helping her stand when she almost fell at the bathroom door.


    ¡°My head hurts so much, where the hell am I?


    Looking around the dimly lit room, opening her eyes wider as they threatened to close, she realized she was not home. Thest she could remember was attending a party.


    Melissa was not into partying but her best friend had forced her to join promising to be back before midnight.


    Still lying there, she moved her eyes from the bed scanning her surrounding and all she could see was a shower head behind ss sliding doors and a small desk next to a mini fridge.


    The floor to ceiling window gave her a view of the buildings around making her bolt up in flight on realizing she was not in her apartment.


    ¡°Oh my, how did I get to a hotel room?¡± She wondered checking her body then remembered the party was held in a hotel.


    ¡°But who¡¯s room is this?¡±


    Feeling ufortable lying on the bed, she got down walking to the bathroom to ease her dder that threatened to bust.


    Stepping in, her body swayed forcing her to lean on the sink blinking her eyes hard as she shock her head to clear her foggy mind.


    She didn¡¯t understand what was happening to her.


    Her body didn¡¯t feel like her own and her brain felt like it was detached from her body. She never took alcohol and tonight was no exception. The only one drink she took had no alcohol in it but then she felt light headed and her legs were losing their strength.


    Finishing her bathroom business with the hope of feeling better, a bolt of heat shed down her spine. Looking from the disheveled bed she had been sleeping on a minute ago to the door, Melissa thought of getting back on the bed but then her friend might get worried looking for her and she had no idea whose room she was in. Since her apartment was not far from the hotel and a short ride in a taxi would have her home in no time, she decided to leave.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have some rest once I¡¯m home, probably go see a doctor to.¡± She said to herself pping her cheeks lightly to keep herself awake.


    With a n all formted in her mind, Melissa walked out. Dragging herself out of the room, all she saw was an array of closed doors on either sides of the hallway.


    A few steps from the door her body temperature changed. She felt so ufortable she wished to take her clothes off. With every step she took, the worse she felt.


    Unable to walk straight she leaned on the wall, dragging herself a long tagging on her clothes hoping to find something to reduce the heat in her body.


    ¡°Huh!¡±


    Half way through the corridor, she felt the wall cave in.


    She had not realized she was leaning on a door as she fell on a warm strong chest knocking them both to the floor.


    Touching the warmth beneath her somehow made her feel better she couldn¡¯t stop. Nor did she think of what she was doing.


    Getting closer to his face, she leaned in cing her lips on his kissing him awkwardly almost eating him up.


    ¡°Help me, please help me. This heat is killing me.¡±


    Fabling with his clothes her hands on his belt so eager to find the release she so much wanted, he held her hands stopping her.


    After gazing at her shed gorgeous face for a second, he lifted her on the bed. Ridding them of their clothes, he took charge as aggressively as she had.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°Mmm!¡±


    As the strong man broke the barriers, she moaned and screamed at the same time hating yet loving how it made her feel. The pain and ecstasy mixed together almost drove her mad yet she couldn¡¯t get enough of him.


    He was warm and sweet doing all the magical things to her innocent self. So attentively guiding her along like he knew it was her first. As exhaustion took over, they both closed their eyes falling a sleep in each others arms.


    ¡­.


    Feeling the heat on her face as the sunys beamed through the open window, Melissa opened her eyes. The first thought that shed through her mind was she had managed to get home but the pain in her body and feeling the masculine warmth beneath her, the events of that night flooded her mind.


    ¡°Oh heavens!¡±


    She was still in that hotel though in a different room.


    It had all seemed like a dream but it was so real. There she was lying on top of a man with her leg draped over his lower body.


    Lifting her head, carefully not to wake him, she briefly stared at his face taking in all his features. If she had her phone, she would have snapped a photo since it was not everyday you woke up  in the arms of such a man.


    Managing to carefully get off him, Melissa picked her clothes from where theyy scattered by the door. Putting them on fast and ran out of the room before he could wake up.


    ¡­.


    It been years since that night, since thest time Melissa saw that handsome face but she never forgot it. Some night¡¯s his face keeps her awake with questions on her mind of what really made her act the way she did.


    Getting her mind back to the bakery, she looked at the magazine again. He was as breath taking as he was that morning and still way off her league.


    As one of the most intriguing young breathtakingly gorgeous CEO who featured in all magazines, from business to love magazines and always with a different woman by his side, Melissa knew he would never notice someone like her.


    ¡°Forget it Melissa.¡±


    Clearly the only person that night affected was her as it seemed he had long moved on. Probably it was not a strange thing for him to spend a night with a strange woman. Most probably he never remembered her or the happening of that night.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± When her name was called with her order ready, she sighed cing the business magazine back on the table choosing to keep the past where it belonged.


    In the past.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.

 Tommy鈥檚 father

    Walking into the house, Melissa was wee by the one person who was always happy to see her.


    ¡°Mum it¡¯s great, I love it.¡± Tommy beamed as Melissa handed him the toy car he had been asking for.


    ¡°Hey young man, what do you say after getting a gift?¡± She asked yfully raffling his hair.


    ¡°Thank you, mum.¡± He hugged her, then took his toy car to y on the carpet.


    Glued to the spot, tears filled Melissa¡¯s eyes as she watched him y. Her son was the light in her life. The only good thing she got from that night.


    He was so obedient and well mannered, she felt proud to be his mother. But all credit went to her aunt. Without Betty, Melissa didn¡¯t know how she could have managed to raise him on her own.


    Dropping from university when her parents died. Thenter finding herself pregnant with no money to support them. Was hard for her toprehend. Luckily her aunt was there to support her.


    That fateful day when her aunt found her in the small apartment, she was on the bed half conscious. For days she had not eaten. She felt all alone in the world. Even her best friend had bailed out on her.


    As they broke the door to get to her, Melissa stared at her aunt lost for words. Her aunt was thest person Melissa expected to see.


    When she lost her husband and son, Betty moved to the province. At the time Melissa lost her parents, she didn¡¯t have a way of contacting her leaving her alone with no one to turn to.


    In the blink of death, as Betty and the neighbors rushed her to the nearby hospital, Melissa had given up on life. When the news came, her perspective changed.


    That day she found out she was pregnant, giving her something to live for.


    ¡°For you, I will do all I can to get through this.¡±


    Touching her t belly, Melissa felt a connection she had never experienced before.


    Not eating or taking care of herself almost cost her child¡¯s life. She had to be closely monitored at the hospital. And a few dayster she was discharged.


    Though she had lost all she had, Melissa decided to live for her child. Her parents were no longer with her but she had the little being growing inside her to take care of.


    From the hospital, her aunt took her to the province.


    Though she had not seen her sister¡¯s daughter for many years, Betty loved her. She always inquired about her and when she got the news of her sister¡¯s death, she dropped everything toe to Melissa.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Finding Melissa in a broken state caused Betty unimaginable heartache. She had helped take care of Melissa when she was a child. After college she lived with her sister for some years, spending most of her time with Melissa.


    To her, Melissa was like a daughter she never had.


    Melissa too loved her aunt a lot. She was thankful to her for supporting her in raising  Tommy.


    Walking from the kitchen, Betty found Melissa standing nkly in the living room.


    ¡°Melissa dear, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Concerned Betty questioned heading towards her.


    Shaking her head to clear her mind Melissa turned and hugged her aunt. ¡°It¡¯s nothing aunt, I¡¯m just tired.¡± Though her aunt never questioned her about Tommy¡¯s father, she knew one day she had to tell them who he was.


    ¡°Okay dear, go to your room and freshen up. Thene for dinner, it will be ready in a few minutes.¡± Betty tapped her on the back. Walked back to the kitchen to check on the food she was cooking.


    Momentster when Melissa came out of her room, she found them sitting at the dining table waiting for her.


    ¡°Thank you, aunt.¡± Melissa grinned as Betty served her the tantalizing meal.


    ¡°Tommy, are you excited to join the school?¡± Betty asked, adding food to his te.


    ¡°Yes, Grandma. I heard the school is cool and I get to make lots of friends.¡±  The little boy chimed cheerfully.


    ¡°Tommy, you don¡¯t go to school to only make friends but to study as well.¡± Melissa cautioned him with a smile on her face.


    ¡°Mum, I¡¯ll study very hard so that when l grow up, I¡¯ll get lots of money to take care of you and grandma. You won¡¯t have to go to work every day mum. Also, I¡¯ll look for my dad so he can keep youpany. You won¡¯t be sad anymore.¡± Looking at the little boy who tried so hard to make her happy, Melissa felt tears fill her eyes.


    ¡°Thank you, son. As long as you and grandma are here, I don¡¯t have to be sad or lonely. Now eat your food okay.¡± She touched his cheek as her voice cracked from all the emotions she felt.


    After dinner, she cleaned the dishes. Clearing everything in the kitchen and the dining table, Melissa went to her son¡¯s room.


    Stopping at the doorway, she watched the two most important people in her life feeling blessed for having them.


    ¡°I have to turn in now. There is a meeting I need to attend early in the morning.¡± Knocking lightly on the door, she spoke walking in.


    ¡°Okay dear, go get some rest.¡± With a storybook in her hand seated beside Tommy, Betty smiled at her.


    ¡°Goodnight.¡± Kissing Tommy¡¯s hair, Melissa went to her room.


    ¡­


    ¡°Hey Melissa,e. I saved you a seat.¡± Stepping into the hall, Lisa called out to her.


    She and Lisa started working in the hotel sometime. At first, Lisa didn¡¯t like her much. With their supervisor and manager often praising Melissa, most of the employees spected that she was in an intimate rtionship with the manager.


    Lisa was no exception but after Melissa helped her with difficult clients. At times covering up her mistakes and taking most of the me. She realized what everyone said about Melissa was not true.


    Working together for years, they became best friends. Although Melissa was promoted to be a supervisor, she did her work like everyone else.


    ¡°Morning Lisa. You came before today.¡± Sitting beside her, Melissaplimented her with a smile on her face.


    ¡°Do you want to say I¡¯m alwayste?¡± Lisa red at her pouting her mouth.


    ¡°We both know you hate these meetings. That¡¯s why you alwaysete. At times not showing up at all.¡±


    ¡°Well, there is some truth in that. Most of these meetings are boring but not this one. Today¡¯s meeting is very important. I couldn¡¯t afford to miss it. Didn¡¯t want to sit at the back either.¡± As Lisa eximed.


    ncing at her, Melissa could see the excitement in her eyes.


    The hotel was privileged to host one of the top most wealthy CEO in the country. It was the first time for such an important prominent person to stay at the hotel thus exciting all the employees. More so the staff who impressed the guest would get a tasty bonus at the end of the month.


    With the manager anxious about the client he needed all the employees to perform well.


    Making their clientfortable and happy with their services, would open many business opportunities in the future. Which meant a higher sry for everyone.


    To serve such a person, the hotel had to select personnel to cater to his needs. Moreover, everyone had to y their part perfectly.


    The manager had to choose a group of personnel to handle all the client¡¯s needs. At the meeting he named them and as Melissa was the head of housekeeping, she had to lead the team. She had to personally see to it that everything was ording to the client¡¯s orders.


    With only a week to prepare and organize her team to wee the client, Melissa left the hall with Lisa who couldn¡¯t stop bubbling.


    ¡°Hey, I heard he¡¯s the most wealthy handsome man in the country. Guess what, he¡¯s not married.¡± Lisa effused, leaning on Melissa¡¯s arm.


    ¡°He¡¯s just a client Lisa. Besides those rich handsome men have women everywhere they go, so don¡¯t get carried away.¡±


    ¡°Do you say that because of Tommy¡¯s dad?¡± Melissa red at her. ¡°Sorry but look, if one guy breaks your heart it doesn¡¯t mean they all will.¡± Lisa voiced, staring at her.


    Melissa never talked about Tommy¡¯s dad. She also turned every guy that showed interest in her into an enemy.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get to work. It¡¯s not worth talking about.¡±


    No one knew that Tommy¡¯s dad was a one night stand. She never spoke about him with the hope of forgetting what had happened but Tommy was a constant reminder.


    Though she and Lisa were close, she couldn¡¯t tell her about him. She never told her aunt either since she felt ashamed for getting herself into that situation.


    ¡­


    Soon the week was up.


    When they got word that the most awaited guest was on his way from the airport, all the chosen staff had to wait at the hotel entrance to wee them.


    Being in charge, Melissa was very nervous. She had served many important clients before. She was good at her work but this one was prominent.


    His visit would change not only the hotel¡¯s status but the wholemunity.


    The manager had put so much pressure on her to handle everything. More so she could not get time to spend with her family which was somewhat depressing for her.


    For the next five days, while the client was around, she had to live in the servant room in the hotel¡¯s presidential suite. She had to serve him around the clock. She also had to supervise other employees¡¯ work in her department.


    Although the work was too much, she could handle it. She needed to get a good bonus at the end of the month since she needed the money for Tommy¡¯s school. She had to work hard and impress the big client.


    After some minutes, the big awaited client arrived. As he stepped out of the car, everyone¡¯s attention was on him.


    ¡°No!¡±


    With her eyeballs almost falling off their sockets, Melissa stared at the man she never thought she would meet again.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be!¡± She eximed, taking a step back.

 The hotel

    ¡°Wee sir, I¡¯ll show you to your suite.¡± Standing far back, Melissa watched as the manager led them to the elevator. Heading to the top floor, to the presidential suite.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± Lisa asked seeing how conflicted Melissa looked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, lets go.¡± Holding Lisa back who eagerly wanted to get close the CEO, walked behind the group of staff and since their were many people apanying the client, they couldn¡¯t get in the elevator. Waiting to take another elevator, Melissa chewed her inner lip cracking her knuckles.


    She had not expected Mark Johnson the CEO of one of the biggestpanies in the country and growing globally to be the client.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°What do I do? Will he take Tommy?¡± The thoughts in her head were making her more anxious.


    They had not seen each other for over four years and since Mark had not shown any reaction of recognition after seeing her, Melissa convinced herself that he couldn¡¯t remember her. Besides they had never been close though they had met a few times back in the university.


    After getting to the room and was introduced by the manager, everyone went to their post to resume work. Melissa had to stay and serve him but she didn¡¯t get close to him. She onlymunicate through his assistant and Mr Johnson didn¡¯t even look at her.


    What she didn¡¯t know was that Mark had searched for her back then when he woke up in that hotel room but couldn¡¯t find her. It¡¯s like the world had swallowed her up, but the moment he walked in the hotel and saw her, he was shocked. He almost went over to question her why she ran and hid from him but he had to keep it cool. Act as if he had never seen her before.


    As everyone left he took the iPad from his assistant and sat down on the couch to check his emails. Looking up after sometime, he saw Melissa standing there like a statue. She was trying to avoid him but she had to carry out her duties as head of housekeeping assigned to serve him.


    ¡°Why are you standing there?¡± He questioned seemingly displeased.


    ¡°Sorry sir, I was waiting for your orders.¡± Fuming internally Melissa responded avoiding eye contact.


    This man was really annoying, she was just doing her job but it seemed like she had done something wrong.


    ¡°Well don¡¯t just stand there like an idiot get me a cup of coffee.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Melissa was really annoyed but she couldn¡¯t do anything about it.


    The assistant really pitied her, boss was in a bad mood. Less than fifteen minutes in his presence and he was already scolding her.


    ¡°Cough cough¡­ Miss White, the coffee.¡±  He had to remind her since she was upset minded.


    ¡°Oh, sorry sir, I will get it right away.¡± Melissa said going into the small kitchen to prepare.


    After a few minutes shee out with a cup, cing it on the coffee table. ¡°Your coffee sir.¡±


    ¡°Did you add sugar?¡± He asked without even touching the coffee.


    ¡°No sir, sorry I didn¡¯t ask¡­.¡±


    ¡°James go to the site and check if everything is set for tomorrow¡¯s presentation.¡± He spoke to his assistant without bothering with her exnation.


    After his assistant left she couldn¡¯t just stand there looking at his boring porker face.


    ¡°Where do you think your going?¡± He stopped her as soon as she turned to leave.


    ¡°Excuse me, I need to go to the main kitchen and check on your lunch sir.¡± Melissa had to make an excuse to get out of the room but he couldn¡¯t let her off so easily.


    ¡°I asked for a cup of coffee.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± Melissa momentarily looked at him with raised eyebrows.


    He was picking on her for no reason at all.


    ¡°Well?¡± Mark questioned loving how angry she looked. ~Let see how long you can keep this up Melissa~ he thought to himself.


    ¡°Sir.. I just brought your coffee.¡± In every hospitality institution, they say client is always right but at the moment she couldn¡¯t care less. She was no ones push over.


    ¡°It¡¯s cold, get me another cup.¡± He arrogantly ordered, raised his head briefly to look at her for a second then went on with his work.


    ¡°Sh¡±¡¯t how hard is it to serve this guy? I wonder how his employees survive.¡± She cursed almost stomping her feet walking to the kitchen for another cup.


    Watching her walk a way, Mark just smiled to himself triumphantly.


    A few secondster she brought him another cup. ¡°Your coffee sir.¡± cing the cup on the coffee table, Melissa stepped back and stood beside him.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± He sipped his coffee staring at her over the ss rim. ¡°Since I didn¡¯t drink the first one, why don¡¯t you sit and join me.¡± He offered with a smile that didn¡¯t reach his eye¡¯s cing the cup down.


    ¡°Thank you but I don¡¯t take coffee sir.¡± Melissa declined politely wishing he would end the conversation.


    There is no way she could sit and drink coffee with him. Though he didn¡¯t seem to recognize her, every time their eyes met, shes of that night and the morning after went through her mind. She wished so much to forget that night but she couldn¡¯t. The events of those few hours had not only changed her life but would affect her son as well.


    It was so incredible how one could resemble the other.


    Looking at Mark was like looking at her son Tommy. She didn¡¯t share a deep rtionship with him back then and now meeting him again after all these years, no way was she going to tell him they have a son.


    That their one night together bore fruits.


    He was known has a ruthless man in the business world since he took over his grandfather¡¯spany, which had grown exponentially as her friend informed her. For someone to grow so much in just few years he must be very powerful, making her very afraid he would take her son away if he found out.


    ¡°Since you don¡¯t take coffee, make a cup of tea and join me.¡± He ordered rather than requested still glued to the screen.


    ¡°Sir I can¡¯t sit with you. I.. I am just an employee hired to serve you sir.¡± Seeing no end to the conversation, Melissa came down ying her help card.


    She had never gotten herself in such situation since most wealthy clients were arrogant and snobbish not wanting any contact with the help.


    Raising his head, he looked at the small woman. ¡°At the moment, I¡¯m your boss and you do has I say.¡± He ordered her. Shutting down his iPad he took a sip of his coffee watching her every move.


    After hesitating for a minute, Melissa sat down. She can as well drink the damn coffee. To put an end to it, she took the cup.


    ¡°Thought you don¡¯t take coffee Miss White or is it Mrs?¡± He inquired with raised eyebrows.


    ¡°¡­.¡± She raised her eyes catching his gaze on her. ¡°I don¡¯t want to waste the coffee sir.¡± She responded softly looking back into her cup.


    ¡°Good. I like how you make the coffee.¡± He smiled then winked at her when she raised her eyes again.


    ¡°What is wrong with this man, one minute he is harsh the next he is inviting me to join him.¡± She wondered to her self with her eyes focused on the dark liquid.


    Feeling his eyes trailed on her, she looked at him only to see a smug on his face. She couldn¡¯t take it anymore, it was the first day of work and he was driving her mad. How could she serve him for a whole week?


    ¡°Do you have a problem with me?¡± Melissa decided to confront him. This was a very important client to the hotel but she couldn¡¯t keep this up anymore.


    ¡°I was wondering how long you could keep up the pretence.¡±


    ¡°¡­ what are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Melissa White do we know each other? Have we met before?¡± He questioned sarcastically still maintaining his indifferent smile.


    ¡°No sir, I don¡¯t think so.¡± She just stared at the coffee table not daring to look at him.


    ¡°Huh, really now? I remember four years ago we happened to spend a night in the same hotel room, on the same bed. When I woke up the beauty was gone but that doesn¡¯t mean I don¡¯t know who slept in my bed.¡± After hearing his words she was a little scared and ufortable being so close to him.


    Looking at her quivering lips, he noted how scared she was, like she was hiding something.


    ¡°Sorry I don¡¯t know what your talking about.¡± Melissa just stared into the coffee  cup. She really needed to get out of the room and she knew he was not going to let her go so easily.


    Contemting on how to get away, his phone rung.


    Finally his attention was on something else other than her.


    Checking to see who was calling, Mark saw it was his grandfather. Though he didn¡¯t want to end his conversation with Melissa, he couldn¡¯t ignore the call.


    As soon as he picked his phone, Melissa found a window to escape. Murmuring an excuse she rushed out of the room.


    ¡°Wait, Melissa¡­.¡± He raised his hand to stop her but she was gone.


    ¡°Hello grandfather¡­ Yes everything is okay¡­..¡± Rubbing the back of his neck, he spoke on the phone wishing he could stop her but then he had to converse with his grandfather.

 Can run but can鈥檛 hide

    Melissa had to leave since Mark knew who she was, making her more scared. If she stayed to serve him then with no time he would know about Tommy and she couldn¡¯t have that.


    Tommy was her life, no way was she going to let them take him from her. She had seen many child custody cases and the poor mother was always on the losing end. How could she fight the most wealthy man in the country yet she had nothing?


    After getting out of the room, she went to the manager¡¯s office with a n in mind. Despite needing money for Tommy¡¯s school and her aunt¡¯s business, she couldn¡¯t stay in the hotel with Mark there. Not only did he threaten her son¡¯s wellbeing but he messed her brain to.


    Being in a hotel room with him was like relieving that night. The night that never left her mind.


    ¡°Excuse me sir, can Ie in?¡± She inquired after knocking on the managers office door.


    ¡°Yese in Melissa, is everything with the client okay?¡± Her nemesis was the most important client in the hotel at the moment and the manager was so keen in making him feel at home. So much so he could sign off anything as long as you mentioned the client¡¯s name.


    ¡°Yes sir, Mr Johnson is settled in and everything is all set. I came to ask for some days off. I¡¯ve got a family emergency I need to take care of.¡± She made an excuse hoping the manager won¡¯t call her bluff.


    ¡°Can¡¯t it wait? Who is going to do your job?¡± The manager asked with a worried look.


    ¡°There are so many qualified employees sir and they can handle the job well. Sir, I really need to solve my problem else I won¡¯t be able to serve our client well.¡± Fingers crossed, she brought up the clients need, silently praying that he would allow her to go.


    Hopefully in a weeks time Mark would be gone, never to cross paths with him again.


    ¡°Okay you can fill your leave form, pray Mr Johnson won¡¯t mind the change of staff. If he does you will have toe back.¡± After thinking about it for a few minutes, he agreed.


    Melissa was a very capable employee, he knew she couldn¡¯t ask for leave unless she really needed it.


    Since she started working she had devoted herself to the hotel only asking for leave when she was in a tight situation. He had no issue with her taking days off but the biggest dilemma was exining to the guest why they had to change the housekeeper.


    Mr Johnson was very principled and powerful man. From the little he read about him, he knew he was not one to impress easily. The manager hoped he would understand if not then Melissa would have to get back since they couldn¡¯t afford to lose such an important client.


    ¡­.


    Back home when Melissa returned, her aunt was surprised to have her back so soon. She had informed her the day before that she would stay in the hotel for a week and barely a day she was back.


    ¡°Melissa what happened? Why are you back so soon?¡± Melissa walking into the house, run and hugged her aunt.


    ¡°Auntie, he is going to take Tommy away from me.¡± Shemented in between sobs.


    ¡°What? Who wants to take my grandson?¡± Betty surprised by her surging emotions asked tapping her back trying to sooth her.


    ¡°I saw him aunt, I saw Tommy¡¯s father and he is a very powerful man. Aunt I don¡¯t know what to do. If he find¡¯s out about Tommy he might take him back to the capital.¡± Calming down Melissa told her aunt about her earlier encounter with Mark.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose my son.¡±


    ¡°Shh¡­. calm down child. He can¡¯t take him away, your his mother and the child needs his mother since he¡¯s small. So don¡¯t be afraid of him. Thew is on your side.¡± Her aunt said still soothing her but in her heart she was afraid what happened to her would happen to her niece. Losing a son is very painful. She couldn¡¯t imagine going through all that pain again.


    ¡­..


    Back in the presidential suite, when James Mark¡¯s assistant got back, he found him seated on the sofa with his eye¡¯s closed and the two coffee cups which had turned cold still on the table next to his iPad.


    ¡°Sir, are you okay?¡± Seeing him deep in thoughts, James inquired.


    Without opening his eyes, he just nodded his head massaging his temples.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll take these away. Where is that housekeeper?¡± James took the cups to the kitchen looking around, inquiring about Melissa.


    Before he could check the small room, a knock came from the door. Opening to check if it was the housekeeper, he saw the manager apanied by another male staff.


    ¡°Mr Johnson, sorry for disturbing you.¡± The manager apologized walking into the room.


    Nodding, Mark motioned for him to speak. ¡°Sir, the housekeeper we had arranged for you early has an emergency so we have to rece her.¡± He swallowed hard waiting to be reprimanded but Mark said nothing.  ¡°This is Luke, he will be serving you for now. He is the assistant housekeeping supervisor and quite efficient in his work.¡±  The manager exined silently praying he doesn¡¯t raise an issue.


    Still in the same position, Mark calmly looked at the manager and the new staff.


    Melissa had managed to run away from him again. He couldn¡¯t make things difficult for the hotel management but he had to find a way to get her to a ce she couldn¡¯t escape that easily.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind, as long as the work is done to my satisfactory. Manager, why don¡¯t you sit and chart with me.¡± Mark spokezily dismissing James and the new staff.


    ¡°Yes, do you need any information from me Mr Johnson?¡± The manager asked.


    He had encountered many business men and whenever they invite you to join them, they most definitely need something.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mmm¡­. the manager is a smart man. I want to know a bit about this hotel. With my understanding the founder left it to his son when he died a year ago.¡± With his resources and power their was no information he couldn¡¯t find but he needed to build a close rtion with the manager. This way he would help him get what he wanted.


    Melissa could run but couldn¡¯t hide from him forever.


    After charting for a while the manager left. Leaving Mark with a broad smile on his face, contented with the information he had acquired.


    He could use it to trap her. He thought as the smile got broader

 You鈥檙e my daughter

    Soon the week was over and Melissa had to go back to work. She thought Mr Johnson wouldin or look for her after she left but he didn¡¯t bother with her. From her colleague¡¯s she heard of how he praised the hotel staff and tipped Luke handsomely for his meticulous work.


    All the talk of how well he worked with Luke made Melissa upset, she couldn¡¯t understand her own emotions, its like deep down she wanted Mark to go after her yet in real sense she was running away from him.


    ¡°Stupid Melissa how could you think such a man can chase after a poor woman like you. What happened four years ago was just an ident.¡± She scolded herself several times trying to push the thoughts out of her mind. Though he recognized her it didn¡¯t mean he had any interest in her.


    ¡°Hey Melli you¡¯re back, how was the week?¡± Lisa was always cheerful and chatty.


    The moment she saw Melissa she dropped everything rushing to hug her.


    ¡°Melissa why did you suddenly ask for a week off yet you didn¡¯t even inform me?¡± She questioned pouting her mouth.


    ¡°Sorry Lisa I had some personal matter to take care of.¡± She made an excuse not intending to inform Linda at the moment.


    ¡°What happened? To me its like you were running from something or someone.¡± Lisa was her close friend, her best friend she knew almost everything about Melissa and her family and most definitely knew of no family emergency as she had informed the manager.


    ¡°Well auntie was not feeling well I had go take care of her.¡± Melissa couldn¡¯t say the real reason, she could only use her aunt as shield.


    ¡°Ooh I didn¡¯t know, I¡¯m so sorry. How is she now?¡± Seeing how worried Lisa was, Melissa felt guilty. ¡°When I get off work I¡¯ll go to visit her.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s okay now you don¡¯t have to worry yourself, besides it was just a stomach difort. I only took a week off because I was worried Tommy won¡¯t get proper care while I¡¯m away.¡± She made up more lies and though the excuse wasme, Lisa didn¡¯t probe further.


    After managing to convince Lisa, they charted for awhile then went to the managers office to make an attendance report.


    ¡°Come in.¡± The manager invited her in after knocking on the door twice.


    ¡°Morning sir, I got a message from the reception that I should report to you.¡±


    ¡°Yes Melissa, have a sit.¡± The manager invited still looking at the documents on his desk then handed  an envelope to her. ¡°A guest liked our hotel decoration and asked if our designer can work in his hotel. Its a five star hotel in the capital city.¡±


    Melissa was amazed. Their were many qualified and experienced designers in the country yet the client choose her to design a five star hotel.


    ¡°Really sir, they want me to design the hotel?¡± Melissa still couldn¡¯t believe it. She took the appointment letter from the envelope and read it quietly.


    ¡°Why not? When you came to me proposing to change the hotel design, I didn¡¯t expect much but I gave you a chance since you were so persistent and you proved me wrong. Since then this hotel has improved tremendously.¡±


    ¡°Thank you sir for believing in me, but this is a big hotel. I don¡¯t know if I can handle such a big project. You know this hotel is the first and only one I have worked on.¡±


    ¡°Melissa this is a good opportunity for you to make your life better. They will pay thrice as much as the hotel pay¡¯s you and carter for your expenses. You don¡¯t do this just for your self but your son to and as your boss I have assigned you to this project, so  you leave in two days. Here is your ne ticket.¡± To Melissa this contract was a dreame true but she was sad to leave her son and aunt for such along time.


    She took the ticket, thanked the manger and left the office.


    After work, having handed over to her sessor smoothly, she went to the bank then bought Tommy his favourite fruit cake at the bakery before going home.


    ¡°Tommye, I bought your a fruit cake.¡± She called as soon as she walked in the house.


    ¡°Thank you mum it smells nice. Its not my birthday mum why did you buy the cake?¡± Looking at her son, Melissa couldn¡¯t imagine not seeing him for a whole month. She has always been by his side since he was born.


    ¡°I bought it since its your favourite baby, now eat your cake, I¡¯ll go look for grandma.¡±


    Leaving Tommy to enjoy his cake, she went to the kitchen to meet her aunt. ¡°Oh¡­ Melissa your back so early today.¡± Aunt Betty chimed seeing Melissa walk in.


    ¡°I got off work early today so I can prepare for my new job. Oh aunt I¡¯m so excited.¡± She hugged her aunt feeling ted.


    ¡°What so exciting and what new job are you talking about?¡± Betty questioned holding her at arms length wondering what had gotten into her. She had not applied for any job, how could she get one. A few day¡¯s ago she came home crying and know she was so happy, almost tearing up.


    Seeing her aunt¡¯s concerned look, Melissa giggled. ¡°Aunt I¡¯m not crazy, I honestly got a new job and though it¡¯s a months contract, it pays more than working in the hotel.¡±


    ¡°Congrattions dear. With that money it will be easy to pay for Tommy¡¯s school.¡± Though Melissa earned a good sum from her work it was not enough especially now that Tommy was going to school.


    Melissa smiled then stepped back looking conflicted. Yes the money was good but it came with it challenges. ¡°The down side to it is, I will have to go to the capital for a month aunt.¡±


    ¡°Oh do you have to report soon and what about Tommy? Are you going to leave him behind?¡± She inquired setting the knife down stopping peeling potatoes.


    ¡°Yes aunt, it¡¯s a one month contract to design a new hotel and I¡¯ll be quite busy. Though I hate burdening you, I have to leave Tommy with you aunt.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, its no burden my child. I love taking care of him.¡± Betty reassured her. ¡°This is a good opportunity it will open other doors dear. Don¡¯t think twice about it.¡±


    ¡°Thank you aunt. I don¡¯t know what I would do without you.¡± Since her parent death, her aunt had been the only person taking care of her. The only one she could rely on. ¡°Oh, almost forgot, here. I brought some money for you to reopen the flower stall.¡± Opening her bag that was still dangling over shoulder, Melissa gave her the money she had taken from her bank ount.


    ¡°What this?¡± Betty asked looking at all the money in the gray envelope. ¡°Melissa this is your savings for Tommy¡¯s education. I can¡¯t take it, besides I still have some money in my ount I can still use.¡± She handed the envelope back but Melissa didn¡¯t take it.


    ¡°Aunt please take the money. I will earn a lot from this contract also this is the least I can do after you¡¯ve helped me and Tommy so much.¡±


    ¡°Your my daughter and I love you both so much. I did what any mother could do.¡±


    ¡°Thank you aunt.¡± She walked round the counter and hugged her from behind. If not for her aunt¡¯s help she didn¡¯t know how she could raise Tommy all by herself.


    ¡°Go keep Tommypany, dinner will be ready in a short while.¡± Feeling tears well up in her eyes, she patted Melissa¡¯s hand urging her to leave.


    ¡°Okay, love you aunt.¡± Kissing her on the cheek, Melissa went to the sitting room, sat on the carpet and watched her son y with his toys. Looking at him was like looking at Mark though he was more handsome than his father. Only if they were together, Tommy would be so happy. Seated there she couldn¡¯t help but think of how good looking Mark was though so arrogant and domineering.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°Damn, why do I always thinking about him?¡± She reprimanded herself forcing him out of her mind.


    ¡°Mum are you okay?¡± Noticing his mother talking to herself, Tommy asked getting close to touch her forehead.


    Holding his little chubby arms, she smiled at him reassuringly. ¡°I¡¯m okay son, only worried since soon I will be going away for work. You have to take care of grandma for me okay.¡± She informed him lovingly squeezing his cheek.


    ¡°Yes mum, I will take care of grandma and promise not to trouble her.¡± Tommy promised while nodding his head.


    ¡°My baby is so obedient. Come give mummy a hug.¡± She embraced her son tears threatening to fall.


    Though tommy was young on the outside, he was quite mature. Taking up the roll of the man in the house.

 The flight

    For two days Melissa spent every time she had with her son, and helping her aunt reopen the flower shop. The shop had closed for some months but they still got clients ordering flowers for functions and a few hotels around town got their centerpieces.


    Having worked in corporate, as a professional ountant, Betty went back to what she loved doing when she lost her family.


    When her husband and son died, she couldn¡¯t live in the city anymore. She lost her home and job making it too hard for her to cope, opting for a new life in the province.


    Though she never talked about her family, Melissa knew she had never forgotten the hurt and humiliation she suffered back then. Her mother had told her stories about her aunt and when she came to get her, Melissa in her heart promised to always take care of her and Tommy since they where the only family she had.


    ¡°What time are you traveling tomorrow?¡± Aunt Betty inquired when they sat down to watch cartoon with Tommy after having dinner.


    ¡°Before noon, we have a meeting in the afternoon.¡±


    ¡°What? Won¡¯t you bete for the meeting, it¡¯s a five hours journey.¡±


    ¡°Aunt they are taking care of all the travel and amodation. I have a ne ticket booked already and Lisa agreed to drive me to the airport.¡± She held Tommy who had fallen a sleep in her arms, tired from ying all day with other kids at the kindergarten.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take Tommy to kindergarten tomorrow aunt, you don¡¯t have to wake-up early.¡± Melissa wanted to spend every little time with her son hoping it will make up for the days they would be a part.


    ¡°Okay dear, take him to sleep now I¡¯ll Lock up. You should sleep early to.¡± Betty got up taking the key¡¯s to lock the front door.


    ¡°Goodnight.¡± She said to her aunt with a heavy heart carrying the sleeping child to his bedroom.


    This was thest night they were spending together, and it was not easy to leave her son behind. Though she didn¡¯t know how she would cope without the two people who always motivated her, she had to go and somehow survive the few weeks.


    ¡°Goodnight too dear.¡± Betty responded going to her room after locking the doors and switching the lights off.


    She understood the gravity of the matter for both mother and son. Being away from each other would be tough but in her heart she believed all would be well.


    The next morning after Melissa dropped off Tommy at the kindergarten with tears lingering in her eyes, she went home to pick her suitcase. Without anyone around, she broke down in tears wishing she didn¡¯t take the job.


    Leaving her son was harder than she had thought, and though Tommy acted strong, she saw him silently wipe his eyes as he followed the teacher to ss. ¡°This is for the best Melissa, stay strong it¡¯s only for a few weeks.¡± For a while she sat on the couch trying to calm her nerves before heading over to the flower shop were Lisa was picking her up.


    ¡°Hey Melissa, hope you didn¡¯t wait for long.¡± Lisa shouted when she entered the shop.


    ¡°Hello aunt, these Rose¡¯s smell so good.¡± She said sniffing the rose¡¯s Betty was arranging for her customer.


    The business was picking up well with her old customers streaming in.


    ¡°Good to see you too Lisa, how have you been? How is work?¡± Betty inquired with her hands full she could only let Lisa hug her.


    She liked Lisa and was happy that she and Melissa got along well. Lisa¡¯s mother helped her a lot since she moved to town, and even got her a shop to set up her business, and since then they became close friends.


    ¡°Lisa, we have to go, I don¡¯t want to bete for my flight.¡± Melissa approached them dragging her heavy suitcase.


    ¡°We have more than half an hour to your flight Melissa, let me chat with aunt for a while.¡± Lisa murmured helping Betty arrange the flower.


    ¡°No, what if we get traffic on the way?¡± Melissa questioned turning to address her aunt.


    ¡°Aunt, I¡¯ll call you when I get to the city.¡± Giving her aunt a hug and a kiss on her cheek, she swallowed the tears filling her eyes as she dragged Lisa out of the shop.


    ¡°Bye aunt, Melissa my God, stop dragging me.¡± Lamented Lisa, quickening her pace trying to keep up.


    Knowing her friend would make an excuse to dash back, Melissa stood behind her at the door as she got in the car.


    Though it was a fifteen minutes drive to the airport, she was nervous, and afraid of missing her flight or failing to make her appointment. If she could, she would have gone to the city a day before but her flight was booked by thepany.


    ¡°Melissa since your going to the city, will you look for Tommy¡¯s father?¡± Eyes on the road, Lisa asked the very thing Melissa was dredging.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll get time to look for him.¡± She replied while checking her phone for the tenth time.


    Melissa was really nervous and afraid of the changes that came with moving to the city, and now thinking about meeting Mark made her a little scared. How was she supposed to tell him that there ident night together gave them a son?


    Biting her inner lip, she thought of different ways to break the news to him, but she kept reminding herself that the city was big, there was no way of bumping into each other.


    ¡°Melissa are you okay?¡± Lisa called her several time but she was deep in thought. Stopping the car, she shook her softly startling her.


    ¡°Huh¡­. I¡¯m fine.¡± As she shook her head to clear her mind, she look out the window at the numerous vehicles parked around.


    ¡°We are at the airport, I won¡¯t go in with you which I would have loved to, since mum set me a text with a list of stuff she needs me to pick for the bakery.¡±


    ¡°Its okay Lisa, thanks for the ride and please watch over aunt and Tommy for me.¡±


    ¡°You know I will, you don¡¯t even have to ask.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the best, Lisa. I¡¯ll call when I get there.¡± She hugged Lisa for a while tears welling in her eyes.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯ll make me cry.¡± Lisa murmured on Melissa¡¯s shoulder sniffing back the tears.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t or we will flood the car.¡± Melissa smiled hugging her tighter.


    ¡°Ha ha, you¡¯re right. Let save the fire fighters energy. Bye Melissa.¡±


    ¡°Bye Lisa, see you in a few weeks.¡± Finely pulling from the hug, Melissa got out of the car taking her suitcase a long.


    ¡°Yeah, a few weeks.¡± She felt Melissa would note back. She was not made for the province anyway. ¡°Have a safe flight.¡± Waving goodbye, she sat back watching Melissa walk into the airport before driving off.


    After clearing at the check in point they waited for a few minutes to board the flight. It was a forty five minutes flight yet it gave Melissa goosebumps. This was the first flight alone with out her parent and she couldn¡¯t help missing them.


    As the ne took off, she closed her eye¡¯s as memories of the happy times she went on vacations with her parent crossed her mind. Her mom and dad loved her so much, being an only child she was pampered a lot. Her father always told her she would take over thepany when she was done with her studies. Part of why it was hard for her to cope without them.


    ¡°Miss please fasten your safety belt we are about tond.¡± Opening her eye¡¯s, she smiled at the flight attendant fastening her seat belt. The flight was shorter than she imagined, they had arrived in no time.


    Walking out of the airport she looked at the yellow passenger vehicles lined up. The beauty ofnding in an international airport was you neverck transport.


    As she hailed a cub to the city center she remembered how she once begged her dad to let her take a cub instead of their chauffeured car.


    ¡°Excuse me Mr, please drop me off to this ce.¡± Getting into the cub, she gave the driver the address.


    In the four years the city had changed she couldn¡¯t easily find her way.


    ¡°Star lite building 68 avenue street?¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you sir.¡± Looking at the people rushing in all direction in the busy street, Melissa had forgotten how chaotic the city was.


    Leaving the highway into the heart of the city, there was heavy traffic and with every tick of the clock, she got more afraid of reportingte and possibly missing the meeting.


    ¡°Sir, is there another route we can take?¡± Inquiring, she checked her wristwatch again.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    First impression mattered a lot, and Melissa didn¡¯t want her new boss to think she was arroganting into workte.


    ¡°Sorry miss, this is the easiest route we can use. There is an ident at the intersection ahead but the police are clearing it, in a matter of minutes the road will be clear.¡±


    ¡°Okay. I really hope it clears soon, don¡¯t want to bete.¡± Holding her phone, she looked at her son¡¯s picture.


    This was for him she couldn¡¯t afford to mess it up, but at least she had fifteen minutes to report to the office. Hopefully the traffic jam would clear before her new boss realises hiring her was a mistake.

 New boss new home

    After waiting for almost ten minutes, true to his word¡¯s the road cleared and traffic moved smoothly. After waiting for almost ten minutes, true to his word¡¯s the road cleared and traffic moved smoothly.


    Stopping in front of the big gray and white painted building, Melissa straightened her skirt, took deep breaths walking into the building with every step wondering what kind of people she would be working with.


    She was not good at making friends upfront and without a doubt she expected some hostility.


    Sauntering to the front desk, the receptionist smiled at her. She was kind and weing and Melissa would tell she had been waiting for her.


    Showing her where to leave her suitcase, the receptionist directed Melissa to the elevator up to the managers office.


    ¡°Excuse me sir, Miss White is here.¡± The secretary knocked at the managers office popping her head through the slightly opened door.


    ¡°Okay, show her in.¡± Sightly raising his head, the manager invited Melissa to sit when she walked in with a click of her heel¡¯s.


    With lots of documents on his table, the manager took a while to address her and finally once he was done signing the documents he called his secretary.


    ¡°Miss White, sorry for that.¡± He seemed like he had forgotten of her presence until he looked up but Melissa had noin. ¡°Wee to outpany, Amelia my Secretary will show you to your office.¡± He handed her over to his secretary after checking her appointment letter asking her to start work immediately.


    ¡°Thank you sir.¡± Smiling at him, she walked out closely following Amelia to the office she would be sharing with two other colleague¡¯s.


    ¡°Jenifer, Nancy this is Melissa, she will be working with you.¡± As Amelia introduced her, she showed her to her desk as the two colleagues stopped their work to wee her.


    ¡°Hi Melissa wee.¡± They both smiled at her walking over.


    ¡°When I heard of the new staff joining us, I didn¡¯t expect someone so young and beautiful. This is too muchpetition.¡± Nancymented with her hand on her chest and though she didn¡¯t understand if she was just joking, Melissa smiled at her slightly raising her eyebrows.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind her.¡± Jenifer winked at her push Nancy a little.


    ¡°Thank you¡­.¡± Both Jenifer and Nancy were warm and weing contrary to her expectations. As bubbly as Nancy was, she reminded her of Lisa.


    Before getting acquitted to the project she was to work on, they showed her around the office and everyone she was to work with from other departments.


    Then proceeded to the conference room for a brief meeting, to discourse everything they had to finish a head of the official opening day of the hotel in a months time, as Nancy kept asking about her background and other projects she had worked not failing to talking about her experiences working in thepany.


    ¡­


    After work hours Melissa went to the reception desk to pick her suitcase and get information about her amodation.


    Though thepany had said they would offer amodation for the dtion she would be in town, they had not stated where she would live but she expected to stay in a hotel.


    After waiting for awhile with the receptionist instructions, a middle aged man approached her. ¡°Miss pleasee with me.¡± The man who identified himself as the driver assigned to drop her off, took the suitcase, walking out of the building to the car park. He looked quite serious but had a friendly smile making Melissa trust him.


    ¡°Mr can you take me to the cemetery first?¡± She asked when they got into the car.


    Since her parent wereid to rest four years ago she had not gone to visit. It all happened  so fast, after the car ident and the burial all their property were taken by the bank.


    The house¡¯s, the car¡¯s where gone as thepany went bankrupt. Often she thought that maybe someone was behind all what had happen. Her father was careful with all his business dealing, it was his legacy and he often told her she would take over when she was done with her studies.


    Having to take care of Tommy andck of finances, she didn¡¯t have a way of investigating what really happened though she very much wished she could.


    ¡°Miss, we are here.¡± The driver informed when they got to the cemetery gate.


    ¡°Thank you, please wait here I won¡¯t take long.¡± Leaving the car, she bought flowers at the gate and walked in.


    All she thought about was how happy they were, every time especially when they went for vacations as a family.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Stopping at the two head stones side by side. Melissa sat down and called to her mum and dad. She wished they would help her understand what happened.


    ¡°Why was life so cruel?¡± She asked herself.


    In one day she lost both her parent and everything they had worked hard for all their lives. ¡°Was it retribution for what happened that night?¡± She didn¡¯t understand.


    ¡°Mum, dad I miss you so much.¡± She touched the headstone tears filling her eyes. ¡°Why did you have to leave so soon mum?¡± Thest she spoke with her mother was that morning she left the hotel. She hated lying to them yet that day she had done it when her mother asked her the time she got from the party. She used to tell her everything yet she couldn¡¯t tell her about it.


    Looking at her dad¡¯s name, she remembered how hard he worked, how dedicated he was to thepany. ¡°You put all your energy in thatpany dad, I¡¯m going to find out what really happened. I¡¯ll make the person responsible pay.¡± she swore in her heart, wiping her eyes wishing they were alive to see their grandson.


    Minutester as she got back, the driver opened the car door and drove out of town. While seated at the back seat, Melissa thought he was to take her to a hotel in town but to her surprise, she was taken to a gatedmunity. The high end part of the city that only authorized people could ess, and with no bus stops around one would need to drive in and out of themunity.


    ¡°Mr Adamson, I thought you were dropping me off to a hotel.¡± She inquired from the driver when they stopped at one of the vi houses.


    ¡°Miss, you can call me Adams. I¡¯ll be your driver from today and yes the boss asked me to bring you to his vi since it would be ufortable to stay in the hotel.¡± Giving her that polite smile, he opened the car door for her then proceeded to get her suitcase from the trunk.


    ¡°Does the boss live here with his family?¡± Curious enough she asked looking from the greenwns to the red granite painted building.


    ¡°His family lives in their mansion, hees here often but he is out of the country for business.¡± As he spoke, she just stared at the building.


    It was getting dark and with all the lights on in the house it looked breathtakingly beautiful. As they walked in the house they were received by twodies, Mary and Jane.


    Appreciating the warm wee, Melissa smiled at Mary who looked slightly older than her aunt as she introduced herself as the housekeeper.


    ¡°Come, I¡¯ll show you to your room. Freshen up and get some rest.¡± Walking Melissa upstairs to the first floor Mary opened one of the guest rooms.


    It specious looking nothing like a guestroom with a king size bed and makeup table with a floor to ceiling window next to a door that opened up to a bathroom and wardrobe.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send Jane up to call you when dinner is served.¡± With her settled in, Mary politely instructed.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Watching thedy walk out after making sure everything was in order, Melissa thought of how generous her boss was. Letting her stay in his house, assigning her a driver and letting his employees serve her was not usually.


    ¡°Does he need anything in return?¡± Knowing not many would do so much for nothing.


    But talking of the boss, she thought he was the manager she had met earlier at the office. He looked older and gentlemanly she didn¡¯t think he would have such thoughts.


    ¡°Maybe he let me stay till he gets back.¡± She told herself since she heard he was leaving for business from Nancy thus not needing to question his whereabout from Mary.

 Fall into his trap

    Getting back to his hotel room after finishing his meeting, Mark sat on the coach briefly closing his eyes only for her face to popup.


    Since he saw Melissa again, he couldn¡¯t get her out of his mind. That day at the hotel as their eyes met for the first time in years, he still got that electrifying feeling just like the first time.


    She was older now but more beautiful reminding him of why he couldn¡¯t stop himself that night.


    Now having agreed to his job offer to design the hotel, he chose to leave the country not only for business but most importantly so she would have time to get acquitted with her work and settled in his house.


    He needed her to get hooked to her job so she sign¡¯s the contract and for her not to leave when she finds out he is her employer and house mate.


    ¡°Sir Melissa White reported to the office and the driver took her to the vi as ordered.¡± James his assistant had to keep him informed of everything Melissa did.


    ¡°That good.¡± His lips slightly curved up.


    Since his n was in motion only time would tell. If she will fall into his trap or not.


    ¡°Instruct Adams to keep an eye on her and not to let her leave on her own. Also get two more bodyguards to follow them whenever they leave the vi.¡± Standing up Mark instructed tagging his tie loosening it as he took off the suit jacket.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think she will agree to people following her around.¡±


    ¡°That why I need the best. Someone who knows what they are doing, no one should spot them.¡±


    ¡°You really think they will go after her?¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t take any chances. Melissa is quite stubborn she will surely try to find out what happened to her father¡¯spany and they won¡¯t want that. They will do all they can to stop her so we have to be a step ahead in order to take them down.¡± He said sitting on the sofa to check the documents he had to sign.


    Though he didn¡¯t want any harm to be fall her now that he had finally got her, he didn¡¯t have much of a choice.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll make the arrangements but are you sure you want to use her as a bate?¡± James knew the history between them and though it was necessary, he didn¡¯t think it was right. If anything ever happens to her mark would be divarstated.


    They could find other ways but mark insisted in this.


    ¡°We need her for this James, with her we can smoke all of them out but I won¡¯t let them harm her.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get our best men to keep Melissa safe Mark but if it gets dangerous we¡¯ll have to use other means.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    As James walked to the door, he stopped turning back to face him. ¡°Sorry I almost forgot.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Your grandfather wants you to go to the mansion as soon as you¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Why, is there a problem in thepany?¡± His grandfather though retired kept up with thepany¡¯s operations and any rising issue would easily drive him to the edge.


    ¡°Guess its about your engagement sir.¡±


    ¡°The engagement with Sasha?¡± He looked at James who nodded then went back to his documents.


    ¡°Tell them I don¡¯t have time. Better yet I¡¯ll talk to grandfather myself, you can go.¡± His grandfather had promised an old friend of his their grand children¡¯s marriage to unit the two families merging their twopanies.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    For years they tried to have the engagement official but Mark kept pushing it off. Though he never spoke openly, he didn¡¯t like the idea of an arranged marriage and his parent supported him but not his grandfather who wanted a great grandchild soon and a young woman from a wealthy family as his granddaughter inw.


    To his grandfather ss was all that mattered in marriage.


    Now that his fiancee to be was permanently back from abroad where she had gone for studies, the old man nned to hold an official engagement party in a months time but Mark had his own n¡¯s which he hoped his grandfather would understand.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Yes aunt, I¡¯ll take of myself. Miss you two so much. Bye.¡± Finishing a video call to her aunt, chating for awhile with Tommy, Melissa changed her clothes then went down for dinner.


    She missed her son so much, this being the first of many nights away from her baby felt like a stone lodged in her throat. She wanted to go home, be with her little boy but she had to stay. She needed to make enough money to help with his school and other expenses.


    ¡®This way miss.¡± Jane who was waiting at the bottom of the staircase ready to serve her, directed her to the dinning room.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Like Mary, all the other staff treated her as the mistress of house. Following their boss¡¯s orders. She thought, but she didn¡¯t think it was okay.


    Being just an employee she didn¡¯t see herself more special than the others.


    ¡°Miss is there a problem?¡± Noticing the displeased look on Melissa¡¯s face, Jane inquired wondering if she didn¡¯t like the food they had prepared. ¡°Is it the food okay miss? If not we can have it changed though it will take some time.¡± She questioned then exined when Melissa didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°Oh no, on the contrary, the food looks delicious but I¡¯m not used to eating alone.¡± She said remembering her aunt and son missing them more. ¡°Why don¡¯t you sit and eat with me?¡± She offered pointing to a chair beside her.


    ¡°Sorry miss, I can¡¯t. I¡¯m only here to serve you. I wouldn¡¯t want Mary to scold me.¡± Jane refused vehemently shaking her head.


    ¡°She can¡¯t scold you, just say I asked you to.¡± She insisted.


    ¡°Sorry miss.¡±


    ¡°Really, Okay then since you can¡¯t sit at the table with me then we can eat in the kitchen or wherever you people eat.¡± Not waiting for Jane¡¯s reply, Melissa took the dishes walking out the rear door.


    Stepping into the kitchen, she looked around the spacious room with all the modern furnishing and equipment. Though no one was in the room, she followed the murmurs andughter outburst that came from a room next to the kitchen only to meet almost ten people enjoying dinner.


    There were dishes on the table though not as many as they had prepared for her.


    As soon as their eyes fell on her, they kept quite.


    Looking at the group of employees seated at a side table eating and charting amongst themselves, Melissa almost turned back.


    Didn¡¯t expect so many people.


    Having the many sets of eyes on her, she could tell they were surprised by her presence there. Unable to say sorry then turn back, all she could do was smile.


    ¡°May I join you?¡± She requested cing the dishes in her hands on the table.


    ¡°Miss you have to eat at the dinning table not out here.¡± Mary stood picking the dishes up.


    ¡°Thank you Mary but I want to eat here. That table is so depressing. Seriously I shouldn¡¯t be in there, I¡¯m an employee as well.¡± Taking the dishes from Mary, she ced them back on the table.


    Mary didn¡¯t understand her but couldn¡¯t question. Their orders were to give the youngdy anything she asked for. Meeting Jane¡¯s eyes who was behind Melissa with more dishes, Mary gave any argument taking her seat.


    ¡°She is right, Melissa you can sit with us.¡± One of the men invited making space for her to seat.


    With Jane serving  food on her te and anyone who wanted to taste the new dish, Mary sat quietly letting Melissa join them as others introduced themselves to her, from the gate man to the cook, theundrydy and the gardener.


    Eating with other employees was lively and fun and though she didn¡¯t talk much, she enjoyed listening to their stories.


    Having people around helped her forget all her problems and with that she went to to eat with them everyday.

 The restaurant

    Living in the gatedmunity, the driver had to drop off Melissa to work every morning then pick her up in the evening. Soon their was a rumor that the CEO¡¯s lover was working in thepany when they saw his driver but Melissa didn¡¯t pay much attention to it.


    Having not seen thedy who was driven to thepany by their CEO¡¯s driver, many didn¡¯t take it seriously.


    Since joining thepany, Melissa got along well with her two colleagues and the other employees at thepany as always helped each otherplete the project.


    ¡°Ladies, today lunch is on me.¡± Nancy said while arranging the design paper¡¯s on her desk preparing to leave the office.


    ¡°Nancy, what the asion? We always eat at thepany cafeteria or is the food not up to your standard today.¡± Jenifer asked mockingly.


    Taking her bag, Nancy stopped to stare at Jenifer. ¡°You think? Anyway a friend opened a restaurant some two weeks ago and invited me for lunch since I helped with interior design and yes, of course I can bring friends. Jenifer can you stop looking at me like that.¡± She said walking up to Melissa¡¯s desk. ¡°Melissa, are youing? ¡±


    Looking up at Nancy who had her bag draped over her shoulder, Melissa lightly shook her head. ¡°I need to finish this so I can leave work early today.¡±


    ¡°Stop that, Melissa you can¡¯t keep skipping lunch and working overtime every day.¡±


    ¡°Nancy is right. You can¡¯t keep this up.¡± Turning to Melissa, who¡¯s desk was next to hers, Jenifer took her bag handing to Nancy. ¡°We are going for lunch, besides it¡¯s free anyway, Nancy¡¯s treat.¡± Closing the folder she was working on keeping it aside, both Jennifer and Nancy dragged Melissa out of the office.


    With the restaurant a few blocks from the office, they decided to walk while charting about the social event¡¯s happening in the country.


    ¡°Wow!¡± Jenifer said as they walked into the restaurant.


    Being at the heart of the city, the hotel was serene, the guests couldn¡¯t hear the noises from outside giving them a rxing ce to their meals.


    As the owner spotted them, he walked over giving Nancy a goofy hug.


    ¡°Lady¡¯s, wee. Please order as much as you can, it¡¯s on the house.¡± Having to attend to other clients, he excused himself leaving the waiter to serve them.


    ¡°Oh! Look at that, he is fine.¡± Jenifer murmured as Nancy¡¯s friend left.


    ¡°Jenifer can you stop that.¡± Nancy pped her hand getting her attention back to them.


    ¡°Stop what? Come on, Melissa you saw that to. The hug and all. Nancy, are you sure he is just a friend or your boyfriend?¡± Raising her eyebrows, Jenifer turned to Nancy as the food was brought to the table.


    ¡°Jenifer you talk too much, eat your food.¡±


    ¡°Come on Nancy, juice me up.¡±


    ¡°As i said, he is just a friend. Seriously I¡¯m already regretting bringing you along¡­.¡±


    Looking at the two bickering, Melissa smiled.


    Though they kept teasing each other all the time, they were friendly to her. They helped her a lot at work and showed her how to get the best materials and the bestpanies to work with on her project.


    ¡°Mm! Jenifer I heard that the big boss wille to our monthly meeting next week.¡± Nancy turned to Jenifer, their department head changing the subject.


    ¡°Do we have to do the presentation then?¡± Inquiring, Melissa took a sip of water from her ss.


    ¡°There is no officialmunication yet but we should be prepared.¡±


    ¡°I heard about his supposed lover working in thepany, maybe he will introduce her.¡±


    ¡°Not you too Nancy, you know that is nothing but false rumors.¡±


    ¡°Well then maybe now we should also get some new clothes and a makeover to catch his attention. I would do anything so the CEO could look at me twice.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tter yourself Nancy, he has a fiancee he is getting married to soon and definitely won¡¯t see any of us when he as such a beautiful woman by his side.¡±


    ¡°No, that not true. Melissa is more beautiful than thatdy. We will go for a make over see if he won¡¯t like either of us.¡±


    Talking of the CEO, Melissa thought of Mark. Looking for him and telling him about Tommy had crossed her mind but looking outside the window, at the vast bustling city, she felt their was no way she could run into him.


    Opting to stick to what brought her to the city, Melissa turned her attention to the conversion on the table.


    ¡°Jennifer is right, so let not waste our time on make-up besides that restaurant friend of yours likes you.¡±


    ¡°Not you too Melissa. Lunch break is almost over let get back.¡±


    After they were done they thanked Nancy¡¯s friend and walked back to work.


    ¡°Melissa, hey Melissa¡­.¡± Looking back they saw an elegantly dressed youngdy. Her clothes looked quite expensive and the designer bag she was holding was worth almost a million.


    ¡°Diana, hi! What a surprise?¡± Melissa said giving her a hug.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°I just saw you at the restaurant. When did youe to the city, Melissa? You didn¡¯t give me a call. It been years since we saw each other, how have you been?¡±


    Since Melissa had moved with her aunt, they had notmunicated. After the weekend party Diana had persuaded her to go to, Melissa tried to call but Diana didn¡¯t pick her call. Later she got a voice message from Diana informing her that she had gone out of the country with her new boyfriend. Since they had grown up together, went to the same school from kindergarten to university, Melissa took her has her best friend and sister but when her parent died she was left all alone.


    ¡°I¡¯m good, I got here a week ago and I was quite busy at work. This are my work mate.¡± Diana look at them both and politely nodded at them. ¡°How is auntie and uncle, it has been long since I saw them.¡±


    ¡°They are doing okay, we actually moved to a new house. Since I¡¯m in a hurry, give me your number I¡¯ll call you. Let hangout sometime.¡± After exchanging numbers, Diana walked back to the man who was watching them.


    Looking at the man Melissa felt uneasy. ¡°Melissa¡­¡± When Jennifer tapped her on the shoulder, she turned and walked into the office building.


    ¡°That friend of yours gives me some bad vibes.¡± Nancy said to Melissa when they got to the office.


    ¡°Me too, especially that man. The way he looked at Melissa was scarily.¡±


    ¡°Have never seen him before but he look at me like he knows me. Anyway, don¡¯t let that bother you. ¡± Melissa shook her head to clear her mind. Meeting those two disturbed her.


    ¡°Was it a coincidence they met or were they following her?¡± She couldn¡¯t really wrap her figure around it.

 Companies secrets

    After the brief lunch break, Melissa was able toplete her days work on time. As she got off two hours earlier, Melissa walked a few blocks from her office building then took a taxi to the address where her father¡¯s former secretary worked.


    Since she got to the city, she was able to reconnect with the former secretary but it had taken her several weeks of convincing her to meet and share any information she had about thepany that could be helpful.


    ¡°Hello I¡¯m here.¡±


    Alighting the taxi a few blocks as directed, she walked then made a call confirming their meeting ce once outside the building.


    ¡°Come up to the procurement office at the fifth floor. If anyone asks, say yourpany sent you to get some document don¡¯t say whom you¡¯re going to meet with. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡± Looking at the phone in her hand that had gone silent, Melissa wondered why thedy was being so mysterious.


    Tucking the phone in her bag, Melissa went into the building thinking of what to say if anyone stops her but luckily everyone was busy on theirputers closing up for the day they didn¡¯t notice her. As the elevator opened at the fifth floor, Melissa looked around for the familiar face but she didn¡¯t see her.


    ¡°Follow me¡­.¡± Looking at the slightly opened door on her right, someone whispered to her ear.


    When Melissa turned to see who had spoken to her, she only saw ady¡¯s back walk out the staircase door. Holding onto her bag tightly, she sighed then walked to the door taking the stairs up two floors then followed thedy to an executive office.


    Turning once to see if Melissa had followed her, thedy opened the door, whispered some words nodding at the person inside before inviting her in.


    As the door opened, Melissa saw her face. Though she had aged since shest saw her on the wake of her parent, thedy had not changed much. She was as elegant as she was working for her father.


    Having sent her secretary to direct Melissa to the office, thedy stood by the window waiting.


    ¡°Melissa! How are you,e in and have a sit.¡± Turning to see the now grown Melissa, she invited walking to the sofa.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Smiling, Melissa joined her sitting on the other side of the sofa.


    Scanning the room, she noticed it was a modern furnished office with a floor to ceiling grass window with a perfect view of the city.


    ¡°Would you like anything to drink?¡±


    ¡°No thank you. I¡¯m here to talk about¡­..¡±


    ¡°I know why you are here but I don¡¯t think I can be of much help to you.¡± Pursing for a second, Melissa noted the sadness in her eyes. ¡°As you know, I worked for your father for several years but I was fired a few weeks before his ident. I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t have much information that can be helpful.¡±


    ¡°Fired! Why would dad fire you when he was out of the country with mum at the time.¡± Her dad had trusted her as his secretary having had worked together since he started thepany it was hard to believe he would just fire her.


    ¡°Your dad¡¯s partner Mr Steven was the one who fired me. Mr White was suspicious of Steven¡¯s business dealings and we were investigating him. He had contracted a new client whom he didn¡¯t want your dad to know about. During our investigations, several employees hade to me toin on how they were being treated by the new client when handling his shipment. I informed your dad about the shady transactions and when Mr Steven found out, he set me up and had me fired when your father was out of the country just to get rid of me.¡± She took a sip of coffee the secretary had just brought then ced the cup back on the coffee table.From N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying Diana¡¯s dad is involved in illegal businesses? What kind of business and how did he set you up?¡±


    ¡°They were using thepany¡¯s vehicles to transport illegal merchandise. We suspected they were trafficking drugs but I¡¯m not sure. Nothing was confirmed as far as I know. To get me out of thepany, he paid someone to approach me, we hooked up went on several dates then imed I was giving outpanies secrets to ourpetitor when they poached some of our clients with the information his hired goon got from my files. We lost some minor contracts but that did not affect thepany financially. But before then, I had given your dad some contact he went to investigate, can¡¯t tell you what he found out though.¡±


    ¡°Why did my dad let him fire you?¡±


    ¡°He did not know about it, I was waiting for him to get back so I could talk to him about my termination only to hear of the fatal ident.¡±


    ¡°Do you have any documents about theirst transactions?¡± Melissa inquired hoping to get concrete evidence against Mr Steven.


    ¡°No, they took all the documents I had when they fired me and myptop was stolen that same day, so all my backup documents were lost. Melissa you have to be careful, no one should know about this meeting.¡±


    ¡°I understand, I won¡¯t want to put you in any trouble.¡± She assured her as thedy nodded smiling at her.


    ¡°Help me understand though, was thepany in any financial crisis or did dad have any bank loans that he failed to pay?¡± Melissa asked, it was the main reason she need to meet with her father¡¯s former secretary hoping to understand what had really transpired.


    ¡°None that I know of, thepany was doing well and was nning to expand. I was also surprised when I heard about thepany¡¯s bankruptcy.¡±


    ¡°I was not able to do anything back then but now I¡¯ll do all I can to get the truth. If you have more information or anyone who can help, please tell me.¡±


    ¡°Like I said, you should be very careful. They are powerful and dangerous people and if they find out you are seeking information they wille after you and the people close to you. Take this folder, look for this man, he may help you.¡± Melissa took the folder. ¡°That is his schedule for the weekend this month but don¡¯t call, go look for him in person. He was your dad¡¯sst contact and might have information that can help you in your investigation.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much ma¡¯am but how do I know him without any picture to guide me?¡±


    ¡°Go to that ce at that exact time and you will find him, but remember no one should know about this conversation.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for making time to meet me.¡±


    As Melissa left the office she took the stairs down to the first floor. It was tiring but she couldn¡¯t risk anyone in the building knowing about the meeting but since everyone was getting off work no one paid any attention to her.


    Walking out of the building, she took a taxi back to her work ce to pick some of the material she needed to work on. As always she felt like someone was watching her when at the office but looking around she didn¡¯t see anyone suspicious. Feeling scared goosebumps all over her body walking to the packing lot, she rushed almost tripping on her high heels.


    Quickening her steps, the sound of her heels was the only sound in the dimly lit corridor scaring her more but luckily the driver was waiting to take her home.


    ¡°Hello miss, how was your day?¡± Opening the passenger door, Adam smiled at her as always.


    ¡°Hello, the day was good. Lets go.¡± Sitting in the car, she leaned back feeling relieved.


    Her meeting had made her more anxious she made up images where there were none.


    Checking the file as the car drove from the office building, she smiled feeling she was a step closer to her mission.


    If the man in question has any documents from her father then she would get the evidence to prosecute Mr Steven, her godfather. She only had to find a way to meet with the man.

 Arranged marriage

    At the airport


    ¡°Sir where to?¡± James, Marks assistant inquired when they got to the car, as they had justnded at the airport from his business trip.


    ¡°Drop me off to the mansion. I need to talk to grandpa.¡± He responded checking his phone briefly then tucked it in his pocket. ¡°Any progress on the case I asked you to investigate?¡± Inquiring, he looked out of the window at the tall buildings along the way, with her face constantly popping up in his mind.


    ¡°No, we are still working on it, but we can only get to them through Ms White.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t risk her safety to bring down the organization.¡± He said running his figures along his chin, wishing he could keep Melissa out of the way.


    ¡°She is in deep in this, and they are going to target her, especially when they find out she is trying to dig information of what happened to her father¡¯spany.¡± James informed him handed him an iPad with Melissa¡¯s recent activities.


    ¡°Ms White has been meeting up with the people who worked with her father, requesting for financial statements and her fathersst movements before the ident. First it was her fathers former secretary, and though it was a secret meeting, our men were able to follow her undetected. If she gets any information about the organization, or gets any closer, they will kill her.¡± As he exined, he looked at Mark knowing how hard it could be, dealing with an investigation that threatened the people close to him.


    Though James was is assistant, he was his close friend too, having worked together for many years way before he took over thepany.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do everything I can to protect her, and take down the organization.¡± Mark said staring at the smiling face on the screen. ¡°Find her father¡¯sst contact and set a meeting with him. He may have information that we can use without involving her.¡± Handing the iPad back to James, he gazed out the window as the car drove from the city.


    ¡°Okay sir, I¡¯ll contact him again but its not easy to get to him. We only find him if he wants to be found.¡±


    ¡°He most probably want to talk to us, after all he sent us the information about the organization.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll make contact and set a meeting.¡± James said as they drove through a gate adorned with green trees and beautiful flowers making the air flesh and sweeter.


    ¡°Take my suitcase to the vi, I¡¯ll drive myself there.¡± He ordered stepping out of the car as it stopped at the mansion¡¯s door.


    Looking around at the ce that never changed, always blooming with flowers all seasons, Mark sighed, bracing himself for the difficult conversation he had to have with the old man.


    ¡°Wee sir.¡± As the doors opened, the housekeeper received him with a pleasant smile on her face, then showed him to the office where his grandfather was working. Though Mark was in charge of thepany, his grandfather made sure to check all the operations and the monthly financial reports.


    ¡°Hello Grandpa.¡± Pushing the half opened door, Mark walked in to find the old man busy working on the numerous documents on his desk. ¡°The doctor said you should rest, Why are you still in the office?¡± With raised eyebrows, he questioned the stubborn old man.


    Though old Mr Johnson had suffered a minor heart attack, forcing him to bed rest, he couldn¡¯t neglect thepany. It was his family business for generations, and though he handed it to his grandson, he felt it was still his responsibility.


    ¡°I see my grandson is finally back.¡± Taking off his reading sses, he squinted his eyes at Mark. ¡°You expect me to stay in bed all day? This work is my life, if I rest too much I¡¯ll die before my time. So I keep my self busy checking how you¡¯re running thepany.¡±


    ¡°You should trust my capabilities, I have shown you how good I am already grandpa, right?¡±


    ¡°I trust you son, thepany is doing much better than when your father was in charge but I should keep checking on it when I¡¯m still around. If you need any help you can always consult this old man.¡± He said coughing a little then drunk some water.


    Knowing thepany was his grandfather¡¯s legacy, that he had worked on all his life, Mark didn¡¯t question further, he only nned to reduce amount of documents handed to him.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you inform me you wereing, so I can call your future wife for dinner. She hase here several times hoping to see you, and now that your back we should n the official engagement party as soon as possible.¡± The old man stated as Mark sat on the office chair.


    ¡°Precisely what I came to talk to you about, grandpa.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my boy. You came to set the date, didn¡¯t you.¡± The old man beamed sitting up straight. ¡°Then in a months time, you can hold the wedding.¡±


    ¡°No, not really. We won¡¯t push through with the engagement party, since I won¡¯t marry Sasha.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± pping the table, he stood up as his face darkened. ¡°What did you say? Are you trying to annoy me to death, boy? We promised your marriage to her family. How do we cancel that now?¡± As he spoke, he got more agitated causing him to cough uncontrobly.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Come down grandpa, please calm down. Your health is not good, you might get sick again.¡± Helping the old man sit on the sofa, Mark poured another ss of water handing him his medicine.


    ¡°Huh, now you think of my health.¡± The old man sneered taking the medicine.


    ¡°The marriage will go on as nned, you can¡¯t just change it.¡± Old Mr Johnson stated firmly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to marry someone I don¡¯t love, someone I can¡¯t stand being with.¡± Mark stated trying to convince the old man.


    ¡°That poor girl loves you so much, isn¡¯t it enough for both of you? Besides, she has been waiting for you toe from your business trip to arrange the official engagement.¡±


    ¡°But grandpa.¡±


    ¡°No buts, my word is finale.¡±

 Meeting the new boss

    ¡°Oh! Come on Grandpa, you can not do this to me.¡± Mark raised his hands then dropped them in frustration, as he leaned on the office desk looking at the stubborn old man.


    Raising his eyebrows, the old man looked at him the way he mostly did at the conference room.


    ¡°Grandpa, that promise was made years ago when I was a small boy. I didn¡¯t have anyone in mind then, but now I already have someone I like.¡±


    ¡°You! What do you mean someone you like?¡± Pointing at him, he questioned getting more agitated.


    ¡°I love someone else grandpa, and this marriage with Sasha won¡¯t be a happy one. If I¡¯m not happy, I can¡¯t run thepany well, besides we don¡¯t need a merger, thepany is doing well. We will keep doing business with them anyway.¡± Using what he believed was his grandfather¡¯s weakness, Mark made his argument.


    ¡°You think I only care for thepany, huh?¡± The old man questioned looking at him intently. ¡°I love you my grandson, and very much want to see you happy, but I can¡¯t let you make the same mistake your father made.¡±


    ¡°This is not a mistake grandpa and dad didn¡¯t either. He is very happy with mother because they love each other, and I won¡¯t leave thepany like dad did. I¡¯ve already shown you my capabilities.¡±


    With an heavy sigh, Mr Johnson looked at his grandson thoughtfully. ¡°If I let you call off this engagement, what will I say to my old friend?¡±


    Hearing his grandfather¡¯s words, Mark smiled walking over to seat be side him. It was not everyday the old man easily agreed with him.


    ¡°I will personally exin and apologize to Sasha and her family. I¡¯m sure she too does not want to be forced into this.¡±


    ¡°Your father defied me in everything and now it seems, I can¡¯t win with you too since your mind is set and you have your parents approval. We have been friends for years so you must set things right with that family. We don¡¯t want to lose the partnership ourpanies have had for years.¡±


    ¡°I promise we won¡¯t lose them.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll let you do this, but you have to bring that girl you like, so I can meet her.¡±


    ¡°Thank you grandpa. I¡¯ll bring her to visit soon.¡± He said hugging his grandfather.


    ¡°Ha ha! Stop, you are not a child anymore. Help me to my room I need to rest talking to you is really exhausting.¡± He joked around holding onto Mark as he helped him from the sofa to the bedroom.


    ¡°Won¡¯t you have dinner first?¡± Mark inquired as Mr Johnson got on the bed.


    ¡°Have it brought to my room, I¡¯ll eat it here.¡±


    ¡°Okay, take good rest and don¡¯t exhaust yourself with work anymore. I will leave first but I¡¯ll be back tomorrow to check up on you, and don¡¯t worry about the partnership grandpa, I¡¯ll handle everything.¡±


    ¡°Good. Go have some rest too, you had a long flight and be sure to introduce that girl to me soon.¡±


    ¡°Okay grandpa, I promise I¡¯ll bring her to meet you.¡± After briefly talking with the house manager who was also his grandfather¡¯s personal doctor, Mark drove from the mansion to the vi eager to see the one person constantly on his mind.


    ¡­.


    As Melissa sat in her room, she thought of how she would manage to meet her father¡¯sst contact. ording to the documents she got, she had to go to the capital sports club, but sadly only club members and employees would get ess yet she was neither.


    Membership was for the wealthy ss, which she was not part of neither did she have money to join.


    If not for thepany¡¯s amodation and transport she couldn¡¯t survive in the city on her own without any money, and since Mary had informed her that the boss would be back today, she made her hair trying to look presentable as she nned to meet him so she could thank him for all he had done to help her.


    Tucking the strands of hair trying to hold it in a bun, a message popped up on her phone. Looking at the screen, she found a message from Diana asking if they could hang out together the following day.


    She had not thought of Diana, and though Diana was thest person Melissa could hangout with, because of what her father had done, she was the only one who could get her in that club.


    ¡°Yeah Diana, I would love to meet and catch up on all the years we have not seen each other.¡± Melissa wrote a reply, checked it a few times then sent, and immediately got a reply.


    ¡°Do you have a ce where we can meet?¡±


    ¡°Maybe we should go to the capital sports club, it¡¯s been awhile since I went to such a high ss ce.¡±


    ¡°Okay then my treat, I know your short of cash. Send me your address I wille pick you up.¡±


    ¡°Pick me at the Eastern mall, I¡¯m staying at a friends house who does not like me giving out his address.¡±


    ¡°Is he a boyfriend? Why can¡¯t you give me the address, we have been friends for years, we are practically family.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s just a friend and it¡¯s his private life, since he doesn¡¯t like giving his address then I think its best I shouldn¡¯t. So will you pick me up at the mall?¡±


    ¡°Fine Mel I¡¯ll be there at 10:00am.¡±All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Thanks D you¡¯re the best, see you tomorrow. Have a good night.¡± Typing the few words, Melissa smiled grateful to have found a way to get in the club.


    ¡°Okay, see you Mel, you don¡¯t know how much have missed my best friend. Good night.¡±


    ¡°Best friends in deed.¡± Sneering in her heart, she kept the phone aside.


    Though she didn¡¯t know why Diana wanted to meet her, when they had just met, she couldn¡¯t trust anyone until she found out the truth.


    ¡°It seems I need to get really close to Diana, it¡¯s the only way I can know what her father is up to. I promise I¡¯ll get the whole truth and avenge you, mum an dad.¡± Swearing to herself, she touched the gold chain ne her father gave her on her sixteenth birthday.


    As she sat on the bed, thoughts of all the happy times she spent with her mom and dad flooded her mind. The birthday parties they always organized for her, and all the vacation they went together, made her miss her son more, hoping in her heart that she would give him a happy childhood. As the knock sounded at the door, it forced her from her deep thoughts.


    ¡°Melissa dear, dinner is servede down soon.¡± Mary said as she opened the door.


    Though a little older than all the other employees, Mary was loving and caring, always thinking of everyone¡¯s well being.


    ¡°Thank you Mary let¡¯s go. I was not that busy anyway.¡± Responding she stepped out of the room following her down stairs.


    Since Mary took care of her like a mother would, Melissa respected her as one, but it was a shame Mary didn¡¯t have children of her own. ¡°Did the bosse back already?¡± As they got to the dining room, Melissa inquired looking around eager to meet him.


    As her eyes fell on the table adorned with different type of dishes that she had helped prepare as a way to thank her boss, a smile formed on her face.


    ¡°He will be here soon¡­¡± Just as Mary was responding, they heard a car drive in.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure that¡¯s him, why don¡¯t you sit here as I go to receive him then we can eat together.¡± Excitement written all over her face, Mary walked out without waiting for Melissa¡¯s response, leaving her with no choice but to sit there waiting for them.


    Since her boss had helped her so much, she felt it was a good opportunity to meet and thank him for everything in person.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re back.¡± Opening the door, Mary wrapped her arms around Mark in a warm embrace. She had taken care of Mark since he was a child, and to her he was like her son.


    She loved him so much part of the reason she decided to follow him when he moved from the state where his parent lived, toe take over thepany after his grandfather¡¯s illness.


    ¡°Nanny how have you been? I told you not to wait for me at the door every time I get back.¡± Breaking from the hug, he said cing a warm kiss on her cheek.


    ¡°My boy, you know how worried I get whenever you leave for those business trips. I¡¯m always happy to see you back safe and sound.¡±


    ¡°Thank you nanny, I¡¯m always happy to see you too. Where is my guest? I hope you took good care of her.¡± He asked looking around eager to meet her.


    ¡°She is a nice girl and yes I took very good care of her. I left her at the dining hall waiting for you to have dinner. Come, let join her.¡±


    Responding, Mary proceeded him walking to the dining room as the other employees who had joined her to wee him went to their work stations.


    Following closely, a smile formed on Mark¡¯s face growing broader with every step he took, eager to see how surprised Melissa would be when she realises he was the boss she was waiting for.


    ¡°No where to run to.¡± He thought to himself as Mary opened the door.


    Seeing the door open, Melissa stood up with a smile on her face ready to wee her new boss only to see the man she hadn¡¯t expected to meet in the big city standing behind Mary.


    ¡°No it can¡¯t be.¡± She said as their eyes met locking in a stalemate gaze.


    Seeing the smug smile on his face mocking her, she realized what he had done.


    She had fallen into his trap and couldn¡¯t run this time since she was in his territory. He hadn¡¯t bothered looking for her when she left the hotel because he knew he could easily get her toe to him. Thepany that gave her the contract was part of the Johnsons group, and she was staying at the Johnson vi but she never thought Mark could be the boss everyone was talking about.


    How stupid was she to believe such apany would hire someone unqualified to handle a big project, without a college degree like all her coworkers had as per thepany¡¯s rules.


    He did all this so she couldn¡¯t get a way from him after signing the contract, but why? She didn¡¯t understand what he was up to.

 Lustful

    ¡°Oh! Melissa, what is wrong with you?¡± With a deep sigh she fell on the bed burring her face in the pillow. ¡°How could you let him get under your skin that easily?¡± Dragging herself from the bed, shemented walking to the bathroom.


    After having the longest shower, she got in bed but couldn¡¯t sleep.


    Still remembering her make out session with Mark, she touched her lips reliving the kiss and feeling disappointed at the same time of how easily he pushed her away.


    ¡°You¡¯re so stupid Melissa, how could you let your guard down like that? You can¡¯t fall for him, this is no time for love.¡± She reprimanded herself for thinking about that kiss.


    Since that night four years ago she was wary of men touching her. Turning down every man that asked to be more than a friend, but tonight she let Mark touch her, and it felt right and natural to lose herself in his arm¡¯s.


    Melissa had never let her mind think of what happened that night, but while lying in bed her thoughts took her back to the small apartment she shared with her best friend.


    Back then she was not into partying like her childhood friend Diana, but she was dragged by her to different party¡¯s most of the time.


    Being the end of another school year, there was a party organized for the graduand at the university, and Diana¡¯s boyfriend as part of the organizing team offered to get them free tickets, and as always Diana had to take her along.


    ¡°Mel I bought a beautiful dress for you for tonight¡¯s party, let go get dressed.¡± Diana pulled her from her study table to the closet.


    ¡°No D I really can¡¯t go to the party tonight, I have to study for the exams.¡± Melissa tried to protest but Diana couldn¡¯t hear any of it.


    ¡°You study all the time, why don¡¯t you rx and have some fun. We won¡¯t stay for long,e on get dressed, Josh is waiting for us.¡± She urged her cing the dress on the bed. ¡°You are the smartest student I know Melissa, even if you don¡¯t revise for the uing exam, you will still pass anyway.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay D, you win, I¡¯lle with you but we have to be back before midnight. You know I don¡¯t like staying outte.¡±


    With her agreeing to go, Diana took her phone and sent a message.


    ¡°Who are you chatting with?¡± Looking at Diana, Melissa thought her behavior was suspicious but didn¡¯t press on it so much.


    ¡°It¡¯s Josh, I was telling him to wait at the entrance since he has the tickets. Let me help you with the makeup.¡±


    ¡°Okay, but please don¡¯t put too much.¡± She instructed sitting at the dressing table as Diana got her make up kit.


    The party was at one of the most prestigious hotels in the city. Taking a cab to the hotel they met Josh at the lobby, and he walked them into the party.


    The ce was lively with the disco light, the loud music, people dancing and drinking. It was too noisy giving Melissa a light headache since she was not into those kind of things and didn¡¯t drink alcohol. Closely following Diana and Josh they went to a secluded corner and sat on the seven seaters coach.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get the drinks.¡± Diana offered excusing herself leaving Melissa at thepany of her boyfriend. She knew Melissa didn¡¯t drink but she had her own ns for the night, and promising to get her non alcoholic drink she went to the bar.


    As Melissa sat there beside Josh waiting for Diana to get back, she felt ufortable at how he kept checking her out.


    Though they didn¡¯t talk much, hemented on how beautiful she looked in the blue dress she wore, which was short barely covering her thighs, forcing her to keep pulling it down, making her feel uneasy having her legs exposed and all the men in the room looking at her with lustful eye¡¯s.


    When Diana brought the drinks, she pulled her boyfriend to the dance floor leaving Melissa all alone.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like how your looking at my friend.¡± She heard herin to her boyfriend who tried to deny the obvious.


    ¡°Hey lovely, like to dance with me?¡± Left alone, some guy approached her but she declined.


    Looking at the many men and women dress in almost nothing drinking and dancing clinging to each other, Melissa felt out of ce. Like a rabbit in a wolves den, she sat quietly at the corner with the drink in her hand. Sitting all alone made her an easy target as many men hit on her but she declined all of them opting to staying out of trouble.


    Looking around the room feeling more tired than she felt walking in, her eyes met the most handsome guy she had ever seen. She didn¡¯t know if he sensed her staring at him but he turned, and their eyes met locking in a gaze as she inadvertently bit her lower lip.


    He had the most captivating eyes and from across the room, they could only see each other, but the contact broke when one of the guys apanying him, pulled him out the door.


    ¡°He¡¯s Mark from one of the richest family in the country.¡± Leaning from the back, Diana whispered in her ear.


    Diana new almost everyone in the higher society in campus, making Melissa wonder if she had some business in campus she didn¡¯t know about.


    Though Diana was her childhood friend and shared the apartment, they didn¡¯t spend much time together. Most of the time she didn¡¯t stay in the room with the excuse that she was out partying with some of her friends whom she never introduced to her.


    Hearing Diana¡¯s words, Melissa didn¡¯t say anything as she took the drink she had handed her before and kept drinking. She didn¡¯t know what was added in the fruit punch, it was so sweet but had some hint of alcohol which she didn¡¯t mind at the moment, since it rxed her in the chaotic room.


    As Diana and her boyfriend sat beside her, she excused herself to go to the restroom but swayed almost falling when she got up.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°Mel, what wrong? Are you feeling sick¡± Diana asked helping her up and supporting her to the bathroom leaving Josh behind.


    ¡°I feel so hot and dizzy, it¡¯s so ufortable.¡± She said fanning herself.


    ¡°Maybe you drunk a lot. Let me support you.¡± Not responding, Melissa kept walking, but when they neared the bathroom door, everything went nk.


    With her eyes half opened, she felt two men lift her up.


    ¡°Wait, where are you taking me?¡± She questioned trying to keep herself a wake but they didn¡¯t respond and she thought maybe Diana had asked for help to take her home.


    Minutester she woke up in a dimly lit room.


    Looking from the bedsheets to the things around, she realized it was not her room but the hotel¡¯s. Feeling ufortable and really hot, she couldn¡¯t stay on the bed nor could she stay in the room since she wanted to get back to her apartment.


    She got out of the room but in the hall way she didn¡¯t know where to go. It was the hotel where the party was held with a lot of rooms, with all the doors closed and no one around to help her.


    As she walked a long the corridor, her condition worsened by the minute. Needing something to ease the ufortable feeling, she touched her body feeling like tearing her clothes off. As she stopped trying to catch her breath, she leaned trying to support herself still tagging on her clothes but the wall caved in. Losing her bnce, she realized she was leaning on a door that was opened from the inside.


    Falling on something warm, she felt relieve causing her to lose her senses, and attacked the person she fell on trying to ease herself.


    ¡°Please help me, can¡¯t take it anymore.¡± She murmured unable to resist any longer and the person didn¡¯t mind. He seemed to have lost his mind just has she had.


    Being wasted from the wild party they had, his friend got the room for him to rest and sober up, and on his way out of the room to get his friend to drive him home, a young almost naked woman fell on him and started tearing off his clothes. Before he could protest they were both rolling in bed with him taking the reins.


    He was never into the kind of women who jumped on men but he was so drunk to care, and the woman in his arms was no ordinary woman to him.


    Opening her eyes as the first light hit her face, Melissa woke up with an headache and a sore body.


    She tried getting up but something was holding her down, and as she looked down at the arm holding her in ce she felt lost. Turning to look at the handsome man sleeping beside her, she realized he was the same man she had seen at the party, and for a moment she didn¡¯t know how she got there but then the memory of what had happened between them came shing back.


    Crawling out of bed, she put on her torn dress covering herself up with a bathrobe and tip toed out of the room carrying her shoes before he woke up.


    ¡­


    From that night she hated men, more so Mark for taking advantage of her but remembering how she got in the room, she realized, he may have been a victim.


    At that party she only took the drink that Diana brought her, and after all those years she didn¡¯t understand what had really happen.


    Someone had drugged her but why didn¡¯t Mark try to stop her when she got to his room? Was Diana working with Mark to get her to sleep with him?


    She couldn¡¯t get answers since nothing made sense. Diana was her best friend, she couldn¡¯t harm her, but if she did drug her, Melissa wondered what she had nned to do if she didn¡¯t get out of that room.

 Meeting at the club

    ¡°Ahem! Miss we¡¯re here.¡± As they pulled up at the mall parking lot, the driver announced waking her from her deep thoughts.


    Last night lying in bed a few doors away from Mark messed with her mind. She couldn¡¯t sleep very well as that kiss kept popping in her mind making her imagine of doing more than just kissing him.


    Hoping to buy time to think of what she would do next, she left early avoiding running into him.


    ¡°I want you.¡±


    With his words still lingering in her mind, and after what happened between them, Melissa wished she could leave his home, but it was not that simple.


    ¡°Thank you Adams and please call me Melissa, you don¡¯t have to be so formal.¡± Meeting his eyes on the rearview mirror, she spoke smiling at him.


    Being an employee like them, it did not feel right being treated as the mistress of the house.


    ¡°Okay, sure won¡¯t forget next time.¡±


    ¡°Fine, and oh, don¡¯t wait up for me, I¡¯ll be meeting with a friendter, but I¡¯ll call when I¡¯m done so you cane pick me up.¡± Instructing, she stepped out of the car.From N?velDrama.Org.


    After a quick scan, making sure no one was following her, she walked to the cafe inside the mall, and took a seat near the window. Watching families walk too and from the shopping mall as she drunk the hot coffee she had ordered, reminded her of the times she took Tommy along making her miss her son.


    Taking out her phone, she called her aunt missing them more since she had not seen them for thest two weeks she had stayed in the city. After talking with her and Tommy, Melissa ended the call, wondering how she could tell Mark about his son. Since she met him in the province she knew she had to tell him about Tommy. Though she didn¡¯t want to lose her son, Mark had the right to know about him. Besides he was rich and powerful, it was not easy to hide it from him if he chose to find out.


    ¡­.


    With the ringing note filling the room, Mark jolted up from his deep sleep.


    ¡°James this must be good, for you to wake me up this early in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Good morning to you to sir, it¡¯s nine already and everyone is awake by now.¡±


    ¡°I see you forgot I¡¯m not everyone, I¡¯m your boss and the CEO, I can sleep for as long as I wish to, besides it¡¯s a weekend.¡±


    ¡°Sorry sir, just reminding you we have a meeting at the club today.¡±


    ¡°Okay,e pick me up in half an hour.¡± Without waiting for a response from James, he ended the call, took a shower and changed into some casual clothes going down for breakfast.


    ¡°Morning Mary.¡± He greeted Mary taking a seat at the kitchen ind.


    ¡°Morning son, how was your night, hope you rested well.¡±


    ¡°Yes I did, thank you. Where is Melissa, has she note down yet?¡± He inquired pouring himself a ss of orange juice as Mary handed him fresh baked muffins.


    ¡°Oh! She left early today.¡±


    ¡°Where would she go? Its a Saturday and they don¡¯t work on weekend¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°She asked Adams to drop her to the mall, and that she waster meeting up with her long time friend she just reconnected with.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll see her when I get back. I¡¯ll also be leaving for some business meeting i need to attend.¡± Just then James walked in, said hi to Mary taking an apple from the fruit basket.


    ¡°Did you find any information about him?¡± Mark asked walking out of the dining room to the car park.


    ¡°No nothing, he¡¯s a sly man you only meet him when he wants to. I¡¯m sure he knows more about the organization than he is letting on.¡±


    ¡°Let talk to him and see what he has to say but keep our men on the ground, and inform me as soon as you find any new information.¡± They got into the car and in half an hour they were at the club, where a waiter showed them to the meeting room.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir, only you can go in.¡± One of the bodyguard¡¯s at the door informed Mark, stopping James from entering the room.


    ¡°Oh right!¡± He hated being ordered by people beneath him but he had toply. ¡°James I¡¯ll give you a call once we are done.¡±


    ¡°Okay sir, do excuse me.¡± James walked off leaving him with the two bodyguards.


    Walking in the room, he found an older man in histe fifties seated at the table for two in a dimly lit room with a steaming cup before him.


    ¡°Mark Johnson, it¡¯s good to finally meet you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good to meet you too sir.¡± With a hat on his head and the dim lighting in the room, it was difficult to clearly see his face but he could make out some of his features.


    ¡°Have a seat.¡± He invited waving at his men to leave.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Pouring a cup of steaming tea, he handed it to Mark as he sat opposite him.


    ¡°Sir I¡¯m here to talk about Mr White and his involvement with the organization.¡± Mark informed, took a sip and watched the man before him.


    ¡°Why would I know about him?¡±


    ¡°ording to my sources you were thest person he met with before his death, and I¡¯m guessing he told you something about his investigation.¡±


    ¡°Your guess is not wrong, but all I can tell you now is for you to take good care of Melissa. Keep her from harm, and talking of her, She is in the club trying to meet me but this is not the right time. They are watching her every move, and if she gets any information at the moment or keeps up with the investigation they might have her killed.¡±


    ¡°How do I protect her if you don¡¯t give me any information to work with?¡±


    ¡°You are a smart man Mark, that why you got her to stay at your house, and I¡¯m sure you will figure everything out. I¡¯ll contact you with all the information when the time is right, just keep her safe for now.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take care of her but under the condition you will give me all the information about the organization, and how to end their illegal dealings.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t give me conditions boy, I¡¯ll have my people contact you.¡± He tapped his cane on the floor and the two bodyguards showed up. They stood guard as he got up, escorting him out through a secret back door.


    ¡°Boss what did he say?¡± Waiting at the hallway with the bodyguards, James asked as soon as Mark got out.


    ¡°Nothing much, he wants me to take care of Melissa. I want you to find all information about her, from all her parents rtives and friends to whom she has been seeing and meeting with since she came to the city. I want to know why the old man wants to protect her so much.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, I¡¯ll have the information in the office by Monday morning. Should I have her aunt investigated too? She has been living with her for thest four years.¡±


    ¡°Yes and get someone to watch over her. If they can¡¯t have Melissa, they will go after the people close to her.¡±

 Empty room

    Thinking of Mark , and the fact that she had to live in his house, scared Melissa a little. Him being her boss with the history between them made her uneasy having to face him everyday at home, but luckily it was just for a few days.


    ¡°Just act like any other employee.¡± She told herself holding a second cup of steaming coffee in her hand.


    She needed to find that man, get the evidence her father had against Mr Steven, and make him pay for all he made her go through.


    ¡°I have to get that information before Iplete my project.¡± She thought to herself feeling the pressure almost overwhelming her.


    Melissa only had a few weeks for her contract to expire and when it does, she won¡¯t have a reason to live in Mark¡¯s house.


    Though she nned to tell him about her son, she didn¡¯t think she could use him to stay a little longer.


    Or could she?


    Thinking about it, Melissa hoped it wouldn¡¯t get to that.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ¡°Hi Mel, sorry I¡¯mte. I had to pass by the office first. You know how it is running your ownpany.¡±


    After sitting in the cafe for hours, Diana showed up joining her on the table.


    ¡°Well you are here now, besides I¡¯ve not waited for long. Just got here myself.¡± She had to smile hugging her back.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have a cup of coffee too before we leave.¡± Diana smiled waving the waiter over.


    Looking at her acting all friendly, Melissa sighed in her heart clenching her fist wondering how their friendship turned into hatred.


    After she abandoned her when she needed her most, Melissa didn¡¯t think she would call Diana a friend anymore.


    ¡°Oh Mel, I¡¯m so sorry for back then. So much happened and I couldn¡¯t be there when you needed me.¡± Diana looked at her with a frown on her face.


    ¡°That is ancient history D, you don¡¯t have to apologize.¡± Melissa smiled at her as the waiter brought her order.


    ¡°Thank you for understanding me. I¡¯m really happy we¡¯re doing this today.¡±


    A few minutes in the cafe, they went for shopping.


    Which was more of Diana showing off how rich she was, and could afford to buy anything.


    Purchasing several fancy and expensive clothes and shoes, she offered to buy some for Melissa but Melissa declined, only buying the toiletries she needed. After the purchase, Diana got the salesdy to have them delivered to her home then they went to the club for lunch.


    Getting to the club it was impossible for Melissa to shake Diana off, as she was watching her every move insisting on following her everywhere she went, so she had to sit and have lunch hoping for a chance to sneak away.


    With the dining hall fully parked it¡¯s being a weekend, Melissa looked around suspecting that Diana had some people watching them.


    When she got a chance to sneak out as Diana excused herself to answer a business call, she anxiously headed to the room almost tasting the victory as she would finally get her justice.


    True to her suspicion, she noticed two men following her, and with a hope of throwing them off, she went to the restroom. Having to stay in the washroom for a while, she managed to shake them off leaving in a group of women, but by the time she went to the room, it was toote. To her disappointment there was no one there.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am may I help you?¡± One of the clubs employee asked when he saw her at the door.


    ¡°Did the people who booked this roome?¡± She inquired standing in the bright lit empty room.


    ¡°Yes, you just missed them, they left ten minutes ago.¡±


    ¡°What? They left? Do you know them.. I mean can you tell me who they were and which way they went?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s against the club rules, I can¡¯t give you any information. It¡¯s confidential.¡±


    ¡°Okay I understand, thank you anyway.¡± Hopelessness falling on her, she walked back to the dining hall, where Diana was waiting.


    Though she didn¡¯t know that man, she got back looking at the other diners to see if she would see a familia face.


    ¡°Melissa what took you so long? I was about toe look for you.¡± Diana spoke busy on her phone, and looking at her Melissa wondered what business she and her father carried out using their transportpany.


    ¡°I lost my way back, but got one of the employee¡¯s to help direct me back.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha ha.. Mel you have not changed, after all these years you still have no sense of direction.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t me me D, have not been in such a big and luxurious ce for along time.¡±


    ¡°Well what can I say, aunt and uncle pampered you so much it¡¯s a pity how life has changed for you.¡± Hearing her words Melissa sneered in her heart clenching her hands into fist.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make you pay for everything I have gone through.¡± Her gaze on Diana darkening, she swore to herself.


    ¡°I have to go now D. I¡¯ve been out all morning, my friend may be looking for me.¡± Since she didn¡¯t manage to meet the person she wanted to, Melissa didn¡¯t see any reason for her to stay and pretend to enjoy thepany.


    ¡°Yeah we should go, why don¡¯t I give you a ride.¡± Diana offered with an interest of finding out where Melissa lived so they could keep an eye on her, and know what she was up to.


    Since they met she sent people to truck her down but they got no information. No one ever saw her leaving or going into her work ce and it was getting hard to know her every move.


    ¡°No need to trouble yourself D, I¡¯ll take a taxi.¡± Melissa turned her down afraid of  letting her know where and who she was living with.


    Though she didn¡¯t have evidence against them, she knew Diana¡¯s dad was behind thepany¡¯s bankruptcy and probably Diana was in cahoots, thus making her has dangerous.


    While Diana was distracted by the waiter who brought their bill, Melissa got her phone under the table and sent a text to the driver to pick her up.


    ¡°Come on Mel, it¡¯s no trouble, we are Long time friends almost like sisters, and I would love to see this friend of yours.


    ¡°Really D, you don¡¯t have to.¡± Just then she got a message, a reply from the driver. ¡°Oh! My friend just texted, he¡¯s here to pick me up.¡±


    ¡°Great, let go I would love to see him.¡± She said getting up before Melissa could respond, and as they got to the packing lot they were surprised.


    He came to pick her up in a limousine.

 Her aunt鈥檚 friend

    With Diana¡¯s insistence, Melissa didn¡¯t have a choice but to introduce Adam¡¯s as the person who was hosting her.


    ¡°Oh wow is that him?¡± Seeing the man leaning on a limousine, Diana asked with a frown.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s him. He works as a chauffeur.¡± Seeing Diana raise her eyebrows, Melissa had to exin so she didn¡¯t think she was with a rich guy. Afraid of making her more suspicious.


    ¡°Oh I see, I thought your host was some old rich guy.¡± Diana scorned a sly smile on her face as they walked over to Adams.


    ¡°He¡¯s my aunts old friend, guess he¡¯s trying to impress me so I can put in a good word for him.¡± She hated the lie but she had to.


    As they neared the car, Adams walked over to greet them. ¡°Uncle Adams, thanks foring to pick me up.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem, I was dropping off a client not far from here. Who¡¯s your friend?¡± Adams questioned following her lead.


    ¡°Oh, this is my friend Diana, the one I told you I was meeting today. We actually grew up together but lost contact when I left the city but we reconnected recently.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you youngdy. My niece has told me so much about you.¡± Adams smiled at Diana offering her his hand.


    ¡°Pleasure is mine sir, and thank you for taking my friend in.¡± She smiled back at him shaking his hand.


    Looking from the middle aged man to Melissa, Diana was at ease. She was worried Melissa would get in her way but seeing the man hosting her, she knew they were not wealthy enough and couldn¡¯t afford to go after them. Even if Melissa got evidence against them she couldn¡¯t stand a chance in Court, but deep down Diana was more determined to see her suffer.


    ¡°Melissa I have to go, it was nice meeting you today. We should do this more often.¡± She gave Melissa a hug then walked off to her car.


    When she got in the car she made a phone call to one of her men. ¡°Couldn¡¯t answer the phone earlier, what news do you have for me?¡± Listening to the person on the other side of the phone, her lips curved up as her eyes darkened looking at Melissa on the rearview mirror.


    ¡°Good, make sure to deliver on time.¡± Ending the call, she drove off to her work ce.


    ¡°Where to ma¡¯am?¡± Adams asked Melissa when they got in the limo.From N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Back to the house please, and thank you for your help.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I was just doing my job.¡±


    ¡°It was more than your job. Making her believe that your my aunt¡¯s friend will keep her off my back for awhile. Thank you again.¡±


    All the way back to the vi Melissa thought of what to do.


    Meeting that man was her only chance to get evidence against her godfather but she missed him. Stuck by Diana¡¯s side, he had left blowing off her chance to get back what rightfully belonged to her.


    The other option was for her to get her father¡¯s ountant andwyer to produce all the financial documents but they all declined to meet with her.


    Racking her brains more wondering how she would win over her wealthy canning godfather, Mark crossed her mind.


    He was wealthy and powerful. Being associated with him would give her the same power. In order to get the justice she sought, Melissa had to ask for his help, beg if she had to. Though she was worried of how he would react to the news of her having his child and not telling him sooner, she had to tell him.


    Probably use her having his child as a leverage.


    She was not of the idea of using her baby mama card but she had to do all it took to have Mark¡¯s support.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, Ma¡¯am?¡± Stopping the car, Adams called, but Melissa was lost in her thoughts she didn¡¯t realize when they got to the vi, but on the third call she came back to her sense¡¯s.


    ¡°Oh sorry, I was preupied. Thank you again.¡± She smiled politely stepping out of the car heading to the house.


    ¡°Hi Mary, is the boss in?¡± She inquired meeting Mary in the living room as soon as she walked into the house.


    ¡°Oh Melissa, you are back, how was your day dear?¡± Mary inquired stopping to converse with her.


    ¡°It was great, I had a rxing time.¡± She smiled, almost tapping her foot with her gaze darting up stairs to the office.


    ¡°Oh!¡± Noticing her restlessness, Mary smiled. ¡°Mark is in the office, he asked for you to see him as soon as you got back.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay. I¡¯ll go see him now. Thank you Mary.¡± Going up the stairs to the office, she wondered what he had to talk to her about, and at the same time, how she would talk to him about the help she needed.


    ¡°What is up with those two, are they in a rtionship or something?¡± Jane one of the employees asked turning to Mary.


    They had worked in the vi for years and their boss had never brought home any woman, not even his so called fiancee.


    ¡°Jane don¡¯t start gossiping, get back to work.¡± Mary firmly dismissed her, shutting her up.


    Though she too had questions, she treated Mark like her own son and would not let anyone gossip about him.


    ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to pry into the boss¡¯s private affairs, but seriously he has never brought a woman home all these years I¡¯ve been working here, and with the special treatment he requested for Melissa, he must have some interest in her.¡± Despite Mary¡¯s warning, she went on looking for a good gossip to share with her friends.


    ¡°Keep that up and you will lose your job. You¡¯re here to work not to stand around gossiping.¡± Warning her onest time, Mary went to the kitchen.


    She was in charge of everything in the vi, and since Mark trusted her, she would fire any employee at will.


    ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t say any thing.¡± Jane murmured getting on with her cleaning job choosing to mind her own business.

 My precious daughter

    At the Steels logistics and transportpany, Diana walked into the office with elegance and authority. Being both beautiful and sessful, most of the employees admired her. Supporting her as she worked hand in hand with her father to run the business. Though her father was the boss and owner of thepany, she worked hard, handling all the shipments, and supervising everything personally.


    ¡°Dad!¡± When she got to the office, she hugged Mr Steven who was not surprised by her childish stunt.


    Though Diana was all grown up, he always treated her like a child. Spoiling her more than he did her younger sister who was never interested in the transport business. Always at loggerhead¡¯s with her father and her elder sister, choosing her books since joining the university studying journalism.


    ¡°How did the meeting with Melissa go?¡± Mr Steven inquired taking a seat on the coach.


    ¡°It went well dad, we met as nned.¡± Diana spoke leaning on the desk.


    ¡°Did you find out why she asked to meet at the sports club?¡±


    ¡°No, despite spending the whole afternoon together, I didn¡¯t get anything from her. Though she looked tense and distracted at times, surprisingly she didn¡¯t ask about thepany or meet with anyone in particr.¡± Diana paused thinking of all possible ns Melissa may harbour but nothing came to mind. ¡°Maybe she just wanted to get close to me for old time sake.¡± Raising her shoulders, she spoke pouring herself a ss of water.


    ¡°Why would she want to get close to you?¡± Mr Steven asked thoughtfully.


    ¡°No idea dad, you shouldn¡¯t worry about her so much anyway. I also met the man who¡¯s hosting her. He¡¯s a low life chauffer. I don¡¯t think he can harm us in anyway. Better yet, I have a way to get Melissa out of town for good.¡±


    ¡°How? What.. what are you nning to do to her?¡±


    ¡°Not her dad. Her time has note yet.¡± She smiled gulping all the water.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°All you need to know is, I have my men watching her aunt back in the province and I got information that she has a son, and I¡¯ve sent my men to get him.¡±


    ¡°Huh¡­ that¡¯s good. What do you n to do with the boy? We can¡¯t let her get in the way, not after all these years.¡± Mr Steven smiled, proud of his daughter.


    ¡°You also have to find out if she may have any contact with her father¡¯s former secretary. Though we confiscated all the documents she had, I¡¯m sure she knows about my involvement with the organization. If she tries to meet her, you know what to do.¡±


    ¡°Yes dad I have that under control. I actually n to sell the boy abroad. Losing her son will break her, sending her back to the province just like what happened to her aunt back then. I¡¯m sure she wouldn¡¯t want to stay for a second in the city.¡±


    ¡°Good, but be careful. Whatever you do, don¡¯t leave any evidence that can incriminate us. She doesn¡¯t suspect us now so keep it that way.¡±


    ¡°Okay dad, but even if she finds out, she has no money to go against us.¡±


    ¡°What of our next shipment, is it ready?¡± He asked changing the subject to more pressing issues.


    ¡°Yes, it will take off in three days and hopefully Melissa¡¯s little brat will be here by then. Dad, I¡¯m going home to see what mother and my dearest little sister are up to, just came to give you the update.¡± She spoke picking her bag from the office chair. ¡°Mum will be happy to know that Melissa is in town. Being her favourite goddaughter, I guess she would love to have her home for dinner. Maybe we can invite her someday.¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s a good idea, invite Melissa over one of these nights and try to get your friendship back, in case your little n does not work out. That way we can keep her close in case she suspects us.¡±


    ¡°Okay Dad I will. That is if she won¡¯t have left already coz my ns never fail. Bye dad.¡± Hugging him, She left the building got in her car and drove off.


    Diana and Melissa¡¯s mother were great of friends. They practically grew up together and always encouraged their daughter¡¯s to get along and have a bond like theirs. When Diana¡¯s father lost his job as an ountant in the national bank, Mr White offered him a partnership at hispany after his wife pleaded with him to help her friend.


    He worked for thepany for years, and though he was brought in as a partner, Mr White treated him as one of the employees making himself the sole owner and decision maker.


    Being the daughter of a mere employee, Diana always felt inferior to Melissa. Her family was wealthy and she was best at everything, from sports to academic in school. Beautiful and intelligent even Diana¡¯s boyfriends fell for her whenever she introduced them, but Melissa would always act innocent while she enjoyed all the attention.


    Since Mr White nned to leave thepany to his one and only precious daughter once they graduated from university, that night Diana¡¯s n was to sell her to an old man for the night to ruin her reputation but she managed to get out of the room before the man got there. Now though the tables had turned and Diana had all the money and wealth, she still hated Melissa, and would do whatever it took to end her pride once and for all.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Be my wife

    ¡°Hi, sorry for interrupting.¡± Knocking softly, Melissa poked her head in the office. ¡°Can I have a word with you?¡± She asked walking in.


    After what had happened, she wanted to make her request first in case he decides to send her away.


    Though he was busy signing the numerous documents on his desk, he stopped to look at her as she walked in.


    ¡°Yes, have a sit. I also want to talk to you about something, but tell me first. What can I do for you?¡± He invited leaning back on his chair.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Sitting on the office chair opposite him, she cleared her throat feeling self-conscious from his scrutiny.


    ¡°I know we have not gotten along well, but I need your help to find out what really happened to my father¡¯spany.¡± With his serious gaze on her, she couldn¡¯t beat around the bush.


    ¡°Oh! You want me to help you?¡± He questioned getting from his seat.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Responding, she sat up straight as he leaned on the office desk beside her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see how I can help since their was never a case. If I¡¯m not wrong, thepany was dered bankrupt years ago. Your father had some loans from the bank and couldn¡¯t pay since the business was not doing well.¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s the report they gave, but I believe that my father¡¯s partner messed with thepanies finances to make it look like it was not profitable.¡± She exined wondering how he knew so much about thepany.


    ¡°That¡¯s a very serious usation. Do you have any proof? If not then, you are just wasting your time.¡±


    ¡°There is an old acquittance of my dad¡¯s, he has information we can use. He was thest person to make contact with my dad before the ident but it¡¯s hard for me to meet him. So I¡¯m asking you to please help me track him down. He might have information that my dad found out during his investigation.¡±


    ¡°How do you know about your father¡¯s contact?¡±All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°His secretary told me about it. She was fired and they took all the documents while my father was out of town, but she knew whom he was going to meet with. I can¡¯t prove Mr Steven involvement yet but maybe that man can help me prove it all.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think that person would have contacted you if he had any useful information. Why wait for all these years?¡± He asked trying to make her give up on the investigation.


    ¡°Maybe they would have, but I was not in the city. They didn¡¯t have my contact.¡±


    ¡°What you¡¯re doing is very dangerous, this investigation might put you in a lot of trouble especially if they are baseless.¡±


    ¡°I know it¡¯s dangerous, but I promised and swore on my parents that I¡¯ll get the truth and it¡¯s not a baseless usation.¡±


    ¡°Companies fail all the time. Have you stopped to think that maybe your father mismanaged the funds.¡±


    ¡°No, my father was not sloppy. He built thatpany from the ground. No way he would let it fall.¡±


    ¡°How sure are you? People make mistakes and your father may have done some. Just let this madness go.¡±


    ¡°What? You think fighting for whats mine is madness?¡± Agitated, Melissa stood up looking at him fiercely but all he did was raise his eyebrows.


    ¡°Huh! Fine, if you won¡¯t help, I¡¯ll find a way on my own. Sorry for bothering you sir, please excuse me.¡± Gritting her teeth she clenched her fist then turned to opened the door.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t leave yet.¡± He spoke sitting behind his desk. ¡°I didn¡¯t say I won¡¯t help.¡±


    Closing the door, Melissa walked back and stood before his desk.


    Seeing how stubbornly she looked at him, he knew he couldn¡¯t talk her out of it. ¡°If I help you, then you have to do something for me.¡± He said leaning back on his chair with a sly smile on his face.


    ¡°What do I have to do?¡± Folding her arms over her chest, Melissa raised her chin looking him in the eyes despite how intimidated she felt.


    Getting from his desk, he stood before her still holding her gaze.


    ¡°Be my wife.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Marry me.¡± He stepped closer and held her hand.


    Being an inch taller than she was, she took a step back looking up to him.


    ¡°You want me to marry you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we meet my grandfather tomorrow, I introduce you as my fiancee then get married.¡±


    ¡°No! No, we can¡¯t lie to your family, besides we hardly know each other and just met a few weeks ago. How do we get married just like that?¡± Yes she was ready to do all it took to have him help her, but she didn¡¯t think he would propose marriage. Which was a little scarily for her.


    ¡°You want my help, don¡¯t you?¡± He questioned touching her cheek as she nodded staring back at him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about my family. With time my love, everything will be sorted out and we like each other. I mean, the fact that you have not pped my offer off yet, shows we can work it out. I¡¯m sure my family will love you. You ept and I will help you, if not you¡¯re on your own.¡± Dropping his hand, he stepped back looking at her with raised eyebrows.


    ¡°Okay. I see you have all this nned out.¡± She bit her lip thinking of Tommy.


    A proposal was not what she had in mind but she needed it. Marrying a Johnson would give her more than she needed but then she had to tell him about their son.


    ¡°The proposal is tempting, but I need to tell you something before deciding to get married.¡±


    ¡°What? Do you have conditions that I can¡¯t handle? Tell me.¡± He smirked acting cocky.


    She hade to him for help, but looking at her he didn¡¯t think she would easily agree to his proposal.


    ¡°Well, not conditions but something that I have been keeping from you for a while.¡± She spoke backing away from him, but he held her hand drawing her closer.


    ¡°What is so important that it can affect our marriage arrangement?¡± He asked holding her by the waist.


    ¡°I have a three years old son.¡± With her hands resting on his chest, she bit her lower lip gazing into his eyes.


    ¡°So what wrong if you have a child or do you still have a rtionship with his father?¡±


    ¡°No, his father didn¡¯t know about his existence until now.¡± Hearing her words, he thought of their one night together.


    ¡°Wait. What?¡± Dropping his hands from her waist, he took a step back.


    ¡°Do you mean to say we have a child together, and you are sure I¡¯m your child¡¯s father?¡± Hitting the desk behind him, he stared at her his one hand supporting him on the table.


    ¡°Yes, we have a three year old boy, his name is Tommy.¡±


    ¡°What? How on earth do you keep my child from me, and you just tell it to me now?¡± His roar was so fierce, it made Melissa take two steps back. This was not the reaction she expected after he had asked her to marry him, but she couldn¡¯tin about it.

 Getting his son

    Seeing how upset he was, Melissa grew anxious. Afraid he would take back his offer or worse, take Tommy from her, she stood there despite how shaken she was.


    ¡°I¡¯m.. I.. I¡¯m sorry. We just met after four years, and I didn¡¯t know how to tell it to you.¡± This was the day she dreaded the most.


    Mark was wealthy and powerful, she couldn¡¯t fight him. If he chose to take her son she didn¡¯t know what she would do. Her investigation would end as well. Her job too, but she didn¡¯t regret telling him.


    He deserved to know and well she thought knowing about their son would strengthen her foot in the Johnson¡¯s family.


    ¡°Is that all you can say after keeping my son from me for three years?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Mark, I didn¡¯t n to keep him from you. When I found out my life was so messed up, and I couldn¡¯t look for you then.¡± As she spoke remembering all she had gone through, tears shimmered in her eyes.


    ¡°Sorry I couldn¡¯t tell you when we met at the hotel.¡± She spoke sniffing back the tears.


    ¡°Why?¡± Looking at her tear filled eyes, Mark felt her heartache but didn¡¯t understand why she couldn¡¯t tell him.


    ¡°I.. I was afraid you will take him from me.¡±


    ¡°Take him from you? Damn it Melissa. Is that how low you think of me?¡± He asked pping the table causing Melissa to jumped. ¡°That day at the hotel you just left. What if I didn¡¯t bring you here? You would never tell me about my son, would you?¡±


    ¡°No, I mean.¡± She closed her eyes taking a deep breath. ¡°I was going to tell you, just needed time.¡±


    ¡°Where is my son now? Where did you leave him?¡± He asked calming himself a little.


    ¡°He is with my aunt back in the province.¡±


    ¡°The province?¡± He asked though he knew that was the only ce she would leave him.


    Thinking of his son unprotected, Mark almost went crazy but he couldn¡¯t understand why his men never found out about the child.


    ¡°Those ipetent nipoop.¡± He threw the coffee mug to the wall shattering it into pieces.


    ¡°Please calm down.¡± With her hand on the door handle, Melissa urged him.


    Looking at her almost freeing from the office, he ran his hand through his hair thinking of the next step.


    He was not worked up because she had not told him sooner, but because of the danger he knew his son was in. If they wanted to get to Melissa, they could easily use their son to silence her. Even worse, he was not their to protect him.


    Walking to the floor to ceiling window, he looked at the flower garden motionlessly. With him staring out of the window, Melissa just stood there waiting for his orders not knowing what he would do next.


    To some extent she understood he was both surprised and furious she hadn¡¯t told him sooner, but she was not going to let him take her son.


    Taking out his phone, he made a call with his back still turned to her.


    She didn¡¯t understand what they were talking about but she heard him ask for the ne to be ready for take off in thirty minutes.


    ¡°We are going to the airport.¡± Ending his call, he spoke putting the documents he was working on in the briefcase.


    ¡°What? Where are you taking me.¡±


    ¡°We are going to the province.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I need to get my son, you shouldn¡¯t have kept him from me all these years.¡±


    ¡°Are you going to take my son from me? You can¡¯t do that.¡± She stood before him with the held back tears rolling down her cheeks.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you sooner but we just met after four years and it was not a friendly encounter.¡± She tried to exin, but he didn¡¯t even look at her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I will let you take him away from me that easily.¡± Wiping her tears, she blocked his way as he tried to leave the office.


    ¡°We are going to the province, and since we n to get married, you and our son will stay here. Believe me Melissa, I will never separate you from our son, though it infuriates me to hear I have a child all these years and I didn¡¯t know about it.¡± He knew his reaction had frightened her, and he didn¡¯t want to lose her. ¡°Now go get your things. We have thirty minutes to get to the airport.¡± He ordered briefly touching her cheek.


    ¡°Do we really need to go? Can¡¯t my aunt bring him?¡±


    ¡°No, we need to go now.¡±


    ¡°Okay. You still n to go on with the marriage?¡± She asked hoping he would help with the investigation without asking her to marry him.


    Though she was attracted to him, she didn¡¯t feelfortable marrying for a business transaction. Like every girl she dreamt of marrying someone she truly loved and one who loved her as much, but that night ruined it for her.


    Now she had to do whatever it took to get what she wanted. Even if it meant marrying someone she didn¡¯t love.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s the deal. After we get our son and talk to my family, we will get married. Now go pack and meet me downstairs.¡± He walked out with his briefcase leaving confused Melissa in the office.


    He knew he was being selfish rushing her into marriage, but that was the only way he could keep her safe. He didn¡¯t want her or their son getting in danger because of her insistence in finding the truth.


    If the organization finds out about the child, his life would be in grave danger. He had to move fast and get him before they did.


    Walking into her room, Melissa stopped when she found Mary picking clothes for her.


    ¡°Is everything all right dear, Mark told me you we¡¯re leaving?¡± Mary asked while putting some of Melissa¡¯s clothes in a small travel bag.


    ¡°We are going to my home town.¡± She responded walking to the bed full of clothes.


    ¡°I¡¯ll pack on my own. Thank you.¡± Taking the clothes from Mary¡¯s hands and some that were on the bed, she spoke staffing them in the bag.


    ¡°He is a good man, he is just upset for now but he will soon get over it.¡± Seeing the frown on her face, Mary spoke trying to make her feel better.


    ¡°He told you?¡± With a heavy sigh, Melissa sat on the bed dropping the clothes in her hands.


    ¡°Yes he did tell me. Don¡¯t worry it will be okay.¡± Mary touched her hair smoothening it trying to calm her down.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I should have told him, right? Wrote a letter ore to the city looking for him.¡± The more she spoke the more tears filled her eyes eventually raining on her hands.


    ¡°Don¡¯t beat yourself up so much my child. Everything happens at the right time, and trust me when I say Mark is not upset with you.¡±


    ¡°But he should, what I did was not right. I shouldn¡¯t have let fear make me run away when we met.¡± Lying on Mary¡¯sp, she spoke, more to her self.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, calm down.¡± Raising Melissa to face her, Mary wiped her tears smiling at her. ¡°We have to go before hees here looking for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you Mary.¡± Wrapping her hands around Mary¡¯s shoulders, Melissa hugged her feeling calmer.


    Mary was caring always making her feel at home, and at that moment she needed someone to hold her hand and tell her she made the right decision.

 The only son

    ¡°Thank you, Mary.¡±


    A few steps down the stairs, they saw Mark impatiently pacing at the bottom.


    Catching a glimpse of her heading down, Mark ascended meeting her halfway. Nodding at Mary, he took the bag in Melissa¡¯s hand and flew down the steps with the car keys in his hand.


    She didn¡¯t understand why he was in such a hurry to get to the province, but she couldn¡¯t question him. Taking huge strides, he got to the garage, and started the car, forcing Melissa to run after him.


    ¡°What go¡­¡± As soon as she put her seat belt on, he took off causing her to swallow her words.


    Riding in a sports car for the first time with a driver who seemed like he had nothing to live for, Melissa held on to her seat for dear life.


    Not saying a word to her, Mark drove faster than he usually did, asionally checking his wristwatch.


    Giving him a side nce, Melissa opened her mouth toin about the way he was driving, but then shut it remembering how upset he was. Though she didn¡¯t understand his rushed decision to get to the province, she chose not to question him.


    Tommy was his son, he had the right to see him whenever he wished.


    ying along, she held onto her seat with her eyes closed, afraid she would get a heart attack every time he overtook other cars on the highway.


    She never thought of Tommy and her aunt being in danger. Seeing how anxious Mark was, and the things he had said about her investigation, put her on edge too.


    As they neared the airport, her phone vibrated, and on seeing Lisa¡¯s name, her heart skipped a beat. Turning her gaze to Mark, she thought of all the things that could go wrong.


    Shaking her head to clear her mind, she turned her attention back to the phone.


    If something happened, then her aunt would call. She concluded pushing the bad thoughts to the back of her mind, then answered the almost dying call.


    ¡°Lisa!¡± As soon as she heard Lisa¡¯s choked voice, Melissa knew all was not well.


    From the other side of the phone, Lisa gave her the news, and all Melissa could think of was that slow heartbeat she heard the first time.


    Apparently at the province, they were all devastated since they couldn¡¯t find Tommy. He had gone to the park with her aunt but she lost him when she got distracted. She had called Lisa for help and when they couldn¡¯t find him around the park they had the park management call the police to help find him but it had been three hours since and no one had seen him or heard any news.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh my God, no!¡± Tears filled her eyes as the thought of never seeing her son again closed her mind.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Seeing her tremble with tears in her eyes, Mark asked touching her hand briefly.


    ¡°It¡¯s.. It¡¯s Tommy.¡± She spoke trying to hold back the tears.


    ¡°What happened to him? Come on Melissa talk to me.¡±


    ¡°Tommy, he.. he is missing. Oh Mark, the, y lost him. My.. my baby.¡±


    ¡°What? Where was he? How could they lose him?¡± At that moment fear ran through his who body making him slow for a second.


    ¡°The call just now was.. was from Lisa. She just told me they couldn¡¯t find him. Aunt took him to the park like she always does on weekends but she lost him. They have searched all over the park but he is nowhere to be found.¡±


    ¡°Have they reported to the police?¡± He asked afraid what he feared had happened.


    ¡°Yes, the police are looking around the park and any other ce he may have gone to but. My son is so obedient. So responsible he couldn¡¯t have left his grandmother on her own.¡±


    ¡°It will be okay, we will find him. I¡¯ll have my contact look for him. How long has he been gone?¡±


    ¡°Three hours.¡± She responded growing hysterical. ¡°What if they took him because of my investigation? What if I don¡¯t see my little boy again?¡± She asked herself then turned to Mark, holding his arm almost causing him to veer off the road.


    ¡°Mark, I¡¯m sorry. Sorry I didn¡¯t tell you about our son sooner. This is all my fault. I should have told you earlier.¡±


    ¡°Melissa!¡±


    ¡°This couldn¡¯t have happened if I did. If I stayed in the province, my son would be safe. Please tell me this is not happening. I can¡¯t lose my son.¡±


    ¡°Calm down. Stop ming yourself. We will find him.¡± With her sobbing uncontrobly, he wished he had brought his driver.


    Afraid she would break down, he tried focusing on his driving, and at the same time consoling her.


    ¡°Will we?¡±


    ¡°Yes we will, just calm down.¡±


    Coming to a stop a few meters from his private ne, Mark sighed as he rushed to open the passenger door as his men rushed to meet him.


    With Melissa a little calm as the ne took off, Mark contacted the chief of police and some private detectives to help find his son.


    By the time they got to her aunt¡¯s house, the ce was flooded with cops. Guarding the family, they set up amunication center in case the kidnappers made contact. Though there was still no information about Tommy, the cameras around the park had caught a suspicious man walking out with an ice cream cart. The same as the one Betty remembered seeing Tommy going towards before he disappeared. Giving the police a good lead.


    ¡°Lisa, any news about Tommy? Where is my aunt?¡± Melissa questioned as soon as she walked into the house.


    There were a few men in uniform in the room but her aunt was not there. She knew how shaken her aunt would be and though Mark had assured her they will find Tommy, she was afraid of never seeing her son again.


    ¡°Oh, Melissa you¡¯re here.¡± Lisa hugged her as they both broke into tears. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    There were many kidnapping cases in the area and mostly the children are never united with their parents. Melissa couldn¡¯t stand losing him like she lost her parents.


    ¡°Lisa I can¡¯t lose Tommy. He¡¯s my life. How do I live without him?¡±


    ¡°Calm down Melissa, the police are doing everything they can. We will find him soon, please don¡¯t cry.¡± Lisa consoled her trying hard to stay strong.


    ¡°My aunt, how is she? I need to see her and know what happened.¡±


    ¡°She didn¡¯t take it well. I asked the doctor to give her some medicine to calm her down since she was shaken up, her health has not been goodtely but she is resting in her room. Doing much better now. Please Melissa don¡¯t question her so hard the police have all the information. Just trust they will find Tommy and bring him home.¡± Lisa hugged her and tried tofort her.


    They have been together since Tommy was born and she took him as her child. It was hard for her to, but she had to be strong.


    Taking Melissa to the room, they found Betty awake just lying on the bed staring at the ceiling. She looked jaded and older than how she left her.


    ¡°Aunt!¡± Hugging her, they both started crying.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I lost Tommy. One minute he was there beside me the next I couldn¡¯t find him. What do we do now? Who could have kidnapped him?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Aunt, I don¡¯t know. All I know is I will die if anything bad happens to my son. Why is this happening now that I told Mark the truth? He will never forgive me if we don¡¯t find Tommy and I can¡¯t live without my son. This is so hard and not fair, I lost my parents and I might lose my only son as well.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Melissa, aunt, the police are looking everywhere for him. They will soon find him and bring him home. Please calm down, we have to be strong and pray that he¡¯s found. We have to stay strong for Tommy.¡±


    ¡°Lisa is right dear, Tommy is a smart boy. We will find him soon,e let¡¯s pray to the Virgin Mary for his protection that nothing bad happens to him.¡± The three held hands and prayed for Tommy¡¯s safety.


    With the many kidnapping cases in town, the police treated it like any other case, but Mark used his connections in the military to do a background check on the man seen leaving moments after Tommy went missing. He suspected that the man was working for the Mafia linked with the organization that took down Mr. White¡¯spany but he couldn¡¯t tell Melissa.


    If she knew about it then he would not be able to keep her from investigating or worse, she would confront Diana and her family putting her life in grave danger.

 Kidnapped

    Lying on his stomach, Tommy¡¯s eyes fluttered open as the pungent smell hit his nostrils and the ringing tone sounded waking him up. Not moving or making a sound, he scanned the ce only to realize he was in a strange room with two men a few feet from him.


    ¡°Yes boss, we have the boy but there is a problem.¡± Lying there on the thin mattress, Tommy heard one of the men talk on the phone causing a shiver to run through his body.


    He didn¡¯t know how he got into the tiny room or who the strange men were making him more scared and worried those men might have hurt his grandmother. Trying to keep his eyes open, all he could remember was the time he left his grandmother to go buy ice cream.


    ¡°The police are everywhere looking for this brat. I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t leave for the city today boss.¡± Piping at the two men, he didn¡¯t really get what the person on the other side of the phone said.


    Seeing the man vigorously nod his head while standing alert when the person on the other side of the phone spoke made him scared.


    ¡°The boss said we have to get him to the city by morning. He has to be shipped out of the country with the rest.¡± Ending the call, he spoke to his partner taking a drag of the cigarette in his hand.


    ¡°But it¡¯s too risky. We have to lie low for some days.¡± His partner spoke pacing around. ¡°If we move now they will surely catch us.¡± Shaking his head he stopped turning to look at his partner.


    ¡°We have the orders man, it¡¯s up to us to deliver.¡± ttening the cigarette butt under his shoe, he stood giving orders. ¡°Check if the boy is awake, he has slept for more than five hours.¡±


    ¡°Are we leaving now?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we have to move. Go check the boy.¡±


    Hearing their conversation, Tommy closed his eyes feigning sleep.


    Thinking of his grandmother left all alone or probably hurt, he got worried bringing tears to his eyes. As the man sauntered towards him, he kept his eyes tightly closed trying hard to stay strong for his grandmother.


    As the man nudged him with his foot, Tommy sped his hands tightly together not to make a sound. With his eyes closed, he remembered the movies and cartoons he had watched of children managing to escape from kidnappers. Missing his grandmother as the clock ticked he decided to be brave and escape from the bad men. With his mum and the police looking for him, he knew he had to run away. Hopefully, someone would find him and take him home.


    ¡°He is sleeping like a baby.¡±


    ¡°He is a baby.¡±


    ¡°Yeah yeah. With him asleep it will be easy to move without any suspicions.¡± Listening to them converse only a breath away, he bit his tongue as a scream almost escaped his lips.


    ¡°I¡¯ll check the car to make sure we have everything we need, we have to move tonight.¡± Tommy slightly opened his eyes looking around as the men turned to leave the room.


    ¡°Okay, we should have left already. We stay here longer the cops might catch up with us.¡±


    Stillying on the thin mattress, Tommy picked through the small window hoping for a way out but all he could see were trees, endless trees. With the night falling, turning the surroundings dark, he felt more scared but his hopes were restored as the full moon rose brightening the ce.


    He wanted to go to his grandmother to make sure she was alright and to see his mother too. Before she left for the city, she told him to take care of his grandmother but he had left her behind when he saw his favorite ice cream.


    If those men take him away his grandmother would be all alone and he didn¡¯t want to leave her. He had to get back home, he missed his mother so much.


    When he heard the footsteps gradually grow faint, as the two men went out of the room, Tommy fully opened his eyes. Sitting up he looked at himself. Unbound and unharmed, Tommy carefully stood up. The room was tiny with only two chairs a table and the mattress he was lying on.From N?velDrama.Org.


    Walking to the window, he raised his legs to look at the surroundings. With the moonlight illuminating the trees he was able to see a pathway. Though the forest night was scary, Tommy was more scared of where they were taking him.


    If it was any other ordinary kid, they would sit in a corner and cry but not Tommy.


    Briefly turning his gaze to the closed door not knowing how far those men were, he decided to climb out the window. Not being small as he was a year ago, only his head would fit through the small window.


    Realized he couldn¡¯t jump out he turned to the door.


    His heart raising, Tommy pulled the handle and slightly opened the door.


    With one of the men busy checking the car engine and the other in the back seat with his head buried in the supplies, he fully opened the door.


    Finally getting the chance he was hoping for, he snuck out tiptoeing to the back of the house running into the woods. It was scarily for him being all alone with the creepy sounds around him but he had to be brave like his mum had asked him to be.


    He had to go back home and take care of his grandmother as had promised his mum. Thinking of the people he loved, he kept running.


    In the moonlit forest, all he could hear were the cricket¡¯s songs and the sound of his heavy breathing.


    From hitting the tree breaches and bushes to asionally falling to his knees, Tommy didn¡¯t look back nor did he feel any pain. All he wanted was to get out of the forest. Go home and sleep on his warm bed.


    ¡°Where did he go?¡± One of the men rushed out to his partner.


    He had gone to get the boy but he didn¡¯t find him.


    ¡°What do you mean? Didn¡¯t you say he was asleep?¡± His partner went into the room to confirm.


    ¡°He was, I sure he was.¡±


    ¡°We have to get him back. Go look for him. Don¡¯t leave any stone unturned.¡± They looked around the cabin but didn¡¯t find him. So they decided tob the forest.


    After running for some miles, Tommy got exhausted. Sitting down at the bank of a tree, he looked around wishing his mother was with him. Wrapping his arms around his knees feeling cold and scared he started crying.


    ¡°Mume get me. I¡¯m scared mum pleasee get me.¡± With tears blurring his vision and his body shivering from the cold, he cried calling for his mum.


    Reaching almost the end of the forest, one of the men heard him sniffing directing him to where he sat. near the river to take some rest but they caught up with him. He was cold and scared, crying for his mother toe and get him. The sniffing from his cries directed them to where he was.


    ¡°I found him.¡± The man shouted, calling to his partner.


    Startled by their presence, Tommy got up in hast turning to look at him. Losing his footing, Tommy fell off the cliff and into the river.


    ¡°Ah no no no¡­¡± The man tried to hold his chubby little arm but he couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°Where is he.¡± His partner asked looking around.


    ¡°He fell.¡± He responded pointing at the ce he had fallen.


    ¡°No, we can¡¯t afford to lose him.¡± They went down to the river to look for him. Searched everywhere but the water was moving so fast. It had washed him away.

 Where is he

    ¡°Tommy!¡± Melissa jolted up opening her eyes wide. Still, by the phone waiting for a call probably from the kidnappers or anyone who may have seen Tommy, she fell asleep. With her hand on her stomach, she stared at the phone as images of Tommy being plucked from her arms yed in her mind.


    ¡°Melissa, what¡¯s wrong? You were shouting Tommy¡¯s name.¡±


    ¡°Aunt, did they get any news yet? Where is Lisa? Is this phone even working? Why are they not calling?¡± She was exhausted and afraid. Her son was all she had.


    ¡°Calm down honey.¡± Betty rubbed her back soothing her. ¡°Someone called and told the police that they saw a white van. Now the police are reviewing all the traffic surveince cameras to see which way they went or if they left the town. They will surely find them. I also asked Lisa to go get some rest when you fell asleep.¡±


    ¡°Aunt, I can¡¯t lose Tommy. I can¡¯t lose my son.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t lose him honey, we will find him.¡± Betty soothed her afraid of what would happen to her.


    ¡°It¡¯s been hours and no news. I¡¯m afraid they might kill my son.¡± Looking at her son¡¯s picture on the table, she wiped her eyes taking the picture in her hand. ¡°I¡¯m going to look for him. I can¡¯t stay here anymore doing nothing.¡±


    ¡°No! Melissa honey, you can¡¯t just walk around alone at night, it¡¯s very dangerous.¡±


    ¡°He is barely four, out in the cold all alone. I can¡¯t stay here. I need to find him.¡± Just as she took a shlight heading for the door, Mark walked in with four of his bodyguards.


    ¡°Mark, did the police find anything? Where is he? Where is my son?¡± She run to him demanding answers as everyone kept their mouth shut giving her pitiful looks.


    ¡°Please calm down Melissa, they are still looking. I promise we will find him.¡± She gazed at his haggard face hating herself more for keeping his son from him.


    ¡°It¡¯s been hours since he went missing, all you ask is for me to calm down but I can¡¯t do that anymore. I¡¯m going to look for him, I have to get my son back.¡± It was almost midnight and no news, she couldn¡¯t sit and cry anymore.


    ¡°No Melissa, I can¡¯t let you go out. Just sit here and wait.¡± With his hand on her elbow, he stopped her from walking out.


    ¡°I have to find him. Mark, he is alone and scared.¡±


    ¡°I know. We will find him, but I need you to be safe.¡± Pulling her in his arms, he wrapped his arms around her waist as she hugged him raining tears on his shirt.


    ¡°He is my life. How can I sit here when he is in danger?¡± She questioned pulling back slightly.


    ¡°I need you to stay here. We will get him back, just be strong.¡± He gazed into her eyes and touched her cheeks wiping the tears that trailed down wetting her shirt.


    It broke his heart to see her in so much pain yet he couldn¡¯t do anything about it.


    ¡°Please stay here.¡± As he spoke his phone rang. Noticing it was a call from one of his men, he ced a kiss on her lips before excusing himself.


    With Mark walking away to answer his phone, Melissa paced anxiety getting the better of her.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am please calm down, I can¡¯t let you leave. It¡¯s not safe to go out on your own.¡± One of the officers tried to stop her but she managed to run from the house.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Her aunt ran to the door calling for her but she was so stubborn no one could persuade her to stay.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Where is Melissa?¡± Mark came back only to find Betty and a few officers by the door.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°She left. I¡¯m afraid she will run into danger, please go after her.¡± Betty turned to Mark asking for his assistance.


    Melissa had not introduced them but seeing how close he was to her and the resemnce to Tommy, she knew who he was.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry aunt, I¡¯ll take care of her.¡± Leaving the house Mark went after Melissa. He knew she was worried about their son as much as he was and though he didn¡¯t want her roaming around alone at night, he knew getting out of the house would do her some good.


    Getting in the car with one of his bodyguards driving, they left thepound followed her closely, and caught up with her a few blocks from her aunt¡¯s home.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Driving slowly beside her, he called but she didn¡¯t respond nor did she stop.


    ¡°Get in the car I¡¯ll take you home or do you n on walking around at this time of the night?¡±


    With nothing on her mind but her son and the possible ces they might take him, she walked aimlessly down the road with no clue of where to start looking.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me like a child, you don¡¯t know how it feels to lose the people you love.¡± Ignoring him she spoke more to herself. ¡°I lost my parents which almost drove me out of my mind but Tommy came and changed my life. If I lose him this time I will surely die. Can¡¯t take this pain all over a gain.¡±


    ¡°Just have faith, nothing bad will happen to him. Please get in the car and we will ho look anywhere you want.¡± With him promising to do all she wanted, Melissa got in the car giving directions to some abandoned buildings.


    Taking the wheel as his bodyguard got into another car, he drove with her seated beside him.


    ¡°Mark where are you going? Did they find him?¡± Ending a call he got from the police chief, Mark made a u-turn as Melissa questioned.


    ¡°The chief just called. Someone spotted a white van heading to the forest an hour ago. They are checking the area and trying to confirm if it¡¯s the same van they transferred Tommy to.¡± He informed her driving to the location.


    ¡°Oh God thank you.¡± It was the only news she got since her son went missing and it gave her hope. ¡°Please hurry.¡± With her hands holding the car seat, she urged him as beads of sweat formed on her forehead.


    With every passing minute, Melissa felt anxious. cing her hand on her chest, she touched her ne which her father had given to her on her eighteenth birthday praying for them to protect her son. Their grandson, believing that they always looked after her.


    Getting to the location, all Melissa wanted was to see her son but on the contrary, they found the police all over the forest.


    ¡°Where is my son?¡± As the car came to a stop she rushed towards the cabin but was stopped by some of the officers.


    ¡°Sir, ma¡¯am.¡± The officer in charge met them instructing his subordinates to let Melissa through.


    ¡°We found the van and we are confident it¡¯s the one used to transport your son but unfortunately we didn¡¯t find them.¡± He exined the situation.


    With so many police and Mark¡¯s securitybing the area, Melissa wondered why they were not able to bring back her son. Though it was midi night, they were lucky it was a full moon night not as dark as it usually was, helping them move around with ease.


    The van was their main lead. The only way they could track the kidnappers but those men had abandoned it making it difficult to find Tommy.


    ¡°Any sign of our son.¡± Holding Melissa¡¯s trembling hand, Mark asked though he knew the answer.


    ¡°He was kept in the cabin for a while but unfortunately we came toote. I¡¯m sorry sir, they were gone by the time we got here.¡±


    ¡°No! What will happen now? Where did they take my son?¡± Hearing his words, Melissa lost all hope.


    She felt she would never see her little boy again. Pulling her hand from Mark¡¯s hold, she went into the cabin and saw a handkerchief near the bed. Without a doubt, it was Tommy¡¯s with his initials on it. Staring at the cloth her lips curved up remembering how happy he was when she gifted it to him. It was like the court of many colors that Joseph was given by his father and Tommy always carried it around with him, since that day she had it made for him on his third birthday.


    As the smile turned to a frown, she sat on the bed holding the handkerchief to her heart. If she never sees her son again she would only have this handkerchief to remind her of her little boy.

 Losing all hope

    His fists clenched deep in his trouser pockets, Mark stood at the door watching Melissa feeling helpless. Seeing her in so much pain hurt him in a way he never expected. At some point he wished he never brought her to the city.


    Bringing her to live with him had exposed her putting their son in danger and he would never forgive himself if something ever happened to him. Despite being very powerful in the business world and having lots of money, he could do nothing to get his son back. The son he had not met yet and he might never see.


    Morosely contemting of never meeting his son, his heart broke more. If he never finds his son he didn¡¯t know if he would ever look Melissa in the eyes.


    He had promised her they would find him but now all hope was lost.


    ¡°Sir! Sir!¡± His assistant called waking him from his deep thoughts.


    ¡°Sir, our men are looking at all the exit points. We won¡¯t stop until we find him.¡± Noting how crushed he was, James informed him keeping a safe distance. They had flown as soon as Mark called them but they didn¡¯t have much to work with.


    ¡°You people are ipetent.¡± Mark turned to James giving him a cold look.


    ¡°Sir!¡± James took a step back with his head bowed. He felt guilty for not providing security as ordered and he knew Mark would have his head if the child was not found.


    ¡°Howe you never found out about the boy? Why didn¡¯t anyone tell me about my son until now when it¡¯s already toote.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, sir. We only found out when you asked us to watch Melissa¡¯s aunt. They don¡¯t let the child out of thepound and it was not easy to find anything about them. Today I found out the organization also had their men here but we didn¡¯t think they would strike so soon.¡±


    ¡°Damn it, James.¡± Out of frustration, Mark hit the wall startling everyone.


    ¡°That¡¯s no excuse for not informing me. You should have called me when you learned they were here. Now my son is missing because of your negligence.¡±


    ¡°Mark, I¡¯m sorry. I promise we will find him.¡±


    ¡°James, sorry can¡¯t help me now.¡± He knew James was not to me but he needed someone to vent his anger on. ¡°I want everyone involved in this fired immediately.¡±


    ¡°But Mark we..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s an order.¡± Clenching his fist so hard his knuckles hurt, he felt like giving up. He was a leader but what kind of a leader would he be if he couldn¡¯t protect his own family?


    Deep in his heart, he knew if they lost Tommy he would never have Melissa.


    ¡°Damn it. How do I let you go now that I¡¯ve found you?¡± He thought running his fingers through his hair.


    ¡°Bro, bro calm down.¡± Mark¡¯s hand was held as he turned to hit the wall again.


    ¡°You are here.¡± He voiced staring at the person holding his hand.


    ¡°I came as soon as I got the news.¡± Robert his best friend and brother ced his hand on his shoulder looking into his eyes. ¡°Bro, our contacts are doing everything to find the boy, you have to be strong for Melissa. If she sees you like this it will break her and she will feel more guilty for what¡¯s happening.¡± James had told him everything that happened when he called for his help.


    ¡°Thanks foring Robert.¡± Mark was strong never giving up easily but at that moment he felt all hope was gone. ¡°I¡¯m lost, I really don¡¯t know what to do. I just found out I have a son and now I might lose him. I may never see him ever.¡± He spoke letting Robert hug him.


    ¡°Be positive, we will find him.¡± Since their fathers were best of friends from high school and brothers when Johnson¡¯s family adopted Robert¡¯s father, he and Mark grew together.


    Though they had moved abroad when Robert and his father got into a bad ident, they still lived together. Now he had just moved back to the country to help Mark take down the organization.


    ¡°You think we will find my son?¡± He questioned as Robert nodded. ¡°How will we when we have exhausted every lead? I honestly don¡¯t know anymore.¡±


    ¡°We have the best investigative team, you know it. Whatever they left behind we will find it and it will take us to them.¡±


    ¡°Robert, I can¡¯t lose my son.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t lose him.¡± Being in the military, they had gone through difficult missions. At times cornered but they always got away out and Robert knew they would get something to track the kidnappers with.


    ¡°We are clearing out sir.¡± The chief of police joined them looking more haggard than he was.


    ¡°Did you find anything?¡±


    ¡°Nothing yet but we have set up roadblocks, they won¡¯t get past us. I will leave a few men with sniffer dogsbing the forest but the others will go back to the station. We will inform you as soon as we get any information.¡± The chief of police left the cabin with his team but had some officers stay back at Melissa¡¯s house in case the kidnapper¡¯s called for ransom. With no lead on their whereabouts, they had to sit and wait.


    ¡°Thank you for your assistance.¡± Mark shook hands with the chief grateful for his help.


    ¡°We are missing something.¡± He addressed Robert watching the chief walk to his car.


    ¡°What?¡± Robert asked turning his attention from his phone.From N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Since those kidnapers ditched the van, they must have found other means to get out of the forest.¡± Now that he was calm, he was able to think clearly of all possible routes they would take.


    ¡°Maybe they had a car waiting.¡±


    ¡°If they did, then the vigers who graze in these forests might have seen it.¡± Mark stated noticing the cow dung.


    ¡°There are no cameras near this ce, but I¡¯ll have our men review the ones along the way to see whates up.¡± Robert responded texting on his phone.


    ¡°Let¡¯s use the facial recognition tools also.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it will be helpful. We don¡¯t have much of an image to work with.¡± Robert refuted showing Mark the images they had retrieved from the surveince camera.


    ¡°Ah! What now?¡± He asked pacing around trying hard to keep a clear head.


    ¡°We will keep searching, maybe they didn¡¯t leave the forest.¡± Robert spoke trying to give him hope.


    ¡°There is a river in the forest.¡± He spoke remembering the map he had looked at. ¡°They may have used it to leave the forest since they knew they were being hunted. We have to check it out and ask anyone who lives around this ce if they saw any vehicle parked here.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± He turned to Robert as he stopped him.


    ¡°Robert, we don¡¯t have much time and you know it. When the sun rises it will be toote.¡±


    ¡°I know and we are on it. We will leave no stone unturned but there is someone here who needs you.¡± He spoke turning his gaze to the cabin reminding him of Melissa. ¡°Take her home and we will call whenever news arises.¡±


    Looking at Melissa lying down with her back turned to them, he sighed and then nodded to Robert.


    ¡°Find my son. Roundup those vigers if you have to.¡±


    Hugging Robert, he walked to the cabin to get Melissa.


    She had fallen asleep holding the handkerchief looking so peaceful he wished he would take her pain and worries away.


    Running his thumb along her cheek, he stopped and then stared at her lips remembering the kiss he gave her.


    cing a light kiss on her forehead, he scooped her in his arms and carried her to the car.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me.¡± Wrapping her hand around his neck, she murmured forcing him to hold her on hisp as his assistant drove them home.


    With Robert and the team searching around the area for Tommy, Mark felt at ease though still there was no clue to lead them to the kidnapper¡¯s whereabouts.

 Did he survive

    As the sun rose, Melissa still holding on to the handkerchief, sat on the couch in the living room nkly looking out the window with no strength to go on. They said past twenty four hours there was no hope of finding the child, and now her son was gone.


    How was she supposed to live without him? She wondered briefly closing her eyes.


    ¡°Melissa, you have to eat.¡± Sitting beside her, Mark spoke with a steaming bowl in his hands.


    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry, just take it away.¡± She responded not looking at the person beside her.


    Many had tried, even her weak aunt, but she didn¡¯t eat or drink anything.


    Looking at the stubborn woman, Mark felt more helpless. Taking her now cold hand in his, he forced her to look at him.


    ¡°I know you are worried about our son, I¡¯m worried too Melissa, but we have to stay strong. You have to eat so you can be strong enough to take care of Tommy when we find him.¡± He touched her cheek wiping the silent tears.


    ¡°Will we find him?¡± She asked between sobs as he hugged her close to his chest.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Shush, I promise we will. Please eat.¡± He soothed her and as she calmed down, he fed her the porridge despite her asking him not to.


    ¡°I can eat by myself, go answer the phone.¡± As his phone rang, she took the bowl from him.


    Looking at the name on the screen, Mark excused himself.


    The chief of police had called him earlier about a dead body he was going to confirm using Tommy¡¯s picture, and though he had not told Melissa, he really hoped it was not their son.


    He couldn¡¯t lose his son, not when he had just found him.


    Now looking at the call, Mark felt like the walls were closing in on him opting to step outside.


    ¡°Hello is it him?¡± He questioned, then listened intently as a smile formed on his face.


    ¡°We have to go to the hospital.¡± Rushing back to the house he told Melissa startling everyone.


    ¡°What? Did they find Tommy?¡±


    ¡°It appears so.¡±


    The chief of police had asked them to go to the hospital.


    Apparently, some vige women had found a boy at the river bank when they went to get water in the morning. Though the boy was unconscious, and in bad shape with a wound on his head and injuries all over his body, he was still alive.


    At first, they thought he was dead but when one woman got the courage to touch him, she realized he was barely breathing. From the vige, they rushed him to the clinic where an ambnce was brought to get him to the district hospital.


    With the news of the missing child all over the socialworks, one of the attending nurses recognized Tommy, and the hospital inform the police.


    When Mark, Melissa, and her aunt got to the hospital, the doctors had finished operating on him and transferred him to the intensive care unit.


    ¡°Doctor, how is my son, can I see him?¡± All the way to the hospital Melissa had been worried.


    Her three year old son had spent the whole night out in the cold, hurt and lonely. How did he survive all that, she couldn¡¯t stop asking herself afraid of the state she would find him in.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, your son will be okay. We just did a sessful brain surgery.¡±


    ¡°What? Oh my God, will he be okay?¡± She asked cing her hand on her chest. The police had briefed them of the injuries he sustained falling into the river but she didn¡¯t think it was severe enough to need brain surgery.


    ¡°Yes he will be okay, he is a fighter. Though he had bruises on his feet and arms, he will make a full recovery but we have to closely monitor him for the next twenty four hours in the intensive care unit.¡±


    ¡°Why? You said the surgery went well?¡± Betty inquired feeling as anxious as Melissa was.


    ¡°Yes it did but it¡¯s best to closely monitor him.¡± The doctor exined all that had to be done and when they could transfer Tommy as Mark requested.


    ¡°Thank you, doctor, can I see him?¡± Melissa asked trying to hold herself together.


    ¡°Yes, the nurse will take you to his room. He is sedated for now, but he will wake up after two to three hours. Not more than two people should be in the room at a time though.¡± The doctor informed, then instructed one of the nurses to take them to the patient.


    ¡°Thank you doctor.¡± Thanking the doctor, Melissa briefly looked at Mark, then followed the nurse.


    ¡°I¡¯ll join you. Mr Johnson, don¡¯t you want to see Tommy?¡± Betty turned to Mark who had been standing there quietly as the doctor exined Tommy¡¯s condition.


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk with the police first and make arrangements for Tommy¡¯s transfer aunt, please keep Melissapany. I¡¯ll join you soon, excuse me.¡± He said then walked away dialing his phone.


    He had just learned of his child¡¯s existence, and with all the activities after his kidnapping, he didn¡¯t know how to react. He felt relieved his son was found and safe but also he didn¡¯t know how the boy would react to him as his father. Mark felt scared of Tommy not epting him as a father. Since he was not there from the day he was born and didn¡¯t protect him from the bad guys, he felt Tommy would be drown back.


    After watching Mark leave, Betty joined Melissa and the nurse. Before going to see Tommy, the nurse directed them to put on some protective clothes so as not to contaminate the room.


    Though Tommy was stable with minor injuries, they needed to cautiously monitor him closely.


    Walking into the room, tears welled up in Melissa¡¯s eyes when she saw the white bandage on her little boy¡¯s head with the beeping machines around him monitoring his heartbeat.


    ¡°Oh aunt, what did those people do to my poor son? Look at all the injuries on his body. It hurts that I can¡¯t do anything to take his pain away.¡± She sobbed uncontrobly holding his little chubby hand.


    ¡°Calm down honey. What matters now is the fact that he is with us. The wounds will heal eventually.¡± Betty tapped her backforting her ¡°We should be grateful he is alright dear.¡± She said as Melissa calmed down.


    ¡°Thank you aunt.¡± Wiping her face, she leaned on her aunt¡¯s hand ced on her shoulder thankful to have caring people in her life.


    ¡°Don¡¯t thank me. This is partly my fault, I was not able to protect him.¡±


    ¡°You have taken care of us all these years aunt, I¡¯m grateful for that. With Tommy it was just an ident, I can never me you.¡± Melissa hugged her as Mark walked in.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go call Lisa and everyone who has been helping us look for Tommy to inform them that he has been found.¡± Betty excused herself leaving them to have some time alone.


    ¡°Thank you aunt, I¡¯ll stay and wait for Tommy to wake up.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll be so happy to see you dear, he had missed you so much.¡± She smiled nodding at Mark as she walked out.


    Keeping Melissapany, Mark stayed in the room after ordering his assistant to drive their aunt home to take some rest. He had also made arrangements to transfer Tommy to their family hospital in the city, and though the kidnappers were not apprehended, he was happy to have found his son alive and well.


    ¡°Hey, thank you for helping me find Tommy, and for not being mad since I didn¡¯t tell you about him sooner.¡± She walked to Mark and embraced him.


    He was a pir in her life, always there offering support in every way.


    ¡°Don¡¯t thank me, I¡¯m his father and the two of you are my responsibility. I¡¯ll take care and keep you safe always.¡± With his hands on her waist, he spoke gazing into her eyes keeping her in ce as she tried to step back.


    With their gazes locked, Melissa bit her lower lip trying not to lean in as she desperately needed to feel his lips on hers.


    ¡°Mum! Mum?¡±


    Hearing the soft voice, Melissa stepped from Mark¡¯s embrace turning to her son.


    ¡°Swill, you¡¯re awake! How are you feeling?¡± She sat before his bed taking his hand in hers.


    ¡°Mummy, my head hurts. I hit my head when I fell running away from those bad guys. Where is grandma? Is she okay? I got away so I can go to grandma, I didn¡¯t want her to get worried about me.¡± Tommy spoke looking around then stopped when he saw the man behind his mother.


    ¡°Grandma is okay son, she got worried when you went missing but she is okay now, and mummy is so proud of you.¡± Melissa smiled, then noticed his gaze fixed on Mark. ¡°Honey there is someone here to see you.¡± Stepping aside, she made room for Mark beside the bed.


    ¡°Dad!¡±

 Meeting his son

    Hearing Tommy identify Mark as his father, they both looked at him in surprise.


    ¡°You are my dad right, I saw your picture in a magazine that my ssmate brought to school. They all said we look so much alike.¡±


    ¡°Yes son, I¡¯m your dad.¡± Mark said smiling at him as he sat beside him.


    ¡°Do you have a lot of money as they say?¡± He asked touching Mark¡¯s wristwatch.


    ¡°I guess I do.¡± Smiling, he held Tommy¡¯s hand feeling so proud to have an intelligent child like he was.


    Being close to the three year old boy was like a dream. He never thought of having a child and there he was, a grown boy he couldn¡¯t stop looking at.


    ¡°That¡¯s awesome, now mum won¡¯t have to work so hard for long hours to provide for me.¡± Tommy stated excitedly forgetting his injury. ¡°Will you marry my mum?¡±


    ¡°Ha ha ha, yes I will marry your mum and she won¡¯t have to work so hard again.¡±


    Looking at the two nning her future, Melissa felt proud and betrayed by her son at the same time.


    ¡°Wow young man, you can¡¯t n to sell me off without asking if I want to.¡± She looked at the two staring at her.


    ¡°Oh mum, I know you can¡¯t say no to daddy. Look he is handsome and has lots of money.¡± With Tommy¡¯s argument, she couldn¡¯t really say much.


    ¡°Well, can¡¯t win with you two. I¡¯ll go get the doctor to check on you son.¡± Kissing his forehead, she left the room giving them space to get to know each other.


    Tommy always acted like an adult with her but seeing his father made him so excited, he forgot he was hurt, acting childish as he hugged his dad tightughing at his jokes. Standing at the door watching their interaction, she was smiling but tears kept rolling down her cheeks.


    Seeing her son smile responding so well as the doctor checked on him, made her so happy and grateful they found him alive and well.


    ¡°He will be fine.¡± Seeing her so emotional, Mark took her hand holding her close.


    Gazing into his eyes, Melissa smiled nodding in response thankful to have him there supporting her.


    The doctor had said Tommy¡¯s injuries were not serious but Mark insisted on transferring him to his family hospital for more tests.


    Knowing the danger they were in, he couldn¡¯t risk leaving them in the province, and since it was not safe to leave her aunt either Melissa got someone to take care of the flower shop and moved her to the city.


    It had been long since Betty left her career and life in the city to live a simple life in the province. When she moved twenty years ago, she had sworn never to return as the memory of her son and husband overwhelmed her, seeing them everywhere she went.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    When the ident that imed her husband and son happened, Betty got depressed and lost her will to live. She almost lost her life at that time but her sister, Melissa¡¯s mum helped her get back on her feet, and now looking at Melissa and her grandson, she was d she survived since she would take care of her niece and grandchild.


    All those years living in the province, she only came to take Melissa when her parent died but now she had to live in the city for their safety. She would never leave her niece alone again and though Melissa had not told her what or who was after them, she knew that it was not safe to live in the province.


    In the car driving to Johnson¡¯s vi aftering from the hospital, Betty couldn¡¯t help but remember thest day she had spent with her family. It was supposed to be a happy day for them, as her husband and son were to pick her up from the office to go visit his adoptive family but after waiting for hours they never showed up.


    ¡°Aunt are you okay? You look pale.¡± Seeing her aunt gazing out the window lost in thoughts, Melissa asked worried about her health, though the doctor had confirmed that there was nothing seriously wrong with her.


    Her blood pressure had gone up due to the shock and stress in those few days, but she was well, yet Melissa still feared it might get worse and more difficult for her to move from her shop and the life she had gotten used to in the province, but she had to move her since was more afraid that her investigation would put her aunt in more grave danger.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay my dear just a little tired. It has been quite hectic, with Tommy¡¯s kidnapping, then staying in the hospital, and now moving to the city.¡± She sighed turning to look at Melissa. ¡°Maybe you should have left me back in the province, I don¡¯t want to intrude while you¡¯re starting a new family with Mark.¡±


    ¡°No aunt, you are my family and I have to keep you safe. After what happened to Tommy, this is the safest ce we can stay. Mark¡¯s security personnel is efficient, we will be well protected here.¡± She smiled holding her aunt¡¯s hand.


    ¡°But my dear what about his family, are they okay with us living there?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about them, none of his family live with him and on the contrary, we are not starting a family.¡±


    ¡°You are not, but Tommy told me you are getting married?¡± Betty asked with raised eyebrows. ¡°How do you live in his house yet you¡¯re not together?¡±


    ¡°Oh aunt, he is just amodating me and now because of Tommy, he would like us to live with him.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t get young people today.¡± Betty stated shaking her head. ¡°For sure his family won¡¯t like it and that fiancee I heard of might cause you trouble.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t believe those gossips aunt. As for his family, we will wait and see what they have to say, and if the fiancee shows up, Mark will deal with her. I¡¯m not in any rtionship with him and I¡¯m not nning to get into one.¡± Melissa said thinking of his marriage proposal but she couldn¡¯t tell her aunt.


    ¡°Easier said than done.¡± Betty said in her heart smiling at Melissa praying that the Johnsons ept her.


    She had seen how Mark took care of her niece and only a man in love would be so caring. Though Melissa had turned down all the men that showed interest in her, Betty had noticed how weing she was to Mark, agreeing with his every word. Now hopefully she would open her heart to him. ¡°Only time will tell.¡± Betty thought as they got to the Johnson vi.


    With sleeping Tommy in her arms, having been cleared from the hospital, Melissa stepped out of the car as the household employees came to warmly wee them.


    As she introduced her aunt and son, Mary looked at Melissa¡¯s aunt feeling a sense of familiarity but she was not quite sure where they had met before. The employees were all happy to see Mark¡¯s son and Mary hoped that the Johnson family would ept them.


    Having worked in the Johnson family for years, she knew how traditional old Mr. Johnson was, and to him, social ss was more important.


    He had arranged his grandson¡¯s marriage so they would create a strong business rtionship with a stronghold in the business world and now his grandson brought another woman and child going against him.


    He had once stopped his adoptive son from marrying his secretary just because his good friend had entrusted him to take care of his son before he died. His friend had asked him to see to it that his son marries from a wealthy family they had chosen so he could manage theirpanies and estate but the young man had defied them choosing his secretary instead butter he was forced to marry his parents choice after his wife passed on.


    Now looking at Melissa and the child in her arms, Mary didn¡¯t want the same thing happening to them. Not after she saw how much Mark loved her and the child had to grow up with both parents.

 More than friends

    On her way to work, Melissa got a call. Holding the phone in her hand, she looked at the face wondering when he added his number and picture in her phone.


    ¡°Hello.¡± As she answered her lips curved up involuntarily as his deep voice came from the other side.


    ¡°Did you get home safe?¡± Listening to his concerned voice, she imagined him sitting behind his desk gazing out the window looking all handsome as always.


    ¡°Yes, we got home safe but I¡¯m heading to the office.¡± Answering Mark, she shook her head pushing away the distractive thoughts.


    Though he asked her to take some time off and take care of their son, she disagreed needing to get back to work toplete her project.


    She had spent a week from work and he had been so supportive sticking with her every step but now she had to get her head back in the game.


    They had toplete all the furnishings on time since the deadline was near, and it being her first project, she wanted to see it through. Needing to show her colleagues that she didn¡¯t get the job just because she was close to the boss.


    ¡°He will be fine, aunt is taking care of him.¡± Assuring him, she ended the call just as they got to the office.


    She suspected most people felt she was not qualified for the position, and though no oneined, there were small talks behind her back.


    No one knew about her real rtionship with the CEO but she knew that soon everyone would find out.


    ¡°Ah¡­ Melissa, you¡¯re back.¡± Walking into the building, Jennifer and Nancy spotted her.


    Looking at the two rushing towards her, she took a step back shy to have everyone stare at her, but she couldn¡¯t run as they engulfed her in a hug.


    ¡°Oh, Melissa! We are so happy to see you, how have you been?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, thank you so much guys for your support.¡± She smiled almost tearing up.


    Since they found out about her kidnapped son from social media, they always checked up on her and took over her work when she had to stay at the hospital.


    ¡°You should take the rest of the week off. Nancy and I will see the project through.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Jennifer and I can take care of things here.¡±


    ¡°Thank you guys, but I can manage the work. My son is doing much better now and I have my aunt taking care of him, besides you have other projects. I don¡¯t want to overwork you two.¡± She smiled at them both d to have found friends who cared for her.


    ¡°Come on you guys, let¡¯s get back to work. We have a lot to finish in such a short time.¡± Nancy spoke walking to the elevator and as they went to their shared office, she told her all thetest gossip.


    ¡­


    ¡°Augh!¡±Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    At the Steelspany, Diana mmed the door shut with a bang, and threw the water ss on the antique painting on the wall shattering it into pieces.


    Her n didn¡¯t work, she had failed again but what infuriated her more was realizing that Melissa was helped to look for her son by the most influential and wealthy man in the country.


    Thinking of all she stood to lose, her hatred and anger toward Melissa grew exponentially. Making her more determined than ever to use her resources and connections to destroy her.


    Though her father didn¡¯t want her to attack Melissa if she didn¡¯t try to stop their operations, Diana was hell bent on ruining her. With her clientele at the casino increasing immensely, she had made many contacts in and out of the country. Impressing her bosses with her work, if everything went ording to her n, she would be a partner in the business.


    Diana nned to take control of all the businesses from her dad since he was getting soft, unable to make crucial decisions about their other businesses and Melissa¡¯s case.


    Cooling off, she sat in her office after her secretary cleaned up when she got a call from the warehouse informing her that the local police were checking their containers. It was not likely to have police investigate their business, she knew someone had tipped them off but luckily her men were swift hiding the merchandise on time. With so much going wrong, she decided to have all the employees investigated and took all the confidential documents home.


    They couldn¡¯t risk having a spy in thepany that would sabotage their operations. If anyone got the documents, their lives would be ruined.


    Walking to the house with the documents in her arms, she found her mum and Melissa chatting andughing in the living room. Startled to see them together, she almost drop the papers.


    Melissa was thest person she expected to see in her home. Her mother had requested her several times to invite Melissa over, but she kept putting it off. She knew how attached her mother was to Melissa and her family.


    When the ident happened four years ago, she had convinced her into taking a vacation to spare her from heartache. By the time she got back to the country Melissa was not around, she asked them to look for her, and after searching for weeks they stopped.


    ¡°Oh, Diana you¡¯re back. Why so many documents, are you moving from the office?¡± Her mother inquired looking concerned.


    ¡°No mum, I just needed to review them and the office is a bit depressing so I brought them home with me. Melissa, what are you doing here?¡± She turned to Melissa, changing the subject.


    ¡°I bumped into her on my way from the grocery store and invited her over for dinner. Hope you don¡¯t mind dear.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I don¡¯t mind mum, I know how much you have missed your goddaughter. Let me take these to my room I¡¯ll be back to help prepare dinner.¡±


    ¡°D sorry I didn¡¯t tell you I wasing over, godmother insisted and I couldn¡¯t say no to her.¡± Melissa walked towards her, then touched her hand.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to exin anything Mel, I know how much my mother loves you.¡± Diana spoke taking a step back from her. ¡°I¡¯ll go to my room now, excuse me.¡±


    ¡°Can I help you with those? They seem heavy.¡± Melissa offered trying to take some of the documents.


    ¡°No, I can manage, thank you.¡± With a smile that didn¡¯t reach her eyes, Diana walked upstairs leaving Melissa with her mother.


    Looking at her godmother as they got back to their conversation, Melissa knew she could easily use her to get to the house and close enough to find out what was in those documents.


    Knowing that Diana wouldn¡¯t want them to meet, she had tracked down Mrs. Steven and made it look like a mere coincidence.


    Since Mrs. Steven had always cherished her friendship with her mum and felt guilty for not being there when her best friend died, Melissa nned to manipte her.


    Joining them in the kitchen, they made dinner together, with Melissa promising to bring her son to visit. She would also get some cooking lessons from her godmother whenever she could, giving her an opportunity to frequent the house. Though none of them knew her real motive, Diana disliked the idea, hating Melissa for always managing to get the people she loved.


    ¡°You think you¡¯re smart?¡± Holding the knife in her hand, Diana looked at Melissa wishing she could stab her in the heart a hundred times.


    Killing her would bring immense satisfaction but Diana wanted to make money from her as she suffered. With a sly smile on her face, she chopped the carrots on the board.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so hard on those carrots honey.¡± Mrs. Steven cautioned cing her hand on Diana¡¯s back.


    ¡°Sorry mum just got carried away.¡± ¡°When we were little D never liked cooking, I did all the cooking and cleaning in the apartment we used to live in. I¡¯m surprised to see you helping godmother out.¡± Melissa spoke causing them tough remembering how mischievous Diana was as a child.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t like cooking, I¡¯m sure she is helping just because you are here. On a normal day, Diana would be out taking care of her many businesses.¡± She spoke proudly of her daughter.


    ¡°Calling me a workaholic mum?¡± Diana smiled at her mother giving Melissa a side nce. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her, mother loves staying in the kitchen, and I help out when I can though it¡¯s not my thing. I love challenge and action.¡± Looking at Diana¡¯s cold gaze, Melissa felt it was not just about the kitchen or cooking with the way she pointed the knife at her.


    ¡°Melissa, what happened to your apartment?¡± Her godmother asked while they sat in the garden waiting for the maids to set the table.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe the bank took it like they took all the properties under my father¡¯s name when I left.¡± When she joined the university her dad insisted on buying her an apartment near the university.


    After her aunt took her she was not well for some months then Tommy was born. And nowing back to the city she forgot all about the apartment.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so, he bought it for you so it may be under your name. We can ask your godfather to check it out for you.¡±


    ¡°No you don¡¯t have to, I¡¯ll check it myself. Thank you.¡± They sat to eat dinner listening to Mrs. Steven¡¯s stories of how she met Melissa¡¯s mum in the orphanage when her mother and her little sister were brought after their mother died. Telling them how Melissa¡¯s mother defended her and Betty whenever they were bullied, Melissa could see the sorrow in Mrs. Steven¡¯s eyes. They were more than just friends.


    ¡°How could you throw all that away for money?¡± Melissa questioned in her heart not understanding how they could betray her family.

 Luscious lips

    ¡°What do I do?¡± Melissa stood at the closed doors worried she would get caught.


    Leaving Steven¡¯s home, Diana got one of their driver to drop Melissa off instructing him to take her straight to her house.


    ¡°Miss, your address.¡±


    ¡°Just drop me off at the bus station.¡±


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t do that. Please give me your address.¡± With the driver¡¯s insistence, Melissa had no choice but to give him one of her coworker¡¯s addresses.


    She had been in the apartment once when Nancy had invited her and Jenifer to check out her new ce. It being an executive area, to ess any of the apartments you had to use a key or call the person you were visiting to open the gate.


    Though Nancy would never mind ying along, the night had fallen and Melissa didn¡¯t want to walk into her apartment unannounced.


    With the driver seated in the car watching, waiting for her to get in, she rummaged through her bag wondering what to do. She had waved him off hoping he would leave, but he sat there with a keen eye on her.


    ¡°What do I do?¡± She bit her lower lip with a key in her hand praying someone would show up and open the gate.


    ¡°Ah!¡± As her hand got close to the gate, it miraculously opened.


    Looking at the middle aged man on the other side, she sighed in relief.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She said smiling gratefully for his help.


    Walking in, the security guard looked at her wearily.


    ¡°Are you lost, ma¡¯am?¡± He inquired walking back to his office.


    ¡°No, I mean I don¡¯t live here but a friend of mine does. Though that is not why I¡¯m here. You see I had to get away from someone so I gave him this address hoping he would drop me off and leave.¡± Following him to the small office by the entrance, she tried to exin.


    ¡°The man in the ck SUV?¡± The guard questioned walking into a room with several screens and monitoring all the activities in and around the apartment.


    ¡°Yes, yes him.¡± Melissa answered looking at the screen.


    The driver was still there, but he was on the phone probably informing Diana, and a few minutester, he drove off.


    ¡°Is he your boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± She shook her head and then exined. ¡°He is my friend¡¯s driver, ordered to drop me home. Can I stay here for a while? I¡¯ll call someone to pick me up.¡± Getting her phone from the bag, she smiled at the guard and his partner who had just walked in.


    With a nod, he let her make a call showing her to a seat.


    As she made a call, they offered her a cup of coffee, got her details and checked her ID to make sure she was not some gang member sent to spy on them. Fifteen minutester, Adams came to pick her up. The two guards didn¡¯t look surprised she had one man drop her then another one pick her up, God knew what they had seen over the years on those screens.


    Thanking them for their kindness, she got in the car as Adam drove off.


    ¡­..


    ¡°Hi, any new development on the investigation?¡± A soft knock on the door, Melissa asked walking into Mark¡¯s home office.


    Though it had been days since he promised to investigate the Steven¡¯spany as they tried to figure out their illegal businesses, Melissa hope she could get news soon.


    ¡°Nothing yet. The police got an anonymous tip about illegal goods being shipped in the country, but they raided the ce but didn¡¯t find anything.¡± He informed turning his attention to her.


    ¡°Maybe they knew the police wereing and had the ce cleared.¡± She sat on the couch remembering the documents Diana had brought home. ¡°I felt it was strange Diana brought lots of documents home, guess she suspects a mole in thepany.¡±


    ¡°Did you go to her house?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I saw my godmother at the market and she invited me for dinner.¡±


    ¡°Did she?¡± He asked raising his eyebrows watching her keenly.


    ¡°Yes, what are you insinuating?¡± She questioned meeting his gaze.


    ¡°Melissa, that¡¯s risky. I specifically asked you to let me handle this, it¡¯s quite dangerous to be by yourself in their house. What if they did something to harm you?¡± Not breaking his hold on her gaze, Mark got from his desk to where she was seated.


    He knew she had made it look like Mrs. Steven had bumped into her but he didn¡¯t pry more, d she was unarmed.


    ¡°They don¡¯t know what I¡¯m really after, so don¡¯t worry too much about me.¡± She spoke sitting straight as he took her hand in his. ¡°Ahem, I will go check on Tommy. I¡¯ve not seen him the whole afternoon.¡± Biting her lower lip she tried to get up, evading the argument.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Still holding her hand stopping her from leaving, he touched her cheek then her lips making her stop biting on them.


    Gazing into his eyes eagerly anticipating his lips on hers, she forgot all she had told herself and the fact that he had pushed her away after almost having her on the same couch.


    ¡°I¡¯lle with you.¡± His lips a few inches from hers, he spoke running his thumb on her luscious lips.


    ¡°What?¡± With her brain functions haltered, she asked as his touch made her shiver.


    ¡°To Tommy¡¯s room. We can read him a bedtime story.¡± He answered dropping his hand.


    ¡°Oh! No, you don¡¯t have to. I¡¯ll read to him.¡± Getting up, she scratched her head, as shame washed over her.


    ¡°Damn Melissa, what is wrong with you?¡± She thought biting her inner lip ashamed to look at him.


    With him gazing at her with a smirk on his face, she felt stupid.


    ¡°He¡¯s my son Melissa, I need to bond with him.¡± He said with a raised eyebrow walking to his desk, shutting down theputer.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Not sparing a second in his office, she turned walking out.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Melissa stopped a few steps to Tommy¡¯s room as he intertwined his fingers with hers.


    ¡°Our son would love to see us like this.¡±


    ¡°No, I..¡± She tried to pull her hand from his but not only did he not let her go, but he also leaned in, touching his lips to hers confusing her more.


    The kiss was as electrifying as it did the first time leaving her momentarily paralyzed.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go?¡± With a smile on his face, he walked into the room dragging her along.


    When they got to Tommy¡¯s room, her aunt was helping him get ready for bed but on seeing his parent together, he got off the bed running to his father.


    ¡°Daddy, can you help me with my pajamas?¡± Excited to be in his father¡¯s arms, Tommy asked making pappy eyes no one could say no to.


    ¡°Anything for my son.¡± Mark responded nodding his greeting to Betty taking his son to the bed.


    ¡°So, can you and mummy sleep here with me tonight?¡±


    ¡°Oh no, no that won¡¯t happen young man.¡± Recovering from his surprise kiss, Melissa firmly refused though his father was eager to oblige.

 Sharing a bed

    On her way out, Betty stopped to look at the father and son. Observing how yful Mark was with Tommy, tickling and making himugh, Betty couldn¡¯t help but think of her son.


    He would be old enough to have a family of his own if he was still alive. Thinking about it brought a frown to her face.


    As Betty stepped out, Melissa noted how distressed she was.


    Her aunt never talked about her husband and son, but Melissa knew how much she missed them. To some extent, she understood the pain her aunt had gone through since she felt it when her parents died.


    ¡®Maybe this is the right time to help here to terms with whatever happened in the past. Help her move on.¡¯ Melissa thought to herself looking at the closed door.


    Since her aunt had never gotten a chance to say goodbye to her husband and son, Melissa nned to check all the cemeteries in the city to find out where they were buried. That way her aunt could say her goodbyes. Get closure and maybe start a new life.


    It was the least she could do to make it up to her for taking good care of them over the years.


    ¡°Please mum, can you and dad sleep here tonight?¡± Tommy¡¯s soft voice brought her back to the room.


    Like every child, all Tommy wanted was his parents to stay together. For them to never separate again.


    Finding it awkward to share the bed with Mark, Melissa tried to talk him out of it. She argued that Mark may be ufortable with the arrangement, but both father and son insisted on sleeping together.


    ¡°Okay young man, you win.¡±


    She felt uneasy being in the same room with Mark, especially after the intimate encounters, but Tommy was so excited to spend the night with his parents that she couldn¡¯t say no anymore.


    On her way out, she stopped and watched her son y pillow fight and piggyback ride with his dad. Seeing him so cheerful brought tears to her eyes.


    ¡°Mum!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m going to change my clothes.¡± She smiled at them as they turned to gaze at her then quickly got into her room before they could notice the tears in her eyes.


    With Melissa out of the room, Mark stopped to stare at his son jumping on the bed giggling. Watching him so happy made him wish he had known his son earlier. He never really thought of having a child but he was happy to have him. Especially since he was a mini image of himself.


    ¡°Daddy, are you tired?¡± Tommy questioned, noticing his dad staring at him motionless.


    ¡°Very, aren¡¯t you?¡± Mark sighed leaning back causing Tommy to giggle more.


    ¡°Oh, men! That¡¯s the problem with old people.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha, are you calling me old?¡±


    ¡°Mum is always tired and has no time to y. When I ask grandma, she says she is old and can¡¯t y with me.¡±


    ¡°Well son, I¡¯m not as old as grandma is. I can y all day but not anymore, it¡¯s past your bedtime.¡±


    ¡°Okay dad, but will you read me a story?¡± Seeing his father nod, Tommy got off the bed taking a storybook from the bookshelf for his dad to read.


    A momentter when Melissa got back, she found Mark reading the little bear¡¯s story with sleeping Tommy in his arms.


    Noticing her, he set the book aside then ced Tommy in the middle of the bed and rested beside him.


    Though Tommy slept between them Melissa felt very conflicted. Being her first time sharing a bed with a man, she reluctantly got on her side. Said goodnight and turned her back to them before he walked out, only to get back minutester.


    With her eyes shut, she felt him watching her as he turned off her bedside light then went to sleep beside Tommy.


    They had not discussed about the marriage since that day he had brought it up, and though he had made it clear about his decision to marry her, she hoped he would give them time to know each other first.


    Melissa was okay with marrying Mark since it was necessary, but Mary¡¯s words about the perfect well educateddy from a wealthy family that had been chosen to be his wife distressed her.


    She had not met her yet but from all the stories she heard from Mary and Nancy, Melissa felt that his family won¡¯t be weing. Being an orphan with no wealth, and having notpleted university, she didn¡¯t think they would ept her. To top it all, she got pregnant before marriage, and though he was their grandson, they may think that she was just after the Johnson fortune. Which to some extent she was.


    She needed him so she could get to her godfather but like her mother always told her, it didn¡¯t matter what people thought about her. What mattered was the person she was inside.


    Turning to look at her snoring son and the man sleeping facing each other, she wondered what kind of a person she had be. Willing to give herself for the sake of revenge was unlike her but it had to be done. Her lips curving up looking at the two men in her life, she decided to rest her worries and face any problem that may arise in the future head on.


    Melissa was willing to endure anything to get her revenge and keep her son happy and safe.


    ¡­.


    As the sun rose to brighten the morning, she woke up to find Mark watching her. Somehow in her sleep, she had rolled over to his side of the bed, lying on his chest with her legs intertwined with his.


    ¡°Morning sunshine.¡± He said yfully stroking her hair behind her ear. ¡°Seems you can¡¯t keep your hands off me, love.¡± Grinning, he ced a light kiss on her cheek causing her eyes to open wider.


    ¡°Get your hands off me. Mark what are you doing, stop.¡± She tried to get up but he held her tight rolling her on her back.


    ¡°My love, won¡¯t you give your husband to be a good morning kiss?¡± Holding her beneath him, he whispered into her ear and then gazed into her eyes.


    The more she struggled to get him off, the more he tightened his hold on her.


    ¡°Get off me please, Tommy mighte back. It¡¯s not good for him to see us like this.¡± She looked around the room trying not to look into his eyes.


    ¡°Rx love, I sent him down for breakfast. He won¡¯t be back for a while.¡± With his eyes darkening, he leaned even closer making her squirm.


    ¡°Can you stop moving.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± When she realized what her wiggling was doing to his lower body she stopped. Wide eyed, she looked up into his eyes holding his gaze. With him only a breath away, she ran her tongue along her lips moisturizing them.


    His eyes on her lips caused her to bite at her lower lip anticipating his next move as he brought his lips down to meet hers.


    Holding her breath, remembering how it felt when he kissed her the night before, she closed her eyes waiting to feel the magic touch.


    ¡°Mum, Mum! Wake up.¡± Just then, their lips almost touching, Tommy came in with bread in his hands calling his mum to get up.


    Startled, Melissa pushed Mark from her jumping off the bed as the door opened. ¡°Mum are you okay?¡± Seeing his mother standing beside the bed out of breath with beads of sweat on her forehead, Tommy asked making her feel more embarrassed.


    ¡°Ha ha, you frightened your mum. She almost ran out.¡± Markughed leaning back on the headrest.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s all your fault.¡± Throwing a pillow at him, she went to the adjoining room to get ready for work.


    Wiping the bead of sweat on her face as she closed the door, she could hear Tommyughing at something his father had said making her more flustered.


    After the embarrassing moment, she tried to always stay away from Mark not being able to face him. Often going to work early before he got up and stayed away from the dining hall whenever he was around. Choosing to have most of her meals in the kitchen.


    She was busy too most of the time in her room finishing her project design. Matching off the colors and decoration of various rooms for the hotel, with Mark reading Tommy¡¯s bedtime stories every night, giving her the space she needed.

 Mr Steven鈥檚 office

    ¡°Hello, godmother.¡±


    As promised Melissa took her son to the Steven mansion.


    ¡°Oh, Melissa you¡¯re here. Is this my grandson?¡± Diana¡¯s mother hugged Melissa, then turned to the little boy beside her.


    ¡°Yes, this is Tommy.¡±


    ¡°Hello, grandma.¡± Hearing Tommy call her grandmother brought tears to her eyes.


    ¡°Oh, such an obedient child. Thank you for bringing him to visit. Let¡¯s go to the garden I have a surprise for you.¡± They followed her closely as she directed them to the backyard.


    Though it was on a weekend none of her family members were around. Which was what Melissa needed, but she felt sad for her godmother. It was quite lonely for her to just stay all by herself. Despite having the maids around, Melissa knew how hard it was for her as her husband and Diana handled all the businesses while her other daughter was in college most of the time.


    ¡°This is nice godmother, but you didn¡¯t have to buy him anything.¡± Melissa smiled looking at the blue car her godmother gave to Tommy.


    ¡°He is my grandson. He deserves that and more.¡± She smiled grateful for the opportunity Melissa gave her, despite abandoning her when she needed them most.


    At the nice yground and the car Mrs. Steven bought Tommy, they spent the day ying in the garden. With her mostly showing Tommy the games they yed as Melissa watched.


    ¡°Ha ha ha! You¡¯re such a bright boy.¡± Laughing so hard she praised him, then touched his cheek when he beat her in the crossword puzzle.


    ¡°No grandma, I¡¯m a young man. That¡¯s what mum told me.¡± Tommy spoke looking at his mother wowing Mrs. Steven more.


    Looking at the small child, reminded her so much of her friend which brought tears to her eyes.


    ¡°Ah, yes you are indeed a young man.¡± She spoke with a heavy voice. ¡°Let me get you some snacks to share with your mother then we can make lunch.¡±


    As her godmother went into the house, Melissa took the opportunity to get upstairs. With the maids busy cleaning out in the backyard and others in the kitchen, she nned to sneak into Diana¡¯s room. Aiming to check the documents she saw Diana bring home, she cautiously went up the staircase to the first floor.


    Unfortunately, she didn¡¯t know which room was Diana¡¯s though she had seen her head to the first floor, she didn¡¯t see which room she walked in.


    Standing in the corridor on the first floor, she looked at the doors on each side. Deciding to check each one of them, she opened the first room, but it was locked.


    She tried all the others but they were all locked. After checking all the rooms on the first floor with no luck, she went back to the garden hoping to find those room keys.


    ¡°Oh no.¡± Passing by the living room, Mrs. Steven waved to Melissa motioning her over.


    Sauntering towards her, Melissa bit her inner lip thinking of the excuse she would give for sneaking into the house. With the phone in her hand, Mrs. Steven instructed one of the maids to get a key.


    Apparently, Mr. Steven had sent his personal driver to get some documents he had left in his office and was calling to inform her.


    ¡°Melissa can you get me the documents.¡± Getting the key as the maid handed it to her, she turned to Melissa.


    ¡°Sure I will. Which room is it?¡± With her heart raising, Melissa nodded as Mrs. Steven gave directions to the office, handing her the key.


    Though it was a little suspicious she sent her to get the documents, Melissa saw it as an opportunity to get the evidence she was looking for.


    With the key in her hand, she raised her chin high ignoring the looks the maid gave her. Walking into the office, her eyesnded on the files on the desk. Despite the urge to go through them, she decided to look in the drawers. With the draws closed, Melissa decided to scan the documents on the desktop with her phone, including the very important one Mr. Steven had asked for.


    Getting to Diana¡¯s room was her n but being in Mr. Steven¡¯s office was better. Though she couldn¡¯t get the drawer open, she managed to scan the document, and hopefully, it would lead her somewhere.


    ¡°Jessica you¡¯re back.¡± Walking downstairs she bumped into their youngest daughter.


    They had not met for years since Jessica was shipped to boarding school at a young age. Growing up away from the family, Melissa wondered how they got along as neither Diana nor her godmother spoke about her.


    ¡°How have you been?¡± Melissa inquired smiling at her but Jessica maintained her indifferent look.


    ¡°Melissa, what are you doing here?¡± Jessica roared.


    ¡°I brought my son to meet godmother. She just sent me to get these documents for your dad.¡± Melissa exined waving the envelope in her hand.


    ¡°Come let¡¯s join them in the kitchen. We can make lunch together.¡± Offering, she passed by her heading to the kitchen, but Jessica stopped her.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t involve my mother in your ns.¡± With a dark look in her eyes, Jessica spoke holding Melissa by the elbow.


    ¡°Jessica, What are you talking about? Is it wrong for me to bring my son to visit his grandmother?¡±


    ¡°Grandmother huh!¡± She snorted. ¡°Don¡¯t cause trouble for her. You just show up after all these years acting nice to the people who didn¡¯t stand by you when you lost your parents. Now you expect us to buy your forgiveness story?


    Pulling her hand back, Melissa gave her a smile that didn¡¯t reach her eyes. ¡°They are not to me for what happened, why should I stay mad?¡±


    Folding her arms over her chest, Jessica looked her straight in the eye. ¡°I don¡¯t buy it.¡±


    ¡°Godmother exined why she was not here and I have no hatred for either of you.¡±


    ¡°My mother is so naive you can fool her, but don¡¯t think they believe your story. Dad never lets anyone other than Diana into his office when he is not around, so think again about what you are nning to do.¡± With that, she went up not sparing her another nce.


    For a moment Melissa stood there wondering if giving her the key to the office was just a setup.


    Remembering how tense her godmother looked when she walked towards her while on the phone, Melissa wondered to herself.


    ¡°Could she? No.¡±


    She thought her godmother didn¡¯t have any idea of what had happened but maybe she was wrong about her. It won¡¯t be easy to get any information from the house if her godmother was part of the business.


    Getting back to the kitchen, she gave the documents to the driver. After he left, Melissa tried to ask about the business but her godmother changed the topic, talking about how her mother had helped her when they were young.


    She and Melissa¡¯s mother had grown up together at the orphanage, and after school, her mother took both her and Betty to live in the city when she got a job. Thenter she met Mr. Steven while working as a cook in a high end hotel.


    Growing up all alone and losing her best friend, her husband, and her daughters were the only family she had. Looking at her godmother, Melissa knew she wouldn¡¯t betray the people she loved.

 The report

    With that realization, Melissa stayed by her godmother¡¯s side as she taught her to prepare some dishes with the hope of talking to Jessica.


    With Jessica¡¯s remarks and her attitude, Melissa suspected she had information that could take her a step closer to the evidence she needed. Once the food was ready they sat at the dining table to eat but Jessica didn¡¯t join them. She asked for her lunch to be brought to her room and her mother didn¡¯t question it.


    Leaving Melissa with a question of how safe it was to bring her son along.


    ¡­


    ¡°What the hell?¡± Sitting in her office, Diana bellowed as she scrutinized the information she had ordered her men to find about Melissa.


    When the kidnapping didn¡¯t go through as nned, she hired more men to retrieve the boy from the hospital but the security was tightened. No unauthorized personnel would not get near the boy¡¯s room.


    A dayter the boy was transferred to the biggest hospital in the city ruining her n to keep Melissa in the province. As she knew, Melissa had no money to pay the hospital so she sent her men to dig for any information they could get. To find any connection between her and the Johnsons when she heard Mark Johnson had been in town helping her.


    Though she was an employee in one of his affiliatepanies, Diana knew no CEO would go out of his way to help a low life employee. Especially an employee who had not worked for long. Looking at the report, certainly she was right.


    ¡°No no no.¡± The more she read it the more furious she got.


    ¡°How could this have happened?¡± Screaming, she knocked down everything from the table wishing she would do the same to Melissa.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Hearing themotion though the office was soundproof, her secretary went to check on her but was almost hit by the frying stapler Diana threw at her.


    ¡°Get out.¡± As Diana roared, the secretary hastily shut the door with trembling hands.


    With her hand on her chest, she ran to the other side of the office.


    Diana was always calm and collected. Soposed they had never seen her as furious as she was and no one knew why.


    ¡°Sir, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Busting into Mr. Steven¡¯s office where he was holding a closed door meeting, she tried to steady her breathing so she could talk.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Mr. Steven questioned stopping the meeting.


    ¡°I¡­ it¡¯s ma¡¯am Diana sir.¡±


    ¡°Did something happen to my daughter?¡± He asked dropping the documents from his hands.


    ¡°She is¡­ we need your help, sir.¡±


    Apologizing to the client, he quickly left his office for Diana¡¯s office.


    ¡­


    Diana didn¡¯t believe it. After all, she had done Melissa got the best. As always.


    Five years ago she had gone out of town with her father for one of his business meetings. At dinner, she met the finance minister who was a close associate of her father¡¯s. Whom despite his age he always had a younger woman by his side since his wife¡¯s death.


    Being introduced to him was an honor for Diana. He treated her with respect just like a father would treat his daughter, with no romantic interest in her. She went to his functions all the time but his view of her never changed until that day she took Melissa along to his home for his fiftieth birthday party. From the moment he set his gaze on Melissa, he couldn¡¯t keep his eyes off her.


    He was like a dog after a bone, willing to pay a hefty amount just to have Melissa as his woman for a night.


    Diana tried severally to take her to meet up with him but Melissa always declined.


    Taking advantage of the party that was held at the hotel, she booked a room and had Melissa taken into the room after drugging her. Later that night enjoying her aplishments, she got a call from the minister demanding to know why she took the money and didn¡¯t deliver.


    He kept pestering her for weeks but Diana had lost touch with Melissa. Trying to get from his clutches, she threatened to expose some of his dirty deeds when he couldn¡¯t quit pestering her.


    Retaliating, the minister destroyed every piece of evidence she had and had Diana arrested and tortured in jail to teach her a lesson.


    Monthster Diana sent him a woman after being released and made sure she got back at him for all the days she had spent in jail. He waster found dead in the hotel room from a cardiac arrest.


    Ranging mad, she looked at the report again and again notprehending all she read.


    Melissa was living at Johnson¡¯s vi and had a child with the most powerful person she couldn¡¯t go against. Melissa was the mother of the first grandson of the Johnson family. The soul heir to Johnson¡¯s wealth, and if she ever decided to go after them for what happened to her parents, then they wouldn¡¯t stand a chance.


    With Mark as her backer, Diana couldn¡¯t touch her.


    Walking into the office, Mr. Steven pped Diana hard on the face stopping her craziness.


    ¡°Get hold of yourself, Diana.¡± He urged trying to calm her down.


    ¡°She won dad, Melissa won.¡± She sniffed rubbing her hands together to calm herself down.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Asking what had happened to infuriate her so much, Diana handed the report to him. Looking at the report he too couldn¡¯t believe it.


    ¡°This is nothing to go crazy for.¡± Tossing the documents on the office desk, he talked Diana out of going after Melissa feeling it was not wise to attack her.


    Despite the information, Diana was not ready to let Melissa go. The only chance she had was to separate Melissa from Mark. Make her look bad and unqualified to be part of the Johnson family.


    And though her father didn¡¯t want her to do anything to Melissa which may cause trouble for them, as their benefactor had specifically ordered them not to harm her after the kidnapping, that was not going to stop her.

 Cherish every moment

    Despite spending more time than she intended to with her godmother, Melissa got no other information other than the one she got in the office. On her way home with Tommy sleeping from exhaustion, she checked the information she found in the office.


    Most of which were just normalpany transactions apart from the documents he had sent his driver to get. It had detailed information of their next shipment.


    ¡®Why would they want me to see this?¡¯ She wondered thinking back to what Jessica had told her.


    Shaking her head not letting herself dig so much into her doubts about her godmother, she tacked the phone back into her bag. Everything was clearly written down giving her a good chance for the police to look into what they were transporting but she decided not to inform anyone about it.


    Though Mark was willing to help, she had to get the correct facts first. Understand theirpany operations and get evidence that would without a doubt take Mr. Steven down.


    All she wanted was justice especially after she found out most of her father¡¯s employees were working at the Steelpany. Thepany that Mr. Steven started immediately after theirpany went bankrupt.


    Needing to see all the transactions that were done before her father died, Melissa tried getting information from both the former ountant and thepany¡¯swyer but they declined to meet with her. They insisted they didn¡¯t have any information and she couldn¡¯t do anything about it.


    With every effort bearing no fruit, all she had to work with was the man her fatherst met with. Any information her dad gave him would be helpful as she felt she was running out of time.


    Finding him was her only hope but it was hard to track him down.


    She used Johnson¡¯s membership to get back to the club but they declined to give information about their client.


    With no name or picture, only the mysterious man¡¯s physical features, she didn¡¯t have much to search for him on the website.


    However, Jenifer¡¯s cousin worked as head of security and she promised to ask for his help retrieving a copy of that day¡¯s severance tape. With it, Melissa hoped she would see that man¡¯s face and hopefully she track him down and get the answers she was looking for.


    When the car stopped at the vi, she took Tommy in her arms declining Adams¡¯s help to carry him.


    After tucking him into bed Melissa went out to the balcony for some fresh air.


    Breathing heavily, she stared out into the night as The dancing stars and the cool wind that hit her face helped ease the tension in her muscles.


    It was almost a month since she got to the city and her life hadpletely changed in that short time.


    She almost lost her son and she had to marry just for the investigation.


    When she started looking for evidence, she didn¡¯t think it would take long. Now she realized that the search was harder than she anticipated.


    Though Melissa did not have all the facts, she suspected her investigation had led to Tommy¡¯s kidnapping. Now she had to always stay close to him when he was asleep since he started having nightmares after his ident. Despite Tommy recognizing the kidnapper¡¯s faces, they were yet to be caught since the evidence collected was inconclusive.


    Deep in thought staring at the night sky, Melissa didn¡¯t realize the person joining her until he spoke up.


    ¡°You took Tommy to Steven¡¯s mansion?¡± He inquired looking up at the sky leaning on the balcony railing.


    ¡°Yes, I had promised my godmother and she enjoyed ying with him.¡± She spoke giving him a side nce.


    ¡°He just left the hospital, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s unwise to take him to people who may potentially harm him?¡±


    ¡°Only my godmother was home. Besides, they don¡¯t suspect me and they won¡¯t, so no one would hurt us.¡± She responded keeping a good distance from him.


    ¡°So, find out anything?¡± He inquired turning his gaze to her.


    ¡°No, nothing in particr, I was only taking my son to meet my godmother, not some undercover mission.¡± She looked at the bright full moon just to avoid his eye contact. She restrained telling him about her encounter with Jessica and the documents she found nning to check them out first. And though he suspected she was hiding information from him, he didn¡¯t probe further.


    ¡°Any news about the kidnappers or who might have hired them?¡± Melissa inquired tapping on the rail.


    It was the first time taking Tommy out of the house since he got from the hospital. Though he had been well with most of the injuries healing, he kept looking around anxiously when they were on the way making Melissa wonder if the incident will affect her son¡¯s social life.


    ¡°Nothing hase up yet, that¡¯s why you should always inform the security personnel before leaving the house. I understand you only took the driver today.¡± Taking her hand in his, he made her look at him.


    Pulling her hand back, she gazed into his eyes briefly. ¡°It¡¯s the first time to go out, I didn¡¯t want him to get scared seeing people following us around.¡± Though Mark never told her, she knew he had security men watching her every move, and going to the Stevens with additional security would make them suspicious.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do anything without informing me first¡­¡± He spoke stepping closer but the conversation was cut short when Tommy cameining he couldn¡¯t sleep by himself.


    Despite making puppy eyes as he implored his mum and dad to join him, Melissa declined. She knew he was acting cute to his father to bring them closer.


    A few days earlier while having breakfast he had asked if he would get a baby sister like his friends in his former kindergarten and since then he had been making things up just to get his dad and mum together.


    Avoiding embarrassing herself like she did when they shared a bed, she stayed back as Mark carried him away.


    With her hands crossed over her chest, she watched them walk back to the house. Tommy¡¯sughter could be heard from miles as his father teased and tickled him as he ced him on his shoulder¡¯s bringing a smile to Melissa¡¯s face.


    ¡°He is very happy.¡± Her aunt spoke joining her.


    ¡°Yes, I have never made himugh that much. I¡¯ve been so busy at work I forgot to make my sonugh.¡± Betty could see the sadness in her niece¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°You have been a good mother to him and he still needs you, so when you are done hiding from your feelings for Mark, go spend time with them.¡±


    ¡°Aunt, what feelings are you talking about?¡± She asked nibbling her inner lip avoiding her aunt¡¯s gaze.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I have noticed you have been avoiding him for days now. Dear, it¡¯s time you let your heart lead you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been busy aunt, stop making conclusions from nothing.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t feel anything then you wouldn¡¯t be hiding out here. You should be in that roomughing with your son. Cherish every moment with him.¡± She tapped Melissa¡¯s back, and bid goodnight as she went to her room.

 Falling in love

    Though she hated the anxious feeling that rose in the pit of her stomach every time Mark was around, she had to work with him. Not only in her investigation but with raising Tommy. And with the promise of marriage, she had to find a way to bury whatever she was starting to feel for him. There¡¯s wouldn¡¯t be a marriage for love and she didn¡¯t want to fall in love.


    Taking hid of the advice her aunt gave, Melissa walked to Tommy¡¯s room where Mark was reading him a story.


    Before Mark always went straight to his office after work but since Tommy came he spent most of his free time ying with him.


    Standing outside the door, she smiled listening to her son¡¯s giggles envying how happy they were.


    ¡°Can I join?¡± Pocking her head inside the room she asked with a half smile.


    ¡°Yese.¡± Smiling back, he tapped the bed beside him inviting her to sit.


    ¡°Mum, will you sing me a song once dad is done reading the story?¡± Tommy asked as he sat on his mother¡¯sp bringing her closer to Mark.


    ¡°Ha ha ha¡­¡± Sheughed scratching her head as the two stared at her. ¡°I¡¯m not a good singer, besides I don¡¯t know any song.


    ¡°I want the luby you used to sing to me when I was a baby.¡± She smiled as her gaze collided with Mark¡¯s who had his eyes on her since she walked in.


    Lost in his amber eyes, she nodded agreeing with everything Tommy asked for.


    ¡°Your turn.¡±


    ¡°Huh!¡± Lost in her little world, she didn¡¯t realize when he stopped reading until he spoke.


    ¡°You have to sing.¡±


    ¡°Yes, mum it¡¯s your turn.¡± Tommy eximed cheerfully sitting on his mother¡¯sp.


    With the two gazing at her, she could do nothing else but hold him like she always did when he was a baby and sang.


    ¡®Go to sleep baby, go to sleep baby¡­..¡¯


    As she sang to him while smoothing his hair, Mark stared at her in awe. Looking at her holding their son, he couldn¡¯t help falling in love with her more. She was stunning with the most beautiful voice he had ever heard. She was simply the best mother he would wish for his children.


    As he excused himself walking out to answer a phone call, Melissa breathed a sigh of relief. She was worried she would share the bed with him again.


    Melissa wasfortable joking and ying around when Tommy was awake but it became so awkward when he fell asleep. She kept singing and rocking him just to avoid Mark.


    Afterying Tommy on the bed and covering him with the quilt, Melissa went next door to change into her pajamas.


    She was used to sleeping next to her son back in the province so she did mind what she wore to bed.


    Getting in bed, her lips curved up as she remembered that morning she woke up in Mark¡¯s arms. Thinking of that kiss they almost had made her blush so much she had to cover her head. Clearing her mind off ifs and buts, she let herself think of him. Not just as her one night mistake but as a man. The man she liked.


    With the sweet imagination coupled with exhaustion taking precedence, she fell asleep instantly.


    ¡°Morning sunshine.¡± Hearing the deep voice hovering around her face, Melissa thought she was dreaming but then she saw Mark¡¯s face nose to nose with hers. Not sure of what she was looking at, she blinked several times to clear her foggy mind.


    ¡°Aah!¡± As the realization hit her, she screamed covering her head knocking him off the bed. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I slept here.¡± With a smile on his face, he responded getting back on the bed. ¡°Hey, I suggest you get out of bed if you¡¯re going to work.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, thank you for waking me up. Can you get out first, I need to shower before going for breakfast.¡± She request but he didn¡¯t budge.


    ¡°Where is Tommy?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s having breakfast, your aunt and Mary keeppeting who will feed him first.¡± With a smile on his face, he spoke gazing at her.


    ¡°Yeah, they are excited to be grandmothers, back in the province aunt won¡¯t let me do anything especially when Tommy was just born.¡±


    ¡°It must have been very hard for you, having a child at a young age.¡± He had thought about it many times and when he saw the pain in her eyes, he wished he had not brought it up.


    Staring into his eyes, she nodded since she didn¡¯t know what to say to him. He was the first person to see her struggles in raising a child alone and she knew it was hard for him having not seen his son grow up.


    ¡°Can you get up now?¡± He pulled the nket but she held it tight.


    ¡°Nooo, you have to get out first.¡± She couldn¡¯t let him see her in the pajamas she wore.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can do that.¡±


    ¡°Why do you like bullying me so much?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so stubborn and always challenging me. So I enjoy teasing you. Now I will give you two choices, either get out now or apany me to the hotel.¡± He smiled loving how cute she looked.


    ¡°What if I don¡¯t choose either?¡± Holding the nkets to her neck, she asked staring at him as he got closer.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll pull out the quilt and make you do everything I want.¡± With a mischievous look in his eyes and the world¡¯s highest grin on his face, he slightly tugged at the covers.


    ¡°Okay fine you win.¡± Tired and running out of time, she gave in. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you to the hotel.¡±


    ¡°Good, thirty minutes to get ready sunshine.¡± Leaning closer, he touched her chin as she closed her eyes.


    With her lips slightly apart he ced a light kiss on her lips, then went out.


    ¡°Huh!¡± When she heard the door close, she opened her eyes and touched her lips.


    ¡°Oh stop it, Melissa.¡± She snapped at herself as she ran to her room in an old T-shirt and over size shorts.


    She knew it was childish but she enjoyed ying with him more than she should have.


    At the breakfast table, everyone¡¯s jaw dropped when Melissa walked out. ¡°Honey, are you going on a date?¡± Her aunt inquired teasingly.


    She was wearing her curly hair down, in a White crepe vintage dress with a matching ck belt and ck point toe stiletto heels. Looking beautiful and different from her usual boring grey skirt suits.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to work, why?¡± Melissa questioned adding milk to her cereal ignoring everyone¡¯s stare.


    ¡°Mum, you look so beautiful, dad will surely love you now.¡±


    ¡°Thank you baby and no aunt, I¡¯m not going on a date.¡±


    ¡°Really, you dressed like that for work?¡±


    They kept teasing her but stopped when Mark joined them at the garden where breakfast was set.


    ¡°You look stunning.¡± Sitting beside her, he whispered into her ear. ¡°I¡¯ll take you shopping so you can dress like this more often.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, I don¡¯t need more clothes.¡± She murmured stuffing bread in her mouth.


    With everyone gazing at them, Mark took a piece of bread nodding his greetings to Mary and Betty. As they ate quietly enjoying the morning sun, the smell of the roses and the freshly baked bread, the two older women kept exchanging nces.


    Feeling ufortable with Mark beside her and how the people at the table kept looking at them, she ced down her cup. Wiping her lips Melissa got up and kissed Tommy on the cheek. ¡°Bye baby, aunt, Mary.¡± She spoke taking her bag.


    Walking down the stairs, Mark caught up. As he tried to hold her hand for support, she walked faster getting in the car when the driver held the door open.


    ¡°I¡¯m worried for her.¡± Betty murmured watching them leave.


    ¡°Why, I¡¯m sure they will make a beautiful couple.¡± Mary spoke stuffing more bread in Tommy¡¯s mouth.


    They were stillpeting and he enjoyed being pampered by his two grandmothers.


    ¡°The odds are against them. She is my niece with no bigst name and the Johnsons are a wealthy family, way above her.¡±


    ¡°That is right but they will fight for each other. Melissa is not one to give up easily and neither is Mark. Their love will surely keep them together.¡±


    ¡°Not when the universe is against them.¡± Betty said remembering her own experience.


    Looking at her, Mary couldn¡¯t stop wondering why she left her family.


    When Melissa brought her son and aunt, Mary was both surprised and speechless. For a while, she thought she was mistaken but when she checked her old photo album, she confirmed it was indeed Betty.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Back then everyone was envious of the secretary who got favor and married her boss. She had not been introduced to the family but there were rumors in the mansion about the beautiful young woman.


    One day one of the maids went to clean his house and brought a picture of the beautiful young Lady to show her colleagues and Mary took it.


    Richard¡¯s adoptive family was opposed to him marrying his secretary but theyter epted the rtionship. On the day he was to introduce his new wife and son, he got into an ident losing his memory.


    With severe injuries, they had to move him and his son abroad for treatment. Two yearster when Richard got his memories back, he insisted on finding his wife but he was told that she fell into depression and died shortly after his ident.


    Looking at her now, Mary didn¡¯t understand why she let her family believe she was dead when she was living in the province all this time.

 Cool fresh air

    On the way to the hotel, Mark busied himself with his office work as Melissa sat quietly beside him. Acting like she didn¡¯t exist, he discussed his work schedule with his assistant as he went through the documents he had to sign.


    Her gaze trailed to the colorful buildings they passed getting to the heart of the city, she wondered why he brought her along. He was not as yful as he was in Tommy¡¯s room. With his straight face screaming don¡¯t get any closer, one could hardly believe he was the same person. ncing at him, she thought of starting a conversation but thought against it opting to alight.


    ¡°Drop me off at the intersection. I will take a taxi to the hotel.¡± Avoiding being seen arriving in his limousine, she requested.From N?velDrama.Org.


    As the driver slowed down, he caught his boss¡¯s gaze through the rearview mirror.


    ¡°Keep driving.¡± Mark instructed his attention still on his work.


    ¡°Hey, stop.¡± Melissa shouted as the vehicle neared the highway, but they didn¡¯t stop.


    Biting her bottom lip she grayed at Mark who went on with his work like nothing had happened. Having ordered, Melissa knew the car won¡¯t stop. Sighing in her heart all she could do was to sit back and brace herself for what awaited her.


    The hotel was not located far from the city, but it was tranquil. Trees were nted along the road giving a mystical feel of walking into the forest. Rowling down the window, Melissa closed her eyes inhaling the sweet cool fresh air. Without the motor noise and the city rush, it was like being back in the province. She hade here several times but every time she was mesmerized by its beauty. So close to the city yet so quiet and peaceful.


    Watching her lips curve up with her eyes closed, Mark closed the file taking time to draw in all her beauty. He had tried to finish the important work he had, but he couldn¡¯t focus. He noted every slight movement she made and whenever she nced at the time he wanted to look at her. Gaze into her eyes and hold her hand just to feel her soft warm skin under his.


    As the hotel came to view, she opened her eyes catching him staring at her.


    Staring back at him, Melissa felt her heart thud causing her to take shallow breaths.


    ¡°Wee, sir!¡± The security guard spoke as they passed the gate causing Melissa to back away from Mark.


    The hotel was opening the following day for customers, awaiting the official opening ceremony that Saturday.


    Though her project was finished ending the contract, she epted a full time job as one of the chief designers. Working in the hotel chain and real estate with her two office mates and the team they had built.


    Trying to keep her thoughts from Man beside her, she looked at the hotel feeling aplished, having designed a first five star hotel. Though her colleagues had chipped in, most of the design ideas were hers. She was not highly educated but her work was impable.


    As the vehicle went around the fountain stopping at the entrance, most employees stopped their work to salute their boss.


    They were already in their workstation getting the ce ready for the guests.


    Sliding out of the car as the door opened, she smiled at Mark¡¯s bodyguards who escorted them to the hotel entrance. Making sure the ce was safe and secure for their boss.


    Melissa walked beside Mark their hands almost touching, hoping only the hotel staff would be there to greet him. But to her horror, when the ss doors slide open, her manager, the hotel manager, and her whole department were in the lobby waiting.


    ¡°Wee, sir.¡± The hotel manager spoke as all eyes fell on her.


    They looked as surprised as she did and for a moment she didn¡¯t know what to do. Standing there lost in her thoughts, she didn¡¯t understand what Mark was saying to the manager until one of the staff coughed. It was probably her friend Nancy. She didn¡¯t have time to check as she noticed Mark raise his eyebrows at her.


    ¡°What? Oh, sorry, sir.¡± Getting back to her senses she realized he was addressing her while everyone quietly awaited her response.


    ¡°As I was saying, Ms. White shall show me around and give a detailed ount of the work put into this ce.¡± He told the manager who kept nodding at his every word.


    ¡°No, I mean. My senior is here, she should show you around sir.¡± Melissa made an excuse trying to get away.


    The situation was as bad as she thought it would be and she didn¡¯t know what to tell her office mate¡¯s when they start asking questions. More so, she didn¡¯t want to be in a room alone with him.


    ¡°Melissa, since this project was carried out by you, no one else is in a better position to give the tour. That¡¯s why I sent you to wee Mr Johnson.¡± As the manager directed, Melissa looked at her two colleagues noticing they were not as surprised as everyone else.


    Apparently, the manager had made an excuse for her. Now she understood why neither Nancy nor Jenifer had told her anything about meeting in the hotel. It seemed Mark had everything well nned.


    Side by side they walked around the lobby, enjoying the view from the floor to ceiling windows that overlooked the hotel garden. With blooming flowers lighting up the room, they married perfectly with the skylights. The hazelnut color made one feel the tranquility and serenity that you experience when outdoors in the countryside. With the floormps illuminating the white cushioned woven chairs, she pictured herself seated there with Mark beside her.


    With him so close, she shook the thought away, afraid he would read her mind.


    Carrying out the project, Melissa was afraid of disappointing Mark. And when she saw his face lit up and his lips twitch in approval as he looked around she felt relieved. The project was a sess.


    As one of the board members who hade to see how the opening preparation was progressing came to meet Mark, she excused herself. Heading to the restaurant for tea, she joined Nancy and Jenifer.


    ¡°Hi, can I have a cup of tea please?¡± Melissa ced her order as she sat at the table.


    The staff were offered a special treat to celebrate their aplishments. Getting free breakfast and massage at the spa.


    ¡°This is great. Melissa finally decides to join us.¡± Nancy scoffed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind her, she¡¯s a bit jealous you got to apany the big boss. Try these pies, they are to die for.¡± Jenifer handed her the te not sparing Nancy a nce as she shoot daggers at her with her eyes.


    ¡°Melissa you¡¯re my friend and you knew I could do anything to spend five minutes with Mark Johnson.¡± Nancy turned to Melissa pouting her mouth. ¡°When the manager asked you to apany our CEO, you should have turned him down. Ask me to join him instead but what did you do? You even had to match clothes with him. I am so hurt.¡± She held her chest dramatically showing how much pain she was in.


    Seeing her sad face, both Jenifer and Melissaughed.


    Melissa tried apologizing but as always Nancy couldn¡¯t quit her drama until she promised to introduce them.


    Looking at the three men who walked into the restaurant sitting across from them, Melissa realized Nancy was right. Mark wore a well tailored ck suit with a white shirt that matched her dress. He was so handsome, no wonder all the women in the room had a sh on him.


    As if sensing her stare, he looked at her but she raised her tea cup covering her face avoiding his gaze.


    After breakfast, they went for the meeting in one of the conference rooms and she had to sit beside him. Having to answer a call, James left the room briefly leaving her to act as his assistant. And every now and then he turned to her, asking about some of the agenda being discussed.


    With his warm breath fanning her neck, asionally apanied by the smell of his masculine cologne unsettled her nerves making her ufortable.


    He congratted everyone for the great work and gave a list of other hotels they were to open in their current financial year.


    As the meeting ended the manager sent most of the employees back to the office but Melissa had to continue the tour around the rooms, especially the VIP rooms which were fully booked for the opening ceremony.


    Not wanting to be alone with Mark, she asked Nancy and Jenifer to apany them after the brief introduction but James declined assigning them to other duties. As Mark walked to the elevator, he shook his head enjoying Melissa¡¯s stunts as she always looked for an excuse to get away. No one other than her was bold enough to question or oppose him.


    ¡°Ms. White, are youing?¡± James held the elevator indicating for her to join them. On the other hand, The manager urged her to follow, to avoid angering Mark by dying him. Swallowing her pride, she reluctantly walked into the elevator standing at the corner far from them. And kept cracking her knuckles as they went up to the top floor.


    At the presidential suite, James excused himself to answer a video call, leaving them both in the room.


    Taking a deep breath Melissa went on to exin the choice of color they used for the lighting and other decorations in the room and the hotel. With his gaze on her, Mark grabbed her arm ruthlessly, taking her to one of the bedrooms.


    ¡°Mark! What are you doing? Stop you are hurting me.¡± She shouted hitting him to let her go.


    ¡°No one questions me, which you seem to enjoy so much.¡± He pushed her onto the bed and stared her down. For a moment Melissa felt frightened. She had never seen him this furious. He looked ready to pounce on her but she was not going to let him intimidate her.


    ¡°You tricked me intoing here. Put up a show in front of my colleagues and drag me around like a parapet.¡± Sheined trying to get up. ¡°Well Mr. CEO, everyone is used to doing as youmand but not me. I¡¯m not your typical employee.¡±


    Looking at her shed annoyed face he couldn¡¯t help but guffaw a bit. ¡°I see that.¡± Traping her on the bed he slowly kissed her on the cheek from left to right. ¡°It¡¯s always a turn on when you get so angry, love.¡± He whispered into her ear nibbling her earlobe.


    ¡°Get off me you son of a¡­.¡± She tried pushing him off but he held her hands above her head.


    Leaning closer holding her gaze, he sealed her lips with his swallowing the curses. Deepening the kiss she gradually rxed, putting her hand¡¯s around his neck as his handvished her body. He caressed and kissed her from her eyes to her neck enjoying her sweatvender perfume cent. With his hand under her dress, she unbuttoned his shirt¡­


    Melissa¡­..!

 Gold digger

    Leaning closer holding her gaze, he sealed her lips with his swallowing the curses. Deepening the kiss she gradually rxed, putting her hand¡¯s around his neck as his handvished her body. Caressing and kissing her from her eyes to her neck enjoying her sweatvender perfume cent. With his hand under her dress, she unbuttoned his shirt¡­


    Melissa¡­


    ¡°What?¡± Jolted from her hot thoughts, Melissa turned to Mark and found him staring at her.


    When Nancy nudged her with her foot, she realized everyone in the conference room looked at her as Mark handed her a napkin. Making her feel more embarrassed for drooling while daydreaming having steamy sex with her boss. The one man she was trying so hard to stay away from.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay? You have been chewing hard on that pen.¡± Nancy beside her asked the question in everyone¡¯s mind.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± She responded noticing the teeth marks on the pen. And before the meeting came to an end, she took her bag excusing herself to go to thevatory.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me?¡± Sshing water on her face, she looked at her reflection in the mirror. After what had happened in the conference hall, She couldn¡¯t get herself to face anyone. Drifting off in a room full of people, was so embarrassing.


    ¡°Ah! This is all your fault, Mark.¡± She bellowed pointing at her reflection.


    When she heard movement outside the door, she rushed and locked herself in one of the toilets stall.


    ¡°Melissa, it¡¯s me, Jenifer. Are you okay?¡± Jenifer knocked on the door after confirming she was inside.


    She reluctantly opened the door. ¡°I¡¯m fine, are we going back to the office?¡±


    ¡°Yes, will you ride in thepany van with us?¡±


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go find Nancy.¡± After touching up their make up they joined the rest in the reception area.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you two? I was about to call for a search party.¡± Nancyined.


    ¡°Where is everyone?¡± Looking around Melissa asked feeling relieved.


    ¡°They went back, we have to check everything for the party and Melissa here will apany the prince charming. Oh wow.. look who just walked in.¡± Nancy said looking at the entrance.


    An elegant lookingdy walked to where Mark, James, and the manager were talking. Waving her hand at the two men she kissed Mark on the cheek and hugged him ring at them. Standing beside him she intertwined their arms.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± Melissa asked staring at them.


    ¡°That Sasha, his fiancee. She hase to show off or maybe someone told her about you apanying her fiance.¡± Nancy admired Sasha¡¯s beauty.


    She was way more sophisticated than Melissa. Wearing body hugging pants in heels and ck short hair that made her look more slender and young than she was.


    James called Melissa aside and asked if they could drop her off at the office but she declined, he made an excuse for Sasha being there but Melissa was not ready to hear any of it.


    They watched them as Mark held open the car door for Sasha. They were not riding in the limousine, they drove his Porsche Panamera. Melissa didn¡¯t want to see them anymore, she walked to the ballroom to assess how the preparations were progressing. She didn¡¯t see Mark sit beside James at the front set as James drove off escorted by two security vehicles.


    As they walked out of the hotel, Melissa got her phone to ask Adams to pick her up but before she made the call, the limousine she hade in drove towards them.


    ¡°The boss asked me to wait for you, ma¡¯am.¡± The chauffeur said as he opened the door.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°My, have never been in a limo before. It¡¯s so spacious, wow look at these seats.¡± Jenifer looked around in admiration as they drove. They gave their address for them to be dropped off.


    ¡®Wow, you know what this means Melissa? The boss likes you. He may have a fiancee but it seems he wants you as his side chick. I noticed how he couldn¡¯t keep his eyes off you and how he kept whispering in your ear at the meeting. No wonder you were lost fantasizing throughout the meeting. If I didn¡¯t know otherwise I would say he is in love with you.¡± Nancy had been spying on them the whole morning, watching how they kept ncing at each other.


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense Nancy, stop interpreting what¡¯s not there.¡± Melissa tried to downy it but as always Nancye up with her theories.


    ¡°Come on, Jenifer can you back me up here?¡± Nancy pleaded


    ¡°What you¡¯re saying is impossible Nancy, they probably won¡¯t meet again. Stop putting ideas into Melissa¡¯s head.¡± Jenifer tried to help Melissa out. she knew Melissa was hiding her real identity but never questioned her.


    ¡°Not if we make them meet coincidentally, at the party even if we have to corner him in the men¡¯s room.¡± They allughed listening to Nancy¡¯s crazy theories.


    In his office Markughed, watching the three women converse. He had put up a camera so he could see the kind of people Melissa worked with. They were inquisitive but he was d they treated Melissa well.


    Satisfied he turned off the phone and concentrated on his office work.


    ¡­.


    In her room, Melissa checked the direction to the address she got from the Stevens on herptop, the shipment was to arrive in two days.


    ¡°Are you busy?¡± Mark asked after knocking on the door twice. Startling Tommy who was stacking blocks to make a train on the carpet.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡± She switched off theptop hoping he didn¡¯t see what was disyed on the screen. ¡°Do you need something from me?¡± She asked sitting up on the bed.


    ¡°Get ready, you, Tommy and I are going to have dinner at the mansion. Have asked Mary to get Tommy ready.¡±


    ¡°What, do we have to meet your grandfather today?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he knows about you and Tommy that¡¯s why he sent Sasha to the hotel today, besides I can¡¯t keep this off any longer. He has to see his great-grandson.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be down in a few minutes.¡± She walked into the closet to look for what to wear after calling her aunt and sending Tommy to his room to change. Melissa didn¡¯t like the idea of them getting married after seeing him take off with Sasha but they had a deal she couldn¡¯t back out from, besides it was Tommy¡¯s right to be recognized as a Johnson, and she couldn¡¯t keep him away.


    Her aunt helped her choose a dress to wear, did her make-up, and gave her motherly advice on how to carry herself when she meets his family. People said Mr. Johnson was old fashion and mean. Betty knew the challenge Melissa was to face and prayed her niece would get the courage to face them. She had experienced all this. Stayed strong and fought for the man she loved but in the end, she lost everything. Now she didn¡¯t want Melissa to go through what she did.


    ¡­.


    The house manager stood at the door, a golden retriever at his feet wagging its tail waiting to invite them in. When they got off the car, the dog got up and barked a few times running to Mark. He got down on one knee to pet it as it licked his face while he introduced them. They were taken to one of the living rooms and offered a cup of coffee as they waited for Mr. Johnson to get from his room.


    ¡°Careful grandfather.¡± They looked at the first floor when they heard the female voice. They stood up to see Sasha helping old Mr. Johnson get downstairs from his room.


    ¡°Thank you, my child. You are too kind.¡±


    ¡°Grandfather, is your health okay? Should I take you to the hospital?¡± Mark went beside him taking over from Sasha. His grandfather was not weak to need support unless he was not feeling well.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, this poor child felt she should help me get from my room. My health is fine, you can ask my doctor here.¡± Mark understood what he was trying to do. ¡°Are you not going to introduce the guest you brought to my house?¡± He asked sitting on the couch.


    ¡°This is Melissa, the youngdy I told you about, and this is Tommy our son.¡± Melissa shook his hand bowing to show respect. He sat Tommy beside him as he seriously scrutinized Melissa.


    ¡°So you are the woman causing my grandson so much trouble?¡± Melissa didn¡¯t understand what he was talking about. She looked down at her hands on herp¡¯s avoiding his eyes.


    ¡°Grandfather, what are you talking about, Melissa has not caused any trouble for me.¡± Mark asked amazed by his usation.


    ¡°Dinner is served, let¡¯s talk moreter.¡± He announced after the home manager whispered in his ear.


    Mark never talked much while eating a habit which he may have picked from his grandfather who sat opposite them enjoying his meal. Sasha sat beside him, paying so much more attention to him than his real grandchild would. She was putting up an act to impress them and show Melissa she didn¡¯t stand a chance. Mark didn¡¯t seem to mind that Sasha was there and the old Mr. Johnson was quite fond of her.


    ¡°So, Melissa you were a housekeeper before Mark got you a better job?¡± Sasha asked pouring tea for Mr. Johnson as they sat out in the garden. The night had set in but it was warm with the beautiful sky full of bright stars.


    ¡°I worked in a hotel as head of housekeeping.¡±


    ¡°Melissa designed our hotel, I¡¯m sure you have seen it. She did a very good job.¡± Mark squeezed her hand. His grandfather saw how caring he was towards the youngdy and decided not to interrogate her as he had nned.


    ¡°Yes I was there earlier, quite impressive but I thought thatpany has two more designers. You definitely didn¡¯t work on the hotel alone.¡± Mark tried to speak up for her but Melissa stopped him. The way Sasha put it made Melissa look like a gold digger.

 I鈥檓 still your fiancee

    Seated outside under the stars adorned sky, Mr. Johnson watched Tommy y with the toys he got from the yroom. His lips curving up in delight, he nodded to himself. Without a doubt Tommy was his grate grandson. The little boy was fond of toy cars just like Mark was when he was his age. And when the timees, he will take over from his dad.


    ¡°Careful my boy.¡± Mr Johnson smiled cautioning Tommy when he got up abruptly as Spark ran to him.


    The dog was fond of Mark, always staying by his feet but with Tommy around it went to him, surprising the old man.


    It ran around with Tommy and brought him a ball to y catch until they got tired and went to his mother. As Melissa carried Tommy on herp to rest his eye¡¯s, the dog rested at her feet. Comfortably closing its eyes.


    Seeing how intimate Spark was with the mother and son, surprised the old man more. The dog had warmed up to her, yet he only went to the people familiar to him.


    ¡°Is he asleep? Let me help you.¡± Standing protectively before Melissa, Spark growled and barked at Sasha when she tried to touch Tommy. Keeping her away from the mother and child.


    ¡°Its okay, I can carry him.¡± Melissa responded surprised by how the dog growled at Sasha then noticed the crescent moon shaped mark on the dog¡¯s neck. Looking at it she remembered the dog with the same mark that asionally brought her a rose flower in the park back on campus. She was impressed by how obedient the dog. Always finding him there every time she went to rx. She yed with the dog every time but not once did she see the owner.


    Looking at Mark seated across from her, she didn¡¯t think he could go out with the dog. Leave alone using it to impress a girl. So she thought it was just a coincidence the dog had the same mark and breed.


    Needing to know her well, Mr. Johnson asked Melissa about her parents. Where she grew up, and what her parents did for a living. But dropped the subject when she informed him that her parents were deceased changing to general talk about business and politics.


    Melissa sat there listening to their conversations noting how close Sasha was with Mark and his grandfather. When Mark¡¯s parents made a video call, he introduced her and Tommy to them. Happy to see their grandson, they made him promise to take them to visit soon, since they were noting for the hotel opening ceremony. As they said goodbye to Melissa, Sasha took over. Starting an intimate conversation with Mark¡¯s mother.


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. Let me take you upstairs grandfather.¡± Mark helped Mr Johnson up letting Sasha talk to his mother.


    Left in Sasha¡¯spany after Mark took his grandfather upstairs to take his medicine and rest, made Melissa ufortable. She felt like calling her out on what she was doing but she restrained herself. She didn¡¯t have any intimate rtionship with Mark, for her question Sasha. Theirs was another arranged marriage for him. The only difference was he chose a bride himself.


    ¡°If you think grandfather Johnson will ept what you and Mark are trying to do, you must be mistaken.¡± Sasha sneered giving Melissa a cold look.


    Melissa bit her inner lip and kept herself busy checking emails and messages on her phone ignoring her remarks. But what Sasha said next caught her attention.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think Mark will fall in love with you just because you gave birth to his son. He had a girl he loved on campus. Though his friends tried to make him forget her, for years introducing different women to him, he has never gotten over her. So don¡¯t think you will seed. But well, me I have his parents and the old man¡¯s approval.¡± She spoke then back to the house feeling aplished. Leaving Melissa deep in thoughts wondering if what Sasha said was true.


    ¡°Was Mark was in love with another woman? why ask her to marry him?¡± Her gaze on the stars, she wondered.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    She agreed to the marriage in exchange for his help and support but she didn¡¯t understand what his interest was since he has never said he loved her out loud.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Joining her, Mark bent down to take Tommy who was fast asleep.


    ¡°Is your grandfather okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes he¡¯s resting, his health has not been goodtely.¡± After saying their goodbyes, they walked out to find Sasha leaning on his car waiting for them.


    ¡°Can you give me a ride?¡± Sasha requested Mark to drop her off to her ce since she was not able to contact her driver who had dropped her off earlier.


    ¡°Fine, get in.¡±


    With Mark agreeing to Sasha, Melissa got in the back seat and held Tommy so he could sleepfortably leaving them to take the front sit.


    ¡°I have missed being here.¡± Sasha smiled at Mark as drove from the mansion. ¡°This was our happy ce every time you came for vacation.¡±


    Melissa turned her gaze outside the window but she couldn¡¯t block out their conversations.


    On the way home she had to put up with Sasha asionally touching Mark¡¯s hand while bragging about being his date for the opening ceremony and how close they were growing up. It infuriated her more when he didn¡¯t stop her or question her. From their conversion and how close they were, Melissa realized they had an intimate rtionship growing up. Working together gave them more to talk about they had a connection she and Mark didn¡¯t have.


    ¡°I¡¯ll carry him, you should take your guest home.¡± Melissa protested when Mark tried to take Tommy from her as they got from the car. He had to take them home first since it was closer to the mansion then took Sasha to her vi.


    ¡°Is she the one you were always hangup about?¡± Sasha asked watching Melissa walk into the house as they drove off.


    She had never met the girl he was in love with but seeing how he cared for Melissa, she suspected it was her.


    ¡°What I do in my private life is non of your business.¡± Mark warned removing her hand from his knee. ¡°Stay away from my family and don¡¯t you ever try what you have been doing the whole night again.¡± He didn¡¯t like the idea of driving Sasha home but his grandfather had asked him to. If he lets his driver take her home he won¡¯t hear the end of it. With his bad health he didn¡¯t want to anger him.


    ¡°I¡¯m still your fiancee Mark. Until your grandfather says otherwise, I¡¯m the one you will marry.¡± She insisted as her lips curved up triumphantly.

 The first time he set his eyes on her

    ¡°How was the visit, honey?¡± Betty walked into Tommy¡¯s room to find Melissa tucking Tommy in bed.


    ¡°His grandfather was pleasant, he was more concerned with Tommy though but his ex-fiancee was there too.¡± She sat on the bed and took off her heels as she massaged her feet.


    ¡°I¡¯m d it went well. What was thedy doing there? Did she know Mark was taking you to meet his grandfather?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know aunt and honestly I don¡¯t know if I can do this anymore. He wants us to get married but watching him with Sasha I don¡¯t feelfortable about it.¡± She said with a sigh.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Why, what did he do?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, that¡¯s the problem. She was there and he didn¡¯t even question it. To top it all he had to drive her home. Maybe he wants this marriage so he can spite his grandfather. To him it¡¯s another arranged marriage, the only difference is he got a bride for himself.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so, maybe he was being polite. Before making any conclusion talk to him, and tell him how you feel. Good night, you better get some sleep dear.¡± She got up, kissed her on the head, tapped her shoulder then left the room.


    ¡°Good night aunt.¡±


    Melissa changed her clothes and sat under the nket in Tommy¡¯s room waiting for Mark to get back, only to be woken up by soft lips kissing her cheeks.


    ¡°Wake up mum.¡± The sunlight from the window made it hard to keep her eyes closed as Tommy nudged her.


    She had fallen asleep waiting for Mark to get back but she missed him. Mary took Tommy for breakfast while she went to her room to get ready for work.


    Going down the staircase she met Mark, for a moment they stop, looking at each other from opposite directions. He was wearing the same clothes he had the previous night looking exhausted with his tie in his hand.


    ¡°Morning¡±


    ¡°Morning, I see you didn¡¯te backst night.¡±


    ¡°No, I had some matters to take care of.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± She tried to pass but he stopped her.


    ¡°Grandfather was happy to see Tommy. He asked for him to stay at the Manson for some days so he can get to know him better and spend time with him.¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re not taking my son from me.¡± She took two steps back to get away from him.


    ¡°What! It¡¯s just for¡­.¡±


    ¡°Tommy stays with me and we are leaving this house. If you can spend the night with her why don¡¯t you go ahead and marry her? It¡¯s not like you are madly in love with me anyway.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you are upset about, Melissa.¡± He shook his head and every time he tried to get close she took a step back.


    ¡°Mark! You left this in the car. Sorry for the interruption. Morning Melissa.¡± James handed Mark his phone. ¡°The Germanpany has replied, they epted our proposal. Guess we didn¡¯t waste a night¡¯s sleep for nothing.¡± He spoke ncing at her.


    ¡°Oh!¡± Melissa turned walking past James feeling embarrassed as she left the house without having breakfast.


    ¡°Thanks, James. Go get some rest.¡±


    ¡°You should tell her you know.¡± He said cing his hand on Mark¡¯s shoulder.


    With a heavy sigh, Mark shook his head heading into his room.


    Tagging his tie off, he got on the bed and closed his eyes. Lying there he thought of the time he saw Melissa.


    That day he fell in love with her. The very first time he set his eyes on her. When they bumped into each other.


    She waste for her orientation ss in her first year at the university. Running along the corridor he collided with her, dropping the pile of books he was carrying from the library.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I¡¯m runningte for my ss.¡± She apologized, getting down to help but her friend stopped her pulling her away. ¡°Sorry.¡± She said before turning her back.


    On his knees picking up the scattered books, he watched her disappear down the corridor without looking back.


    A few dayster, he saw her in the park with a book in her hands. She looked as beautiful as she did the first time he saw her and when some guy tried to approach her, she rudely sent him away. It was admirable how she stood up for herself. Every time finding a quiet ce in the park to study.


    With her showing up every day, most of the evening¡¯s Mark watched her sitting in the same spot while he took his dog Spark for a walk. He made sure his security team kept guys away from her not to interrupt her peaceful moment. And no one was allowed to court her or get close to her. But he always made sure to leave a rose flower on her desk or rocker.


    He was in love with her but couldn¡¯t stomach the courage to face and tell her. Afraid she would reject him.


    On that night four years ago, he had just kicked Sasha out of his room. She had spiked his drink with the hope of getting him in bed to he had resisted her.


    All he thought of was her. The woman he had been secretly in love with. And when he got the information that some men had taken her from the party, he left the room only for her to show up at his doorstep.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Seeing her was like a breath of fresh air.


    He thought of stopping her when she started ripping his clothes off but then he loved it. It was the one thing he had been dreaming of since the day heid his eyes on her.


    ¡°Please help me.¡± Her plea was enough to drive him crazy.


    As he took over cing her on the bed, he knew what they were doing was wrong but he couldn¡¯t talk himself out of it. At that moment all he wanted was to make her his.


    Tossing her through the night, he had nned to talk to her about their wild night and confess his feelings in the morning but she snuck out.


    He heard when she woke up but choose not to stop her nning to look for her and talk about what had happened.


    After not seeing her on campus for days, he went to the usual park to look for her but she had disappeared into thin air. Her college mate had not seen her either since that weekend. The day he nned to look for her in her apartment, he got a call from his dad. His mother was in bad health and she needed to see him urgently. Leaving for abroad, he assigned some of his best bodyguards to look for her but she was nowhere to be found, until when her picture and location were ced in front of him as a person of interest in a case they were investigating.


    He had to do everything he could to keep her close when he found her again after all those years. He nned out every step to lure her in, which had worked perfectly. Now all he needed was time to make her fall in love with him.


    Lying in bed Mark smiled thenughed out loud. Melissa was upset he didn¡¯te home. Which meant she must have been waiting for himst night.


    ¡°Wow, she must love me. How did I not see that?¡± He asked himself out loud.


    Sitting up, he took his phone and dialed her number.

 Mark鈥檚 office

    ¡°Are you going to answer that?¡± Nancy found Melissa staring at her ringing phone when she got to the office.


    ¡°It¡¯s no one important.¡± Melissa sat up putting the phone back in her bag.


    ¡°If you say so, but that person is rather persistent. That phone has been ringing severally, you should answer if you don¡¯t want that person to form a search party to for you.¡± Nancy stated eyeing her bag as the phone rang again.


    ¡°It¡¯s no one.¡± Melissa insisted putting the phone on silent.


    ¡°Back to business. A client is remodeling their house and they asked for you, to be their designer.¡± Nancy stated handing her a folder with the clientele¡¯s information.


    ¡°Why would they ask for me, I thought you and Jenifer were handling this?¡± She asked skimming through the documents.


    ¡°We were but not anymore, they specifically asked for you. The meeting is in half an hour, but no worries thepany van will take you to the meeting ce. Everything you need to know about the client is in the folder, go brake a leg gal.¡± She slightly tapped the table then went to her desk.


    ¡°You should have given me more time to study this first.¡± Melissained as she packed and cleared her desk.


    She used the short time in the vehicle on the way to the hotel to study the important requirements in the folder. The client was changing the whole house both the interior and thendscape. She had to make a proposal that will marry the two. The client was a young newlywed gifted the house by their grandparents.


    ¡°Godfather.¡± She ran into Mr. Steven apanied by Mr. Crack. Her father¡¯s former ountant who now worked for the Stevens.


    ¡°Hello, Melissa.¡± Mr. Steven greeted her.


    ¡°How have you been? When did you get back to the city? Last I heard you live in the province with your aunt.¡± Mr. Crack asked.


    ¡°Ie back weeks ago.¡±


    ¡°We are runningte for our meeting, you shoulde home for lunch sometime, your godmother would love that.¡± Mr. Steven urged Mr. Crack to leave. He didn¡¯t want any conversation between them.


    Melissa sat at the table, sipping tea as she waited for her client. Mr. Crack¡¯s behavior just now befuddled her. She had called the number she got from her father¡¯s former secretary but never got an answer. Melissa even called at the Steelspany, but his secretary informed her that he didn¡¯t have time to meet with her. Meeting him now he acted as though he had no idea of her calls, or maybe he was acting disingenuous.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    He took care of all the finances in her father¡¯spany. Having worked for him for years, he had all the financial records. She had to find a way to meet him privately away from the Stevens. Getting to him would help her investigation a great deal.


    Her client showed up fifteen minuteste, giving her time to formte her work n which they agreed to. They were both young in their 20s, nning to shake things a bit in the old house. Maintaining the original n but modernizing it at the same time. They made some changes and once satisfied they set a date to meet at the location to start working.


    Leaving the hotel she expected thepany van to pick her up but found Adam waiting at the entrance. She had not asked him to pick her up nor had she informed him of her location since her phone was turned off.


    After embarrassing herself in the morning she hoped not to run into Mark for some days. She was acting like an insecure wife and all she was, was a hired wife to be.


    Busy with her work she didn¡¯t realize when the vehicle took a turn from her work street until they stopped in front of a tall building.


    ¡°This is not my workce.¡± She told Adam who pointed out the window at the big sign, with a smile on his face. ¡°Johnson¡¯s group, why did you bring me here?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Johnson asked me to bring you here, he is waiting in his office.¡± Adams got off the car and opened the back door for Melissa.


    This was the second time walking into the building. Standing in front of the skyscraper she remembered the first time she came to this ce with her father. He hade to submit a tender proposal. Mr. White needed a transportpany to associate with.


    Working with the Johnson¡¯s would put her father¡¯spany name in the market. Back then the Johnsonpany was not as big as it was now and her father was just starting his transportpany.


    The eight year old Melissa always clung to her dad, following him to work and all the social events he attended never leaving his side. That day while her father was talking to the receptionist, she looked around and through the ss windows she saw a boy ying in one of the offices. Letting go of her father¡¯s hand, she walked to the window and watched him keenly. He had the most expensive toys she wished to y with. About to go in and say hello to him, her dad stopped her reprimanding her for wandering off.


    ¡°Ms. White, sorry for keeping you waiting. I¡¯m Mr. Johnson¡¯s secretary, pleasee with me.¡± The youngdy before her introducing herself as Mark¡¯s secretary, brought her back to her senses. She was a gorgeous petite youngdy.


    ¡°Hello! Thank you.¡± Melissa responded politely wondering why Mark had asked for her.


    ¡°This way ma¡¯am.¡± Smiling, the secretary led Melissa into the building.


    They walked past the reception to the CEO¡¯s private elevator as all the employees on that floor looked at her. Probably wondering who she was to be received by the CEO¡¯s secretary and use his private elevator.


    All the eyes on her made Melissa feel self-conscious making her clutch her handbag tightly as the elevator doors closed.


    She was dressed in her usual simple gray office suit, looking ordinary. But at that moment she wished she had made her hair or changed her clothes beforeing to this high end office as everyone kept staring at her from head to toe.


    Nevertheless, she held a chin high smiling at the secretary beside her as the elevator went up.


    Up to the eighteenth floor. With the heels clicking against the white tiled floor, Melissa walked closely behind the youngdy. The floor had two offices and the secretary¡¯s desk. Walking past the desk, the walked to the office that upied thergest space.


    With the window blind down and the door closed, no one could know what was going on inside Mark¡¯s office.


    As the secretary opened the office door, Melissa stood behind her. Looking over her shoulder, she saw Mark holding Sasha¡¯s arm as she tried to get close to him. Going for his tie with a seductive smile on her face.

 Dinner at the roof top

    Noticing thedy in Mark¡¯s arms, Melissa took a step back. Sasha was wearing a short cringing dress and heels that made her stand face to face with him.


    ¡°Oh! Sorry sir. I didn¡¯t know you havepany. Ms. White is here, should I take her to the waiting room?¡± Hearing the secretary¡¯s words, Mark pushed Sasha away making her stagger before regaining her bnce.


    ¡°No, she is on her way out. Come in Melissa.¡± When Mark dismissed her, Sasha looked at the secretary sternly eyes narrower with a frown on her face.


    Seeing them together, Melissa held her bag tightly with both hands to stop herself from running out of the office.


    ¡®You¡¯re just his employee, not his lover so don¡¯t act jealous Melissa.¡¯ She said in her heart several times before walking into the office.


    ¡°Mark!¡± Turning his back on Sasha he looked at Melissa. He was trying to get rid of Sasha when they walked in, now he was anxious she might misinterpret and turn him down.


    Sasha adjusted her dress, turned around looked at Melissa with eyebrows pulled down as her mouth quivered. She stood a few steps from her biting her lower lip, taking her bag she intentionally bumped into Melissa as she left the office walking gracefully swaying her hips.


    Bowing her head for the hundredth time, the secretary apologized as she closed the office door leaving Melissa and Mark staring at each other.


    The silence was broken by the ringing phone on his desk.


    ¡°Sorry for that, have a sit as I finish up.¡± He sat behind his desk to answer the phone as she sat on the couch reading a business magazine.


    A servicedy brought coffee and Melissa¡¯s favorite ginger cookies as instructed by Mark. Seated there she wish she had stormed off as her instincts told her to. Now she was stuffing her mouth with cookies to calm herself down acting as if finding Sasha in his arms did hurt her.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Watching her attack the cookies put a smile on his face, more so hoping she takes tonight¡¯s surprise positively. He knew she was surprised and furious to find Sasha, but he was grand she didn¡¯t run off.


    ¡°Sir everything is set.¡± The secretary informed him.


    ¡°Thank you, you can leave now.¡± He dismissed his secretary. ¡°Shall we?¡± He stood before Melissa offering his hand.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± She asked cing the magazine on the table.


    ¡°It¡¯s a surprise.¡± He held her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ve had enough surprises for one night.¡± She murmured.


    ¡°What?¡± He asked for rity.


    ¡°Nothing, let go. Can¡¯t wait to see what you have nned.¡±


    They went to the elevator that took them to the top floor that led to the rooftop. The sun had set leaving the dark night sky covered with bright dancing shining stars. A table for two was set before her with a bottle of champagne chilling and two wine sses on the table. The candles arranged on the floor lit the way and some hanging around made the cool night feel warm and inviting.


    ¡°Wow.¡± Everything was well arranged, from the candles to the red rose petals. She had never thought of Mark as a romantic, his secretary must have prepared everything but the idea of him having this prepared for her made her fall in love with him more. ¡°This, wow it¡¯s breathtaking.¡± He loved how her face lit up, eyebrows raised as she looked around.


    For the first time in a long time, he saw that gorgeousdy he always watched at the park ying with spark. Her face lit up every time a spark brought her a rose flower just like it did. He walked to the table and opened the champagne. Poured the two sses handing her one while she looked up at the sky.


    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful.¡± She said looking at the stars.


    ¡°Breathtaking.¡± He smiled looking at her smooth face. ¡°I¡¯m grand you didn¡¯t run off after finding Sasha in the office.¡± He sipped his drink watching her reaction.


    ¡°I almost did but then I reminded myself that it¡¯s not my ce to get jealous. You have known each other for a long, I understand it¡¯s hard for her since you called off the engagement.¡± He was grand she understood their situation. Holding her hand, he walked her to the table giving her the single rose on the table as she sat down.


    Smelling the sweet rosy smell, she saw a shiny object inside. Curious she peeled the petals one after the other to see what was inside. Perplexed she held the seven carat diamond ring in her hands, mouth agape she looked at Mark who went down on one knee taking her hand in his.


    ¡°Melissa, I know you think this is an arranged marriage but to me, it¡¯s not. For the longest time have been looking for that special someone but from the moment my eyes fell on you, I knew you are the one for me. Melissa White, will you marry me?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, is this happing or I¡¯m I just dreaming?¡± She said fanning her face. ¡°Ouch, why did you pitch my hand?¡±


    ¡°To prove to you it¡¯s not a dream. I¡¯m getting impatient here, my knee hurts can I get that answer?¡±


    ¡°Come on can¡¯t you let a girl savor the moment, I need a minute to think.¡± She saidughing and enjoying the pitiful look on his face. Going down on her knees, she boldly kissed him on the lips. ¡°Yes, I will marry you.¡± Sliding the ring on her finger, he pulled her up holding her by the waist, and twirled her aroundughing out of their breath.


    Thepany staff uploaded as they walked out of the elevator congratting them.


    ¡°Congrattions.¡± Adam congratted them as he went to open the passenger door for her but Mark stopped him. Opening it himself.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± He took her hand in his kissing it passionately as he sat beside her. ¡°You told Adam about the proposal dinner?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I told a few people.¡± He said rising his shoulder helplessly. ¡°I needed advice on how to carry myself since have never proposed before.¡±


    ¡°I thought your secretary prepared everything. I loved the surprise but can I ask we keep this from the public?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± He tightened his hold, afraid she may change her mind.


    ¡°Everyone knows Sasha is your fiancee and the big opening ceremony ising up, I don¡¯t want this to spoil the event or have a problem with your grandfather. Most importantly, I don¡¯t want media following me around because of my work and investigation.¡±


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s not so hard. Grandfather was happy to see Tommy, he won¡¯t have a problem with us getting married.¡±


    ¡°Okay but what of your employees, they may leak to the media?¡±


    ¡°They have signed a nonverbal agreement, they can¡¯t disclose anything that happens in thepany.¡± He kissed her palm affectionately. ¡°I have to apany Sasha at the party though.¡± He looked at her inquisitively.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll be working most of the time, I know your grandfather asked you to, so humor him.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure you will be okay? Since she knows about us she may cause trouble for you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah it¡¯s okay, I can handle her myself.¡± She put her head on his shoulder trustingly, though she didn¡¯t like the idea of him spending the entire evening apanying Sasha, she didn¡¯t want to cause a fallout between him and his grandfather, especially on the important asion.

 The dream

    ¡°You can¡¯t drink anymore Ms Sasha.¡± She held the bottle tight pping her bodyguard¡¯s hand away when he tried to take it.


    ¡°I can drink as much as I want, get out of my face or I¡¯ll have you fired.¡± She waved her phone, gulping down the bear not caring how it left a burning sensation down her throat. She was not used to taking bear but at the moment she needed something to numb her feelings. Seating in a casino bar with her bodyguard standing beside her, she drank herself to oblivion just to forget the events of the day. For the first time, she had offered herself to a man only to be rejected and humiliated publicly. He had chosen a beggar¡¯s daughter over her.


    Her family had put so much trust in their union, but now she was not able to secure it which was disheartening. Since the day her grandfather told her about the nned marriage, she has been trying to catch Mark¡¯s attention never seeding but after a few weeks with the lowlife Melissa, he starts setting up romantic dinners for her in his office building.


    Growing up together, they were best of friends and her mother always told her she was the only one Mark was to marry for the two families to merge. In theirst high school year he took her to prom as his date. At the end of the night while drunk he said he liked her. Though he dated others over the years, she knew no one would take her ce as.


    Her friend who owned a cateringpany was contracted to n the dinner. On the phone, she congratted Sasha for making the mighty Mark Johnson smitten to prepare something so romantic thinking that the dinner was set up for her.


    She went to the office to try changing his mind about their engagement offering to let him have her however he wanted but he turned her down. When she finally got close to him insisting on having her way, the secretary stormed in, and just like that she was pushed away almost breaking her leg. She thought Melissa would leave after seeing them but she stood tall not batting an eyelid.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, you¡¯re disgracing yourself. When your father gets word of this, I¡¯ll surely lose my job.¡± Her bodyguard who was working for her father for years, took the fifth bottle from her grasp warning the waiter not to serve her anymore.


    ¡°Stop ruining my fun, one phone call and you will be out of your job.¡± She ranted scratching his hand with her long manicured nails trying to take the bear back.


    ¡°He is right, drinking your sense¡¯s off won¡¯t change the situation.¡± Thedy beside her said cing a cup of coffee before her. ¡°Drink this to sober up.¡± She insisted.


    ¡°Do I know you?¡± Sasha stared at the person beside her trying to discern where she had seen her before.


    ¡°You don¡¯t, but I know you well enough to tell you drinking is not a solution.¡± The bodyguard stood protectively before her as the casino guards surrounded them discretely. She waved at her bodyguard not to cause trouble.


    ¡°No need for rm as you can see I own this ce. Let¡¯s talk business¡± She walked her to a private room. ¡°Work with me, together we get rid of her so you can have Mark all to yourself.¡± Sitting on the sofa she took out a cigarette from the table indicating for one of the waiters to light it.


    ¡°Why would you want to help, what in it for you?¡± Sobering up she inquired.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like women who meddle in other people¡¯s rtionships.¡± She puffed out smoke from her mouth.


    ¡°I don¡¯t buy it, how do you know Melissa?¡± She leaned closer trying to understand her words.


    ¡°Let¡¯s say she is, no she was my very close friend, now this is what you have to do.¡± She whispered in her ear as the waiter and bodyguards left them to talk privately


    ¡­..


    Mark held Melissa close caressing her hair as they drove off. ¡°I¡¯ve made reservations, hope it¡¯s okay if we don¡¯t go home tonight.¡±


    ¡°What of Tommy? Wouldn¡¯t they get worried if we don¡¯t get back?¡± She asked looking up at his face.


    ¡°I informed Mary, she and aunt will take care of him tonight.¡± Staring deep into her eyes, he pulled her close as he joined his cold lips with her warm plump lips. Running his fingers in her hair he sucked her lower lip enjoying the low moan¡¯s asionally escaping from her lips. Kissing down her neck with her arms around his neck lost in ecstasy they forgot they were riding in a car until Adam knocked on the window indicating their arrival at the airstrip.


    Melissa stepped out of the car feeling embarrassed to look at Adam. They were boarding Mark¡¯s helicopter which was to fly them to their destination that he refused to disclose terming it as another surprise for the night. There was no security, just them both and the pilot flying out of the city.


    He asked the pilot to fly them around showing Melissa the aerial view of the city. The splendid night beauty and eventuallynding on a private ind.


    ¡°You own an ind?¡± She asked looking around as the helicopter ascended leaving behind a cloud of dust.


    ¡°Yes, how do you like your surprise?¡± He intertwined their fingers as they walked down the beach.


    ¡°I¡¯m speechless.¡± She took off her shoes.


    cing them aside, she stepped into the water. Feeling the cool water around her feet. This night was not expected, since she walked into the office she didn¡¯t have time to stop and think until now. She looked at her ring, feeling they were moving too fast she was afraid she couldn¡¯t keep up.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Putting his arm¡¯s around her from behind, Mark ced his head on her shoulder. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡± He asked turning her around to face him.


    ¡°My life has changed a lot since youe.¡± He touched her face, running his thumb along her lips.


    ¡°Are you happy?¡± He inquired watching her intently.


    She shook her head. ¡°Yes, very happy and scared at some times. I¡¯m scared this is not real. I want to marry you but I¡¯m afraid.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid.¡± He hugged her so tight she could hear his strong heartbeat. ¡°I¡¯ll always be here to take care of you.¡± He whispered in her ear. His heartbeat the waves and the cold sea water around her feet were like music on the secluded ind assuring her it was okay whatever she decides to do tonight.


    He tickled her yfully to lighten the mood making herugh so hard she had to lean forward to catch her breath. Coming down, he held her hand¡¯s in his facing her.


    ¡°I¡¯m grand your here with me. Seeing you so happy make¡¯s my wish I can freeze this moment to never end forever.¡± He kissed both her hands.


    ¡°Or never wake up, I love this ce. Thank you for bringing me here it¡¯s so beautiful.¡± They yed around for a while then walked to the house hand in hand.


    There was no one in the house other than them both but the house was clean. A fully stocked kitchen with freshly baked bread. He took two bottles of sparkling water from the fridge handing her one then walked her upstairs to the bedroom.


    Stopping at the door, he kissed her goodnight on the forehead. ¡°I will be in the next room, have a goodnight I will see you in the morning.¡±


    Melissa leaned on the closed door after walking into the massive bedroom. Watching him walk away hurt her a little. After the night they had she thought they could take things further but he just walked off.


    She sat on the bed looking at her reflection in the dressing mirror, drying her hair after showering wondering if he would change his mind and knock at her door. The night was magical, touching the ring on her finger confirmed it was real and not a figment of her imagination. Walking to the closet she found new women¡¯s lingeries some dresses and some of Mark¡¯s clothes. She changed into a night dress and got under the cover hugging the pillow that smelled like Mark she fell asleep instantly.


    That night she had a dream, walking into a church in a princess white dress with a vale over her face. Tommy walking in front of her with the wedding bands on a white cushion. As she walked down the aisle she saw Mark waiting patiently. Her mother and father were beside her smiling congratting them both.


    Mark sat on the bed in the guest room working on hisptop. Waiting, he hope Melissa woulde to him. He had prepared a romantic night for them but he didn¡¯t want to force her into anything she was not ready for. Unable to sleep he went through the financial report for hours. Feeling exhausted hey down briefly closing his eyes.

 Intoxicated

    The morning sun¡¯s rays warmed Melissa¡¯s face, waking her up. As she opened her eyes, she hoped to find the familiar face watching her. Lying on the bed next to her. Anxious, she scanned the room but realized he had note.


    Mark always woke her up whenever they slept in Tommy¡¯s room. Teasing her every time but not today.


    She got up feeling disappointed. Changed into a two piece bikini from the closet and went to the beach.


    When the sun got too hot, she went back to the house. Noticing that Mark was not up yet, she went to the kitchen and made some egg sandwiches for breakfast. Curious as to why he was not up, she reluctantly went to the room to check on him.


    She persistently knocked at the door but got no response.


    With a heavy sigh, she leaned her forehead on the door wondering where he had disappeared to.


    ¡°Morning sunshine.¡± He whispered in her ear, making her jump.


    ¡°Aah!¡± Melissa screamed, cing her hand on her chest.


    ¡°You startled me. I thought you were in the room sleeping.¡± She stated pointing at the closed door she was leaning on.


    ¡°I was in the other room changing my clothes.¡± He stood before her shirtless with a white short that reached his knees. As he sandwiched her between his bare chest and the door his pupils dted.


    She was wearing a bikini that made her chest look fuller and her curvaceous figure more pronounced under the flimsy sarong she had tied around her waist making him salivate.


    With him dangerously close, she ced her hands on his chest trying to push him off. As her palm made contact with his rippling muscles, a bolt of lightning ran down her spine making her shiver. Involuntarily she ran her tongue to moisturize her dry lips.


    Gazing from his broad lips, her eyes stopped staring into his, losing herself in them as she anxiously anticipated his next move.


    Subconsciously biting her lower lip, she ran her hands along his hot chest feeling his strong well defined abdominal muscles. Her heart rate was so high she swore he could hear its rhythm.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Closing her eyes, she moved from the door closer to him. Her lips slightly parted invitingly.


    Seeing her intoxicated with desire, made his heart beat wildly.


    Looking at her red shining glossy lips, made his lower body hurt as he restrained himself from taking her there and then.


    Drawing her closer, his lip corners pulled up with wrinkles around his eyes as he leaned his face close to hers.


    He had been waiting for her to give in for weeks. All night he waited but now as she stood before him ready for the taking, he decided to let her wait a little longer.


    ¡°I smell some egg, did you make breakfast?¡± With raised eyebrows he inquired, making her open her eyes as she moved back, dropping her hands. Sniffing around he turned heading down the stairs leaving dismayed Melissa still leaning at the door with her mouth pinched shut. ¡°Coming?¡± He stopped turning to ask her.


    She walked past him heading to the kitchen to pour herself a ss of juice, not sparing him a nce.


    At dawn, he had fallen asleep failing to make breakfast for her as he had nned, so he would woo her socks off. Sitting across from her, he loved how her mouth quirks in annoyance avoiding eye contact when upset, he had intentionally teased her just now to rattle her more so stopping himself from what he was about to do.


    He needed her to ept their rtionship before moving further which was bing hard especially when she wore a sexy bikini leaking sauce from her lips like she was. Using his thumb moving closer he wiped the corner of her mouth that her tongue had missed.


    Following the sweet spicy taste and the intoxication from his male hormones, Melissa sucked on his thumb. Closing her eyes, she enjoyed the spicy taste not realizing what she was doing to him.


    Getting from his chair, he picked her up. cing her on the kitchen ind, he sealed their lips hungrily.


    Putting her arms and legs around his body for support he carried her up to the bedroom ravishing her lips and running kisses along her neck.


    Not letting herself think or question what was happening, she moaned as their bodies joined into one. With her eyes closed she giggled as he pampered and lovingly caressed her like the great lover god he was.


    Kissing from her earlobe to her neck, he fondled her breast as he drove his hard cock inside her hot tight wet pussy.


    Her hands around his neck and her legs locking him in she listened to his deep rhythmic grunts. With every thrust, she felt her body fry high. higher past the clouds making her climax over and over until their sweat drenched bodies were too tired to move.


    Her eyes half open, she felt the water cool her body as he sat her in the bathtub. Sitting behind her he ran a soapy cloth down her fore arm as he washed them both.


    Later when she woke up, she was lying on his chest feeling contented.


    With the windows open and the breeze moving the curtain back and forth Melissa watched the orange light turn red as the sun dived into the sea. With a smile on his face, Mark brushed her hair watching her.


    ¡°I love you.¡± He confessed cing a light kiss in her hair.


    ¡°I love you too.¡± Eyes wide open Melissa covered her face with her hand when she realized she had just confessed her feelings to him for the first time.


    Turning her to face him, Mark kissed her on the lips. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Holding her tight, his hand moved down her body fondling her inner thighs making her crow in pleasure.


    Her hands around his neck, she traced his jawbone to his ear flickering behind his earlobe then sucking at it as they fell in ecstasy.


    Waking up alone in the dimly lit room, she beamed holding the pillow to her chest. Reflecting on all that had happened, she sniffed Mark¡¯s cologne loving every feel of it.


    Getting out of bed, Melissa took a shower to ease her sore muscles before going downstairs to look for him.


    As she descended the stairs, she heard movement in the kitchen apanied by sweet inviting aromas. Leaning on the door, hands folded over her chest, she watched him move around the kitchen briskly. Chopping vegetables while stirring the pot on the fire.


    ¡°Mmm¡­ you¡¯re awake.¡± He said tasting the soup on his palm. ¡°How long have you been standing there?¡±


    ¡°Long enough. I didn¡¯t know you could cook so well.¡± She walked to him tasting the soup from his palm. ¡°Wow, delicious.¡± She confirmed cing her hands on his chest.


    ¡°The soup or my palm?¡± He teased kissing her neck. ¡°Sit or you will spoil our dinner.¡± He said groaning as he turn from her to finish his cooking.


    ¡°I will set the table.¡± She suggested opening the kitchen drawer.


    ¡°No just sit, I¡¯ll be your chef for the night.¡± He stopped her, pulling a chair for her to sit on as he poured her a ss of wine. Kissing her on the cheek he went on with his cooking then served the food on a te for them to share.


    The next day was spent on the beach. The whole morning swimming in the cool salty sea water and at times running around carrying her on his back. He took her out to the open sea on his motorboat, teaching her how to dive in this favorite spot he liked to go to when needed to rx. Later that evening he took her to meet thedy who took care of the ce when not around before having them flown back to the city.


    Spending the two days on the ind was like reliving her childhood. Her mother loved the sea and every year on her mother¡¯s birthday, they would celebrate it on the coast.


    Feeling the sand grains between her toes, she shut everything out enjoying the time she spent together with Mark. Locking the sweet memories in her heart. asionally calling to check on her son, but with her aunt around she felt at ease.

 Family

    ¡°Mum, daddy!¡± As they stepped out of the car, Tommy ran over from the house to receive them.


    ¡°Tommy, Tommy I told you not to run to the car like that.¡± Out of breath, Jane came after him shouting. ¡°Sorry Mr. Johnson, Mrs. Johnson.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Jane.¡± Melissa smiled at her then at the little boy before them. ¡°Tommy you have to be more careful and listen to Jane always.¡± Melissa scolded him.


    ¡°Sorry, mum. I missed you and daddy.¡± Gazing up at them, his eyes turned red as his mouth quivered.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay son, we missed you so much too.¡± Mark raffled his hair. ¡°I got you lots of toys to y with. Do you want to see them?¡± Coaxing him, he carried him into the house.


    ¡°Where¡¯s everyone?¡± Walking into the empty quiet house, Melissa inquired.


    ¡°For the first time, Mary is not at the door to receive me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because they are preparing a surprise for you and mum.¡± Tommy squeaked getting down from his father¡¯s arms and ran to the backyard.


    ¡°They are in the garden.¡± Jane smiled directing them to the garden.


    Above the dinner table, there was a congrattions banner hanging overhead. Mary had organized every employee to prepare a meal to celebrate Mark and Melissa¡¯s engagement.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Wow! This is lovely, thank you.¡± Hand in hand they walked to the transformed garden.


    With a bright smile on her face, Melissa looked from all the employees pping cheerfully to the plentiful food.


    ¡°Wee, have a sit.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Jane. Sorry baby for scolding you earlier.¡± Melissa apologized helping Tommy Sit between her and Mark.


    ¡°Wee, when I heard about the engagement, I thought it was right to celebrate,¡± Mary exined handing them a ss of wine each.


    ¡°This is lovely thank you Mary and everyone for being here to celebrate with us.¡± Melissa said as they raised their sses to toast. ¡°We will set the wedding date soon.¡± She said answering the question in everyone¡¯s mind.


    ¡°So I will get a baby sister?¡± He asked his father.


    ¡°Yes, soon.¡± He smiled broadly looking at Melissa. ¡°Thank you Mary for setting this wonderful surprise.


    They sat at the round table enjoying the delicious sumptuous dinner they prepared. Making jokes and fun reminded her of the first night she spent in the vi. Everyone weed and epted her as part of the family, but looking at her aunt¡¯s bright face made her miss her mother more.


    ¡­.


    ¡°May Ie in?¡± She asked knocking at the door.


    ¡°Aunt, yese in.¡± Seated in front of the dressing mirror, Melissa was blow drying her hair.


    ¡°May I?¡± Melissa shook her head in agreement. Taking the blow dryer from her Betty stood behind Melissa helping dry her hair. ¡°Are you happy dear?¡± She asked looking at Melissa¡¯s reflection in the mirror.


    ¡°Yes aunt, I am very happy just wish mother was here.¡± She said touching her ne.


    ¡°She is always watching over you.¡± She said smiling remembering the good times she had with her sister.


    ¡°You always fell asleep whenever I touched your hair, you don¡¯t remember since you were a tiny baby then. Your mother always said I had a magical touch to make you fall asleep.¡± Yawning, Melissa giggled.


    ¡°Guess she was right. Aunt, did you talk to mother before the ident?¡± She inquired cing the dryer back.


    With a heavy sigh, Betty sat beside her. ¡°No, we had not spoken in days. You know, though we often talked on the phone, your mother always made time to visit me in the province. Now that she is not here, I wish I didn¡¯t put so much distance between us.¡± She frowned reflecting on all her sister did for her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why but it crossed my mind that mother and father were having problems. On her birthday we were at the beach, like we always did but she was not happy. Whenever I asked what was wrong, she assured me everything was okay. Aunt, did she ever tell you anything? If she had any problems with father?¡± She asked turning to face Betty.


    ¡°No, she never mentioned anything. If they had problems she would have shared with me. Your father loved my sister so much. He would never intentionally hurt her.¡± She said smiling.


    ¡°How did they meet? I never got to ask.¡± Inquired Melissa.


    ¡°It was such a coincidence.¡± She closed her eyes remembering that afternoon.


    ¡°Us three my sister, Diana¡¯s mum, and I lived together with your mother¡¯s support. Her job could not cater for all the expenses since she was paying for my college tuition. On that day, we went to the supermarket for some glossary. Lydia, Diana¡¯s mother, admired some cosmetics that were on sale but she couldn¡¯t afford them. Nor did my sister have enough money to pay for them. On our way out of the store, the security man stopped us, asking to check our bags. We had no idea what was going on until they took the cosmetics we had not paid for from our bag. Lydia had sneaked it without our knowledge.¡±


    ¡°Surprisingly I didn¡¯t think godmother would do something like that.¡±


    ¡°She used to get into so much trouble but changed when she got married to Diana¡¯s father.¡±


    ¡°So how did you pay for the item?¡±


    ¡°We tried. Begging them not to call the police we emptied our pockets but the money was not enough. Luckily a man walking into the store. When he saw our predicament, he offered to pay the bill. Grateful for his help, we asked how we could thank him since we didn¡¯t have money to repay but all he asked for was for my sister to join him for a meal. That my dear was how your parents got to know each other.¡±


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s romantic. dad was her hero.¡±


    ¡°Yes he was. I¡¯m off to bed now, it¡¯s gettingte. Don¡¯t think too much about what might have happened honey. Your parents loved you so much.¡± She kissed her goodnight then taped her back,


    ¡°Goodnight aunt.¡± After her aunt left the room Melissa went through the adjacent door to check on Tommy.


    Walking into the room, she heardughter and running water directing her to the bathroom. Stopping at the doorway, Melissa watched Tommy giggle sshing water at his father. Smiling, she went to the closet to get his pajamas, not interrupting their ytime.


    After the shower she helped him dress, tucking him in bed as his father got a storybook from the shelf. As Tommy fell asleep, he clung onto his mother¡¯s arm forcing her to sleep beside him.


    With the mother and son sleeping soundly, Mark got up, stared at them briefly before leaving the room.


    ¡­.


    At the meeting ce, Mark found James and his two best friends Jason and Andrew waiting. They were secretly working with the government to end illegal organizations in the city.


    ¡°So Mark, did you confess your feelings?¡± Robert inquired, joining them at the round table.


    ¡°No, I couldn¡¯t just walk in and tell her. You know what, I¡¯ve been in love with you forever.¡±


    ¡°So what did you do to convince her to go with you to the ind?¡± Andrew asked.


    ¡°He proposed an intimate diner with candlelights and flowers. Going on one knee like that, she didn¡¯t stand a chance of saying no to him. I just sent you the video.¡± James told them, cing his phone back in his pocket.


    ¡°Wow! man this is great, so romantic didn¡¯t know you had it in you, congrattions.¡± Andrewplimented hugging him after watching the video on his phone.


    ¡°You secretly installed a camera to spy on my engagement?¡± Mark inquired, taking Robert¡¯s phone.


    ¡°Sorry man, we had to document this.¡± James bowed whileughing.


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll use this idea to propose too.¡± Jason said.


    ¡°Who are you proposing to? You never stick with one woman for more than two months.¡± Andrew questioned.


    ¡°Speak for yourself Andrew, I¡¯m a changed man looking for my one true love like Mark did.¡±


    ¡°Is grandfather okay with it? I know how much he wants Sasha to be your wife.¡± Robert asked Mark, ignoring the two.


    ¡°Grandfather will do anything his great grandson asks for. The important thing to him right now is getting an heir to take over when I¡¯m old.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha ha that grandfather Johnson for you. He asked me when I¡¯ll get myself involved in thepany, which has never closed my mind. I love my job, you know working in the army has always been my dream.¡± Robert said.


    ¡°Soon enough you have to take over from Uncle Richard.¡± James told him. Though he worked as Mark¡¯s assistant, he also worked with Mr. Richard, sending him the monthly reports whenever his wife couldn¡¯t personally oversee them.


    ¡°So Mark, when is the wedding?¡± Jason inquired, changing the conversation.


    ¡°Melissa wants the engagement kept secret for now so we are holding off the wedding for now.¡±


    ¡°You can get your marriage license registered first then have the weddingter.¡± Everyone agreed with Jason encouraging Mark to have the marriage at the civil court.


    ¡°Getting back to the day¡¯s issue. What do we have on the Stevens?¡± Andrew asked for hisptop.


    ¡°For now we have nothing, I asked our informant toy low when they got suspicious after the police raided the warehouse.¡± James said, checking hisptop.


    ¡°We have to get enough evidence to end their drug business. I heard there is a new drug being introduced in the market.¡± Andrew turned to Mark. ¡°Has he given you more information?¡± He inquired.


    ¡°Not yet. James do contact him, we need to set up a meeting soon.¡±


    ¡°I got someone secretly following him, though it¡¯s quite hard to track him down, I found out he has somepanies overseas. Looking at the background it seems they were not legally established.¡± He sent them emails about the interviews with some former employees.


    ¡°So he was into trafficking.¡± Jason said going through the interviews.


    ¡°He¡¯s using me to get rid of hispetitors.¡± Mark pped the table.


    ¡°If so, why ask you to protect Melissa? Did you find any information about Mr. White?¡± Robert asked.


    Shaking his head, James told them how hard it was digging for information about Mr. White. All he had was information about hispany and family but nothing about him before he established the Whites transportpany.


    ¡°What will happen if Melissa is in a way involved in this? Will it affect your rtionship?¡± Jason at Mark keenly.


    ¡°I will not let anything get between us. We will send more men following him, we have to find everything we can about his meeting with Mr. White. James gets someone who works closely with the Stevens, someone they trust.¡± Mark said ending the meeting.

 Lovely couple

    Melissa slipped the ring into her ne hiding it under her shirt as she walked into the office. Mark had left the room sometime in the night. Hoping to see him in the morning, she got up early but he was not in the house and he had not called.


    Saying hello to her officemate, she sat on her desk chair checking the pending work she had. Opening her drawer she got a red rose flower and a heart shaped card.


    ¡®Morning sunshine, only you can make me smile through this boring meeting.¡¯


    Sniffing the card, she smelled the familiar cologne bringing a smile to her face. Though the card had no name on it, Melissa knew who had ced it there.


    She missed him as much.


    Biting her lower lip, she nced at the twodies but no one paid much attention to her.


    ¡®Must have sent someone to deliver the card.¡¯ She thought but neither of them seemed to have any idea.


    ¡°Got the card.¡±  When she messaged to thank him for the card he declined to share how he got the card to her office.


    ¡°Girls, I¡¯m buying lunch today.¡± Jenifer announced, waving her hand as they were preparing to leave.


    ¡°Taking us somewhere special to celebrate?¡± Nancy questioned her eyes glued on herptop screen.


    ¡°Yeah, for a special asion.¡± Jenifer emphasized cing her hand on Nancy¡¯s desk to get her attention.


    ¡°Aah! wow congrattion, you got engaged.¡± Nancy jumped when she saw the ring on Jenifer¡¯s finger.


    ¡°Goodness Nancy don¡¯t scream like that, you almost made me jump out of my skin.¡± Melissa eximed cing her hand on her chest. Touching her ring, reminded her of her engagement but she was not ready to tell them yet. They hugged Jenifer congratting her.


    ¡°Wow! Look at how it sparkles. When is the wedding? I have to be one of the bridesmaids.¡± Nancy asked touching the ring.


    ¡°In a month and you two will be my maid of honor.¡± Jenifer assured them.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Why so soon? We won¡¯t have enough time to arrange everything.¡± Melissa asked.


    ¡°My fiance is leaving the country and he wants us to get married first.¡±


    ¡°He is afraid to lose you. Huh! Why can¡¯t I get someone like that? To sweep me off my feet.¡± Nancy said leaning on her desk and cing her cheek on her hand.


    ¡°The ring is so beautiful, has a gift, Nancy and I will pay for lunch.¡± Melissa offered to read the invitation card Jenifer gave her.


    ¡°What, she offered to take us for lunch why do we have to pay?¡± Nancyined taking her bag.


    They hired a taxi to take them for lunch. Driving off from the office building to the hotel, Melissa saw the questioning look on one of the bodyguard¡¯s faces as he spoke on the phone. They had not been introduced but Adams had told her who they were when she saw them at the vi.


    ¡°Is that car following us?¡± Nancy inquired looking back as they drove off the busy highway.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t think so.¡± Melissa said putting her off.


    ¡°Slow down let¡¯s see if they will stop.¡± Jenifer told the taxi driver. She also had seen the car take off when they were leaving. The car drove past them without slowing down. Just then Melissa got a message from Mark, asking where they were ending to.


    After a few minutes in the hotel, Nancy looked agitated and unsettled staring at the man seated a table away from them.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Nancy?¡± Melissa asked after noticing her weird behavior.


    ¡°Is that man following us? I¡¯ve seen him park his car across the street from our office several times and I saw him when that car drove past us earlier. Wait, I¡¯ll go confront him. Find out what he is after.¡±


    ¡°Nancy wait.¡± Melissa tried to stop her.


    ¡°Let her be, once she gets an idea in her head you can¡¯t stop her.¡± Jenifer stopped Melissa from going after Nancy.


    ¡°But we are in a public ce, she can¡¯t go using people like that.¡± Melissa worried they would find out.


    ¡°She wants a reason to speak to him, just watch.¡±


    They watched Nancy walk over, she tapped the table making the man look up. He was tall and well built from an intense workout wearing a well tailored ck suit with a white shirt. Taking off his dark sses he smiled, gesturing for her to take a seat beside him at the table. Shaking her head, Nancy declined. Threatening to report him to the police if he didn¡¯t stop following them, she turned back to the table. Then stopped her gaze trailed to the entrance.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Melissa gushed ncing at the entrance.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Jenifer asked, turning to look in the direction she was.


    Melissa had informed Mark of the restaurant they were heading to, to stop him from worrying and sending more security men after her. Now there he was standing at the hotel entrance with James beside him. He scanned the room, his eyes settling on Melissa. With a smile on his face, he turned to the bodyguard.


    ¡°Sir¡± Surprised, the young man stood up to receive them, directing them to the table.


    The manager rushed to wee them as the customers looked to see who the important guest was. It was not likely for someone with Mark¡¯s status to dine in the restaurant. Having him leave apliment about the hotel would improve their business greatly.


    ¡°Mr. Johnson! Sir, do you remember me? I¡¯m Nancy.¡± Nancy shook his hand looking from the stranger she was confronting to Mark. Mark asked them to sit as he and James joined at the table. ¡°Thank you for inviting me sir, I¡¯m here with my two friends can they join?¡± She inquired pointing at the table Melissa and Jenifer were at. After getting his consent she waved them to get over.


    ¡°Ms should we serve the wine?¡± The waiter asked Jenifer when they moved to Nancy¡¯s table.


    ¡°Yes, thank you.¡± She told the waiter who served them as they made their order. The manager directed for the most expensive wine different from what Jenifer had ordered to be served.


    ¡°What are we toasting to?¡± James asked raising the ss.


    ¡°We are celebrating Jenifer¡¯s engagement.¡± Nancy responded enthusiastically.


    They clinked the sses together cheering. ¡°Congrattions Jenifer. when is the wedding?¡± Mark asked taking a sip.


    Responding, she took out an invitation card from her bag. ¡°A month from now sir, you are invited.¡± she handed him the card.


    ¡°Thank you, I will make a note to show up at the wedding. My secretary will send an early gift to your office from me and my fiancee.¡± He said looking at Melissa over the rim of the ss.


    ¡°Thank you so much, sir.¡± He stopped her when she got up to go knee before him. ¡°Sir please send my regards to your fiancee for me, again thank you, sir.¡± She said bowing.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure she receives it.¡± He looked at Melissa who was busy with her food avoiding eye contact. ¡°Ms white right? You are awfully quiet. I don¡¯t see a ring, thought you¡¯re married.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She was lost, savoring her food¡¯s spicy taste. Reminding her of the time they spent on the ind with him.


    ¡°Oh no sir she is not, I don¡¯t think she is even dating. She spends so much time in the office,¡± Nancy interjected. ¡°.. ouch.¡± She winched in pain when Melissa stepped on her foot under the table.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± He questioned raising his eyebrows.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind what she says, she is too excited.¡± Melissa said. Jenifer smiled seeing Melissa try to stop Nancy.


    ¡°Nancy is right. Too bad you are engaged, sir. you two would make a lovely couple.¡± Jenifer winked at Melissa, making her choke on the food she was swallowing.


    Mark gave her a ss of water to ease her Cough. ¡°Sorry, guess the food is too spicy.¡± Nancy patted her backforting her.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, thank you.¡± She said wiping her mouth.


    ¡°Too bad, ha ha ha sorry.¡± Said Jamesughing, teasing Mark. Out of the work environment they were best friends, James often teasing him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think she would mind a littlepetition.¡± Mark said cutting his stake.


    ¡°Sure she would mind especially if she catches you ttering with other women.¡± Melissa said cing her ss on the table.


    ¡°You think so? Hmm! Then I should stop ¡± Mark said, gazing deep into her eyes.


    ¡°Surely you should.¡± She agreed, averting her gaze, breaking eye contact. ¡°We have to get back to the office, our lunch break is over.¡± She said turning to the waiter to get the bill.


    ¡°Don¡¯t, I¡¯ll pay.¡± Mark offered, handing the waiter his credit card.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    After the meal, he offered to take them back to the office.


    In the limousine, Melissa sat beside him as the twody¡¯s sat silently on the opposite side and James joined the chauffeur. To avoid making any conversation Melissa kept herself busy looking out of the window while Mark concentrated on some office work. Going through the documents he asionally looked at her from the corner of his eyes.


    ¡°I will catch up with you, It seems I dropped my name tag in the car.¡± Melissa told them reading the message on her phone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be long.¡±


    Holding, she went back leaving Nancy and Jenifer to get to the office.


    ¡°She¡¯s making an excuse to see Mr. Johnson privately.¡± Melissa heard Nancy tell Jenifer as the elevator doors closed.


    They had dropped them off at the building entrance but the message she got directed her to the private car park. James opened the car door when she got there as he and the driver stepped out.

 The signed note

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Getting in the car, she questioned Mark when he held her to sit on hisp.


    ¡°I missed you.¡± He said trailing kisses along her neck.


    ¡°Mark stop, I have to get back to work. My friends will get suspicious.¡± She giggled trying to get up pushing him away. ¡°There are people outside Mark, please stop.¡± She pleaded, ncing out of the window. James and the driver were a few feet from the car.


    ¡°Okay, one kiss. Then I¡¯ll let you go back to work.¡± He persuaded her, running his hand in her hair massaging her scalp as he ced the other hand under her skirt. Folding her inner thighs, he moved up making her quiver as she patted her legs for him.


    ¡°Mm!¡± moaning, she kissed his cheek yfully. ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± She bit her lower lip while running her hand over his chest.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Not quite.¡± He groaned, pulling her close to feel the effect she had on him.


    Gazing deep into his eyes she parted her lips invitingly as she put her arms around his neck, straddling him. Fumbling with their clothes, he lifted her, positioning her on top as he drove in.


    ¡°Mmm- ahh aaahh!¡± Closing her eyes, she moaned as he guided her along.


    ¡°Love you..¡± Breathless he whispered trailing kisses down her neck.


    ¡°You¡¯re so bad. I can¡¯t believe you made me do this.¡± Panting, sheined, hiding her face on his shoulder.


    ¡°Ha ha!¡± Heughed, blushing the strand of hair from her face.


    ¡°You¡¯reughing at me, huh!¡± Slowly she raised her head to gaze at him.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m just happy you¡¯re with me. Don¡¯t feel shy.¡± Holding her face in his palm he lightly kissed her red swollen lips.


    ¡°How will I get back to the office?¡± Looking out the window, she asked frantically buttoning her shirt.


    ¡°No one is around.¡± He murmured, pulling her back in his arms. ¡°James went back to the office and the driver will get back only when I call him. So don¡¯t worry our secret is safe.¡±


    ¡°Stop, I need to go.¡± Giggling as he ced wet kisses down her neck, she pushed him back.


    ¡°Okay!¡±


    Dropping his hands from her waist, he let her go.


    They dressed in a hurry.


    ¡°See you tonight.¡± Running her hands in his hair, he gave him a lingering kiss.


    Fifteen minutester she walked back into the building straightening her clothes looking around to see if there was anyone in the parking lot.


    ¡°What?¡± Walking into the office, Melissa questioned Nancy who sat staring at her.


    ¡°You surely took your time.¡± Nancy slurred twirling in her chair.


    ¡°I bumped into an old friend at the reception.¡± ncing at Jenifer, Melissa tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.


    ¡°I¡¯m not involving myself in your argument. I¡¯m waiting for Mr. Johnson¡¯s wedding gift.¡± Jenifer shook her head at Melissa fixing her gaze on the open door. ¡°What do you think he is going to give us?¡± She questioned ncing at Melissa.


    ¡°I have no idea. Why are you asking me?¡± The twodies looked at her, curiosity written all over their faces.


    Just then the receptionist called, asking Jenifer to get her message from the front desk.


    A few minutester she got to the office with a white envelope.


    ¡°Is that a gift from Mr. Johnson?¡± Nancy asked.


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s see what¡¯s inside.¡± Jenifer eagerly opened the envelope and a piece of paper fell.


    Picking it up, Melissa looked at her signature scribed on the piece of paper for a while. Earlier, Mark had asked her to sign the paper but he never said it was part of the gift offered to Jenifer. Now she had to prevent them from seeing it. She couldn¡¯t risk them finding out she was his fiancee.


    The note in her hand, she nced at them and before they saw it, she tacked the note in a file on the desk.


    He gave them two first ss ne tickets and a hotel reservation for their honeymoon.


    ¡°You have the honeymoon all set.¡± Nancy grinned while going through the hotel brochure. ¡°Love this resort. Look at all the activities there.¡± She showed it to Jenifer.


    ¡°Never expected this, the wedding is so rushed I didn¡¯t even n on having a honeymoon.¡± Her eyes sparkled as she grinned at Nancy.


    ¡°He is quite thoughtful, right? I¡¯ll get married soon too if these are the gifts people receive.¡± Nancy said feeling envious.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± Jenifer questioned, noticing how anxious she looked.


    ¡°Me? I¡¯m.. I¡¯m fine. Are you not leaving early to get your dresses for tomorrow?¡± She inquired, trying to get them out of the office.


    ¡°Oh, I almost forgot. Jenny, I¡¯m hitching a ride with you.¡± Nancy rushed to get her things in order. ¡°Melissa aren¡¯t youing?¡±


    ¡°No, I have to finish up first.¡± She sat on her chair eyeing the folder hoping they would leave soon.


    ¡°Melissa, have you seen the note that was in the envelope?¡± Jenifer asked, checking the envelope and around the table again.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ve not seen any note. Was there a note?¡± Melissa responded looking at the folder.


    ¡°Jenny, we have to go. I can¡¯t afford to miss my appointment.¡± Standing at the doorway, Nancy tapped her foot asionally checking her wristwatch.


    ¡°I need the note.¡± Jenifer bit her lower lip checking the envelope for the fourth time. ¡°Aston won¡¯t believe who paid for our honeymoon if I don¡¯t show it to him. Argh! where did I drop it?¡± She looked around her feet but found nothing.


    ¡°Look Jenny, go when I see the note I¡¯ll keep it safe for you or Nancy will go crazy if she misses her salon reservation.¡± Melissa urged her to leave hoping she would convince Mark to sign another note without her signature on it.


    Breathing a sigh of relief watching them leave the office, she walked to Nancy¡¯s desk to get the note.


    ¡°Hey, I forgot this.¡± As she neared the desk, Nancy hurriedly entered the office taking the folder before her.


    ¡°Are you going with the file?¡± She inquired watching her ready to leave.


    ¡°Yes, I need to get some information for my meeting tomorrow. Why? You look dismayed.¡± She asked, standing at the doorway.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing. See you tomorrow at the ceremony.¡± Melissa responded getting back to her desk.


    When they left, she sat there praying they didn¡¯t recognize the second set of signatures was hers. If they found out she was not honest with them then they will be disappointed and probably never trust her again.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Did you see how strange Melissa was acting just now?¡± Nancy asked Jenifer while buckling her seatbelt.


    ¡°Yes, she seemed awfully disturbed.¡± Jenifer replied, starting the engine. ¡°What with the file? Do you have a meeting today?¡± She inquired driving off.


    ¡°I need some client information for my meeting tomorrow morning.¡± Nancy exined opening the folder. A snowy white piece of paper fell as she went through the files. ¡°What is this?¡± Nancy asked picking it up.


    ¡°That¡¯s the note I was looking for. I was not crazy thinking I saw a signed note there. How did it get in your folder?¡±


    Nancy remembered seeing Melissa pick something up when Jenifer opened the envelope but she was too excited to bother. ¡°Wait, I think Melissa put it here.¡±


    ¡°Why would she? Yet she denied seeing any note.¡± Jenifer stated, concentrating on driving.


    Mouth agape eyes wide open, Nancy looked at the congrattions note. ¡°This.¡± She showed the signature to Jenifer. ¡°It¡¯s Melissa¡¯s signature! Why did she sign the note with Mr. Johnson?¡± She looked at Jenifer who didn¡¯t seem as surprised as she was. ¡°No, she can¡¯t be engaged to him, is she?¡± Nancy spoke, questioning herself.


    ¡°I suspected she was keeping something from us. Earlier today when I saw her step out from a car driven by one of Mr. Johnson¡¯s drivers, I confirmed it. But I never thought she was engaged to him.¡± Jenifer revealed, shaking her head.


    ¡°She chose to keep this all to herself? But why would she lie? I thought we were good friends. She made me look stupid suggesting she and Mr. Johnson should get together when they are already proposed.¡± Nancy clenched her fist in range.


    ¡°It¡¯s her private life, we can¡¯t fault her for not feelingfortable sharing with us, besides everyone including you believed that celebrity girl was his fiancee.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Nancy said in realization. ¡°That Sasha will have a fit when she finds out. I get why Melissa would keep it a secret but I¡¯m not talking to her again until she apologizes for humiliating me.¡± Nancy pouted her mouth looking out the window.


    Packing at the mall, Jenifer sighed taking her congrattions note then ncing at her dramatic friend.

 A surprise

    Her hair in a smooth beautiful bun, looking like a fairytale princess, Melissa gracefully stepped into the ballroom. Dressed in an off shoulder white bodycon long sleeved dress that kissed the floor.


    Nodding at the employees finishing up, she clutched the small ck bag in her hands. The crunchy bag matched her strapped heels which often picked through her long slit. And with every step she took, her smooth legs showed, leaving many drooling.


    Whenever she turned her head, the dangling diamond shaped earrings glittered catching everyone¡¯s eyes. As the ring on her finger that she had forgotten to take off left many wondering.


    ¡°Make sure the catering team is all set. We need all our guests to be well amodated.¡± Conversing with the organizer in charge, Melissa didn¡¯t notice the person walking towards her until she felt a tap on her shoulder.


    ¡°Lisa!¡± Turning to see who was behind her, she eximed then covered her mouth as all eyes turned to her. ¡°Goodness, what are you doing here?¡± She inquired, wrapping her arms around Lisa¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°Wow Melissa, you look divine. When you walked in, it took me a while to realize who the moon goddess was.¡± Lisa saidplimenting her looks.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tter me, Lisa. But seriously, what are you doing here? You didn¡¯t even inform me you wereing to the city. I would have picked you up.¡± She took Lisa by the hand directing her to a private corner to talk.


    Stopping, she turned to thedy she was conversing with. ¡°This finishing touch is better than I imagined dear. The guest will arrive anytime now please have everyone in position.¡± Melissa instructed.


    Since it was her project, she was tasked with overseeing the ceremony preparation.


    ¡°Well, I couldn¡¯t call. I wanted to surprise you. The manager got me a job here when I requested it. The Johnsons group is purchasing the hotel back home.¡± Lisa exined when they stopped at a cocktail table in a corner.


    ¡°Is that so? I had no idea.¡± Melissa stated as Lisa nodded. ¡°How is everyone at home? I¡¯ve been so busy I hardly got time to visit.¡± Since she got Tommy, she had not called or visited the ce.


    ¡°Everyone at home is doing great. Though mother was worried when I decided toe, she agreed knowing you will be here.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ll take care of you.¡± She raised her brows causing them both to giggle.


    ¡°You better.¡±


    ¡°Where are you staying?¡± Melissa inquired, taking a ss of wine from a waiter passing by.


    ¡°The hotel organized a temporary ce for me to stay as I settle down.¡±


    ¡°You can live in my apartment. I will have it cleaned then you can move in within the week. But in the meantime, you stay in the vi.¡± She offered.


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to. The hotel arrangement is fine.¡±


    ¡°I insist and I won¡¯t take no for an answer.


    ¡°Thank you, I¡¯m grateful to Mr. Johnson too, for giving me this job. How is my little boy Tommy?¡± Lisa smiled while taking a sip from her ss.¡±


    ¡°He is doing okay now. I enrolled him back to school, though he has nightmares at times.¡± She showed her Tommy¡¯s picture in his school uniform.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m d he is well and you¡¯re happy.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Melissa smiled, touching Lisa¡¯s hand. ¡°Why did you leave the province? Be honest with me Lisa. Did something happen?¡± Noticing the sadness in her eyes, Melissa couldn¡¯t stop asking


    Melissa¡¯s persistent inquiry reminded her of the pain she tried so much to forget.


    Realizing the man she was nning to marry was already married with two children, shattered her world.


    Melissa had warned her about him but she didn¡¯t listen.


    Every month when he went away for two weeks on business, she never suspected him. Until she got to his house one evening to prepare a surprise meal for him.


    Standing at his doorstep, a woman with a two years old baby girl in her arms and an older boy behind her, opened the door before she could use her key. For a while, Lisa stood there not able to respond to thedy¡¯s questions. When she got her senses back, she made up a story about being one of his workmates checking if he was home.


    Whenever she thought about his response when she confronted him tears filled her eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story. Look, the guests are arriving. We will talk some other time when I¡¯m not working.¡± Blinking her eyes she stared at the entrance avoiding Melissa¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Those are my workmates.¡± Raising her hand to the twodies walking in, Melissa waved them over.


    ¡°Wow! This city life is favorable to you. You are already engaged?¡± Lisa noticed the ring when Melissa waved her hand and then looked at the diamond earrings.


    ¡°Yes, we got engaged a few days ago but we are keeping it a secret for now.¡±


    ¡°To whom, Mr. Johnson? Congrattions.¡±


    ¡°Shh, you can¡¯t tell anyone about this.¡± She murmured, almost covering Lisa¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Ahem!¡± Arms crossed over her chest, Nancy cleared her throat standing behind them. ¡°I was hoping it¡¯s not true?¡± She sneered looking at the ring.

 The dress

    ¡°You saw the note? I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you.¡± Melissa apologized knowing how upset they would be with her.


    ¡°You made me look ridiculous. Suggesting to have the two of you hook up, yet you were tumbling under the covers all along.¡± Nancy took a ss of wine, washing it all down in one go to calm herself down.


    ¡°Ha ha tumbling.¡± Lisa mumbled as Nancy kept a straight face when theyughed at her choice of words.


    ¡°We were not at the time. He just proposed a few days ago.¡± She told them about their first meeting, having a son and how he proposed.


    ¡°Oh wow, how romantic? Your rtionship is like a fairytale.¡± Nancy bit the corner of her lower lip, her eyes fixed on Melissa¡¯s ring.


    ¡°Now do you forgive me?¡±


    ¡°How can I stay mad at you?¡± Nancy raised her arms for a hug. ¡°Oh, no hugs today. It will spoil my makeup.¡± Changing her mind, she dropped her arms, stepping back.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you use cheap make-up that wears off with the least bit of excitement.¡± Jenifer spoke, staring at Nancy.


    ¡°I¡¯m a great designer, don¡¯t insult me.¡± Nancy drawled, touching her face.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t introduce you two. This is Lisa, my friend from the province. Lisa, these are my coworkers and great friends, Nancy and Jenifer.¡± They exchanged greetings and shook hands.


    ¡°What is he doing with her?¡± Nancy asked looking at the entrance, making them turn to see who had walked in.


    Sasha walked down the red carpet with her chin held high, her arm hooked onto Mark¡¯s like a lifeline.


    Wearing a short purple sleeveless dress with white wedge sandals. She looked like fresh lilies blooming in the morning sun. Stopping for pictures, Sasha looped her arm in Mark¡¯s. As the reporters bombarded them with endless questions about their rumored wedding, Mark scanned the room.


    Not responding, he settled his gaze on Melissa.


    Smiling at her, he admired how beautiful and innocent she look in the dress. Though Sasha was beside him, he wished he could walk to her. Show the whole world the woman he was going to marry.


    Following Mark¡¯s line of vision, Sasha clenched her fists when she saw the admiration in his eyes as he stared at Melissa. In thepany of fourdies, Melissa was wearing the designer dress she thought was meant for her.


    Johnson¡¯s family designer was her good friend. When she saw the dress design in her sketchbook, she liked it and asked for the dress.


    When she was informed that it was Mark¡¯s order for his fiancee to be, she thought the dress was meant for her. But now she watched Melissa smile boastfully unting her curves in that dress.


    Walking beside Sasha, Mark weed the guests, asionally stopping for a quick word but his attention on Melissa was unwavering. He kept ncing at her and smiling from time to time not paying attention to the people around him. Glowing irritated, she excused herself when they stopped at their table joined by his friends.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get socent Melissa. I¡¯ll take everything back. Let the game begin.¡± With a smug smile on her face, Sasha spoke staring into the mirror.


    The chairman of the business association in attendance was impressed by the hotel¡¯s design. He asked to speak to the designer and a few momentster the manager walked back with Melissa by his side.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Walking over to the older man who had his hand outstretched to greet her, Melissa tripped falling forward.


    Closing her eyes, she braced herself for the embarrassment she would face. Landing on the warm chest, she smelled the familiar cologne.


    Mark was swift, he held her by the waist preventing her from falling on the chairman causing a stare from everyone around.


    With a cold look in her eyes, Sasha took a ss of wine and then slowly took a sip.


    As Melissa regained her bnce she turned to look at the person behind her to see who had tripped her.


    Having failed the first time, Sasha stepped back, bumping into the waiter behind her as she poured all her ss content on Melissa. Socking her face and the dress.


    ¡°Oh! I¡¯m so sorry. What a mess, these waiters don¡¯t watch where they¡¯re going. I¡¯m so sorry.¡± Apologizing profusely, Sasha used her handkerchief to wipe the red wine.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s just an ident. Excuse me, I¡¯ll go clean up.¡± Melissa assured trying to stop her from ruining her dress more.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Standing beside her, Mark inquired when he saw her winch as she tried to walk.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay honey. I¡¯ll take care of her.¡± Touching his hand that was on Melissa¡¯s back, Sasha smiled at Mark. ¡°I¡¯ll take her to clean up.¡± She informed him, guiding Melissa to the powder room.


    ¡°I can take care of myself, ma¡¯am. Thank you.¡± Stepping back she pulled her arm from Sasha¡¯s hold.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Her chin high, she sauntered enduring the pain in her ankle and the shame of walking out drenched.


    ¡°Ah!¡± She hissed, taking off her shoe to massage her swelling ankle.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Lisa, Nancy, and Jenifer rushed into the washroom.


    ¡°Are you okay? I feel like punching that Sasha. How could she do this?¡± Nancy thundered, clenching her fists.


    ¡°It was an ident Nancy, don¡¯t think too much about it. Ouch!¡± She winched when Lisa touched her foot.


    ¡°You have a sprain.¡± Lisa stated examining her foot.


    ¡°You also need a change of clothes. I have a dress in my car. Though it¡¯s not this elegant it¡¯s better than walking around in that stain.¡± Jenifer offered, giving her a sympathetic look.


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary.¡± Mark walked in with his assistant beside him carrying a dress and shoes for her.


    ¡°Oh!¡± They stepped back giving them privacy.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± cing a soft kiss on her lips, he crouched down to look at her foot. Touching it, he blew air on it then got a bottle from his pocket. Applying the cold cream on her ankle relieved the pain. ¡°Is it better?¡± He inquired massaging her ankle.


    ¡°Mhm!¡± She nodded gazing into his eyes.


    ¡°Get changed, then we can leave.¡± He held her hand helping her walk to one of the cubicles.


    ¡°No, we can¡¯t leave. The party is not over yet and you have to make a speech.¡± She insisted, walking in to change her dress.


    ¡°James will take care of that.¡± Just then his secretary came to inform him that the chairman and some board members needed to talk to him.


    Expecting Melissa to be so humiliated and embarrassed, Sasha was surprised to see her. She walked hand in hand with Mark shaking hands with his associates. Smiling at them like nothing had happened.

 The pictures

    After spending her day off watching her son y in the vi¡¯s field with his father, Melissa went to work.


    On arrival, as she walked into the building, everyone looked at their phones. Then whispered to each other ncing her way. Some who had never spoken to her walked over to greet her.


    She smiled and nodded at them thinking they were talking about the ceremony. Which had gone on for the whole weekend causing a buzz in the media.


    When she walked into her office, Nancy and Jenifer too were head deep in the newspaper. But tried to hide it when they saw her.


    ¡°What going on?¡± She asked, stopping in front of Jenifer¡¯s desk when she saw their unusual behavior.


    ¡°Melissa, hey we didn¡¯t hear youe in. Is your foot better?¡± Jenifer asked, covering the newspaper with herptop.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± She inquired again.


    ¡°Have you seen today¡¯s newspaper?¡± Nancy inquired, getting the newspaper from Jenifer.


    ¡°Nancy don¡¯t.¡± Jenifer tried to stop her but she paid no attention to her.


    The thing Melissa saw when Nancy opened the gossip column was her pictures all over the page. She sat down clenching the newspaper staring at it. The red stained dress and her drenched face were proof enough of everything said about her.


    Though there were reporters at the party. She didn¡¯t expect to see her pictures smeared all over the media with horrible stories written about her. Now she understood why Sasha had made her almost fall. Then poured the drink on her, disgracing her publicly. People calling her names was humiliating. More than walking out of a hall full of prominent guests.


    ¡­


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, did you see this?¡± The assistant handed Sasha her phone when she got to her office. ¡°It¡¯s been trending since morning.¡± She exined.


    ¡°Thank you, you can leave now.¡± She dismissed her sitting behind her desk.


    Melissa¡¯s picture was on every social tform.


    They used her of forcing herself on Mr. Johnson, Sasha¡¯s fiance. With a picture of her falling only for him to catch her, they tarnished her character. Calling her all sorts of names, showing how she went around dating wealthy men for financial gain.


    The dress and jewelry she wore at the party were estimated to be worth more than her one year sry. They wrote a story about how she had conned an older man to finance her expenses.


    ¡°Yes I saw it.¡± Sasha said to the person on the other side of the phone answering the call. ¡°Why did you have this published? Now the whole world knows about their rtionship and Mark will hate me for this.¡±


    ¡°You should be thanking me.¡± The person said. ¡°Imend you for the great show you put up.¡± The person on the other end praised, pping. ¡°Why don¡¯t you issue a statement, say that she is not yourpetition. Make it clear that Mark is yours.¡±


    ¡°No I can¡¯t, if Mark gets to know my involvement in this he will surely get back at me.¡± Sasha protested.


    ¡°Rest easy, no one will find the source of this information, and remember, this is just the beginning. y your part well if you want to have Mr. Johnson.¡± The person assured, ending the call.


    As instructed Sasha made a statement on her social media handle. She said thedy was not herpetition. And that she had no involvement in her life.


    Mark asked his team to take down all pictures on all social media pages. He also demanded an apology from the newspaperpany and the story was taken down. The investigation of the person who had the story published led them to a cyber shop in the city outcast. The ce had many clientsing in and out. There were no records or cameras inside, making it difficult to know who set the whole thing up.


    Nancy and Jenifer watched Melissa sympathizing with her. They had expected her to get angry. To break down in tears when she saw the horrible things people were saying about her but she didn¡¯t utter a word. She sat for a while staring nkly out of the window.


    ¡°Melissa, where are you going?¡± Jenifer asked when she took her bag.


    ¡°I have a client meeting.¡± She said walking to the door.


    ¡°You can¡¯t leave like this, the reporters mighte after you. Maybe we should call Mr. Johnson. He will know what to do.¡± Nancy stood before she blocked her way out.


    ¡°I can¡¯t disappoint my client. The renovation was scheduled to start today. Besides, I can¡¯t hide from people because of a few lies spread about me. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be okay.¡± Melissa said walking out of the office. She felt really happy she had people who cared about her.


    She couldn¡¯t hide and mop all day.


    She didn¡¯t want to give the person any satisfaction for ruining her reputation. She contacted her team to meet at the client¡¯s house as she got in a taxi. Melissa sat in the taxi looking out of the window all sorts of emotions going through her mind. She nced at her silent phone screen as it lit up for the hundredth time. Mark had been trying to call her severally but she didn¡¯t have the strength to talk to him. She knew it would be hard being with him when they got together but never did she imagine it being so awful. Degrading her publicly, and making people call her names was hurtful.


    ¡°You are the trendingdy in the media today, isn¡¯t it?¡± The taxi driver asked, ncing at her in the rearview mirror. ¡°You don¡¯t mind what people say, live your life to the fullest. Such a beautiful youngdy like you must have suitors. You shouldn¡¯t turn them down because some people out there feel threatened.¡± The taxi driver kept talking. Telling her about his countless clients and his life story. Not forgetting to encourage her when she got to her destination.


    The big gate opened when she showed her identification. The house was thirty minutes out of town in a quiet environment with fresh air. Alighting from the car she looked at the two story building with a broken fountain. The once well manned garden was full of dried flowers and bushes.


    The youngdy and her husband received her at the door. Though the house was old, it had a strong foundation. Needing to only change the furnishings and the kitchenyout to add a pantry. With a list of materials needed, they sat at the kitchen ind. And discussed the various areas that need to be improved.


    ¡°Uncle, this is the designer I told you about.¡± Melissa was stunned to see Mr. Crack walk into the kitchen. He hade to give the house keys to his niece and advice on what to do.


    ¡°Mr. Crack, I¡¯ve been trying to contact you for a while now.¡± Melissa told him when they were left alone. The couple was busy on the phone.


    ¡°Sorry I can¡¯t help you, Ms. White.¡± He said getting up.


    ¡°You kept thepany¡¯s financial record, how can you not have any information?¡± She asked, getting agitated.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± He said walking out


    ¡°Mr. Crack please help me out, all I want is the truth. You must have all the records, please, Mr. Crack.¡± Melissa ran after him shouting.


    ¡°Melissa stop, what do you want from my uncle?¡± She held Melissa¡¯s hand, stopping her. ¡°I saw the article today but I thought it may not be true. Now I see you running after my uncle. Aren¡¯t you ashamed?¡± Melissa pulled out of her grasp, looked at her then ran out.


    Mr. Crack glimpsed Melissa running down the stairs as he drove off. She reminded him of the little girl who always apanied her father.


    Mr. White had given him so much. The day he offered him that job he was at a dead end. Debt in all corners drove him to a point of suicide but meeting him changed his life. He paid his debt and gave him money to support his family. Now with a broken heart, he seats back as his daughter suffers.


    Opening the safe in his office, he took out a bunch of documents and went through them. He had kept them so he would have leverage against the Stevens but more so he would give Melissa justice.


    Locking them back in the safe he thought of his friend. Thatpany was his pride. He worked hard to make it a sess so his daughter could run it in the future.


    Greed for more money made him betray the only good friend he ever had and the guilt was killing him. He couldn¡¯t stand looking at Melissa after all he had done.


    ¡­..


    ¡°Dad, how much do you trust Mr. Crack?¡± Jessica eavesdropped on Diana and her dad.


    ¡°Why do you ask? He has helped us a lot, I don¡¯t doubt his loyalty to me.¡± Mr. Stevens told his daughter Diana sitting back in his chair.


    Diana told him how she got her men to follow Mr. Crack since the day her father informed her of meeting Melissa. Today she got information about him and Melissa meeting in a house out of the city raising suspicion.


    ¡°He knows what happened. We can¡¯t risk him giving out any information.¡± Diana enunciated, tapping the table with her index finger.


    ¡°What? We can¡¯t go killing everyone, Diana. Keep your men off him and let me take care of everything.¡± Jessica covered her mouth in shock after hearing their conversation. She knew her dad and sister had illegal businesses. But she never thought they were capable of killing someone.


    ¡°Did they have Mr. White and his wife killed to cover their tracks?¡± Seated in her office chair, she stared at the endless tall buildings around her.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Yes I do

    Not hearing any of the usations and curses uttered by Mr. rk¡¯s niece, Melissa stood in the driveway watching the brown range rover disappear, leaving behind a cloud of dust. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Melissa apologized, getting back to the house to carry on with her work.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask your uncle what happened before using her?¡± Her husband questioned her irritated by her insistence on terminating the renovation contract just to teach Melissa a lesson.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    After calling her uncle, she apologized profusely to Melissa for all the insults and for misjudging her. She even promised to talk her uncle into helping her with the information she needed. As they concluded the house tour and discussed all the materials needed toplete the work, a white Porsche driving into thepound caught their attention.


    ¡°Honey, are you expecting any guests?¡± He asked his wife, looking out of the window.


    ¡°No, few people know about this ce. I¡¯ll go see who it is.¡± She spoke, walking out through the back door followed by her husband.


    Mark had tracked Melissa¡¯s whereabouts when he got the information that she was not at work and none of her bodyguards had seen her leave. On the way to the location, he tried calling her again, but her phone was off making him anxious. Stepping out of his car, he felt peace in his heart when he saw her standing in the doorway. As he drove over, he hoped to find her safe and there she was standing proudly with a surprised look on her face.


    ¡°Mark!¡± Rooted to the spot, Melissa stared at him wide eyed as he walked towards them.


    She had left the office without informing anyone of her location. She didn¡¯t even take thepany vehicle, but he somehow found her.


    ¡°Mr. Johnson, you here? Wee sir, wee.¡± It surprised the couple to see him in their home. They had seen him in business magazines but never in person. The husband kept bowing his head as he shook hands with Mark. Eyebrows slightly pushed together, Mark kept his eye on Melissa as he told them the reason for his visit.


    Mark walked over to Melissa. ¡°Are you okay?¡± Looking her up from head to toe, he pulled her in his arms for an embrace, leaving everyone dumbfounded.


    Overwhelmed by emotions, Melissa shook her head hiding her face in his chest. Wrapping her hands around his waist, she sniffed back the tears trying to keep them from falling.


    Melissa had been holding herself together all that while, but seeing him so concerned about her made her a teary mess. Her parents and aunt were the only people who cared about her this much. She didn¡¯t want him to see her so vulnerable, yet she couldn¡¯t help it.


    Seeing how intimate they were, the couple excused themselves getting back into the house.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± She inquired, breaking from his embrace.


    ¡°I came to get you.¡± He wiped her cheeks with his thumbs gazing into her eyes. ¡°Let go.¡± He said holding her hand.


    ¡°I can¡¯t, my work hardlymenced.¡± She refused and pulled back.


    ¡°Let your team handle the work here. You need to rest.¡± Hemanded gesturing for one of the workers to join them. ¡°Melissa is leaving, coordinate the rest of the work you need to do for the day.¡± He told him authoritatively holding her close.


    ¡°Why did you do that, it¡¯s my job to supervise and direct the work here.¡± She clenched her teeth.


    ¡°I like taking care of you.¡± He kissed her cheek lightly. ¡°I know you enjoy being pampered.¡± Mark said whispering into her ear.


    ¡°Stop, stop Okay, I¡¯ll go get my bag then we can leave.¡± She responded shyly stepping away from him. After instructing her team on the day¡¯s work n and apologizing to the couple she got in the car.


    His security people packed outside the gate and followed as he drove off to the city. Feeling exhausted Melissa closed her eyes to take a rest. He smiled seeing how at peace she looked sleeping.


    ¡°What are we doing here?¡± She asked waking up as they stopped at the courthouse.


    Turning off the engine, he gazed into her eyes for a moment. opened his mouth to answer but thought against it.


    ¡°It¡¯s a surprise,e.¡± He said opening the passenger door, then took her hand guiding her up the stairs.


    ¡°Everything is set.¡± Rushing to meet them at the stairs, James told Mark after greeting Melissa as he directed them to a room.


    Walking into the room Melissa found Robert and two gentlemen on one side busy charting. Lisa and her two workmates Nancy and Jenifer on the other side. Who ran to her and joyfully hugged her when she walked over.


    ¡°I saw the news. How are you doing?¡± Lisa asked holding her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, what is going on here? Did something happen?¡± Melissa asked looking around the room.


    A man in a ck suit carrying a bunch of books like a librarian walked in interrupting the conversation. ¡°I¡¯m here to preside over the marriage of Melissa Isabel White and Mark Johnson.¡± He said reading from his documents.


    For a moment Melissa stood transfixed lost for words, nothing went through her mind. It was like her brain had momentarily shut.


    As Mark held her hand, she walked blindly stopping at the table before the suited man. Handing a bouquet to her, Lisa stood beside her as Robert went to Mark¡¯s side as their witness.


    ¡°Do you Melissa Isabel white, willingly take Mark Johnson as yourwfully wedded husband?¡± The judge asked a second time.


    ¡°Ahem!¡± In the silence, Nancy cleared her throat getting her from the limbo.


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡± She responded gazing into Mark¡¯s smiling eye as he swore to love and protect her always.


    He kissed her hand after putting the ring on her finger as his friends cheered.


    She didn¡¯t understand how the rest of the ceremony went until the cold air from the rain hit her face, waking her up from her limbo. She looked at the ring and her friends congratting them, then at the man who was now her husband in disbelief.


    He had nned everything out without informing her. She felt confused, unable to discern whether she should be happy or cry. There was no doubt she really loved Mark to the moon and back and would do everything it took to be a good wife but she had not nned for marriage, not in a long shot. At least not until she sorted out her quest.


    He introduced Jason and Andrew to her when they got to the hotel for the small reception. They congratted them, Andrew spraying the bottle of champagne on them when it popped open cracking up everyone in the room.


    ¡°I¡¯m so happy for you.¡± Lisa whispered in her ear.


    ¡°We need to toast.¡± Nancy got up raising her ss. ¡°To the beautiful bride, though you didn¡¯t wear a white gown that flora dress looks perfect.¡± She winked at Melissa. ¡°Thank you my friend for marrying this handsome gentleman, enabling me to dine in this high end restaurant. Congrattions and I love you so much, cheers to a happy marriage.¡± They clinked their ssesughing.


    ¡­..


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Sasha pped her assistant on the face.


    ¡°Sorry, ma¡¯am.¡± The assistant bowed her head wiping tears from her eyes. ¡°That¡¯s the information I got from Mr. Johnson¡¯s head of security.¡± She exined stepping back.


    ¡°Mark is getting married?¡± Sasha asked cing her hands on the table for support.


    ¡°They got married ten minutes now.¡± The assistant said massaging her red cheek.


    ¡°How dare youe to my office to give me such news?¡± She asked closing her eyes.


    ¡°Sorry, ma¡¯am I¡­ I thought you should know.¡± The assistant said holding the door handle ready to bolt out.


    Her body shaking with range Sasha turned and looked at the assistant with red piercing eyes. ¡°Do I pay you to think? Get out of my office before I disfigure your ugly face.¡± She roared throwing a pen holder at her and hit the closing door.


    ¡°Calm down Sasha, calm down. You can¡¯t lose, not to that twat.¡± She breathed in and out passing around the office fanning her face.


    pping both her cheeks she walked to her desk to make a call. ¡°Now they are married. Your stupid n ruined everything for me.¡± She shouted at the person on the other side of the call wiping the hot silent tears cascading down her cheeks like blood.


    ¡°Mind your tongue, don¡¯t you dare insult me again.¡± The person warned. ¡°We are not done yet. Follow all my instructions to the letter.¡± The call ended.


    ¡°What will I do? How do I face my mother? Grandfather, oh he will hate me for this.¡± Sasha mumbled to herself biting her well manicured nails. She leaned on the table thinking of what to do. Taking her bag and car keys, she left the office. And as soon as she got in her car, she drove off to Johnson¡¯s mansion.

 The mansion

    The house manager directed Sasha to the house where old Mr. Johnson was resting in the lounge when she got to the mansion.


    ¡°Grandfather!¡± Cheerfully, she bowed in greeting as soon as she was in his presence.


    ¡°My child, wee. Have you been crying?¡± The old man inquired watching her keenly.


    ¡°No grandfather, I had an eye infection, but it¡¯s better now.¡± She responded touching her face. ¡°How is your health?¡± She asked sitting on a chair beside him.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing better now, thanks to the medicine and my good doctor¡¯s care.¡± He answered, ncing at the middle aged man standing beside him.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re better. I brought herbal tea, I know how much grandfather loves tea and it¡¯s also very helpful in lowering blood sugar.¡± She said taking out a one kilo jar of chamomile tea from her bag. ¡°My aunt told me about its rich health benefit and I thought of you so I had it imported right away.¡± She said smiling shyly.


    ¡°Thank you, my child, where else can I get such a thoughtful granddaughter inw.¡± He said handing the jar to his doctor. Spark resting beside him growled looking at Sasha. ¡°Now, now stop boy. Don¡¯t be jealous, you¡¯re my good boy.¡± He said leaning over to pet the dog.


    She sat with the old man, telling him about her work, the new projects she had nned for the future, and how well the opening ceremony at the hotel was. She knew that business sess was the most important thing to him.


    Old Mr. Johnson smiled listening and nodding to every word she said. Having his grandson married to a woman who could support him in his decision making was what he was after. Though he knew Mark didn¡¯t love Sasha, he believed that once they got married, love would eventually grow. Just like his beautifulte wife fell in love with him unconditionally after marriage.


    At the dinner table, Sasha sat beside the old man serving the delicious dishes she had helped prepare as the maids stood aside watching them. Though she was born into a wealthy family, her mother had taught her how to cook well to impress the old man so she could earn his favor and approval.


    Seated in the garden to unwind, a maid brought him the phone. It was a call from an old friend who was a judge in the high court.


    ¡°Grandfather, what¡¯s wrong?¡± She asked when she saw how agitated he looked.


    ¡°That boy.¡± He pped the table hard shaking his head.


    ¡°Calm down, grandfather, what happened?¡± She inquired pouring him a ss of water. ¡°Drink, grandfather, drink some water.¡± She urged him when he couldn¡¯t stop coughing.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay, my child.¡± He said after taking a sip. His doctor immediately came with his medical bag to check his blood pressure urging him to calm down. After the checkup, he handed him his medicine to lower his blood sugar. ¡°That boy got married without my consent. Call him here now.¡± He instructed the house manager.


    ¡°What? Mark got married?¡± Sasha questioned eyes wide open lips twitching. Covering her mouth smiled bowing her head to avoid the old man¡¯s eye.


    Earlier, before going to the Johnson mansion, she had gone to the courthouse to find out if the information was true. Stepping out of the car, she heardughter from the private parking. Hearing Mark¡¯s voice made her curious forcing her to peek prying into what they were doing.


    Mark hugged Melissa as his friends and somedies she had never seen before, congratted them, andughed their hearts out at someme jokes made by Andrew. Sasha watched as they drove off. Biting her lip she swore to make their marriage hell. She went to the office to meet an old family friend. After persuading him for a while, he agreed to call the mansion and information the old man about the marriage with the hope he would break them up.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry my child. I¡¯ll sort this out. He has to give me an exnation.¡± Mr. Johnson said consoling her. Though Mark had broken the engagement, the old man still considered Sasha as his granddaughter.


    ¡°What he did is not right grandfather but it¡¯s not good to get worked up like this, please calm down. Think about your health.¡± She said walking beside him as he went to the saloon to take a rest on the couch.


    Robert came in out of breath. The house manager had called him informing of Mr. Johnson¡¯s health. ¡°What did you do?¡± He red at Sasha sitting beside her on the couch to check on his grandfather.


    ¡°She has done nothing wrong don¡¯t be mad at her for no reason. Where is your brother? He is bing arrogant like his father.¡± Mr. Johnsonined sitting up.


    ¡°What did he do?¡± Robert asked feigning innocence.


    ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb with me boy, you know he got married without asking for my blessings.¡± He said pointing a finger at him.


    ¡°Grandfather, he said you agreed to the rtionship, to keep the little boy in the family he had to get married to his mother. If he marries another woman then she will take the boy away. We don¡¯t want that, right grandfather.¡± Robert looked at Sasha sharply warning her to keep her mouth shut.


    ¡°I hear your argument but I¡¯m still not pleased to find out about my grandson¡¯s marriage from strangers. I understand young people today value love more than their livelihood but you don¡¯t marry just for love, get a good girl from a respectable family. Someone who will support you in every decision you make especially in business.¡± Robert nodded smiling at Sasha.


    ¡°Yes grandfather, let me take you to your room.¡± He said helping him up.


    ¡°Ask Mark toe to see me.¡± He said stubbornly straitening his back.


    Robert took him to rest for the night then went downstairs to the living room to confront Sasha. ¡°She is in the garden.¡± The maid informed him.


    Stepping out of the house, he saw her walking around touching the blooming flowers. The night sky was dark with no stars only the crescent moon looked down on them as lonely as Sasha looked standing on thewn of flowers. He walked towards her forgetting the reason he was looking for her.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Startled by his presence, she turned. ¡°Robert, mm!¡± He sealed their lips holding her by the waist and pulled her close. Momentarily she closed her eyes enjoying Robert¡¯s kiss and caress responding to him with every fiber in her body. Swaying his tongue around hers, sucking it, and slightly biting her lower lip made her moan in pressure.


    No man had kissed her so deeply before making her want more. But once she regained her sanity, she took a step back and pped him on the face. ¡°What do you think you are doing?¡± She questioned touching her lips.


    ¡°You know how I feel about you, Sasha. Why can¡¯t you give us a chance?¡± He asked stepping close to her.


    ¡°We can¡¯t be together. I will get married to Mark soon.¡± As she spoke, she moved further away from him.


    ¡°Ha ha! You¡¯re delusional. Mark is already married. He has never seen you as a woman the way I do. To Mark, you are like a sister Sasha. I¡¯m the one who loves you. I love you like no one else will ever do. Just let Mark go. Make a future with me.¡± He pleaded, holding her by the waist.


    ¡°You and I can never happen, I will get Mark to love me. He is the only one I love.¡± She said pping his arm¡¯s off her.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t what happened between us mean anything to you? The nights we shared Sasha, did they mean nothing?¡± He inquired feeling hurt.


    ¡°They meant nothing, we were just having fun, don¡¯t even dare tell anyone about it.¡± Pushing him away, she got in her car and left the mansion.


    Since childhood, Robert had a crush on Sasha. The cute little girl who followed them around every time shee to visit. She was his mother¡¯s niece, always calling him brother and asking him to talk Mark into epting her advances. Robert could not tell her how he felt for a long time until one day he walked past her room and heard her cry.


    Mark had rejected her again. Sitting beside her on the bed Robert hugged Sasha, promising to make everything better. Gazing at him with tears in her eyes, she ced her hands around his neck and kissed him on the lips.


    He tried to stop her but she insisted it was okay. That¡¯s what she wanted. They kept sneaking around for months until he went away to the military college. Now watching her leave, he clenched his fist squeezing the purple flower he had plucked for her.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Aunt!¡± Getting to the vi, Melissa went up to Betty and sat beside her in the garden. ¡°I got married to Mark.¡± With a beaming smile, she showed her the wedding band.


    ¡°Oh! When Mark asked me to prepare your documents, I didn¡¯t know you were getting married today. Why the rush honey?¡± Betty asked holding her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry we didn¡¯t inform you, aunt. Mark surprised me too.¡± She tried to exin.


    She couldn¡¯t believe they were married either. Though she had promised to marry him, she didn¡¯t expect it to be sudden. She nned to marry him on paper only but she felt for him things she shouldn¡¯t.


    ¡°Melissa dear, all I want is to see you happy.¡± Seeing her lost in thoughts, Betty assured touching her cheek. ¡°You and Mark have my blessings. Congrattions honey.¡± She stood up and embraced her.


    ¡°Thank you, aunt, for always supporting and taking care of us.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my duty to take care of you. Where is Mark now? We should have prepared a celebratory party?¡± She inquired, looking at the entrance.


    ¡°Mark went back to the office after dropping me off, but he will be hometer. No need for a party, aunt. We already celebrated a few days ago.¡±


    Though her aunt was okay with it, she didn¡¯t know how Mr. Johnson would react, making her apprehensive about holding a party.


    ¡°Is Tommy sleeping?¡±


    ¡°No, he¡¯s watching cartoons in the cinema room. Go on, he misses spending time with you.¡± She urged her.


    ¡°Okay aunt, I¡¯ll go in now.¡±


    Watching her walk into the house, Betty couldn¡¯t help the worry that grew in her heart.


    The two loved each other. She was not against it but not Mr. Johnson. Would he let them be happy?

 I will always be here to protect you

    Melissa took her bag going into the house, saying hello to Mary in the kitchen she went upstairs to check on her son. Tommy was busy with the cartoon he didn¡¯t notice his mother standing at the doorway. With a smile on her face, she watched him for a while imitating what was going on, on the big screen.


    ¡°Mommy!¡± He said getting up to hug his mother when she joined him on the sofa.


    ¡°Hello baby, what are you drawing?¡± She inquired taking his drawing book.


    ¡°That lightning mc queen the fastest race car ever, look mommy.¡± He said pointing to the winning red car on the big screen that he had drawn and colored. ¡°It¡¯s the fastest car in that race, I want a car like that when I grow up. Mommy, do you think dad will buy it if I ask?¡± He asked looking at his mother.


    ¡°I¡¯ll buy anything my son wants.¡± Mark said walking into the room.


    ¡°Daddy.¡± Tommy ran to his father with open arms. Mark carried him in his arm¡¯s joining Melissa on the sofa. ¡°Daddy look at my drawing.¡± Tommy proudly gave his father the drawing book.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice, who taught you how to draw this well?¡± Mark asked looking at the drawing.


    ¡°My teacher taught me and mother said it¡¯s my talent, dad when I grow up I want to be an artist.¡± They bothughed nodding their heads in support.


    ¡°It¡¯s time for bed baby.¡± Melissa told him when she saw him yarn.


    Walking into Tommy¡¯s room they found Betty running water in the bathtub ready to bathe Tommy. ¡°Aunt, you don¡¯t have to do that. Let the maid handle it.¡± Mark suggested,ying Tommy on the bed.


    ¡°It¡¯s not much work my son. Taking care of my grandson keeps me busy.¡± Betty said walking out of the bathroom.


    With Mark around, Tommy insisted on having his father bathe him. He asked his mother and grandmother to leave insisting that he is a big boy.


    ¡°Your birthday ising up soon. Do you want daddy to hold a big party and invite all your friends?¡± Mark asked washing his feet.


    ¡°No, I want a cake, like the one mommy gives me on my birthday every year. Daddy, can we go to the beach too? It will make mommy thrilled.¡± He asked ying with his toy submarine.


    ¡°Okay baby, I will ask grandmother Mary to get you a cake then we will go to the beach whenever you like.¡± Mark agreed getting him from the bathtub.


    ¡°Thank you daddy, that¡¯s a n.¡± Tommy said running from the bathroom.


    ¡°What are you two nning?¡± Melissa asked helping Tommy on the chair to dry his hair.


    Mark told her about Tommy¡¯s wishes for his birthday and his n to take them to the beach house for the holiday. After reading a story, they listened to Tommy¡¯s song that they taught him in kindergarten. With his son fast asleep, Mark went to his home office to reply to some urgent emails, leaving Melissa to tuck him in.


    As she got up from Tommy¡¯s bed to go to her room, Melissa dropped her bag spilling everything from it.


    Picking the bag contents, she saw the address written on her work diary.


    The recent events caused her to forget the address she got from Mr. Steven¡¯s documents. She still nned to investigate what other businesses they operated and the address was a good start.


    Getting to her room she made a reminder on her phone before taking a shower.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Mark asked leaning at the door watching her dry her hair when he found her in her bedroom. ¡°This is our wedding night. You are not nning to sleep here alone, are you?¡± He questioned, walking towards her. He then took her in his arms and ced a sweet kiss on her lips.


    ¡°I thought you were busy with work.¡± She murmured, running her hands through his hair.


    ¡°Not anymore.¡± He scooped her up in his arms.


    ¡°Stop Mark, let me down. We might run into people in the hallway.¡± Melissa tried to get down but he held her tightly carrying her out of the room.


    When they got inside the door, she stepped down.


    It was her first time stepping her foot inside. ¡°Wow!¡± In awe, she looked around.


    The room was a private paradise on its own. The warm firece, two sofas and a coffee table with many business magazines on it and a t screen mounted on the wall made a cosy sitting area. Probably where Mark did his work when not at the office. She thought.


    The ss walls with a sliding door enclosed the bed leaving the bathroom with a shower and a bathtub on the right. Walking past the bed, she slid open the balcony doors, weing the warm humid air from the rain. The room design looked so familiar. It looked like the sketch she had made years ago reminding her of her mother. Who always encouraged her to do what she loved.


    Feeling Mark¡¯s presence behind her when he ced his hands on her hips, Melissa giggled.


    Turning in his arms she gazed into his eyes as smiled at her.


    Picking a flower from the hanging flower pot, Mark tucked it in her hair brushing it from her face. Stroking her cheeks, he pecked her on the lips with his cold lips staring deep into her eyes.


    ¡°I made this room for us.¡± He said running his fingers through her hair.


    cing her arm¡¯s around his neck she smiled. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful, who designed it?¡± She asked for confirmation.


    ¡°You did. At the park while busy ying with Spark, I peek at your drawings. I was curious to see what kept you busy every day. When the sketch caught my eye, I decided to use it. I make our safe haven hoping someday you will share it with me.¡± He confirmed smiling at her.


    ¡°I love it.¡± She ced her hand on his chest gazing into his eyes. ¡°It is more beautiful than what I had in mind. I love it and I love you so much.¡± Tiptoeing, she closed her eyes kissing him on the lips igniting the fire within.


    Scooping her in his arms he took her back into the room cing her on the bed.


    Turning off the light, he trailed kisses down her neck running his hand under her bathrobe.


    Touching her bare skin folding and caressing, he made her gasp and moan. ¡°Ah! Oh!¡± Wrapping her arms around his neck, she touched his hair.


    Tilting back her head, she closed her eyes enjoying how he loved her. How he took time to touch and kiss every part of her body. Teaching and guiding her along as they fell in euphoria.


    ¡°I love you.¡± He murmured, settling beside her.


    ¡°I love you more.¡± She smiled hiding her shed face on his chest.


    The light from the outside bulbs lighting thepound streamed in. And dimly lit the room creating a romantic ambiance. As the ecstasy died down, she stared up at the ceiling, and watched the dancing hearts and stars above her. That gave an illusion of a beautiful calm night sky. Listening to Mark¡¯s rhythmic breathing, she smiled as exhaustion got her to close her eyes falling into a deep sleep.


    ¡°Morning sunshine.¡± He pecked her lips when she opened her eyes.


    ¡°Morning.¡± She said covering her eyes from the sunlight when he opened the curtain with the remote. ¡°Did you talk to your parents about our marriage?¡± Melissa asked lying on his chest.


    ¡°Yes, my family is happy about our marriage, my mother is waiting anxiously to see Tommy.¡± He said brushing her hair.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Is grandfather Johnson okay with it? I know he wants you to marry Sasha.¡± She asked trying to sit up.


    ¡°I spoke with grandfatherst night.¡± When Robert informed him about his grandfather¡¯s health on his way to thepany, turning back he went to see him in the mansion. After a few choices of words, the old man gave his blessings inviting them for a formal dinner. ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much, grandfather is okay with us being together and I will always be here to protect you.¡± He assured pulling her back covering them with the nket.


    ¡°Stop, we have to go to work.¡± Giggling, Melissa ran out of bed and locked herself in the bathroom. After knocking on the door and insisting for a while, she let him in to join in the shower.


    ¡°Herees the new wed¡¯s.¡± Lisa said getting up to wee them when they walked hand in hand to the breakfast table set in the garden.


    As they took their seats, Jane brought a two-tier cake from the kitchen. Followed closely by Mary with a bread knife in her hand. She ced the purple and white iced cake on the table as they cheered.


    ¡°Though there is no ceremony, we baked a cake to celebrate your wedding.¡± Mary smiled, handing the knife to Melissa and Mark.


    ¡°I want the biggest.¡± Tommy said taking a piece from the te as Melissa and Mark served everyone.


    ¡°Thank you for the cake, Jane.¡± Melissa muttered putting a piece in her mouth. ¡°Mm! This raspberry cake is delicious, you have to make another for Tommy¡¯s birthday.¡± Melissa said feeding a piece to Mark with her folk as Lisa took pictures.


    ¡°I love fruit cake.¡± Tommy asserted stuffing his mouth with cake.


    ¡°Are you going to work?¡± Lisa asked when Mark left the table.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Melissa responded sipping her juice.


    ¡°I thought you were helping me move?¡± Lisa questioned.


    ¡°Of course I will but I have to get to work first. Let¡¯s meet at the apartment.¡± Melissa responded cing the napkin on the table. ¡°Mommy, I¡¯m going to the car with dad.¡± Melissa smiled to see her son so excited. She gave the apartment key and address to Lisa before leaving with Tommy for his early kindergarten ss.

 Flying bullets

    With Melissa¡¯s picture disyed on every social tform, Mark increased her security. He got people to follow her everywhere she went.


    He was afraid if identified, people may harass her, endangering her life. After dropping Tommy off at school, she went to the house renovation she was supervising. Checked the materials purchased, giving instructions where needed. Making sure her team was handling the work as nned, she asked Adams to stop at the mall to buy some items on her way to the apartment.


    At the apartment building, she requested her bodyguards to help her carry the boxes to the apartment door.


    Getting to the apartment, she pulled Lisa aside. Then she told her the n to distract her bodyguards so she would leave the building without alerting them.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Fifteen minutester, she walked out through the building¡¯s back door wearing sports shoes, blue jeans with a white T-shirt. Hailing a taxi, she pulled her cap down, covering her face.


    ¡°Sorry, I can¡¯t take you to this address.¡± The taxi driver refused, stopping abruptly at the side of the road.


    ¡°Why? I¡¯m going to pay you handsomely.¡± She said ignorantly looking around.


    ¡°That ce is dangerous. A few months ago they found a dead body around the area. Taxies are not allowed in the area. No matter how much you pay, I can¡¯t drive you there.¡± Shaking his head, he adamantly refused.


    ¡°Well, can you get me close enough? Somewhere I can walk?¡± Melissa inquired, taking off the cab to convince the driver she was not a bad person.


    He quietly looked at her in the rearview mirror for a while weighing his options. ¡°You are thedy making headlines.¡± Nodding, he said in realization. ¡°What is a youngdy of high status like you looking for in such a ce?¡± He inquired starting the engine.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t consider everything you read in media. I¡¯m meeting with someone there. It¡¯s a secure industrial area.¡± Melissa said, putting her cap on.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so ignorant.¡± After driving for a mile, he stopped at the intersection. Then directed her to the street she had to follow to get to the address. Taking a knife from the glovepartment, he gave it to her to protect herself. ¡°Should I call the police?¡± The driver asked taking the Money.


    ¡°No, don¡¯t, I¡¯ll be safe. No need for the police. Thank you for the knife though.¡± She said looking at the paring knife. ¡°If it is not too much trouble, can you pick me up from this location?¡±


    ¡°Yes, once you are done, call me. Another thing, stay away from the road and those street cameras. Be careful.¡± He said before driving off.


    Melissa followed the direction on the phone map carefully, walking along the walls. Keeping a good distance from the road. A few miles from the address, she heard a motor engine driving in her direction. Hiding in the flower bushes, she saw a big truck with venttion on the top drive off.


    The hand she saw waving through the small opening caught her attention. Mouth wide open, eyebrows raised, Melissa sat for a while watching the truck disappear escorted by three men in a pickup truck. Her legs were a little shaky when she got up to dust herself. With every step she took, she felt more and more scared, but it was toote to turn back.


    In the stretch of warehouses, no one was on the road. The taxi driver had told her thepanies drove their employees in and out of the nt, making it unlikely to find anyone on the road at that time of the day.


    Following the map on her phone, she stopped in front of an iplete building. The four story building was under construction but no one was around. Melissa looked around as she walked in. Moving the stic curtains at the entrance raised the dust in the room. Which made her cough and her eyes watery.


    Covering her mouth she listened to the vehicles driving in. For a while, she hid behind the pir but no one walked in. Peeping at the door she noticed the movementing from the back of the building. Curiously, she went up to the first floor. Standing at the window opening, Melissa watched two armed men unlock a container while several others guarded the ce.


    She had gone to the location two hours before the time written on the document to check out the area but watching them she suspected they had set her up.


    If she had informed the police then they would get to the ce after they had moved out.


    Standing behind the wall she saw ady in ck jeans trousers step out of a saloon car. Thedy walked to the two armed men guarding the container door and another man stood protectively behind her. From the men¡¯s bodynguage, it was evident that thedy was their boss. Zooming the phone¡¯s camera, Melissa secretly took a video of what was going on below her.


    One man opened the container full of boxes, then the other man opened a box tearing the stic bag inside. Quietly, she watched as thedy sniffed some brown powder from the bag offered on a knife by the man apanying her.


    Thedy walked around checking the boxes followed closely by the men. When thedy turned to walk out, Melissa froze and her phone slid from her hands.


    She had suspected Stevens of running illegal businesses but seeing Diana gave her shivers down her spine.


    Picking her phone to continue recording, the screen reflected the sun catching one man¡¯s attention. The man walked towards the building calling his partner along with his gun ready to fire.


    Running towards the exit, she tried to escape before the men got to her. Heading for the stairs, she stepped on a broken piece of wood causing her to fall into the hole down to the first floor.


    ¡°What are you running after?¡± She heard the man ask his partner.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure I saw something up here.¡± He answered going up the stairs.


    In the cloud of dust, Melissa covered her mouth. Closing her eyes she curled in a corner fearing to make a sound to alert them.


    ¡°There is nothing here. Let go.¡± He urged his partner growing impatient.


    Standing on the first floor, a rat crept out of the corner running towards the man¡¯s boots. Caught by surprise the man shot several times.


    Curling in a corner, Melissa ced her head between her legs praying that they don¡¯t find her or identally shot her in the head.


    ¡°Jeez, are you crazy? Stop wasting bullets on rats.¡± One man said pping his partner lightly on the back of the head.


    ¡°I thought I saw someone up here.¡± He said Looking around.


    ¡°We are moving out. Stop wasting time. Let¡¯s go.¡± A third man called them from the door.


    She listened as the footsteps descended the stairs, leaving the building and finally driving off. When she couldn¡¯t hear any more movement outside she got up, and dusted herself off looking around the room for a way out. She tried to unlock the door with a metal she picked from the floor, pulled and pushed at it a few times but it did not budge.


    Using her cellphone light she surveyed the room full of boxes and building supplies but the only way out was through the hole she fell from. Lucky enough the ceiling was not too high, she stalked wooden boxes and bnced on them.


    After managing to crawl out of the roof, she went to the back of the building but nothing was there. The container and all the vehicles were long gone, like the activities from thest hour never happened.


    Afraid to stay for long in case they came back, she left in haste keeping away from the road. The taxi stopped at her footsteps as soon as she got to the road before she even had time to call him.


    ¡°Hurry! get in.¡± The driver was more tense and anxious than she was. He wiped the sweat beams on his forehead before driving off when she got in the car. ¡°You stayed in that ce for so long. I almost called the police.¡± He said looking back at her.


    The driver had not left, he stayed hidden in a corner waiting for her to show up. As soon as he saw Melissa running towards the road taking out her phone, he started the engine fearing someone might see her.


    ¡°What happened back there, did you get hurt?¡± Concerned he questioned looking at her dirty clothes and arms. Her bruised palm was bleeding but she didn¡¯t feel any pain nor did she realize it until he asked her.


    ¡°I fell on my way back, I¡¯ll be fine. Thank you foring back for me.¡± She said breathing a sigh of relief then tied her handkerchief to stop the bleeding.


    When she got the address from Mr. Steven¡¯s home office, she didn¡¯t expect it to be that dangerous since it was in an industrial area. Seeing Diana in thepany of all those armed goons still gave her goosebumps. For a moment while hiding in that room, she wished she had told Mark about it. If those flying bullets over her head had hit her, they would never find her.

 Humble and loving

    Mr. Stevens sat in his office waiting to hear news about the day¡¯s operation. He had managed to stop Mr. Crack from talking to Melissa for the time being. But he still feared what extent Diana would go to to keep the secret hidden.


    ¡°Was all the cargo delivered?¡± He inquired from Diana when she got to the office.


    ¡°Yes daddy. They delivered everything on time.¡± Diana confirmed pouring herself a drink.


    ¡°Our little rat, did you catch it?¡± He asked sitting back, cing his work aside. He had set the whole thing up to see what Melissa would do.


    ¡°No, no one showed up. After clearing the goods, I let two of my trusted men stand watch for any vehicles driving in but nothing. I guess she didn¡¯t bite the bait.¡± Though their informant with the police had nothing to report, Diana hoped she would get a reason to attack Melissa.


    Luckily the taxi Melissa took drove off seconds before Diana¡¯s men got to the location. Missing her by a whisker.


    ¡°Then we don¡¯t need to pursue her if she is not a threat to us.¡± Mr. Stevens said hopping Diana would stop her obsession with Melissa.


    ¡°Oh daddy, you¡¯re growing soft as you grow old. We can¡¯t afford to let our guards down while she is still married to Mark Johnson.¡± Diana was never going to let Melissa have a happy life. She won¡¯t let her enjoy everything she doesn¡¯t have. ¡°I already got instructions on the next shipment. I will have the information on your desk by morning.¡± She said changing the subject.


    They used the licensed transportpany to move illegal drugs for their client.


    ¡°Good, let¡¯s head home. Your mother is preparing a special meal for us today.¡± Mr. Steven said taking his coat.


    ¡°Sorry daddy I can¡¯t, I have other businesses to attend to. Take Jess. I¡¯m sure she is dying to have decent meals prepared by mommy.¡± Diana mocked Jessica when she walked in.


    ¡°What¡¯s your problem?¡± Jessica grayed at Diana who kissed her father on the cheek before leaving the office ignoring her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind your sister. Let¡¯s go, we don¡¯t want to keep your mother waiting.¡± He said taking his briefcase.


    The two girls never got along well, alwayspeting with each other over every little thing. He had sent Jessica to a boarding school at an early age to stop the fights between them but they still did not see eye to eye.


    Though his wife was not happy about how he raised Diana, she always supported him and obeyed everything he asked of her. Seeing how different his daughters were, Mr. Stevens deep down wished Diana was more like Jessica. Humble and loving.


    ¡°Dad, how long are you going to let Diana keep operating that club in the casino?¡± Jessica asked as she joined him in the car.


    ¡°Try to understand your sister, she is not a monster as you think.¡± Mr. Stevens pleaded.


    ¡°Dad, what she does is not right. Only you don¡¯t see it.¡± She shrugged, then turned her gaze outside the window as they drove off.


    ¡­.


    The taxi dropped Melissa at the back of the building. With her bodyguards still parked in the street watching the apartment, she couldn¡¯t risk walking through the front door.


    Taking the stairs, she scanned the area for guards as she crept toward the room. As soon as she knocked, Lisa opened the door pulling her inside.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Goodness Melissa, what took you so long? Where have you been? I was about to ask your bodyguards to search for you.¡± Lisa eximed looking at her from head to toe.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story. I need to shower and get out of these clothes first.¡± She said walking to the bathroom.


    Taking off her dusty clothes Melissa felt pain all over. Her palm had finally stopped bleeding but her elbow and knees still ached. She was so afraid all the while that she didn¡¯t notice how hard she hit herself when she fell.


    Standing under the warm water she still remembered feeling the bullets flying around her. Closing her eyes she could still see Diana walking out of that container. Seeing hermand the armed men scared her a little.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± Startled by the knock, Melissa opened her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, are you done unpacking everything?¡± Melissa asked walking into the kitchen to get a bottle of water after dressing up while Lisa unwrapped a box full of utensils.


    The boxes were scattered all over.


    Lisa had been restless when Melissa didn¡¯t get back after thirty minutes. She just paced around the house with the phone in her hand wondering where Melissa had gone. She had to keep smiling at the men helping bring in the boxes pretending Melissa was still in the other room.


    ¡°Only a few boxes left in the kitchen, let¡¯s sit. I want to know what is going on with you as I treat those bruises.¡± Lisa said getting the first aid kit from the kitchen top cab.


    Listening to Melissa narrate what she had experienced in thest two hours scared her. If those men had by any chance seen her then she would be med for not informing her bodyguards when she had left earlier.


    ¡°So your father¡¯s partner led thepany to bankruptcy and thisdy is his daughter?¡± Lisa asked after watching the video and listening to her.


    ¡°It seems so. My godfather is involved in drug trafficking.¡± She confirmed.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you report this to the police? They are better equipped to investigate than you are?¡± Lisa asked.


    ¡°I can¡¯t file a case without evidence strong enough for the police to work with.¡± Melissa responded taking some pain relieving medicine.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this enough? You can show this to the police. I¡¯m sure with the video they will issue an arrest warrant and lock them away.¡± Lisa insisted on holding Melissa¡¯s phone.


    ¡°Sadly this can¡¯t work. I didn¡¯t capture her face when I dropped my phone. Besides, they cleared everything after the transaction and this has no rtion with my father¡¯spany. I need to dig deeper. Find evidence to show how they led thepany to bankruptcy.¡± She said helping unpack after Lisa dressed the wound on her palm and applied medicine on other bruises on her body.


    ¡°What does mark say about your investigation, is he okay with it?¡± Lisa inquired worried for her friend.


    ¡°He asked me to let him handle it. But I can¡¯t sit and do nothing.¡± She sighed, taking a sip of water. Enough about my problems. Tell me about you. What got you from the province?¡± Melissa questioned changing the subject.


    Though Lisa was notfortable talking about her ex-fiance, she opened up to Melissa.


    The man was still calling, gloving trying to win her back despite having a family.

 Safe in his arms

    Mark leaned on his car watching as Melissa walked out of the building. He had made a surprise visit to pick her up so they could get Tommy from school.


    ¡°What happened to your hand?¡± He inquired when he noticed the white bandage on her palm.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing serious. Lisa helped me treat it. Ouch!¡± She eximed when his handnded on her back as he opened the car door.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡± With furred brows, he nced at starting the engine.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± She nodded sensing he was not convinced by her exnation.


    She felt all over but tried to ignore it hoping the pain pills she had taken would kick in.


    ¡°Mummy!¡± When they got to the school, Tommy ran and hugged his mother, making her winch.


    ¡°Oh slow down young man.¡±


    ¡°Mommy, are you hurt?¡± Tommy asked, looking at his mother¡¯s hand. ¡°Let daddy take you to the hospital.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a small wound, baby. I applied medicine on it. No need to go to the hospital, it will heal in no time.¡± She smiled at him, fastening his seat belt.


    On the way home he showed his parents all the drawings he had made with his teacher and the songs they were taught.


    ¡°Grandma Mary will take you in the house for a snack son. I want to talk to your mom.¡± Mark instructed when they got to the house.


    Handing Tommy to Mary, he nced at Melissa. Then taking big strides he proceeded to his home office. He had not addressed her directly yet he sat on the couch waiting.


    ¡°What happened? He looks furious.¡±


    Standing at the entrance Melissa heard the murmurs as everyone around stared at her wondering what she had done to infuriate him.


    ¡°Melissa is everything alright?¡± Giving the flowers she was picking to a maid, Betty walked up to her.


    ¡°Everything is okay aunt.¡± She assured her aunt they were okay.


    ¡°And this? Did he do this?¡± Noticing the bandage, Betty inquired touching her hand.


    ¡°Ouch! I got into an ident at the apartment. It¡¯s a little painful but it¡¯s not serious. Honestly, I¡¯m okay aunty. Let me go to the office and speak with Mark.¡± She smiled at her aunt and everyone assuring them all was well when she saw the concerned looks on their faces.


    Getting to the office, she found Mark seated on the coach, his one leg crossed over the other. Him staring at her like an Eagle as she walked into the office. She knew where the interrogation would end so she decided to show him the video. And told him where she had got it from.


    After watching it, he sat still staring at her.


    ¡°Where did you get this from again?¡± He questioned standing up.


    ¡°I¡­¡± She opened her mouth to speak but couldn¡¯t when he gave her a murdering look.


    ¡°I told you to let me handle the investigations, Melissa. Why is it so hard for you to let me handle this? If you gave me this information earlier then we could apprehend these people. Damn it.¡± He clenched the chair.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you about it. When I first got that information, I thought of sharing it with you. Then I changed my mind after Jessica confronted me. She said it was a setup. And to make sure they were not setting me up, I went to the address two hours early. Only to find their transaction underway.¡±


    ¡°Did you hurt yourself there?¡±


    ¡°One of the men noticed me and came after me. But I ran and in the process, I fell and injured my hand.¡±


    ¡°Jesus, Melissa do you see how dangerous it is?¡±


    ¡°They didn¡¯t catch me and by the time I left the building they had cleared everything. Mark, if we involved the police they would have not found them. Nor could they find anything about the transaction.¡±


    ¡°Jessica was right. They wanted to see if you were spying on them. These people are canning and dangerous. Going out there was reckless.¡±


    ¡°I had to do something ¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t. Getting yourself killed won¡¯t help anyone. Stay here, I¡¯ll have someone look at this.¡± He turned to leave, then stopped at the doorway and nced at her.


    He was so mad she didn¡¯t trust him enough but he was d she was home safe.


    ¡°Promise me, Melissa, you won¡¯t go anywhere without informing me first.¡± He walked back, held her in his arms gazing into her eyes.


    ¡°I promise.¡± She assured lying her head on his chest.


    ¡°I love you. If anything happened to you, I don¡¯t know how I would survive.¡±


    ¡°Shh, nothing happened. I love you and I promise I¡¯ll be careful.¡± She raised her eyes to his with a smile on her lips.


    Picking her up into his arms, he carried her to the bedroom.


    ¡°I can¡¯t lose you.¡± He murmured, cing his lips on her soft ones.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Lying on her back, her sore muscles warned her.


    ¡°Should I take you to the hospital?¡± He propped on his elbow staring at her.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll be fine but can¡¯t do much now.¡±


    ¡°Ah! How sad.¡± Heughed, making herugh as he held her in his arms.


    Brushing her hair, he kissed her forehead letting her rest her head on his chest.


    Being in his arms made her feel safe. She never wanted to lose him either.


    Closing her eyes she listened to his rhythmic heartbeat.


    A few minutester he left the house calling for an emergency meeting with his security personnel.

 The video

    On the way to the meeting, Mark¡¯s assistant called asking him to go to the clubhouse for another meeting. As always the man sat in a dimly lit room concealing his face.


    Though Mark had men following his convoy, they didn¡¯t know his true identity or why he was helping them fight the organization. Every time they got close to finding out who he was, he managed to get rid of every piece of evidence they got.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°How have you been son?¡± The grey haired man asked leaning back on his chair.


    ¡°I¡¯m well, but I guess you know since you have all the information about me. Why don¡¯t you stop the games and tell me what you are after.¡± Mark blurted out taking a seat.


    ¡°I want Melissa to be safe, keep her out of the limelight. Now she is your wife. You are responsible for her well-being.¡± He said, twirling his walking stick.


    ¡°Who is she to you? Why are you so interested in my wife?¡± Mark asked getting pissed off.


    ¡°As I said, when the time is right you will find out, I¡¯ll tell her everything she needs to know then. For now, just keep her out of arm¡¯s way. Another thing stop sending people after my men. It¡¯s a waste of resources.¡± He stamped his walking stick on the carpet looking at him.


    ¡°Then you stop using me to get rid of yourpetition, I know you run the organization The deal we made I suggest you abide by it.¡± He emphasized leaning forward.


    With a show of his finger, one of his security men gave Mark a file. ¡°I see you have done your maths my boy, I retired from the organization years ago. I¡¯m only doing this for my family, to stop my only son from ending up like his brother.¡±


    ¡°If so why didn¡¯t you inform us about today¡¯s transaction?¡± Mark inquired.


    ¡°I had no information about any transactions today, use what I gave you. Till we meet again.¡± He said getting up. ¡°Wait, before I leave, have this gift, congrattions on your marriage.¡± They gave Mark a well wrapped box.


    ¡°Wait, I need to know something.¡± He tried to call out but the security men stopped him, all he saw was the walking stick as the man disappeared.


    At the meeting ce, five men sat around the table checking every detail on the video Melissa took. Mark sent people to the scene to survey the area but as Melissa had said, there was no evidence left to show the transaction ever took ce.


    The camera¡¯s from the factories around showedpany vehicles going in and out. Nothing suspicious was reported and all traffic surveince cameras along the other possible route they took were down.


    Without seeing the woman¡¯s face, they could not make an arrest or use Stevens of drug trafficking.


    Though Stevens used their licensed legal business to bring drugs into the market, they covered their tracks well. Nothing illegal was ever recovered from their storage units or thepany vehicles they randomly stopped to check.


    Even the number te Melissa got from the truck she saw was fake. No vehicle was registered under that number.


    ¡°Why would they go through so much trouble to set this up?¡± Jason asked the question in everyone¡¯s mind.


    ¡°They were testing Melissa. They let her see the file details and then cleared everything up before the actual time. This was to see if in any way she would give the information to the police.¡± Robert said after watching the video.


    ¡°If so then, they have something that can prove Melissa¡¯s suspicions and they are afraid she may get it.¡± Andrew said, scratching his chin.


    ¡°Or maybe someone is trying to prove she is not involved just to keep her safe. These are notorious drug dealers, they can¡¯t risk anyone finding information about their transactions without ulterior motives.¡± James said, assessing every detail.


    ¡°That may be true but since Jessica, Mr. Steven¡¯s daughter warned Melissa, then she may know all the family¡¯s illegal businesses. And she may be against them. I think we should focus on her, find out if she can rat out her father.¡± Jason suggested typing on hisptop.


    ¡°Mark, what do you think?¡± Andrew turned to Mark who seemed to be lost in thoughts.


    ¡°Bro! What¡¯s going on?¡± Jason inquired as everyone stopped to look at Mark who seemed preupied.


    ¡°No we can¡¯t involve her in this, let¡¯s focus on Mr. Steven and his eldest daughter. We inform the police then n on how to apprehend them on their next transaction. Here are the next shipment details, we need to study them well with no room for mistakes.¡± Mark ordered, cing the file on the table.


    ¡°We can¡¯t work with the police on this one.¡± James suggested, turning the projector on. ¡°This is the deputy police chief.¡± He pointed at the man guarding Diana.


    ¡°So that¡¯s how they knew about the raid? From the beginning, I didn¡¯t trust that man.¡± Jason pointed at the screen.


    ¡°We should handle this discreetly. Once we have them overpowered we call the police in.¡± Mark highlighted every detail they needed to put into an ount and the number of men to take for the operation.


    ¡­..


    Diana stood at the office doorway arms crossed looking at the busy man behind the desk. He was so engrossed in his work he didn¡¯t notice her until she tapped the door.


    ¡°Goodness Diana you startled me.¡± Mr. ck eximed sitting back.


    ¡°Sorry didn¡¯t mean to scare you.¡± She sat on one of the chairs before his desk, crossing her legs. ¡°Mr. ck, how is work? You seem to be very busy.¡± She asked checking the documents on the table.


    ¡°Ms. Diana, how can I help you?¡± He asked cing aside the files he was working on.


    ¡°Help me, you ask? The question should be how can I help you? I know you met up with Melissa. Look whatever you want to do, don¡¯t even think about it if you care for your life and that of your family.¡± She tapped on the table with her long manicured nails.


    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡± Mr. Crack stood up, eyes wide open.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a treat, it¡¯s a warning.¡± She said looking him straight in the eyes.


    ¡°Diana, that¡¯s enough. Leave now.¡± Mr. Stevensmanded standing at the doorway.


    ¡°Daddy, you can¡¯t let him ruin us¡­¡± She tried to convince her dad.


    ¡°Enough Diana, I said I¡¯ll handle this, and I¡¯m working on it, Just leave.¡± Mr. Stevens locked the door when she walked out.


    ¡­.


    After the meeting, Mark sat in his office with James going through the hotel¡¯s surveince recording of the night of the ceremony. He felt he had seen that same silver writing on the walking stick. For days he couldn¡¯t shake his mind off one of the guests who kept a keen eye on Melissa that night. Going through the recording he asserted his suspicion.


    ¡°Find out who this man is.¡± Turning the screen to James, Mark instructed.


    ¡°You think this is him.¡± James inquired checking the guest list.


    ¡°Yes, he was very keen on everything Melissa did that night, always watching her.¡± Mark mentioned in detail what he noticed about him.


    ¡°Why is he that interested in her?¡±


    ¡°I suspect he might be rted to Melissa but the question is why he is concealing his identity from her. Find out everything you can about him and let me know as soon as possible.¡± Mark ordered getting up.


    ¡°I¡¯m on it. We are meeting the guys at the club, aren¡¯t youing?¡± James asked cing theptop in his briefcase.


    ¡°I¡¯m a married man now, I have to head home early. Let go, I¡¯m runningte.¡± He took his phone leaving the office.


    ¡°Good for you but it¡¯s never lively without you these days, any way what can I say.¡± They walked out of the elevator exiting the building.


    ¡­.


    Mark walked to Tommy¡¯s bedroom when he got home. It was his ritual to always kiss him good night, no matter howte he got back. Seeing him sleep soundly gave him immense joy.


    The master bedroom was quiet. He didn¡¯t find Melissa in the sitting lodge or the bed. He looked around the room from the shower to the balcony only to find her sleeping on the day bed in the walk in closet. The ceiling above the bed had a mirror, you could watch the sky while lying down on your back.


    The day¡¯s events kept crossing Melissa¡¯s mind making her scared of sleeping alone in the immense room. When he picked her up in his arms, she smiled in her sleep putting her arms around his neck.


    He held her tight soothing her under the covers when she shivered mumbling in her sleep.


    Morning sunshine, Melissa saw the message on the screen when she opened her eyes. Yarning she scratched her eyes, looking at the wall clock.


    Stepping down from the bed theughter outside attracted her to the balcony. Mark, Robert and Tommy were in the garden ying football. She stood at the railing smiling, watching her husband and son tickling each otherughing their heart¡¯s out forgetting the game they were ying.


    ¡°Morning aunt.¡± She greeted aunt Betty, picked a slice of apple from the te and sat beside her on the kitchen ind.


    ¡°Morning dear, how are you feeling?¡± Pouring her a ss of juice, Betty inquired ncing at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m well rested and my hand is better now.¡± She replied, buttering a slice of bread.


    Robert walked in covered in sweat, saying hello to them he went to the refrigerator for a bottle of water. The dark almost star shaped mark on his forearm caught Betty¡¯s attention. Reminding her of her son.


    ¡°Robert, you should let the maids serve you. You are our guest today.¡± Maryined when she found him in the kitchen.


    ¡°Oh nana Mary, I¡¯m not a visitor here. Have you forgotten I used to live in this house?¡± He said after kissing her on the cheek in greetings.


    ¡°Mary is right, we should serve you. Here, I was peeling this for you and Mark.¡± Betty smiled handing him the te full of apples.


    ¡°No!¡± Mary eximed, making everyone look at her. ¡°I mean, go join Mark, I¡¯ll bring these outside.¡± She said taking the te from him.


    ¡°Aunt, is there a problem between you and Mary?¡± Melissa questioned watching Mary set the te on the garden table.


    ¡°No, we are okay.¡± Was all Betty said.


    She had noticed Mary¡¯s hostility towards her but didn¡¯t want to cause trouble for Melissa since she didn¡¯t know the reason behind it. ¡°With you home, I can go to the province for some days to check on the business.¡± Betty said changing the subject as she watched Mary who stood a few feet from them talking on the phone.


    She was engrossed in the conversation moving her hand pointing in the air, asionally touching her forehead and mouth whenever she looked back at them.


    Staring at her, Betty suspected she was hiding something but couldn¡¯t figure out what it was.

 Meeting his parents

    Melissa took some days off work to celebrate Tommy¡¯s birthday. Arranged her aunt¡¯s transport and security before leaving for the beach house.


    Sitting under the umbre, Melissa¡¯s eyes sparkled. Her lips curved up watching Tommy y on the sandy beach. Running away whenever the water touched his feet. Giggling and screaming his father lifted him, walking him into the calm blue waters.


    ¡°Hey, room for one more?¡± Joining them she fitted Tommy with a floater to him learn how to swim.


    ¡°This is the best birthday ever.¡± Tommy shouted wiping water from his face.


    His father taught him how to swim for the better part of the day, yed around, running after each other. They built a sand castle and raced his toy cars on the sand.


    ¡°Has he fallen asleep?¡± Mark asked standing behind the wheel sailing to the open sea for a fishing expedition.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, he was so exhausted he fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.¡± She said standing at the rail. Spreading her arms she tilted back her head feeling the breeze looking up at the bright stars adorning the night sky.


    Docking the boat, Mark stood behind her. Holding Melissa by the waist, he twirled her around.


    Leaned his head on her shoulder smelling her sweetvender scent cing her on her feet, running his hands around her waist facing the open sea.


    ¡°This is beautiful.¡± She said lying her back on his chest.


    ¡°Not as beautiful as you are.¡± He responded kissing her head.


    Turning her around he kissed her neck and shoulder, making her giggle.


    They slept spooning on deck. Enjoying the warm morning sun and breeze, Melissa opened her eyes when a shadow fell on them.


    ¡°Wake up, you said we are going to fish today, right dad?¡± Beaming Tommy shouted shaking his parents several times to wake them.


    After breakfast Mark taught them how to hook the rods with bate and cast them into the water. A few minutester Tommy¡¯s rod got heavy. Pulling it out of the water, he screamed looking at the fish dangling from the hook. His dad put the fish in a bucket of water letting him y with it for a while. When he insisted on taking it home, he promised to buy him an aquatic since they had to eat that fish for lunch.


    They spent the days exploring the ind, diving and swimming in the open waters.


    Before going back home to the city, Mark flew his wife and son to meet his parents.


    The helicopternded at the small airport miles from the farmhouse where the driver was waiting to pick them up.


    After stepping down from managing the familypany, Mark¡¯s dad turned his grandfather¡¯sunch into a dairy farm and established a milk processing factory, which he managed with his wife. Their home was a fortress with a gorgeous fountain and beautiful flower gardens along the pavements. Alighting from the car, Melissa stopped to admire and smell the lovely roses blooming in different shades of colors as they went to the house.


    ¡°Mark nted those.¡± A slender, slimdy with hair flying around her face stood before them smiling. She was way more beautiful in person with a slight resemnce to Mark.


    ¡°Mother!¡± He walked to her with open arms. ¡°This is my wife Melissa and Tommy my son.¡± Mark formally introduced them after hugging his mother. Though they had spoken several times on video Melissa felt a little nervous meeting for the first time.


    She hugged Melissa then took Tommy in her arms kissing his chubby cheeks inviting them to the big house. The house was a three story building with several rooms and a vast dining area. The maids weed them to the garden sitting area and served milk tea, bread, cakes, and biscuits to snack with.


    ¡°This ce is so beautiful.¡± Tommyplimented staffing his mouth with cake.


    ¡°My grandson is so smart and handsome.¡± Mrs. Johnson smiled wiping his mouth.


    After an hour of talking with his mother and getting to know each other, Mark took them to the stables full of beautiful horses. They took two saddled horses to the factory. Riding with his father, watching the cattle grazing freely in the field, Tommy giggled excitedly as his father charged the horse to run wildly to the factory.


    Melissa beside them saw herself years ago riding with Diana. Competing as they rode on the horses when her mother took them to theunch on holidays. It was the first ce her mother worked as a horse riding trainer before going to college and whenever theunch owner was short of trainers, he called her.


    The sound in the factory was inviting. The manager weed them and gave a tour of the whole factory from the pasteurizing area to several processing points and the packing area.


    After the tour, they sat at the cafeteria where most of the employees sat for tea and lunch breaks. Enjoying yogurt and fermented milk from the factory, they waited to meet Mark¡¯s dad who was in the garage repairing the truck.


    Contrary to what Melissa expected, Mr. Johnson was humble and friendly to his employees. Reminding her of her dad.


    Whenever the workers stood to greet him, he respectively asked them to sit and how they enjoyed the meals provided. Joining them at the table, Melissa watched him keenly. He looked exactly as she remembered him from the one time she went to the Johnsonpany building.


    At the farm and factory, everyone was family, weing and loving towards Melissa. For the two days spent, she helped Mrs. Johnson concoct a new vor for the yogurt she was working on as Mark took Tommy to the factory to learn how it operated and how they cared for the cattle.


    ¡­


    Sitting in the office working on her desk, Melissa got a phone call from an unknown number. After answering the call, she looked around. She murmured an excuse, took her bag and ran out.


    ¡°Melissa! What¡¯s wrong with her?¡± Nancy asked as they watched her leave in a hurry.


    Checking her wristwatch, she took the stairs since the elevator seemed to take forever and she couldn¡¯t wait any longer. Running down the fleet of stairs, she supported herself on the rail.


    Getting her phone from the bag, she called to inform Mark.


    He asked her to wait for the driver to pick her up, but she was too impatient and stubborn to listen. The security Mark hired to secretly protect her drove after the taxi she took. Stopping at a small shopping center miles from the city, Melissa stepped out of the car. Scanning the area, she walked into the hotel but didn¡¯t find him.


    Mr. Crack had called her, asking to meet in a hotel on the outskirts of the city.


    He nned on leaving the country but he had to give her information about her father¡¯spany after his niece finally managed to convince him. He gave Melissa a few minutes to meet up or she would miss the chance to find out what really happened to thepany. Now she stood at the hotel ten minuteste and he was gone.


    Standing outside looking at the shops around, she got a call from Mr. Crack¡¯s niece asking if they had met. She was worried when the call to her uncle went silent and his phone didn¡¯t go through. When Melissa and her security asked around the shops and in the hotel if they saw any suspicious activities, one waiter told them she had seen two men force an older man into a taxi.


    Thedy in charge of her security walked beside her as the hotel manager led them to the office to look at the surveince footage.


    Melissa sat on the chair hands shaking watching what had happened a few minutes before she got there. While on phone stepping out of his car, two men approached Mr. Crack from behind. Covered his mouth with a cloth and forced him into a taxi. The hotel manager informed the police. Though they surrounded the ce and closed all exits, they couldn¡¯t find them.


    They were long gone.


    ¡°They took him, Mark, the Stevens got to him first.¡± She hugged Mark when he joined them at the police station. ¡°This is all my fault. If I didn¡¯t insist so much, this wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so hard on yourself. The police will do everything they can to find him.¡± He held her tight, consoling her, but he very well knew what would happen if they didn¡¯t find him soon.


    They trailed the taxi only to find it abandoned on the busy highway out of the city.


    ¡­


    ¡°Daddy, are you involved in this?¡± Diana barged into her father¡¯s home office.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Mr. Stevens inquired sitting up.


    ¡°You got Mr. Crack, didn¡¯t you?¡± She asked folding her arms over her chest while tapping her foot on the ground.


    ¡°I do not know what you¡¯re talking about. Mr. Crack asked for some days off work to sort out some personal matters he has.¡± Mr. Stevens said, getting a ss of water.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what happened earlier. He was going to meet with Melissa so I asked my men to get rid of him. When my men got there, someone took him. If it¡¯s not you, then who did?¡± Taking a seat, she looked at Mr Steven with raised eyebrows.


    ¡°Someone took Mr. Crack? Where? When did this happen?¡± He inquired raising from his chair.


    ¡°An hour ago in some market out of town. Someone grabbed him, but unfortunately they got away.¡± She exined gging back on the chair.


    Mr. Stevens knew Diana would not rest easy. He asked Mr. Crack to leave the country with his family until they sorted everything out but didn¡¯t expect him to n a meeting with his goddaughter. Seeing her would not only endanger his life, but he would also put Melissa at risk. Luckily the men he hired got him to the ne on time.


    Now he sat back at ease looking at his enraged daughter, wondering how she will take what he was nning to do.

 Impulsive and reckless

    With her renovation contract over, Melissa nned to get back to the shopping center. To inquire if anyone could give more information about what had happened to Mr. Crack.


    There were no leads on his whereabouts or the kidnappers, but his niece looked at ease.


    She did not bombard the police with questions as she had done when they found the taxi. And though his niece had asked her to stay out of it, Melissa was determined to end what she had started.


    Seated in the car as her bodyguard drove her back to the office, Melissa saw the truck she had seen back at the warehouse.


    Though they concealed the number tes, she noticed the same lily flower drawn on the left side.


    ¡°Follow that car.¡± Pointing at the truck, she instructed. Getting her phone, she called her husband.


    The truck drove smoothly, not realizing the two vehicles following them at a distance. When it drove inside the gatedpound, Melissa¡¯s car and that of her bodyguards parked at a safe distance.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Her bodyguard questioned when she opened the door.


    ¡°I want to see what¡¯s in there.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous. Let¡¯s call the cops.¡± The bodyguard tried to stop her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine. Just a nce.¡± She insisted.


    As the truck drove into one of the homes, Melissa stepped out followed closely by her guards.


    They managed to sneak into thepound when the gates opened for the garbage truck to leave. And under the cover of the vehicles in the parking area, they peeped as the truck opened.


    Eyes peeled, they watched as the armed men she recognized from the warehouse pushed women out of the truck.


    ¡°Oh!¡± one girl who seemed to be the youngest was pped on the face twice causing her to fall on her back when she tried to resist.


    ¡°Mrs. Johnson, stop.¡± Melissa tried to get up. To go help her but her guard pulled her back. Insisting they should wait for the police.


    ¡°They might kill her.¡±


    When the man picked the girl up, he punched her in the stomach several times as his partnersughed.


    Melissa couldn¡¯t watch anymore. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.


    Standing up, she took her bodyguard¡¯s revolver gun tucked into her waist belt.


    ¡°Stop. Lay another finger on her and I¡¯ll blow your brains off.¡± She warned, stepping out from behind the service truck. Pointing the gun at the men.


    She was outnumbered but she hoped to buy time for the police to get there.


    ¡®This idiot. Does she want to get us killed?¡¯ Her bodyguard cursed in her heart clenching her fist.


    It was her duty to keep Melissa safe. Even if she had to take a bullet for her. Taking out another gun secured on her leg, she asked her partners to move in before standing beside Melissa.


    ¡°Ha ha, what? Are you going to shoot all of us? Go ahead, shoot.¡± Melissa¡¯s hand trembled a little when the man taunted her. But noticing her bodyguard beside her gave her some courage.


    ¡°Put your guns down or I will shoot her.¡± The man held his gun to the girl¡¯s head. His partners stepped back, raising their guns pointing them at Melissa and her three bodyguards.


    It was four to five, and Melissa knew they had more men inside. Since she didn¡¯t want anyone to get hurt in the crossfire, she ced her gun down ordering her guards to do the same.


    ¡°That¡¯s more like it.¡± The man smirked, staring at her.


    Her hands up as instructed, Melissa stared in disgust at the smugness on their faces as they gave details of what they would do to them once they got rid of the two men apanying her.


    ¡°No, not gonna happen.¡± The bodyguard beside her spoke, standing before her protectively when the two men walked towards them with guns in their hands.


    ¡°No.¡± Melissa touched her shoulder asking her to stand down.


    With his gun ready to shoot, one man pulled Melissa, and thedy assigned to protect her as his partner got out a gun to shoot the two men.


    ¡°Ah!¡± When the gun fired, Melissa closed her eyes. When the warm red liquid sshed everywhere, she screamed her heart out.


    For a moment, she thought they had been shot until she saw the two men fall one after the other.


    Transfixed, Melissa stood motionless her eyes wide open as Mark wiped her face with his handkerchief checking if she was hurt.


    The little girl she had saved ran and hugged her from behind, thanking her for saving them.


    Melissa was impulsive and reckless. Putting the people around her in danger but she was d they saved the women and girls from a life of sex very.


    Most of the women rescued were brought into the country and promised industrial jobs only to end up as sex workers and entertainers in different clubs and casinos.


    They kidnapped others like the fourteen year old girl from their homes and some were bought by the person keeping them.


    All the armed men in the building were arrested, then they issued an order to close all casinos mentioned for further investigation.


    ¡­.


    ¡°What?¡± Diana stood up from her office desk in the casino when her informant told her about the police directive. ¡± Damn it. Make sure you do as instructed.¡± She exited the building through the back door after instructing all the managers she had paid to act as owners on what to do.


    Single handedly she had sessfully established and managed the two most sessful casinos.


    ¡°How did the police find out?¡± She looked at the sky standing at the hotel window puffing the white smoke from her mouth.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, it seems they followed the truck.¡± His head bowed, the man said trembling.


    ¡°Who, who followed them?¡± She roared, turning to face him. ¡°You were supposed to be cautious. I gave you one job. One job only. To make sure you protect my businesses yet you failed me.¡± Taking out her gun, she pointed it at his head. ¡°Tell me why I shouldn¡¯t pull the trigger?¡± She asked cocking the gun.


    ¡°Don¡¯t kill me, ma¡¯am, please. I know who brought the police and I promise I¡¯ll bring her to you.¡± The man pleaded, handing Diana a picture retrieved from the surveince cameras.


    ¡°Get out.¡± She roared looking at the face in the picture. ¡°Ugh! You destroy everything I get. I will make you suffer Melissa.¡± She swore tracing Melissa¡¯s face with the gun.


    Rxing on the couch she called her second inmand instructing him to send men to get Melissa.


    She had to get her.


    ¡­.


    For days Melissa had to go for psychiatric therapy.


    Lack of sleep made her take sleeping pills. Often staying in Tommy¡¯s room watching him.


    Any loud noise made her jump, reminding her of the gunshots and blood sshing everywhere.


    ¡°Melissa, are you sure you¡¯re okay toe to the office? You should stay at home and rest.¡± Concerned Nancy asked when a stapler fell on the floor making Melissa shiver.


    Wiping her eyes, Melissa tucked a strand of hair behind her ear sitting straight in her chair. ¡°I¡¯m fine. A little jumpy but I¡¯m fine.¡± She assured them getting back to her work.


    ¡°Melissa, what you went through is very scary. If you need, talk to us and tell us what you feel. Sharing will ease your mind.¡± Jenifer persuaded holding her hand.


    Mark had called requesting them to make her share the experience since she wouldn¡¯t open up to her therapist.


    ¡°I said I¡¯m okay.¡± She snapped drawing her hand from Jenifer¡¯s surprising them both. ¡°Huh!¡± With a heavy sigh, she leaned back on her chair. ¡°You know what shopping will help me rx.¡±


    ¡°Did someone say shopping?¡± Lisa spoke standing at the office door.


    ¡°Lisa, what are you doing here?¡± Melissa stared at her.


    ¡°I came to get you three so we can shop for the wedding. It¡¯s only a few days away and as the bridesmaids, we have to make sure Jenifer has everything ready.¡± She said enthusiastically.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite thoughtful Lisa, but we have work to do.¡± Jenifer opposed it since she needed toplete her projects on time before leaving for her honeymoon.


    Melissa walked out briefly, and when she got back, she closed Jenifer¡¯s files. ¡°Forget about work today. The manager gave us a day off. Let¡¯s go do some shopping.¡± She said, pulling Jenifer from her desk.


    ¡°Hey, what did you do to our workaholic Melissa?¡± Surprised Nancy uttered getting her bag.


    The fourdies walked around the mall, visiting one cloth store to the other trying on different gowns.


    ¡°I love this one. What do you think?¡± Nancy inquired, twirling in the fourth mermaid dress she had tried on.


    ¡°You love all of them.¡± Lisaughed and teased her.


    ¡°They¡¯re so expensive and elegant. I can¡¯t help but fall for all of them.¡± Nancy hugged the many dresses on theck.


    ¡°Focus Nancy. We need something we all feelfortable in and one that Jenifer likes. She has to say what she needs, it¡¯s her day.¡± Melissa said looking at Jenifer for approval.


    Jenifer spoke with the saledy about the choice of colour and style she had in mind.


    Fifteen minutester satisfied customers walked out with shopping bags full of clothes, jewels and shoes.


    ¡°I¡¯m famished, let¡¯s have lunch.¡± Wanting to stay out of the office, Melissa suggested.


    She couldn¡¯t stop seeing the dead bodies. Though she said she was okay, any closed space made her feel like she was in that warehouse with bullets raining on her.


    ¡°Only if you¡¯re buying.¡± Nancy stated following them to the restaurant.


    After having lunch, they went to the spa.


    They understood what Melissa was going through and stood by her supporting her.


    ¡°Is ain¡¯t that your friend.¡± Lisa said nearing the spa.


    At the spa entrance, they bumped into Diana holding onto an older man¡¯s arm. The man had a cap and dark sses on hiding his face but Melissa felt his intense gaze on her as they exchanged greetings. ¡°Oh Melissa, how have you been?¡± Diana¡¯s long nails dug into her palm piercing the flesh as she controlled the range she felt toward Melissa.


    ¡°Never been better. How about you?¡±


    ¡°Same.¡± With a smile on her face, she hugged Melissa asking how she was faring. Not forgetting to congratte her on her marriage to one of the wealthiest men in town. ¡°You hit the jackpot, my friend.¡± She whispered into Melissa¡¯s ear.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I bet I did.¡± Melissa smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll see you around D.¡±


    Saying goodbye to her, they walked into the spa.


    ncing back as the door closed, Melissa caught the man staring at her as his driver opened the car door for him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s have a massage first, my muscles are so stiff I can hardly move.¡± Nancy wriggled her shoulders, heading to the receptionist.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Lisa slightly nagged Melissa standing at the door to get her attention.


    ¡°What?¡± Startled, Melissa took a step back, almost hitting the ss door.


    She couldn¡¯t shake that man¡¯s face off her mind.

 The evidence

    With Mr. Crack missing and unable to locate the man who hadst seen her father alive, Melissa lost all hope of getting the evidence she needed.


    She thought Mr. Stevens¡¯ illegal businesses woulde to light when she found the truck, but it didn¡¯t. None of the casino managers mentioned him during the interrogation. And there was nothing linking them to the casino.


    ¡°I¡¯m I making all this up?¡± Massaging her temples, she thought of Diana.


    Seeing her calm andposed, left Melissa wondering if she had really seen Diana at the warehouse.


    All she wanted was to get her father¡¯spany back. To prove that Mr. Steven ran it down. But how was she to do that?


    Seated in the office, thinking of what to do, the receptionist called. She requested her to get an envelope dropped off by a courier serviceman.


    Scanning the white envelope in her hands, it surprised her to find no return address. When she called to inquire from the courierpany who had sent it, they gave no information about the person.


    All the serviceman told her was that they only ordered him to drop off the envelope and they paid for the service in cash.


    Though she had no idea who had sent it, Melissa took the envelope to her office. Sitting behind her desk she broke the seal to see the content inside, revealing many papers. She found documents showing every trantion made by her father¡¯spany before and after the ident. The detailed information showed how Mr. Stevens defrauded her father¡¯spany leading it to bankruptcy.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    For a while Melissa sat looking at the documents, contemting what to do with them. Holding them close to her chest she breathed in, finally, she was going to get back every single coin the Stevens took but she didn¡¯t know how to face them. For most of her life, they were family. When Mr. Crack disappeared and couldn¡¯t locate the mystery man, Melissa had lost all hope of getting help now the evidence was in her hands.


    Signing off from work Melissa asked the driver to take her to the cemetery.


    ¡°Mum dad sorry I¡¯ve been here to visit for a while.¡± She knelt in front of her parent¡¯s grave wiping dried leaves as she ced the flesh flowers. ¡°So much has happened.¡± She smiled with tears in her eyes. ¡°I got married. I know you will like him.¡± Wiping the tears, she sat with her knees drawn to her chest. ¡°Mark is great, he is supporting me and I love him.¡± She smiled then bit her lower lip. ¡°I nned to use him to get thepany yet now he is all I think off. Ha ha ha, dad don¡¯t be mad. I¡¯m still your little girl.¡±


    Talking to the headstone felt like they were there with her.


    She would have loved to be with them. Share her happiness with her parents.


    ¡°I got the evidence mum. I¡¯ll have to file a case against godfather. I¡¯m sorry your friend¡¯s life will be ruined after this.¡±


    With her hands on her chest, she prayed for strength and her parents¡¯ guidance to face her godparents as she filed the case against them.


    Leaving the cemetery she went to Mark¡¯s office to hand him the evidence.


    He spent most of the time at work trying to fix a crisis thepany was going through after one of their building under construction copsed.


    It was a big loss but luckily, none of the workers were injured. After the six story building sank, an investigation was done and now they faced charges of using substandard materials for construction.


    For years, their buildings stood strong but with this one incident, they were being used of using cheap materials.


    Unless he found the people responsible, thepany would lose its license and some investors threatened to pull out.


    Sitting on the couch she watched him check the documents before meeting Jason and his team. His friend Jason was awyer and he asked to look into her case.


    His familyw firm was tasked with gathering all the evidence and witnesses needed before failing the case against Mr. Stevens.


    When Mark¡¯s men checked the street cameras, they found out that a newspaper vendor had paid for the services. After a brief conversation, he informed them that a man had approached him offering to pay handsomely if he delivered the envelope to the courier office.


    Melissa hoped the person might know Mr. Crack¡¯s whereabouts but the search ended since the man¡¯s identity was concealed.


    ¡­.


    Leaving the office, they picked up Tommy then went to the Johnson¡¯s mansion.


    ¡°Sir, they have arrived.¡± The house manager informed old Mr. Johnson. ¡°Will you ask Mark to end his marriage?¡± He inquired looking at the old man keenly. Working for Mr. Johnson for years he had be his confidant and advisor.


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t. That will only make him rebel against me. Sasha is the best weapon to separate them.¡± He had called Mark earlier to have dinner at the mansion and discuss thepany¡¯s future as a disguise to bring him closer to Sasha.


    With a show of his hand, he asked his house manager to leave. Walking to the office window, he looked outside watching as the car drove in.


    ¡°So you are Edward¡¯s granddaughter.¡± He sneered, crashing the report his private detective had given him as Melissa stepped from the car.


    Standing at the doorway, the chief maid smiled inviting them into the house.


    ¡°Wee.¡± ncing up at the first floor, they saw Mr. Johnson. ¡°Where is my great grandson?¡± He asked, looking around as he went down the stairs.


    ¡°Hello, grandfather.¡± Laughing Tommy ran into the room with Spark beside him. Always very protective, sticking with the small boy whenever theye to visit. ¡°There you are.¡± The old man smiled as Tommy hugged him.


    Walking into the dining room, they found Sasha setting up the table for dinner. With a broad smile on her face, she hugged Melissa then turned to Mark and kissed him on the cheek.


    Turning to Tommy, the dog glowed bearing its teeth when she held his hand directing them to the table.


    ¡°I made the steak tender. Well cooked just the way you like it.¡± She smiled, touching Mark¡¯s hand before instructing the maid to bring the food.


    ¡°Sasha is very hardworking and a good cook. Don¡¯t you think? I¡¯m certain she will make a very good wife.¡± Mr. Johnsonplimented tasting the food looking at Mark sharply.


    Melissa fed Tommy not letting Mr. Johnson¡¯sments or Sasha¡¯s flirting with her husband get to her.


    All the while she thought he had epted their marriage but his reactions tonight said otherwise.


    ¡°Thank you, grandfather, I¡¯m ttered.¡± Sasha smiled shyly bowing her head. When no one was looking she smiled ring at Melissa.


    ¡°What did you find out?¡± Mark inquired from James on the phone. He had stepped out to answer the call after a brief conversation with his grandfather.


    ¡°The forensics showed forey.¡± He reported the police finding on the copsed building. ¡°They found explosives in the basement, but we captured the two people responsible.¡±


    ¡°Take them to the warehouse. After getting every bit of information, hand them over to the police.¡± He instructed.


    ¡°It¡¯s done. I have our men working on them right now.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    ¡°I also got more information on our mysterious informant.¡±


    ¡°Who is he?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Mr. Edward. A famous business executive who held a prestigious position in the government years back. I also found an old newspaper article about him with his two sons. Mr. White was his eldest son. Interestingly, Mr. Edward is your grandfather¡¯s greatest rival and enemy. Though they are in different business fields, Mr. Johnson asionally used him of funding hispetitors to bid against him. Having founded the organization he has been the most feared person with security offices after him until a few years back when he legalized all hispanies but his n to end the organizations didn¡¯t work since his youngest son overturned his leadership by getting new buyers and transporters taking over the operation.¡± James exined on the phone.


    ¡°Howe Mr white is Edward¡¯s son? I thought his children are Luke and Peter?¡± Mark asked walking around the garden.


    ¡°He changed his name and broke all ties with his family after getting married. Another thing, your grandfather hired a detective to dig for information about Melissa. He knows she is Edward¡¯s granddaughter.¡± James confirmed his suspicion.


    His grandfather had epted his wish to marry. ¡®Does he want me to leave Melissa?¡¯ Though his grandfather didn¡¯t ask him directly, Mark suspected that was the motive.


    Throughout dinner, he felt the hostility directed at Melissa and the push to get him closer to Sasha.


    ¡°Thank you for informing me. I¡¯ll handle grandfather, but Melissa can¡¯t know about this yet.¡± He said, ending the call.


    ¡°Keeping secrets?¡± Sasha asked standing before him.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡± He responded getting agitated.


    ¡°Mark, you know I love you. Why can¡¯t you give me a chance?¡± She asked getting close to him.


    ¡°Stop Sasha, I¡¯m married now. Please respect yourself.¡± He said pushing her aside.


    ¡°Your marriage can be annulled. That woman is just using you, Mark. Can¡¯t you see she will never love you as much as I do?¡± Sasha insisted holding onto his shirt.


    From a distance, Melissa walked out only to see them in each other¡¯s arms.


    ¡°They always make a beautiful couple, don¡¯t they?¡± The chief maid spoke standing behind Melissa.


    Smiling, she nced at Sasha who got even closer to Mark after noticing them.


    ¡°I¡¯m all yours if you will have me.¡± She kissed him on the cheek which looked like a real kiss from where Melissa stood.


    Feeling hurt and betrayed, Melissa went back to get Tommy as Mark pushed Sasha away.


    Earlier when Sasha saw Mark talking on the phone, she asked the maid to direct Melissa to the garden.


    ¡°This is just the beginning.¡± Sasha sneered as Mark left the mansion taking his family away.


    ¡°You promised to get rid of Melissa. What taking you so long?¡± She asked over the phone. ¡°I¡¯ll pay any amount you need. Make sure you get that woman out of my way.¡± She instructed, ending the call.

 Shooting at the hotel

    As directed, the two men parked their car a short distance from the hotel. Watching and waiting.


    It was Jenifer¡¯s wedding.


    ¡°I¡¯m so happy for her.¡± Nancy whispered to Lisa as they left the church after the ceremony heading to the reception area.


    The heart of the day¡¯s event which was held in a garden venue at a prestigious hotel.


    Melissa and Nancy had arranged the venue. Several tents were erected to host many guests, with an ample buffet and soft music for entertainment.


    ¡°Congrattions Jenny.¡± They squealed, pushing to hug the gorgeous bride.


    After a day ofughter and dancing, they escorted Jenifer and her husband out of the hotel.


    ¡°There she is.¡± The man in the car told his partner. Pointing at the group of people walking out, he checked the photo in his hands for confirmation.


    Blinking his eyes, the partner searched the crowd around the hotel¡¯s exit.


    ¡°How do we get to her?¡± He asked, scratching his head scanning the area.


    Melissa, dressed in a sleeveless light green dress matching the twodies beside her, held Tommy¡¯s hand as they hugged Jenifer. Congratting her and her husband before sending them off for their honeymoon.


    ¡°This is hard, man.¡± He tapped the steering wheel looking around.


    Several uniformed officers guarded the entry and exits.


    There was no way to get into the venue without an invitation card. And people walking around Melissa made it difficult for the hired men to carry out the assignment.


    ¡°We have to wait.¡± He held the wheel as his partner clenched his fist watching Melissa.


    With no other choice, they sat and waited for an opportunity to strike.


    When fifteen minutes of charting and hugs passed, the couple got into their car and drove off. Leaving their guests to enjoy the better part of the ceremony.


    As the guests walked back inside, the men despaired. Unable to get Melissa alone, it seemed they couldn¡¯t get what they came for.


    For days, they had followed Melissa. Watching her every move but with the security in ce to protect her, no one could get an inch of her hair.


    ¡°Drive now.¡± The man instructed his partner as he took a gun from the glovepartment.


    ¡°What are you nning to do man?¡± Starting the engine, he nced at his partner. ¡°It¡¯s too risky. Let¡¯s try getting her another day.¡± He suggested but the man beside him insisted they should finish the job.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let that b*tch walk. Not after what she caused my family. Drive, damn it.¡± He roared.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go inside.¡± Outside the hotel, Nancy turned to her friends.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll stay for long. I have to take Tommy home.¡±


    ¡°Come on Melissa, stay for a little longer. It¡¯s not dark yet. Oh, that song, I love it.¡± Nancy went inside dancing as Lisa raised her brows at her.


    Turning to the venue, Tommy pulled at his mother¡¯s hand pointing at his shoe races. ¡°Oh baby! Lisa, go on. I¡¯ll be right behind you.¡± She smiled at Tommy, then bent down to tie his races and straightened his suit jacket as everyone walked in.


    Turning to Melissa, Lisa saw the car. ¡°Melissa, watch out! ¡± She called out to Melissa when she noticed the speeding car.


    As the car window rolled down, one man held a gun. Pointing toward Melissa and Tommy.


    ¡°Noooo!¡± Lisa pushed Melissa back as the shot was fired.


    People ran screaming for their lives as the police opened fire. The officers shot at the car several times as others pursued them, driving from the hotel parking lot disappearing into the busy highway.


    ¡°Oh my God, Lisa! Help, someone help us, please.¡± Cried Melissa kneeling on the floor holding Lisa in her arms.


    Calling for help, she ced her hand on Lisa¡¯s shoulder to stop the bleeding.


    Tommy stood beside his mother, holding his aunt¡¯s hand with tears in his eyes.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± Lisa inquired as she struggled to speak. ¡°Those men are after you. You have to be careful.¡± She said before passing out.


    ¡°Lisa, Lisa open your eyes. The ambnce. Someone call the ambnce, Lisa!¡± Melissa held her in herp, begging her to open her eyes.


    ¡°Oh my God, Lisa!¡± Running from the hotel, Nancy got Tommy. Covered his eyes not to see the bloody scene as the ambnce stopped.


    The paramedics checked the wound and her vitals trying to stop the bleeding as they drove to the hospital.


    ¡°This is my fault.¡± Melissa sat in the hospital chapel praying waiting for the surgery to end.


    A few months back when she got to the city, she was ready to do whatever it took to get her father¡¯spany back. Now kneeling, praying for her friend to pull through, she wished she could stop.


    She wished she had never gone out in search of the truth.


    Her quest got many people she cared for hurt.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t stop.¡± She wiped the tears, gazing at the cross.


    She never thought Mr. Steven would go this far. She couldn¡¯t pull back now. It was already done.


    She had filed the case, and she had to see it through. She had to get her father¡¯spany back.


    All she had to do was brace herself and stand strong to protect the people she cared for.


    After an hour of waiting, the lights in the operating room went off.


    When the doctor came out, he informed them they had removed the bullet from Lisa¡¯s shoulder sessively.


    Though she lost a lot of blood, she was going to be okay. No serious damage was done.


    ¡­..


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Diana asked the man beside her holding onto his arm as he spoke on the phone.


    His brows knitted, he listened for a while, then ended the call. Pulling his hand from Diana¡¯s hold, he walked to the window.


    ¡°I lost the cargo.¡±


    ¡°What! What happened?¡±


    ¡°The coastguards got to the ship sequestering everything.¡± He spoke, running a hand through his hair.


    ¡°Through our interconnections we can get them back. Can¡¯t we?¡± She asked, sitting up.


    ¡°No, we can¡¯t. They destroyed everything. Millions¡¯ worth of goods were destroyed. We have to stay out of the market for a while.¡± He spoke, taking a cigarette from his jacket pocket.


    ¡°No! We can make more here. I lost the casino¡¯s prestige. I can¡¯t lose this too. You have to do something.¡± She pleaded, standing beside him batting her eyshes.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do anything about it.¡± About to light his cigarette, he saw the breaking news on TV. Halting his movement, he clenched the lighter.


    Diana sat on the hotel bed, looking at the screen on the wall.


    The shooting at the hotel was the top story of the day. Raising serious security questions.


    ¡°I asked you to keep your hands off, Melissa.¡± The man turned to Diana.


    Spitting the cigarette, he grabbed her by her forearm.


    ¡°What makes you think I¡¯m involved?¡± She questioned, pulling her arm from his forced grasp.


    ¡°That is one of your cars.¡± He said, pointing at the screen. In their line of business, everyone had a signature for territory. ¡°I asked you not to go near her no matter what she does, but it seems I¡¯ve been so lenient with you.¡± He roared, pulling her up by the arm.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let her take everything I have worked hard for. Why do you care so much for Melissa, anyway?¡± Grinding her teeth, she stared straight into his eyes.


    ¡°My rtionship with her is of no concern to you. If you want to keep working with me, keep your hands off her. Or you will have me to deal with.¡± Pushing her onto the bed, he took his coat.


    ¡°You can¡¯t leave, not like this.¡± Knelt on the bed, Diana held his hand stopping him.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t you do without this?¡± He sneered pushing her onto the bed.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk first.¡± She tried to get up.


    ¡°I thought this is what you are after.¡± He said tearing her dress as he turned her to lie on her stomach.


    ¡°No stop. Not like this.¡± She tried to pull away but he was stronger.


    Taking down his trousers, he pulled her to the edge of the bed making her winch as he forcefully entered her.


    In all the years she had been with him, he had never treated her the way he did. Covering herself with the bedsheet when he was done, she wiped the tears running down her cheeks.


    ¡°Damn you Melissa.¡±


    The pain in her heart was more than any physical pain she had experienced.


    Getting from the hotel she went to the casino¡¯s basement.


    ¡°I gave you a very simple job yet as always, you failed me. Must I do everything by myself?¡± She bellowed at the men kneeling in front of her desk.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, she was heavily guarded. We couldn¡¯t get to her.¡± One of the men exined trying to get up but the armed man behind them pushed him back down.


    ¡°You!¡± She pointed at the other man. ¡°You like shooting people very much. Maybe I should shoot your leg off.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m sorry but I had to do something. That b*tch caused my brother¡¯s death. She owes me blood.¡± He gritted his teeth staring Diana straight in the eyes.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want her dead. Killing her is an easy way out.¡± She sighed, putting the gun down. ¡°You two need to leave the city till the police stop hunting you. I don¡¯t want my name mentioned in this.¡± She instructed her assistant to get them to their safe house out of the city.


    ¡°What will you do about her? With Mr. Johnson protecting her we can¡¯t aplish the mission.¡± The assistant said standing behind her.


    ¡°We will have to get rid of Mark Johnson first.¡± Diana grinned while making a call.

 Take a bullet for you

    Melissa sat beside the hospital bed the whole night watching over Lisa. Waiting for the sedative drug to wear off. When Lisa passed out from shock and intense pain, Melissa was worried about her. She was afraid of losing her, but the surgery was sessful.


    They removed the bullet and though it slightly missed her heart; the doctor assured them she would recover in a few days. It caused no major damage.


    ¡°Don¡¯t wake her up.¡± With her eyes closed, Melissa heard the hushed voices.


    Slightly opening her eyes, she found herself lying on the visitor¡¯s bed.


    She very well remembered sitting beside Lisa¡¯s bed before falling asleep. As she got up, she saw Mark and Robert in the room charting with Lisa.


    ¡°Lisa, you are awake. How do you feel? Did you call¡­..?¡± Anxious Melissa inquired, rushing to Lisa¡¯s side.


    ¡°Calm down. The doctor already examined her. How are you feeling?¡± Mark held her hand before she got to Lisa. Pulling her into his arms, he examined her. ¡°Tell me, did you get hurt?¡± He questioned, caressing her cheeks.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine.¡± She smiled at him. ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re here.¡± She said, falling into his embrace.


    ¡°Sorry, I was not there to protect you.¡± Kissing her forehead, he held her tightly to his chest.


    ¡°Ahem!¡± As the two started kissing, Robert cleared his throat. Reminding them they hadpany. ¡°I suggest you two get a room.¡± He teased them, ncing at Lisa. Who shyly looked away.


    The police found the vehicle used to get away touched to ashes miles from the city. They reported it stolen a few days before and though the owner gave a picture of the persons involved in the attack; they apprehended no one. After taking statements from Lisa and everyone at the venue, they formally opened an investigation.


    ¡°Never do that. I thought I lost you.¡± Melissa strongly warned Lisa when Mark and Robert left the room.


    ¡°Melissa, you are like a sister to me. I did what you would have done for me. Ouch!¡± She winced when Melissa hugged her.


    ¡°Sorry! You are such a crybaby yet you¡¯re taking bullets for me.¡± She poked her hand making them bothugh.


    ¡°I love you. I¡¯ll take a bullet for you again if I have to.¡±


    ¡°Oh Lisa, I love you too.¡± Melissa sniffed hugging Lisa again. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you got hurt because of me.¡±


    ¡°You like her.¡± Standing outside the door, Mark nced at Robert as they watched the two womenugh in tears.


    ¡°Who? Me, like Lisa? No, I¡¯m just d your wife is okay. You¡¯re the one who asked me toe along, anyway.¡± Robert scratched his head looking away.


    ¡°I saw the way you looked at her just now. Don¡¯t tell me you admire my wife.¡± Mark taunted him to admit his feelings for Lisa.


    ¡°Come on, man. Stop messing with me. I know what you¡¯re trying to do.¡±


    After a week they discharged Lisa and Melissa took her to the Vi. She took full responsibility, promising Lisa¡¯s parents that she would look after her when they insisted on going back home to the province with her. Convincing them, Betty stayed in the city to make sure the two were safe.


    ¡­.


    Leaving the courthouse, Melissa came face to face with Jessica and her godmother.


    They arraigned Mr Steven in court for the mentioning of the case. His family had tried several times to meet Melissa, but her security always stopped them.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Mark asked her when she stopped looking at Mr. Steven as the police escorted him to the transport vehicle.


    ¡°Melissa, Melissa, please hear me out.¡± Her godmother called from behind, rushing towards them.


    ¡°Lydia, stay away from my niece. Your family has done enough.¡± Betty stopped her standing before Melissa protectively.


    ¡°I only want her to talk to Steven, Betty. He will exin everything that happened. Please visit him once. That¡¯s all I request of you.¡± Mr Stevens¡¯ wife pleaded, but Melissa left without a word.


    Watching from a distance, Diana sneered as she walked away without meeting her family.


    ¡­.


    Her godmother kept calling and texting, urging her to meet Mr Steven until she decided to.


    ¡°Thank you for visiting me.¡± Mr. Steven said, sitting before Melissa in the visitor¡¯s room with a warden standing by the door.


    ¡°I have one question, please answer me truthfully.¡± She spoke, staring at him.


    ¡°Do ask.¡±


    ¡°Did you have my parents killed to cover your tracks?¡± Melissa asked, leaning forward on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for everything I put you through, but I would never kill. Your father was very kind to offer me a job after the scandal at my former job. I would never hurt them.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Then why did you run thepany down? Didn¡¯t you hurt them by doing so?¡± She asked, raising her hands.


    ¡°I was only protecting my family. They threatened to kill Diana and my whole family if I didn¡¯t traffic their goods. Please believe me.¡± He said, remembering the phone call.


    He could hear Diana screaming for help over the phone as those men tortured her. ¡°When your father started investigating my office, they asked me to do all I could to run thepany down. I talked Mr Crack into convincing your father to take a loan for business expansion. And with Crack¡¯s help, I redirected all the money to my ount. Which I used to establish my transportpany.¡± He exined, looking at his hands ashamed when he saw the pain in Melissa¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°You stole from my dad, yet you say someone ordered you? Stop lying. The evidence shows clearly what you did.¡± She said, pping the table hard, making the warden walk towards them.


    ¡°Yes, I defrauded your father. Only because someone ordered me to. Please trust me, Melissa. I only did that to protect my family.¡±


    ¡°Who ordered you?¡± She asked, furrowing her eyebrows.

 He has been lying to me

    ¡°Luke Edward. He¡¯s someone from your father¡¯s past¡­.¡± Before he could exin more, the warden interrupted, taking Mr Steven away.


    ¡°Who¡¯s Luke Edward? What did you do to Mr Crack?¡± She kept asking while following them.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I had Mr Crack taken out of the country with his family¡­¡± He said before the door closed.


    ¡°What! So, who sent me the documents?¡± She questioned staring at the closed door.


    Walking out of the prison, Melissa racked her brain trying to think of the person he had mentioned.


    Though Mark and herwyer warned her against it, she went to the Stevens¡¯ mansion to get more information from her godmother.


    When she got to the mansion, she found her godmother seated in the garden holding her family photo as the maids loaded their suitcases in the car. Her husband had asked her to leave the country for safety and treatment since her health was deteriorating.


    When her husband informed her of every illegal business he had done for the organization she went into shock. He told her how he used thepany¡¯s name to transact their illegal deeds. A few weeks before sending the documents to Melissa.


    ¡°Did you know?¡± Clenching her fist, Melissa asked her godmother.


    ¡°No, he told me everything a few weeks ago.¡± She responded, wiping the silent tears. ¡°When your mother told me of the suspicions and your father¡¯s investigation, I got mad at her. Defended my husband and broke our sisterhood.¡± She sat with her eyes closed, remembering that every day.


    Mrs White came to check on her when she failed to attend their monthly meeting. Concerned as always, she inquired about her family when she found no one taking care of her.


    They spent the day together and after having lunch; Mrs White informed her of her husband¡¯s suspicion.


    Furious Lydia became defensive. Feeling insulted, she asked her to leave and not to tarnish her husband¡¯s name.


    It was thest she saw her friend.


    Shortly after, Steven and Diana persuaded her to go abroad for a family vacation.


    And when she got back, she heard of the ident.


    For weeks she looked for Melissa. She went to her apartment after the school informed her Melissa was not attending her sses but she didn¡¯t find her.


    Every month she went to her friend¡¯s grave to talk to her, even though she never talked back. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for everything, my child. My family has made you suffer so much.¡± She apologized, holding Melissa¡¯s hand with tears in her eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, don¡¯t beat yourself up. What¡¯s done is done.¡± Melissa sighed, touching her neck. ¡°I came here to get some information from you.¡± She spoke, pocketing her hand in her trouser pocket.


    ¡°Go on, ask.¡± Mrs Steven sat back looking at her.


    ¡°Steven told me someone ckmailed him into destroying my father¡¯spany. I need to know who these people are.¡± Melissa inquired, sitting on the chair facing her.


    ¡°That¡¯s what he told me. The organization made him traffic drugs and substandard goods. If not, they would kill us all. Right now Jessica and I have to leave the country. Diana was toe along, but she declined.¡± She exined with tears in her eyes.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t he tell you what connections Luke Edwards had with my father?¡± Melissa took her hands and caressed them trying to calm her down.


    ¡°Stop interrogating my mother. She has nothing to do with what dad and Diana have been doing.¡± Jessica budged on. She sat beside her mother, pulling her hands from Melissa¡¯s.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, calm down Jessica.¡± She tapped Jessica¡¯s shoulder assuring her Melissa won¡¯t harm them.


    With no more helpful information, Melissa left for the apartment to check on Lisa.


    Her aunt and Lisa¡¯s mother insisted on taking Lisa to the apartment after a few day¡¯s in the Vi not to inconvenience her and Mark. They took care of her like a baby though her injury was not that extensive.


    Heading to the apartment, she ran a search on the website about Luke Edwards but nothing popped up.


    When Nancy¡¯s cousin sent her the video of the clubhouse surveince footage on her phone, she smiled knowing she would finally see the face of the man she was looking for. Believing the man had all the answers she needed, she watched the video, but on the contrary, she heard her heartbreak.


    The only person walking in and out of the room was Mark. That day she asked for his help and he acted like he knew nothing about it. Yet he knew the person she was looking for.


    ¡°He has been lying to me.¡± Melissa talked with Lisa lying beside her on the bed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he has a good reason for keeping this secret. Talk to him, I know Mark will never do anything to hurt you.¡± Lisa said brushing Melissa¡¯s hair after watching the video.


    ¡°I doubt he will tell me. It¡¯s strange how he got me toe to the city then asked for marriage before even knowing about Tommy.¡± She sighed remembering the kiss he shared with Sasha.


    ¡°I insist, go talk to him first. Let him exin Everything.¡± Lisa urged her.


    ¡°What if he is in on all this?¡±


    Before going home, she decided to go to Mark¡¯s office to confront him.


    When the receptionist saw Melissa walk to the CEO¡¯s private elevator, she called Sasha.


    Sitting opposite Mark¡¯s desk as he went through the documents she had brought him, Sasha smiled.


    Unbuttoning the two buttons on her shirt revealing her chest, she adjusted her skirt pulling it up.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Dropping his pen, Mark questioned when he saw what she was doing.


    Without uttering a word Sasha walked to him. Pushed him back on the chair straddling him.


    ¡°Sasha!¡± As Mark ced his hands on her waist to push her away, Melissa walked in.

 I can鈥檛 lose you too

    To get to the top floor, Melissa used Mark¡¯s code to ess the elevator thus needing no help from his secretary.


    When she got to the eighteenth floor she didn¡¯t find the secretary at the desk. James too was not in his office. Only Sasha and Mark were in the office. Giving them the privacy to make out.


    Seeing him cosy with Sasha sealed the deal.


    When she saw them kissing at the mansion she thought Sasha had forced herself on him.


    Seeing him embrace her broke her heart. She wanted their marriage to be more than an arrangement. She believed he was in love with her as much as she loved him.


    Holding back a sob, she ran to the elevator. She didn¡¯t look back at the secretary who called her name when she walked from the washroom.


    For a moment Mark¡¯s hands froze. He didn¡¯t understand what had happened. When Melissa walked in he couldn¡¯t move.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Sasha screamed in pain as Mark pushed her off getting up from the chair. ¡°Mark, please just let her go.¡± She pleaded holding his hand.


    ¡°Enough Sasha, I¡¯ll deal with you when I get back.¡± He pulled his hand from her forceful hold causing her to fall on her back as he left the office.


    ¡°Sir, what happened? Should I call security?¡± His secretary asked dialing the phone as the elevator door closed.


    Melissa rushed out of the building to the car park with her hand on her mouth. She didn¡¯t want to cry yet the pain in her heart forced her to.


    ¡°Is everything okay ma¡¯am?¡± Her driver asked, ncing at her through the rearview mirror.


    ¡°Take me back to the office please.¡± She uttered, turning her gaze outside the window. As more tears filled her eyes, she recalled seeing Sasha and Mark in each other¡¯s arms.


    ¡­..


    At the Johnsons building, Mark got in his car. Not waiting for his driver and his bodyguards, he went after Melissa.


    He needed to see her. To talk to her and exin what she had seen.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    As he drove, he rang her phone. Every two minutes he anxiously called her but she didn¡¯t pick up.


    Looking at the tracker on his phone, he followed Melissa¡¯s car hoping to speak to her and clear everything up.


    ¡°Please answer your phone.¡± He desperately looked at his phone holding the steering wheel. Stopping at the red lights, he tapped at the wheel, his eyes glued to the traffic light.


    ¡°Come on,e on. Melissa please talk to me.¡±


    As he drove when the traffic light turned green, a van came from the opposite direction driving towards him at high speed.


    Sliding the door open, two armed men fired at Mark¡¯s car. They shot at him countless times causing his car to hit the pavement.


    His bodyguards, driving closely behind him, shot at the moving van. When the van drove off they pursued them as other bodyguards ran to save Mark while calling for an ambnce and police backup.


    Melissa sat in the car looking at her ringing phone. Mark had called over twenty times but she just stared at it. Feeling fed up by his persistence, she answered only to hear the round noise. She was too familiar with it.


    ¡°I love you.¡± He uttered hisst words.


    ¡°Mark! Hello! Mark!¡± She called but he didn¡¯t talk back, only people¡¯s screams could be heard.


    Raising her gaze from the phone, she saw the Johnson hospital ambnce drive past them.


    ¡°Mark! Drive back, take me back now.¡± She urged her bodyguard who was driving the car to head back.


    All the way back she prayed to see him.


    She didn¡¯t care about him and Sasha anymore; all she wanted was to see him. To hug him and make sure he was okay.


    The way back was closed. The traffic had stopped as police and Johnson¡¯s security personnel surrounded the area.


    ¡°No! Mark no no, this can¡¯t be.¡± She stepped out of the car and ran through the traffic. Out of breath, she clenched the phone in her hand as she pushed through the crowd surrounding Mark¡¯s car.


    ¡°Let me through. I¡¯m his wife.¡± She pushed the police kicking him in the groin when he couldn¡¯t get out of the way.


    ¡°Let her go with him.¡± Her bodyguard told the officers incharge showing him her work ID.


    ¡°Mark, Mark I¡¯m sorry.¡± She rushed to him, tears streaming down her cheeks.¡±Please don¡¯t leave me. Tommy, Tommy and I need you so much. Please hold on for me.¡± She kissed his hand and ced it on her cheek.


    When he made a sound, she gazed at him. ¡°Mark! Doctor, what is happening?¡± Leaning closer to him, he opened his eyes. Smiled at her, then closed his eyes as his hand lost its strength.


    ¡°Doctor! Mark, Mark look at me. Please look at me.¡±


    As soon as the ambnce doors opened the doctors took.


    ¡°Miss, please step back.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s my husband. I have to go with him.¡±


    ¡°No ma¡¯am, please stay here.¡±


    Forced to drop his hand, Melissa sobbed watching them roll him away.


    They didn¡¯t let her go in with him.


    She wanted to keep holding his hand. To let him know how much she loved. How much she needed him.


    At the hospital, all the surgeons had been waiting. They rushed him to the operating table leaving distorted Melissa lying outside on the floor crying.


    A few momentster Robert got to the hospital. ¡°Melissa, what happened?¡± He helped her sit on the chair with assistance from a nurse.


    ¡°It¡¯s all because of me. They shot Mark because of me. She sniffed, staring at his blood on her hands. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know if he will make it, Robert.¡± Tears welled up in her swollen eyes.


    ¡°Calm down, the doctors will do everything they can to save him.¡± Robert hugged her tight, soothing her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t lose him.¡± She sniffed against his shoulder.


    ¡°Security, get this woman out of this hospital.¡± Sasha walked in with two guards behind her. ¡°Throw her out, she has no business here.¡± Shemanded, trying to drag Melissa out.


    ¡°Sasha stop.¡± Robert stopped her, pulling Melissa behind him.


    ¡°She has every right to be here, you¡¯re the one who should leave.¡± Robert pushed Sasha away causing her to stumble.


    ¡°I¡¯m going nowhere. I see you have all the Johnson¡¯s men in your palm. Let¡¯s see what grandfather Johnson will do to you once he gets her.¡± Sasha snorted as sat a few feet from them crossing her legs.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t fight.¡± Melissa held Robert¡¯s hand stopping him from dragging Sasha out. ¡°She¡¯s not worth it.¡±


    They sat outside the operating room waiting.


    The nurse in charge asionally updated them on the progress since Mark had to undergo a series of surgeries.


    Five hourster, the red light in the room went off and the doctor got to speak to them.


    Mark had sustained serious injuries on his chest and head putting him into aa.


    They had to closely monitor him in the intensive care unit and only when he woke up, would they determine the extent of the damage done by the injuries.


    Once they moved him, only Melissa was allowed into the room.


    With her head and every part of her body covered with protective gear, she stood at the door staring at a white bandaged body.


    Mark had so many injuries, for a moment she didn¡¯t recognize him.


    ¡°I lost my parents, I can¡¯t lose you too.¡± She sat beside the bed taking his hand in hers as tears streamed down her cheeks. Sobbing, shey her head on the bed. As exhaustion took over, she fell asleep until movement in the room woke her up.


    ¡°Get her out.¡± Mr. Johnson got to the hospital demanding Melissa to leave.


    ¡°No grandfather, this isn¡¯t right. She¡¯s Mark¡¯s wife.¡± With Sasha supporting Mr. Johnson nothing that Robert said could change his mind. The hospital¡¯s security escorted Melissa out making sure she was not anywhere near Mark¡¯s ward.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Lisa walked to her at the waiting area. ¡°It¡¯s going to be okay.¡± Wrapping her arms around Melissa¡¯s shoulders, she soothed her trying to calm her down.


    Lisa had dropped everything when Robert called her.


    After speaking to the doctor, she managed to persuade Melissa to go get some rest and a change of clothes.


    ¡­.


    As they neared the vi gate, her bodyguard who was driving the car got a call.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry ma¡¯am, I got new orders.¡± She nced at Melissa in the rearview mirror. ¡°We can¡¯t get to the vi and as of now, I¡¯m relieved of my duties.¡± The female bodyguard apologized as she stopped the car.


    ¡°What? They can¡¯t do that. Since Mark is in the hospital do they think they can kick you out of your house?¡± Agitated Lisained getting her phone to call Robert.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Melissa touched Lisa¡¯s hand, stopping her. ¡°Take us to the apartment please.¡± She requested looking out of the window, surprising Lisa and thedy bodyguard.


    Melissa¡¯s things were shipped to the apartment and Tommy was taken to live in the mansion.


    The next day she went to the kindergarten to get her son but the security stopped her.


    She was not allowed anywhere near Tommy as Mr. Johnson had ordered.


    Every morning for three days, she sat outside the school gate in a taxi watching as her gloomy son walked up to his teacher when Mr. Johnson dropped him off.


    All her attempts to visit Mark at the hospital were not fruitful either.


    ¡°She is back sir, shall we let her see the boy?¡± The house manager asked when he was informed by the guard¡¯s Melissa was standing outside the mansion gate again trying to get ess.


    ¡°Have her sent away and in no circumstance should he see his mother. Or find out she came looking for him.¡± He instructed standing by the window with his hands crossed on his back.

 He is still breathing

    ¡°Cheers! Hahaha! It¡¯s done. We sent the mighty Mark Johnson to the hospital.¡± One of Diana¡¯s goons cheered, opening another beer.


    ¡°Good, this time you didn¡¯t fail me.¡± She sat at her office table sipping a ss of whisky with a burning cigarette in the other hand.


    ¡°I have information that they don¡¯t allow his wife to see him. She cries every day outside the mansion gate, begging for her son.¡± One man informed them.


    ¡°Boss, this is the perfect opportunity to get her.¡± The other man spoke standing from his chair.


    ¡°Hold your horses. I want her to lose everything she has now before taking her. She should suffer until she wishes she was dead.¡± Diana said, dragging on the cigarette as the door busted open.


    ¡°You are a monster. This is not what we agreed on.¡± Sasha barged into the room, startling everyone.


    One of Diana¡¯s men pulled out a gun, pointing it at Sasha¡¯s head. ¡°Who let you in here?¡± He inquired, making her tremble with her hands held high.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, leave us.¡± Diana ordered, walking to the floor to ceiling windows.


    ¡°When I gave you ess to Mark¡¯s security, you said you will get rid of Melissa. That¡¯s what we agreed on. Why send Mark to the hospital?¡± Sasha asked, shaking in range.


    ¡°I did my part. Very well, if I may say. Melissa is out of the picture now. You should thank me, right?¡± Diana puffed the smoke from her mouth and nostrils.


    ¡°Thank you? Are you kidding me? Mark is barely holding on. I have nothing to thank you for,¡± She took the drink Diana ced on the table and gulped it down in one go.


    ¡°He is still breathing, isn¡¯t he? Go, sit by his side and take good care of him. When he wakes up, you can be together. Melissa will be long gone by then. Better yet, he may not remember her.¡± Smiling, she he turned to gaze at Sasha. ¡°Wait!¡± As Sasha got to the door, she stopped her. ¡°Don¡¯t you ever, in your miserable life, barge into my office or disrespect me in front of my employees again.¡± Diana warned her, then called her assistant to escort Sasha out.


    ¡­.


    From the mansion¡¯s gate, Melissa went to the hospital hoping to find Mr. Johnson. When she attempted to visit Mark, the security stopped her at the private ward¡¯s gate.


    They were instructed to only let family members in, hence the whole fourth floor was sealed off only essible after producing an ID.


    ¡°I¡¯m his wife. I need to see him.¡± The guards dragged her by the hair when she kept pushing at the gate, insisting on getting in.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Luckily, when the elevator doors opened, Robert walked out,ing to her rescue.


    ¡°Stop, she is with me.¡±


    ¡°Those bastards won¡¯t let me in.¡± She hissed, massaging her wrist.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,e with me.¡± Robert spoke with the head nurse and sneaked Melissa into Mark¡¯s room dressed like a nurse.


    ¡°How have you been dear?¡± Mary inquired, giving her a hug when she got into the ward.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay Mary. I¡¯ll be okay.¡± She nodded, walking in. ¡°Has he made any improvement?¡± She looked at Mark¡¯s almost lifeless body, tears filling her eyes.


    ¡°No, the doctors are still monitoring him, but Mr. Johnson is nning to take him out of the country for further treatment.¡± Mary exined, straightening the bedcovers. ¡°I¡¯ll leave you for a while. Don¡¯t take too long. Mr. Johnson mighte back soon.¡± She said before leaving.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Sighing, Melissa wiped her tears as Mary left the room.


    Holding Mark¡¯s hand, she sat beside him. ¡°I have so many questions, Mark. Only you can answer them.¡± Closing her eyes, she remembered seeing Sasha in his arms as more tears streamed down her cheeks.


    ¡°I wish you could wake up right now. Please wake up, Mark.¡± She sniffed, looking at his palm. ¡°Why did this happen? I¡¯m not only losing you, but our son as well. I don¡¯t know how much of this I can take anymore.¡± She bit her lip, gazing at his face. ¡°If you had asked me a few months back, I would tell you I¡¯m strong. I can handle everything, but now I don¡¯t know what to do without you and Tommy.¡± Sighing, she looked at the beeping machine monitoring his heartbeat.


    ¡°Melissa, you have to go.¡± Mary got back breathless.


    One nurse had just informed her that Mr. Johnson was on his way.


    ¡°But I can¡¯t leave him, Mary.¡± She held onto Mark¡¯s hand. ¡°Let me, I¡¯ll talk to Mr. Johnson. He has to let me be with my family.¡±


    ¡°No Melissa, you don¡¯t understand. He won¡¯t let you near Mark or Tommy. You have to leave now, please.¡± Mary tried to persuade her, often ncing at the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Mary. I¡¯ll take care of her.¡± Robert walked in. ¡°Melissa, please let go. Grandfather will fire everyone on this floor if he finds you here, please.¡± Robert beseeched her.


    Wiping her tears, Melissa leaned to Mark and ced a kiss on his forehead.


    ¡°No matter what happens, I pray you get better. I pray you wake up soon.¡± She murmured, touching his cheeks.


    Standing at the door, she turned to look at him onest time. It felt like she would never see him again.


    With more tears filling her eyes, she could hardly see.


    As Robert got her out of the room, the machine monitoring Mark peeped, alerting every doctor and nurse on duty. ¡°What happened? Mark!¡± She tried to get back.


    ¡°No, Melissa, we have to go.¡± Robert dragged her from the room.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Robert, I¡­ I have to stay with Mark. Please let me stay with him. No, let me stay with him, please.¡± She sobbed, kicking and hitting Robert to let her go as he carried her out, giving room to the doctors rushing in with a crash cart.

 He won鈥檛 wake up again

    ¡°What happened?¡± Behind the door, they heard Mr. Johnson ask when he saw doctors resuscitating Mark.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. He was okay just now. The doctors are¡­.¡± Mary couldn¡¯t hold her tears anymore, nor could Melissa.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Leaning on the door, Robert hugged her tight. Running his hand on her back he soothed her not to make any sound. They were lucky the ward next to Mark¡¯s was empty and Robert got Melissa in before the elevator doors opened.


    For a while they stood there, Melissa soaking his shirt listening to the movement outside.


    ¡°His health is deteriorating. There is a possibility he won¡¯t wake up again.¡± The doctor sadly informed them.


    ¡°No, my grandson will be okay. He has to wake up. I can¡¯t lose him. Arrange for the best neurosurgeon to treat him.¡± Mr. Johnson instructed, pacing on the corridor.


    Once everything was calm and Mr. Johnson had gone into the room, Robert took Melissa out.


    ¡°Why is this happening again?¡± Mary silently asked herself, watching Robert support Melissa in the elevator.


    Looking out the car window, Melissa only saw the t line on the monitor. The doctor¡¯s report that Mark may never wake up again kept stinging her heart.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Betty rushed to them when Robert got Melissa out of the car, dropping her shopping bags. ¡°Melissa dear, are you okay? Talk to me, honey. What did you do to her?¡± Betty questioned, turning to Robert.


    ¡°She¡¯s a bit shaken up. Let¡¯s get her inside first.¡± Once inside, they got her to bed as Robert recounted everything that had happened. ¡°They are taking Mark out of the country today.¡± He told Betty, standing at the door.


    ¡°Tommy, what will happen to him?¡± Betty asked, looking at Melissa lying on the bed, motionless.


    ¡°Melissa can¡¯t know this.¡± He sighed, ncing at her. ¡°They have to take him along.¡±


    ¡°No, it will break Melissa.¡± She covered her mouth, feeling sorry for her niece. ¡°Can¡¯t you do anything? Can¡¯t you help her get him?¡± She asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid not. But I¡¯ll go with them.¡±


    ¡°Please take care of my grandson and inform us if Mark¡¯s condition changes.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡± He held her hand. ¡°Nothing bad will happen to them.¡± He promised before walking out.


    Betty stood at the window watching him drive away.


    Every time she saw Robert, she felt immense joy in her heart. It was the same feeling she felt whenever she held her son Mathew.


    ¡°Aunt, what happened? The security told me you dropped these.¡± Lisa walked in carrying the shopping bags.


    ¡°Melissa was just brought in by Robert. He told me Mark¡¯s condition is worsening, and it¡¯s affecting Melissa gravely.¡± She exined. ¡°I¡¯ll make some soup. Please watch her for me.¡± Betty instructed her before heading to the kitchen.


    ¡­.


    In the middle of the night, Melissa jolted up from sleep.


    Sitting on the bed, she remembered hearing Robert¡¯s conversation with her aunt. She had to stop Mr. Johnson from taking her son away. She told herself, getting out of bed.


    ¡°What? Who¡¯s there?¡± Startled, Lisa got up from sleep and looked around the room. ¡°Melissa! Do you want to give me a heart attack?¡± She saw Melissa standing by the door, trying to open it.


    ¡°Where are you going in the middle of the night, fully dressed?¡± Lisa inquired, sitting up on the couch she was sleeping on.


    ¡°Give me the key. I have to get my son back.¡± Melissa turned to her.


    ¡°Aunt locked the door. We have to wake her up. But where do you want to go?¡± She nced at the wall clock.


    It was past midnight.


    ¡°I need to get to the airport. They are taking Tommy away.¡± Melissa sat holding her head, feeling worn out.


    Looking at her, Lisa felt sad.


    With a heavy sigh, she went to the room to change her clothes. ¡°I¡¯ming with you.¡± She said, after writing a note to their aunt. They left it on the table where she could find it.


    ¡°The door is locked. Aunt won¡¯t let me go out.¡± Melissa spoke, staring at her in dismay.


    ¡°I have a spare key.¡± Lisa waved the key at her. ¡°Let¡¯s go before she wakes up.¡± Lisa silently opened the door and called her regr taxi driver to pick them up.


    The moment Melissa got to the airport, the security stopped her.


    Her picture was shown to all the airport security personnel with an instruction to stop her from essing the boarding area. ¡°Tommy!¡± When she got a glimpse of Tommy, she kneed one guard in the groin as she ran inside shouting his name. She tried to stop Sasha from walking her son inside the gates, but the guards got to her..


    ¡°Stop, you are hurting her.¡± Lisa pulled at the guard holding Melissa. He held her down, detaining her as she kicked and screamed, trying to get to her son.


    ¡°Tommy, my son. You can¡¯t take my son. Let go of me. Sir, please stop them. They have kidnapped my son. Please believe me. Let me go, please.¡± She begged the airport security as they took her out of the busy, crowded area. ¡°You can¡¯t take my son from me, Tommy, Tommy.¡± She cried, looking outside the ss windows from the room they took her to.


    Mr. Johnson held Tommy¡¯s hand with Sasha beside him as the ambnce stopped. The little boy cried as his father was rolled out of the ambnce with monitoring machines surrounding him and tubs connected to every part of his body. pping the ss, Melissa shouted from the office, but her son didn¡¯t look back.


    Boarding the ne, Sasha looked up at the office. Looking straight into Melissa¡¯s eyes with a smile of victory smeared on her face.


    ¡°No matter how much you shout or cry, you will never get to your son and husband.¡± She murmured, holding Tommy¡¯s hand walking briskly on her high heels.

 Is she okay

    Exhausted, Melissa sat leaning on the ss window as the ne took off, disappearing into the clouds.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± Lisa knelt beside her when they let her into the office. Using her handkerchief, she wiped Melissa¡¯s face. ¡°Aunt,e with thewyer. They can¡¯t detain you here anymore. Get up.¡± Lisa helped her up and out of the office.


    When they got home, she went straight to the bedroom.


    Days passed, but Melissa stayed in the house. She stayed in bed, not responding to anything they said.


    ¡°How do we get her out of that bed?¡± Lisa asked, walking out with the untouched food te. ¡°She has not eaten for days since we got from the airport, aunt. I don¡¯t know what to do anymore.¡±


    ¡°The doctor said we should give her time. Be patient with her.¡± Betty walked into the room and sat beside Melissa, smoothing her hair. ¡°When her parents died, she got depressed like this, but it was worse. For a moment, I thought she would die, but the news about her pregnancy gave her something to live for. We have to make her want to live again.¡± She said, looking at her niece, feeling helpless.


    Day and night, Melissa looked outside the window. She didn¡¯t blink her eyes. All she saw was Sasha taking her son away.


    ¡°That¡¯s why we are here.¡± Nancy and Jenifer said, standing at the door.


    ¡°You came,e in.¡± Getting up from the bed, Betty weed them.


    Lisa had informed them earlier of the situation, so they nned to take Melissa out of the house.


    For days, they took her to every ce they thought of, but there was no change.


    From the park to the cinema and even to the city¡¯s chapel for a Sunday sermon, yet nothing changed.


    Melissa would walk, but she didn¡¯t talk or seem to see anyone. She had turned into a zombie.


    ¡°What now?¡± Her hands on the steering wheel, Jenifer asked. Then nced at the rearview mirror.


    ¡°We have done this many times and I don¡¯t know how we can get to her.¡± Lisa sighed, ncing back at Melissa.


    ¡°We can¡¯t give up on her. You need toe back, Melissa.¡± Nancy squeezed Melissa¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s extremely hot outside. I need ice cream. Maybe the cold feeling against her lips wakes her up. Coming?¡± Nancy asked, opening the car door.


    ¡°We can¡¯t leave Melissa in the car.¡± Lisa¡¯s words stopped her.


    ¡°Of course not. She ising along. You hold her on one side, then I on the other.¡± Nancy suggested, sliding out of the car.


    ¡°Wait, why don¡¯t you get the ice cream? I¡¯ll stay in the car with her. The mall is crowded. We can¡¯t carry her along.¡±


    ¡°Jenny, she can walk. She just needs a little support besides being in a crowded ce, maybe what she needs.¡± Nancy helped Melissa out, leaving her friends no other choice.


    After persuading Jenifer, they walked to the mall. ¡°Remind me why I said this was a bad idea.¡± Jenifer looked around at the people walking in and out of the ice cream parlor.


    ¡°We will sit there, then Lisa will make our order.¡± Nancy supported Melissa to the table with Jenifer¡¯s help as Lisa went for their order.


    Two steps to the table, a five-year-old boy ying with his friends ran towards them. Before Nancy could stop him, he hit Melissa, smearing the ice cream on her clothes.


    ¡°Ah!¡± About to fall on his back, Melissa pulled her arms from Nancy and Jenifer¡¯s hold and caught the boy in time.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for my son¡¯s recklessness.¡± The little boy¡¯s mother apologized, wiping the cream off Melissa¡¯s dress.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Her eyes glued to the boy, Melissa held thedy¡¯s hand, stopping her.


    Nancy and Jenifer looked at Melissa, worried she might mistake the boy for Tommy. ¡°Your son is very handsome. Don¡¯t scold him, he¡¯s just a child.¡± She touched his soft hand as filled her eyes.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Thedy said, taking her son away.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay? Let¡¯s sit here and wait for Lisa.¡± Jenifer held her hand, directing her to the table, but Melissa kept her eyes on the little boy.


    ¡°Tommy, they took my son from me.¡± She uttered before falling unconscious.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Rushing over, Lisa ced the bag on a nearby table, then knelt beside Melissa.


    ¡°Call an ambnce.¡±


    A few minutester, in the hospital, Melissa woke up.


    She regained her sound mind and, after calling Robert, he informed her which country they took Mark to for treatment.


    ¡°I need to see them.¡± She told Lisa, that she left her traveling documents at the vi. No matter how hard she tried to get a ne ticket, she couldn¡¯t leave.


    ¡­..


    ¡°They took Mark Johnson out of the country and no one is protecting her now. Shouldn¡¯t we get her?¡± Diana¡¯s assistant asked, handing her the video and pictures of Melissa making a scene at the airport. He also had pictures of her looking depressed at the mall.


    ¡°Ha ha ha!¡± Spreading them on the table, Dianaughed. ¡°No! not yet. Let her lose everything she has first, then I can carry out my ns for her.¡± She sipped her drink sitting back on the chair.


    ¡°What do you n to do to her?¡±


    ¡°All in due time. You will find out once I start. Call my father¡¯swyer in.¡± Crossing her legs, she instructed him.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am.¡± The middle-aged man acknowledged Diana as he walked in.


    ¡°Mr. Wakiri, as my father¡¯s attorney, how do you n on defending him?¡± She stared at him, going straight to the point.


    ¡°Miss I¡­¡±


    ¡°Sit.¡± She pointed at the sofa, inviting him in.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, your father¡¯s embezzlement case is tough. The evidence presented against him is enough to send him to ten or twenty years in prison without fine.¡± He exined. ¡°Also, Ms. White¡¯s attorney demands yourpany¡¯s ownership, which the judge may rule in their favor.¡±


    ¡°I need you to talk to the judge. Make sure thepany does not end up in her hands, no matter how much I have to pay.¡±


    ¡°You want to bribe the judge?¡± He asked, sitting up straight.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you understood what I meant.¡±


    ¡°What of Mr. Stevens? Shouldn¡¯t we bail him out?¡± With raised eyebrows, he stared at Diana.


    ¡°They can give him life in prison. I don¡¯t care. He asked for it by going behind my back. Just make sure you do as I instructed. I¡¯ll pay you handsomely.¡± Diana had seen the surveince video when the police interrogated the newspaper vendor. And from there, she realized her father had sent the evidence to Melissa.


    Now all she cared for was getting thepany from him. Owning everything she had worked for.


    ¡­.


    On judgment day, Diana sat behind her dad¡¯s legal team waiting for the proceedings to start.


    ¡°Dad, are you okay?¡± She hugged him as the police escorted him to his seat.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine dear.¡± He smiled at Diana, then nced at Melissa, who sat alone watching them.


    She looked tired and worn out, worse than he was. Seeing her father¡¯s concerned look, Diana bit her lower lip, cursing Melissa in her heart.


    ¡°How are your mother and sister?¡± Mr. Steven asked, looking around at the people present for the hearing.


    ¡°They are fine. They left the country as nned.¡± She confirmed, taking a sit behind him.


    As the judge walked into the courtroom, Diana ced her hand on her father¡¯s shoulder forfort.


    With a smile on her face, Diana leaned back in her chair.


    The judge sentenced Mr. Stevens to ten years in prison or a thirty million fine and awarded sixty percent shares of Steel¡¯spany to Melissa. With a frown on her face, Diana clenched her fists, ring at Melissa.


    ¡°I asked you to talk to the judge. What the hell did you do?¡± She questioned thewyer as people left the courtroom.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am, but the judge won¡¯t take any bribe. Ms. White¡¯swyers are very influential. They kept a close watch on the judge¡¯s every movement.¡± He exined, ncing at the men beside Melissa. ¡°Are you going to bail your father out?¡± He inquired, hoping she may change her mind.


    ¡°No, let him enjoy his stay in prison.¡± She watched Melissa closely.


    ¡°Thank you for still representing my case.¡± Melissa shook hands with Jason and his team as they walked out of the courtroom.


    Though Mr. Johnson had sent her away, withdrawing all the resources Mark had provided for her, Jason still represented her in court.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me, Melissa. Despite Mark not being around, the work he started must go on. Besides, I¡¯m only doing my job here.¡± He said, smiling at her. ¡°I¡¯ll have my secretary send all the legal documents you need to sign. Should I drop you off?¡± He inquired as his driver brought the car.


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to, I¡¯ll manage.¡± She smiled, then walked down the stairs.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Across the road, Diana got into her car. Taking out her phone, she watched Melissa converse with Jason.


    ¡°Make sure you do a clean job. Call me once you¡¯re out of the city.¡± She instructed on the phone as Melissa left in a taxi.


    Feeling exhausted, she sat back,ying her head on the headrest. Closing her eyes, she fell asleep only to be woken up by the taxi¡¯s abrupt stop. ¡°What happened? Why did you stop?¡± She asked the driver, leaning forward.


    The driver held his hands up as armed men with faces covered got out of the car parked before the taxi. Two men stood to watch as the third one got Melissa out of the car.


    ¡°Where are you taking me? Let me go.¡± She struggled to get out of the man¡¯s stronghold. When she saw a car approaching from a distance, she stepped hard on the man¡¯s foot and hit him on the stomach with her elbow running off when he let her go, wincing in pain.


    ¡°Stop or he dies.¡± They dragged the taxi driver out of the car to his knees, holding a gun on his head.


    Melissa stopped. With her hands raised, she turned to look at them as the car turned, heading in the opposite direction. ¡°Don¡¯t hurt him, please. I¡¯lle with you.¡± She said, walking back.


    ¡°You b*tch, you think you can get away from me?¡± The man pped her hard on the face. She could taste blood as he pushed her into the car. ¡°Let go, man, finish him already.¡±

 Let have fun with her

    ¡°Let go man, finish him off.¡± He instructed his partner to get rid of the taxi driver.


    ¡°No, don¡¯t kill him. You¡¯ve got me. That¡¯s what you came for, right? Please let him go.¡± Melissa held the door handle, trying to get out of the car, but the man held a cloth to her face, making her lose consciousness. Falling back, she saw the other man hit the taxi driver on the head with his gun.


    ¡°You should have killed him.¡± She vaguely heard their conversion as the man seated beside her argued.


    ¡°No need. By the time he gets up, we will be long gone.¡± He instructed his partner to drive as he answered his ringing phone. ¡°We¡¯ve got her. Yes, inform the boss we will call once we get to the location.¡± He told the person on the phone.


    ¡°Hehehe, this was simpler than I thought. What do you think about having fun with this fresh meat before handing it over?¡± The man watching Melissa asked.


    Touching her hair, he leaned in to sniff it. ¡°Mmm¡­ you smell so sweet. I love it, it turns me on. Do you want to touch it?¡± He whispered into her ear, caressing her palm.


    She felt sick and disgusted as he tugged her hand unzipping his trousers, but she couldn¡¯t get up from where shey on the car seat. Melissa was weak and helpless and couldn¡¯t defend herself.


    ¡°Stop, you idiot. That is not part of the n. Keep your hands off her if you don¡¯t want the boss to chop them off.¡± The man seated in the front seat, who seemed in charge, warned him.


    ¡°Come on man, stop being so uptight. She¡¯s no virgin. What we will do to her, many have passed through. Let¡¯s have a quick one. I¡¯m so hungry.¡± He insisted, brushing Melissa¡¯s hair.


    ¡°I said keep your hands off her. Focus, man, let¡¯s finish this mission first.¡± He spoke, pointing a finger at him.


    ¡°What is the boss going to do with her? Anyway, I guess we can have some fun as Rg suggested. Besides, no one is going to tell.¡± The man behind the wheel said,ughing.


    ¡°Drive. No one touches her unless the boss agrees. I will give you thirty minutes to get us to the border.¡± The man beside him instructed.


    ¡°You¡¯re not in charge. We are going to take her as you watch.¡± The driver said, stopping the car.


    ¡°No, no.¡± Melissa begged, trying to open her eyes. ¡°Mark, help me. Get me out of here.¡± She mumbled.


    ¡°Try it.¡± The man pulled a gun at his partner. ¡°I said drive. Every minute you waste here puts our lives in danger.¡±


    ¡°Come on man, you¡¯re pointing guns at us now?¡± Rg asked, looking for his gun.


    ¡°Keep your hands off her or I¡¯ll start with you.¡± The man pointed another gun at him. ¡°Drive, fast.¡± He shouted, making the driver shiver.


    ¡°Okay, jeez, what is wrong with you? I¡¯ll drive.¡± The driver trembled, starting the engine.


    Melissa kept falling in and out of consciousness as she struggled to free herself. ncing up from where shey, all she saw was vegetation around her. Though the man stopped touching her, he kept whispering into her ear and blowing seductively on her neck, making her sick in the stomach. As he told her in detail what he had nned for her, she kept wishing someone would save her.


    ¡°We havepany.¡± The driver informed, ncing at the two range rovers behind them.


    ¡°Maybe they are just passing.¡± Rg said, looking back.


    ¡°No, in a remote ce like this, it¡¯s highly unlikely to see such vehicles. Step on it, we will find back up on the other side.¡± The man in charge ordered, handing their gun¡¯s back.


    ¡°You¡¯re paranoid. Look, they have no business with us.¡± Rg said as one of the vehicles drove past them, not slowing down.


    ¡°This is not good.¡± The man in charge got his phone. ¡°Damn.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The driver asked, crunching the wheel.


    ¡°There is no cell service. Stay alert.¡± He warned his colleagues loading his gun, ncing back at the car gaining on them.


    A few miles to the border, the car hit them from behind. Asking them to stop. Retaliating, Rg and his partner opened fire, shooting at the vehicle as the driver tried to lose them. Covering her head, Melissa screamed, remembering Mark covered in blood from the gunshots. From where she was, she knew they were going to kill her.


    ¡°Mark, save me.¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Rg drugged her to keep her quiet as the shooting went on.


    ¡°Step on it, man, drive faster.¡± They urged the driver, still shooting back at the car.


    A few miles on, they saw the vehicle parked before them. ¡°F*ck, what do we do now?¡± The driver asked, stopping the car.


    With wheat ntations on either side of the road and the two vehicles sandwiching them, they didn¡¯t have a way out. ¡°Men, let us surrender. We are outnumbered and outgunned. Give the woman to them. They may let us live.¡± The man in charge proposed.


    ¡°Are you crazy? The moment we walk out, they will spray bullets on us. I would rather die saving myself.¡± The driver said, starting the engine.


    As the men shot at them, he drove into the farm at high speed. Deep into the cloud of wheat, the shooting stopped. Laughing in triumph, he hit a ditch, throwing them from their seats.


    Before they could gather their strength, the assant gained in on them. ¡°Drop your guns and get down.¡± A voicemanded. They dragged the wounded men out of the car as one of them checked on Melissa.


    ¡°Is she okay?¡± The old man inquired, walking back to their vehicles.


    ¡°They heavily sedated her, but she is not armed.¡± The man said, carrying her in his arms.


    Melissa struggled to open her eyes as they walked through the fallen wheat back to the road.


    ¡°Mark, youe for me.¡± She smiled before closing her eyes.


    ¡­


    ¡°Damn it.¡± Diana smashed the ss on the wall in range. ¡°You are a bunch of idiots, useless bustards. How is it possible they couldn¡¯t bring her? One person and you couldn¡¯t get her.¡± She pped the table with both hands.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I believe they ambushed them, ma¡¯am. We found the van abandoned near the border. It seems there are many people protecting her, not only Mr Johnson.¡± Her assistant exined, stepping away from her to avoid her fury.


    ¡°Find out who took them and where they are keeping them. They shouldn¡¯t mention my name. You stop them from talking no matter the cost.¡± She instructed, leaning on the table.


    Taking out his phone, the assistant made a call. As he spoke on the phone, he paced around the office, nodding his head. ¡°What¡¯s the update?¡± Diana questioned, staring out the window.


    ¡°Mr Edward and his men took them. They don¡¯t have the location as of now, but they¡¯re still searching. What will we do about this? Should we contact Luke Edward and ask why the old man took her?¡±


    ¡°No, he can¡¯t know I¡¯m involved. Find where they are and make sure they don¡¯t talk.¡± She insisted.


    Since the attack on Melissa, Luke had cut off allmunications with her. He had gone back to his family.


    ¡°We will find them, but rest assured, they won¡¯t mention you. I hired them anonymously, and they used a stolen car.¡± He had called three men, offering them an exorbitant sum of money to get a woman from a taxi and take her out of the country.


    In the stolen van, he left half of the money agreed on with details about the woman¡¯s location and instructions on where to take her. Once at the location, they would get a call on where to get the rest of the money.


    ¡°You hiredmon thugs? I asked you to get the most skilled men we have.¡± Exasperated, she raised her hands.


    ¡°They are skilled ex-convicts. We needed people whom they couldn¡¯t link to us. Getting one of our men would mean the end of our business.¡± He said, dodging a pen she threw at him.


    ¡°Get out.¡± She roared, throwing things from her desk at him.


    ¡°Damn it!¡±


    Diana sat behind her desk, taking Melissa¡¯s picture from the drawer as the assistant left. ¡°Why is the Edward family so protective of you?¡± She asked, looking at the picture.


    When she first saw Luke Edward at a club surrounded by women. With everyone one of them trying to impress him, she swore to get to him and take over his empire. Every night she went to the same club, studying him, watching his every move until the night she got the confidence to face him. He was the most feared in the underworld. No one dared to cross him. With a business proposition at hand, he let her sit at the table.


    She had known he needed a means of transportation for his goods from his workers, which she had thanks to her father who was in charge of transport at the White transportpany.


    Knowing her father¡¯s weakness, Diana talked Luke Edward into sending threats to her father just to make him agree to use thepany for their illegal business.


    He was the only man she had who never asked for an intimate rtionship with Melissa, but he was disturbingly protective of her. ¡°I¡¯ll get you myself Melissa. As long as I¡¯m alive, you won¡¯t get away from me. I¡¯ll make sure you live in hell.¡± She swore, crashing Melissa¡¯s picture in her hands.

 The hidden mansion

    ¡°Melissa, Melissa, don¡¯t leave me. Please don¡¯t go.¡± Mark called in agonizing pain in his sleep.


    Sneering in her heart, Sasha dragged the doctor to a corner as soon as he walked in. ¡°I need you to make him forget his past life. I promise to pay handsomely for your services.¡± She instructed him. Since the ident, Sasha has been by his side taking care of him, but the only person he called for in his sleep was Melissa. She was getting fed up with having to hear that name over and over again.


    ¡°What are you saying?¡± Looking from her to the patient, the doctor asked.


    ¡°Erase his memory, make sure he remembers nothing from the past year.¡± She insisted.


    ¡°And how do you suppose I should do that?¡± The doctor stared at her as if she had gone crazy.


    ¡°Drug him or take him for another surgery. I don¡¯t care, as long as he forgets her.¡± She said looking at Mark.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am I can¡¯t do that. He has made a tremendous recovery. What you¡¯re suggesting risks losing his life. My work is to save people¡¯s lives, not take them.¡± He shook his head as he nced at the patient.


    ¡°Either you do as I say or you say goodbye to your precious daughter. What will it be? Her life or the simple procedure.¡± She handed him his daughter¡¯s picture taken at her preschool.


    ¡°Why do this? It¡¯s not right.¡± The doctor trembled, staring at his daughter¡¯s picture.


    The whispering woke up Mark and for a while he silently watched their conversation, often closing his eyes whenever they looked his way.


    Despite the medication to ease the pain, he remembered what Sasha did before the ident. He nced at her and wondered how far she would go to achieve her goals.


    Thinking back to the pain in Melissa¡¯s eyes that day broke his heart. He fought very hard every day to get back to her.


    ¡®I¡¯ll make everything right. Nothing and no one cane between us. My sunshine.¡¯ With his eyes closed, he thought to himself. Smiling to himself he recalled Melissa¡¯s beautiful face sleeping beside him.


    ¡­..


    Melissa woke up disoriented with a slight headache.


    Sitting on the bed she looked around the massive room as memories of what happened to her flooded her mind. Everything that had happened seemed like a dream, but blinking her eyes, she realized it was not a dream.


    From the floor to the ceiling ss window, to the queen-sized bed with white linen bed sheets, she realized it was not the tiny room she shared with Lisa at the apartment.


    Remembering what the man promised to do to her, she got out of bed in a panic and checked herself.


    ¡°I have to get out of here.¡±


    Anxiously trying to leave the dimly lit room, Melissa opened the first door, but it led to another room almost as big with a bathtub, a shower head, and a toilet behind sliding ss doors.


    She sshed water on her face then stared at the disheveled reflection in the mirror, winching in pain from the bruises she sustained during the idents. Without giving up, she kept going and tried a second door. The walk-in closet was massive. Though only sleeping gowns were hung, it looked clean and well kept reminding her of the vi house.


    ¡°I see you¡¯re awake.¡± A male voice from behind made her jump and caused her to hit her forehead on the door frame.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± The man smiled at her standing at the doorway, hands in his pocket. He was tall, lean and well-built, with long hair. Every time he smiled, dimples formed on each cheek making him look more young and handsome. If she didn¡¯t know otherwise, she would say he was a spitting image of her father.


    Massaging her forehead, Melissa walked out of the closet. Slowly she closed the door backing away when he took a step towards her.


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡± She asked as her gaze darted to the opened door contemting an escape n.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I startled you. Do you need ice for that?¡±


    ¡°No, no I¡¯ll be fine.¡± She stepped back when he tried to touch her and almost fell on the bed.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to hurt you. Come, let¡¯s go out if you don¡¯t believe me.¡± Smiling at her he offered his hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I called your aunt and informed her of your whereabouts.¡± He assured her when she hesitated to take her phone as he handed it to her.


    Making sure not to get near him, she walked out with him following closely behind her.


    When she stepped out of the door, Melissa nced from the locked doors on each side of the corridor to the beautifully adorned flower pots. Following the path down the stairs Melissa stopped to look at the family pictures on the wall.


    No kidnapper would take her to his home. She thought, ncing at the man standing a foot behind her. Taking a closer look at the pictures, she smiled at the attractivedy¡¯s face then stopped when she saw her father¡¯s picture.


    There were family photos of her father, an older couple, and the man she saw Diana with at the spa. All of them showed the family¡¯s history with her parents¡¯ picture at the bottom.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Are you feeling better now?¡± Approaching them, a white-haired man supporting himself on a walking stick inquired.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Nodding her head, Melissa stepped away from them.


    ¡°Ask Lucy to prepare something special for her to eat.¡± The older man instructed the man in uniform apanying him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother, I¡¯m leaving.¡± Melissa said walking to the door but stopped when he called her.


    ¡°Isabe.¡± Melissa turned her attention to the old man. No one ever called her that name.


    Staring at them she remembered her conversation with Mr Stevens.


    She had visited him again in jail before the hearing and he exined in detail who the Edwards were to her.


    All her life, her dad lied to her and her mother about his family and his past life.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful you saved my life, but I want nothing to do with you.¡± She walked out of the door only to be weed by the cool evening breeze.


    The fountain water fell around a statue of a dancing woman with beautiful green grass around it and blooming flowers along the tiled pavement.


    ¡°Are you going to let her leave like that?¡± The young man asked, looking out the ss windows as Melissa walked away.


    ¡°She is right not to want anything from me. I was so afraid to face her that I stayed away, though I knew she was looking for me.¡± The old man said, pouring himself a drink.


    ¡°But she is here now grandfather, you two have a chance to talk. Exin everything to her.¡± He insisted, looking at his grandfather.


    ¡°Let¡¯s give her time. She wille back.¡± Mr Edward sat on the couch, going about his business.


    ¡°As stubborn as she is, I doubt it. I¡¯m going after her.¡±


    Looking ahead Melissa didn¡¯t see the gate or a road nearby where she could get a taxi. All she saw were trees and more trees.


    With a heavy sigh, she stopped to nce back at the big mansion that was bigger than the Johnson¡¯s.


    It was the closest thing to her and probably they could direct her to the nearest road or any other way out of that ce. The thought of going back to ask for help crossed her mind but she kept walking.


    ¡°Do you think you will get to the city at that pace?¡± The young man asked, stopping his blue Lexus car beside her. She was so engrossed in her thought she hadn¡¯t noticed the running motoring towards her.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter how long it takes, as long as I get out of this ce,¡± Melissa said, walking ahead not bothered by him.


    ¡°Stop being stubborn and get in, I will take you to the city.¡± He offered then opened the passenger door.


    With no other way out Melissa got in the car. ¡°Have this, Lucy insisted I should bring you breakfast.¡± He handed the cup of coffee and freshly baked bread to her.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± The sweet aroma reminded her stomach she had not eaten for a while, making it protest anxiously waiting to be filled.


    ¡°Eat.¡± He encouraged her as he drove slowly along the path from the mansion.


    The huge house was located out of the city with a thick nket of trees surrounding it. The fresh air made the ce serene.


    Wiping her mouth after the delicious meal, she ced her head out of the window feeling the cool air. Closing her eyes she remembered dancing on the sand at the seashore with Tommy and Mark. Reflecting on how her life had changed in the past months, she felt tears fill her eyes.


    ¡°Are you not going to ask who I am?¡± He asked, holding the steering wheel driving through the forest.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want to associate myself with people who never cared for me.¡± She said sitting back.


    ¡°Mr Edward loves you so much, he is just as stubborn as you are.¡± With a smile on his face, he nced at her.


    ¡°When I went out Looking for him, he didn¡¯t want to show his face to me. So right now I need nothing from him and please stop smiling at me like that.¡± She stared at him as he drove, ever smiling no matter how rude she was to him reminding her of her father. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for being rude.¡± Sighing she apologized as he stopped outside the apartment building.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m not offended. I understand what you have been through is not easy.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for the ride.¡± She smiled at him then opened the car door.


    ¡°I¡¯m David by the way, call me anytime. My number is saved on your phone.¡± He leaned towards the window handing her her phone back.


    ¡°Sneaky.¡± Melissa giggled, taking the phone from his hand. ¡°Nice meeting you David.¡± She waved at him as he drove away then walked into the building.


    At the carpark, two men sat taking pictures as instructed. From where they sat, the scene earlier looked like two lovers saying goodbye.

 The divorce papers

    At the farm, Sasha held a toy car watching the little boy sitting on the staircase.


    ¡°I miss my mum so much. I wish she was here with me.¡± Tommy hugged his dog Spark sniffing back the tears. He had insisted on taking the dog when they moved which Mr Johnson obliged.


    ¡°Are you sad because your mother couldn¡¯te?¡± Sasha walked up to him holding the toy car behind her back.


    As the dog growled at her, Tommy kept tapping on its back and didn¡¯t bother to respond to her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be sad Tommy. Look, I brought you a gift.¡± Sasha sat beside him handing him the toy car.


    ¡°Thank you aunt Sasha but I don¡¯t want a toy.¡± With a frown on his face, he pushed the toy away.


    ¡°I know you miss your mum but your dad is here and he is very happy to be with you.¡± Sasha smiled trying to cheer him up.


    ¡°They won¡¯t let me see dad, grandma Mary told me he is very sick.¡± He kept holding onto the dog, more tears filling his eyes.


    ¡°If you take the present and smile at me, then I¡¯ll take you to see your dad.¡± She offered him the toy.


    ¡°Really aunt Sasha? I can see dad?¡± He cheerfully asked as he took the toy.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, right now if you like.¡± She promised.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Tommy stood up happily hugging Sasha. ¡°Can you take me to dad right now?¡± With the frown wiped off his face, Sasha nodded as she held his hand. And took him into the room Mark was sleeping in.


    After a month in aa, Mark woke up and was transferred to his father¡¯s farm to recuperate. He had to do therapy to train his legs how to walk again.


    Staring at the father and son, who looked so much alike Sasha smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s have a selfie.¡± She asked Tommy to smile as she took pictures of the three of them.


    Though Diana had not aplished the mission to get rid of Melissa, Sasha had her way of keeping Melissa out of their lives.


    ¡­.


    At the office, Melissa got a call from the manager asking her to get to his office.


    ¡°Sir, you called for me¡­¡± Walking into the office, she found Sasha swiveling on the manager¡¯s chair.


    ¡°Melissa, how have you been?¡± Sasha smiled leaning back on the chair.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Her brows knitted, Melissa asked, irritated by her presence.


    Seeing Sasha reminded Melissa of the day she found her in Mark¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Huh, I see you¡¯re not happy to see me. Have a seat.¡± She spoke, tapping a pen on the table.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this nonsense.¡± Melissa turned to leave but Sasha¡¯s words stopped her.


    ¡°Mark sent me. Here, sign these documents.¡± The mention of Mark¡¯s name froze Melissa on the spot.


    For weeks she had not heard any news about him or their son. She was eager to hear from them but looking at the sheet of papers on the table her heart broke.


    ¡°He wants to start anew with me so he asked me to bring these.¡± Sasha grinned, staring at Melissa peruse the documents.


    ¡°Mark can¡¯t do this.¡± Melissa shook her head as she pushed the documents to Sasha.


    ¡°We have been seeing each other secretly, Melissa. He didn¡¯t expect you to walk in on us in the office that day but since you already know, it¡¯s not a secret anymore. He only married you to get Tommy. Now he has no use for you anymore.¡± Sasha shrugged her shoulders, handing the papers to her.


    ¡°I won¡¯t sign. Ask him to bring the divorce papers himself.¡± Melissa pped the documents on the table.


    ¡°That¡¯s not a good idea, I¡¯m telling you.¡± Getting her phone from the bag, Sasha showed Melissa a picture of her and Tommy hugging andughing. ¡°See.¡± She pointed at the picture. ¡°Your son is very happy under my care. I¡¯m sure you understand what can happen if you don¡¯t sign.¡± She smiled arrogantly, handing her the pen.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do anything to him. Mr. Johnson won¡¯t let you,¡± Melissa said, staring at the pictures one after the other.


    The three of them smiling looked like a happy family, and it made her miss her son more.


    ¡°Try me. idents happen all the time.¡± She said sitting back on the chair cracking her knuckles.


    Feeling helpless, Melissa ced the phone down, then took the pen and signed the documents before leaving the office.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Why did the manager call for you?¡± Jenifer asked as soon as Melissa got back to the office.


    ¡°I¡¯m taking some days off work. Please take care of these projects for me.¡± She handed the file to Jenifer as she cleared her desk.


    ¡°Melissa, what is going on? I saw Sasha leave the manager¡¯s office after you left.¡± Nancy rushed into the office breathlessly.


    ¡°What? Sasha called you to the office. Did she have you fired?¡± Jenifer questioned standing before Melissa¡¯s desk.


    ¡°No, she didn¡¯t have me fired. She came to bring me the divorce papers.¡± Melissa mmed on the chair and covered her face with her hands trying to control her emotions.


    ¡°No! Mark will never ask for a divorce. You should let me break that witch¡¯s teeth.¡± Nancy clenched her fist pacing around the office.


    ¡°Calm down Nancy, you¡¯re not helping.¡± Jenifer stopped Nancy¡¯s ranting. ¡°Hope you didn¡¯t sign.¡± She turned to Melissa.


    ¡°I had to, she has Tommy and I don¡¯t know what she can do to him. Melissa sniffed then wiped her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m going to get my son from the Johnsons.¡± Melissa stood up and took her bag then assured her friends she would be okay before leaving the office.

 Dinner with the Edward鈥檚

    As she hailed a taxi, she went through her phone contact thinking of what to do and how she would get to Johnson¡¯s ranch.


    ¡°Hello David, I need your help. Meet me at the apartment.¡± She called the one person she thought could help her.


    After they spoke on the phone she gave her address to the taxi driver.


    For a week now she has been thinking about her aunt¡¯s advice.


    When she got to Edward¡¯s, she told her aunt about them. The family her father never let her get close to, hoping her aunt would talk against them but instead she encouraged her to get to know her grandfather, which she stubbornly refused.


    With all that was happening in her life, Melissa wished to know more about her father¡¯s past life but most importantly she intended to use Edward¡¯s finances and influence to get her son from the Johnsons.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Wee my child.¡± Lucy gave Melissa a warm wee directing them to the dining area where Mr. Edward was waiting. From what she understood, Lucy was like the mother of the family.


    She had been working for Edward since her father was born. Always watching after them even after their mother died.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Smiling back, Melissa walked beside David to the dining hall.


    At the head of the table with ten chairs around it, Mr. Edward sat patiently waiting for their arrival.


    ¡°Wee!¡± After exchanging a few pleasantries, he happily invited Melissa to sit beside him with the hope that she would finally ept him as her grandfather.


    ¡°I see your precious little granddaughter has finallye home, dad.¡± Luke Edward joined them as David pulled a chair for Melissa turning the warm room cold.


    ¡°How nice of you to join us, son.¡± Mr. Edward said to him, looking more tired than he was.


    ¡°Can we have a peaceful dinner? Please.¡± David looked at the two with a straight face, his bright smile long gone.


    Seated next to Mr Edward, Melissa quietly studied the three men on the table as the maid served dinner. From the little she understood, her uncle threatened Mr. Stevens into his dirty business, and because of what he did her parents lost everything.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind him.¡± David smiled at her, assuring her that everything was okay. Taking a deep breath, Melissa smiled back, acting as if nothing got to her.


    ¡°So Melissa, are you joining the family business too?¡± Her uncle asked, wiping his mouth with a napkin interrupting the silent dinner.


    ¡°I¡¯ve not thought about it.¡± She responded leaning back and cing a fork down.


    ¡°What is there to think about? With Mr. Johnson gone, you need another financier. Isn¡¯t that why you came.¡± He looked her straight in the eyes trying to intimidate her.


    ¡°Well, uncle has read my mind.¡± She grinned, staring back at him, not relenting. ¡°You ruined my father¡¯spany and my life. Why else would I sit at the same table with you, if not to use your family power and money to get what I want?¡± She stood up to him. Something no one did, not even David.


    ¡°I see you took after your father. Headstrong and stubborn. How disenchanted it must be for you dad? You expected a polite innocent girl.¡± Heughed, mocking his father.


    ¡°Enough Luke, show some respect.¡± Mr. Edward pped the table ending their bickering.


    ¡°Why dad? I have always been here with you. When Peter left, I stayed and took over the business despite what I thought of it. You turned me into this man I can hardly recognize, and now you¡¯re bringing Peter¡¯s children showing them how unworthy  I am. You know what, it¡¯s true I used Mr. Stevens to run down White Transport Company. And I did it so I would force my brother toe back home for you dad. You couldn¡¯t stop looking at your favorite son¡¯s picture, always asking how they were. Watching your granddaughter from afar. It was pathetic and painful for me to watch you beg someone who didn¡¯t want you in his life. So I thought of a way to bring him back and it worked¡­¡±


    ¡°Did you kill them? Did you get rid of my mother and father so they would get out of your way?¡± Melissa stood dropping the napkin on the table, surprising everyone.


    ¡°No, despite everything I loved my brother. That¡¯s why I protect you to date.¡± He said sitting leaning back on his chair.


    Just then one of his men came and whispered into his ear. ¡°Thank you for the lovely dinner.¡± He ced his napkin on the table, looked at his father briefly then walked out.


    ¡°Wait! Luke, we have to talk.¡± Mr Edward called after him but he left anyway.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Luke¡¯s words left everyone speechless.


    Melissa sat thinking of hisst statement. I protect you to date he had said. She had seen the man talking to him just now watching her, following her several times. If her uncle was protecting her then who sent the people to kidnap her and who sent the note about her parents being killed?


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± David¡¯s voice brought her from her thoughts.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine. Where¡¯s Mr. Edward?¡± She asked, looking around.


    ¡°He¡¯s waiting in the garden. I noticed you didn¡¯t follow us, so I came back to get you. Are you sure you are okay? You looked lost just now.¡± He looked at her with concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, let¡¯s not keep the old man waiting.¡± She smiled at him getting up as the maids cleared the table.


    ¡°He¡¯s your grandfather. It will make him happy if you can call him grandfather.¡± David said thenughed as she rolled her eyes.


    Mr. Edward sat watching the sky with a cup of steaming tea in his hands. ¡°This was Isabe¡¯s favorite ce. Every night after dinner she sat here watching the boys run around.¡± He spoke, staring at the now beautiful garden. ¡°I should have loved her more when she was still here.¡± He said more to himself with regret in his voice.


    ¡°What happened to her?¡± Melissa inquire, taking a seat beside him.

 Family secrets

    ¡°My greed ruined this family. I lost my wife and my eldest son. Just like Luke, your father never wanted to join the business. He dreamt of being a pilot after graduating, but I stopped him. I forced him into the business. Until the day he met your mother, he was overseeing the shipments. And since I didn¡¯t want them to get married, he disowned this family. Changed his name and started a new life away from me.¡± As he spoke, Melissa felt the pain in his voice.


    ¡°Did my mother know about you?¡± Melissa asked the question that had nagged her for days.


    ¡°No, Peter never told her about us. For years, we lived like strangers until the day your father started investigating Mr. Stevens. That¡¯s when he realized what Luke was up to. With your mother working closely with him, she eventually found out.¡± He took a sip, then nced at her. ¡°My child, don¡¯t me your uncle. He would never hurt Peter.¡± He sighed as he leaned back in his chair. ¡°Go get some rest. Meet me at the office tomorrow. There are things I need to show you.¡± He closed his eyes, ending the conversation.


    David nodded at her, motioning for her to follow him inside.


    ¡°So you are my brother?¡± She inquired, walking beside him through the flower garden.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m two years older than you are.¡± He gave her the dimpled smile, then picked a flower for her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand why dad would keep this from me. Why he never told me about you.¡± She wondered, touching the petals.


    ¡°That¡¯s because he didn¡¯t know I existed. My mother worked as his assistant for years. They got into a romantic rtionship, but it didn¡¯t work. When they broke up, she left town, not knowing she was pregnant. Andter when she came back, father was nowhere to be found. He had moved away from the family. So she raised me by herself¡± He closed his eyes briefly, thinking of his mother. ¡°When my mother fell sick, I struggled to take care of her. Needing to find my family, I insisted every day for her to tell me who my father was until she finally told me before her death.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to go through that alone.¡± She touched his hand, knowing well how painful it had been for him.


    ¡°When I came looking for father, I met grandfather Edward, who took me in andter took me to meet father at hispany. That day I saw you as I was leaving the office. We bumped into each other.¡±


    ¡°Huh!¡± Melissa smiled, remembering how she had gone to her mother¡¯s office that day,ining about how a rude employee had broken her bottle yet didn¡¯t apologize.


    ¡°You broke my favorite bottle.¡± She yfully hit him on the shoulder.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯ll make sure to buy you another one.¡± He smiled, touching his shoulder.


    All her life she wished for a sibling. Diana was that sister she never had but it turns out she had an older brother.


    ¡°Hey, you keep zoning out a lot.¡± He snapped his fingers to her face.


    ¡°I never expected to have a brother but I¡¯m d you¡¯re here.¡± She said hugging him.


    ¡°I¡¯m d too. Let me show you to your room. Get an early rest, we have a busy day tomorrow.¡± He said walking to the house.


    ¡°Thank you for agreeing to help.¡± When she called him earlier asking him to train her in self-defense and help her convince Mr. Edward to lead his security and transport to get into Johnson¡¯s ranch, she didn¡¯t think he would agree.


    ¡°Anything for my baby sister.¡± He winked at her walking to his room.


    ¡­.


    ¡°He is one of the men who abducted me. What is he doing here? Did you n all this to bring me here?¡± Melissa asked her grandfather pointing at the man she found in the home office.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, you can go.¡± Mr. Edward dismissed the young man. ¡°When we got wind of your nned abduction, I sent him to protect you and find out who ordered them.¡± He exined his gaze trailing outside the floor to ceiling window.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t hand them over to the police? Why¡± She asked taking a seat.


    ¡°No, and I¡¯m not nning to. Not until they tell me who sent them.¡± He turned his gaze to her. ¡°I asked you toe here so we can talk about your n. David told me all about it and I don¡¯t agree one bit.¡± He spoke taking a seat behind the desk.


    ¡°What! Why? I have to get my son back.¡±


    ¡°I understand, but going to the Johnsons is not the right way. Talk to Mark and sort out whatever differences you two have. Mark is a good man. I know how much he cares for you that is why I trusted him with your safety.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you worked with him behind my back? You know what, I don¡¯t care what you think Mr. Edward. You owe me this much for not showing up when I came looking for you. I¡¯m going to get my son with or without your assistance. ¡± She huffed then got up ready to leave.


    ¡°Sit Isabe. I¡¯m your grandfather, you never forget that.¡± He shouted at her authoritatively. ¡°When your father came to me, he asked me to stay away from you. I¡¯ve caused him so many problems and he didn¡¯t want you involved in any of this. Over the years I¡¯ve been working hard to change my business and lifestyle watching you from a distance. And when your name came up in the investigations, I had to give them your location.¡± Calming down he exined.


    ¡°What investigation are you talking about?¡± Melissa asked getting back to her sit.


    ¡°Someone has been trafficking illegal drugs. After years of investigation, it was concluded that they were using your identity. When Mark and his team started looking for you, I anonymously gave him your location under the condition he had to protect you.¡±


    ¡°What? All this while he has been investigating me? What of the investment in the province?¡±


    ¡°To get to you he had to set up a business there. I also gave them information about the organization but we are yet to find the culprit. Though the organization is gone that person still runs the drug and human trafficking. Right now you are still in danger. We can¡¯t afford to go against the Johnsons. We need them so we can stop these people.¡± He tried to exin to her but Melissa had made up her mind.


    ¡°We need the Johnsons? But I thought you two were mortal enemies?¡±


    ¡°The differences between our two families don¡¯t matter. All I want is to keep you safe and happy.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but I have to get my son back no matter what. If I have to break into the ranch to get him, so be it. Mark is not part of my life now.¡± She said before walking out.


    In the bedroom, Melissa stood on the balcony holding the family picture they took at the beach. ¡°Falling in love with you was a mistake. Sadly to you, I was just a case you were investigating. That¡¯s why it¡¯s easy for you to forget me.¡± She wiped the silent tears staring at Mark¡¯s face in the picture.

 I鈥檒l marry Sasha

    ¡°Why are you doing this father? That little boy needs his mother.¡± In the office at the ranch, Mark¡¯s dad and his grandfather had a heated conversation.


    ¡°That Edward¡¯s granddaughter can not stay married to my grandson. That family brings nothing but trouble.¡± Old Mr. Johnson insisted.


    ¡°Father, why can¡¯t you let whatever issues you and Mr Edward have go? At Least for these children. I don¡¯t want my son to marry someone who will never make him happy.¡±l He tried to change his father¡¯s mind but as always he never seeded.


    ¡°Sasha is the right woman for him.¡±


    ¡°He does not love her.¡±


    ¡°He may be infatuated by that Edward¡¯s granddaughter, now but eventually he will learn to love Sasha. She is a good girl and will be an excellent mother to my great grandson.¡± Mr Johnson sat down on the sofa and closed his eyes not interested in arguing anymore.


    ¡°You are unbelievable.¡± Shaking his head, Mark¡¯s dad left banging the door on his way out.


    ¡°Calm down honey, let¡¯s see what Mark has to say about this first.¡± His wife ran after him trying to ease his growing rage.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let my son live a miserable life like Richard, just because dad has to control everything.¡±


    ¡°Richard chose to marry after his wife died. That¡¯s not the same thing.¡± She told him as he mounted the horse. ¡°You can¡¯t leave like this.¡± She called him as he rode to thepany.


    Mary, who had been watching them, listening to their conversion, stepped behind her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to tell them Betty is still alive?¡±


    ¡°Shit Mary! Shh.. don¡¯t mention that here again. Someone might hear you.¡± She covered Mary¡¯s mouth as looked around to see if anyone had heard them. ¡°We have to find out why they said she is dead and who¡¯s behind all this before telling them.¡± Mark¡¯s mother whispered to Mary.


    ¡°No!¡± Mary pulled down the hand covering her mouth. ¡°Telling them now is better and safe for everyone.¡± Mary insisted but Mark¡¯s mother warned her not to.


    ¡°We can¡¯t say anything. At least not for now.¡±


    Mr. Johnson was always against Richard and Betty¡¯s rtionship, simply because she was from a poor background, preferring for him to marry Sasha¡¯s aunt. Betty being Melissa¡¯s aunt made the situation moreplicated. They only hoped Mark would stand up to the old man for his family to be united.


    ¡°Daddy?¡± Tommy walked into his father¡¯s room leaving Spark guarding the door.


    Though Mark had started his physical therapy, he still used a wheelchair to move around the farm. Walking over to where his father sat next to the bed, Tommy hugged him. Then showed him the drawing he had made.


    ¡°This is a picture of me and Spark. Is it nice daddy?¡± He asked, settling on Mark¡¯sp.


    ¡°It¡¯s very nice. My son is very smart.¡± Mark smiled at him holding the drawing.


    ¡°Daddy, when will we go back home? I miss my grandma and my friends at school.¡± Tommy frowned looking down at his fingernails.


    ¡°Soon son. Once I get out of this chair, I¡¯ll take you home to see grandma.¡± Mark pulled him closer and kissed his head.


    ¡°Really dad?¡± He gazed at his father. ¡°Can mume live with us here, she can help take care of you?¡±


    ¡°Ahem!¡± Sasha walked in interrupting their conversation. ¡°Hello Tommy, here I brought you a present.¡±


    ¡°Another toy car?¡± Tommy asked, taking the white Ferrari she handed him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you like my present?¡±


    Tommy nced at the car then at his dad who nodded at him. ¡°I like it. Thank you, aunt Sasha.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go show grandma the present aunt got you.¡± Mark ruffled his hair then set him down.


    As Tommy left, Mark rolled the chair to the window. ¡°What happened to his mother?¡± He nced at Sasha then turned his gaze outside the window watching Tommy run to Mary.


    ¡°When you two split up, she chose to leave the child.¡± Sasha said biting the corner of her lip to hide her smile. The n was working in her favor.


    ¡°Do you know where she lives? Tommy insists on seeing her.¡± He asked, staring at Sasha keenly.


    ¡°She has moved on Mark. I doubt she even wants to see her son.¡± Sasha spoke rummaging through her bag. His inquiring about Melissa gave her a chance to show him what she had gathered. ¡°I saw her a few days ago with her new lover.¡± She gave him pictures of Melissa and David.


    Seeing Melissa happy in another man¡¯spany hurt him. He had been so worried about her. Worried that Sasha might harm her but it seemed she had someone looking after her. He trusted in Melissa¡¯s love for him but he didn¡¯t want any other man making herugh.


    ¡°I would love to get some rest please.¡± Handing back the pictures, he rolled the wheelchair near the bed.


    ¡°Can I help?¡± Sasha asked trying to take his hand.


    ¡°No, I can manage.¡± He snapped at her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, please leave me alone. I need to rest.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    When she left the room, Sasha went to Mr. Johnson¡¯s office and called her aunt informing her their n was sessful.


    Lying on the bed Mark called James requesting them toe for a meeting.


    A few dayster the four men sat in his room reporting what had happened since his ident.


    ¡°Did you find the person behind my attack?¡±


    ¡°Not yet. We got nowhere since the men who attacked you died in the pursuit.¡± Robert exined.


    ¡°Did you check the phone records?¡± Mark inquired going through the report.


    ¡°We did. The person behind this is very cunning. We couldn¡¯t trace them or gather anything from the calls and texts sent to your assant.¡± Andrew said showing Mark the text retrieved from their phones.


    ¡°How is my wife?¡± Closing the file he looked at James.


    ¡°She is in good health.¡± James said as the others quietly nced at each other.


    ¡°I know that look, Robert. Did something happen that you¡¯re not telling me about?¡± He asked putting down the documents.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you but don¡¯t get worked up. Remember what the doctor said.¡± Robert warned him.


    ¡°Tell me, did someone harm her?¡± Mark asked in rm.


    ¡°They kidnapped her a few days ago but Mr. Edward got to them before they crossed the border.¡± Robert exined.


    ¡°What happened to the security I hired to protect her?¡± Mark asked James getting agitated.


    ¡°After the ident, grandfather withdrew them. She¡¯s living at Edward¡¯s mansion now. They will protect her.¡± James gave a count of everything that happened.


    ¡°This man she is with, find out who he is.¡± Mark showed them one of the pictures he took from Sasha.


    ¡°He¡¯s living with Melissa at the Edwards mansion. I have seen her in hispanytely.¡± Jason spoke, ncing at the picture.


    ¡°Andrew, tap Melissa¡¯s phone. Find out who this man is and what he wants from her.¡± Mark instructed.


    ¡°He¡¯s probably her bodyguard.¡± Andrew gged his shoulders.


    ¡°I want to know who he is.¡± Mark gritted his teeth clenching his fist.


    With a tray of water and a cup of medicine, Sasha walked in cutting short their meeting, hoping they don¡¯t ruin her ns. ¡°You should let Mark rest. Grandfather Johnson said he can¡¯t work just yet.¡± She said handing Mark his medicine and water bottle.


    ¡°Thank you Sasha, for taking such good care of me.¡± Mark held her hand surprising everyone.


    ¡°Mark what going on?¡± Robert inquired standing beside him but Mark didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°There is nothing much to talk about. Please leave.¡± Still holding Sasha¡¯s hand, he sent them out of the room. To convince her and keep Melissa safe while he was away, he had to ept everything Sasha said.


    His grandfather nned to have them officially engaged and to wed two weeks after the engagement ceremony.


    His parents tried to stop him insisting that he was already married but the old man adamantly stood his ground.


    ¡°Grandfather is right, dad. The Edwards only bring bad luck to this family.¡± Mark¡¯s words stopped their argument.


    ¡°No honey, you can¡¯t think like that about your wife. Melissa is a nice girl, and she loves you so much.¡± His mother tried to persuade him.


    ¡°She has moved on, mother. I¡¯m going to marry Sasha as grandfather suggested.¡± Mark showed them Melissa¡¯s picture with another man to convince them of his decision.


    ¡°Really Mark. Thank you.¡± Sasha ran and hugged him as he watched his disappointed parents leave the office.

 I鈥檒l make them suffer

    Melissa lived in Edward¡¯s mansion for weeks¡¯ training every day. Though her grandfather was against her ns, he would not let her face the Johnsons on her own.


    He watched her run around the field every morning and work out in the gym. Often instructing David to be too hard on her whenever she got flustered and left in the middle of the practice.


    Standing at the floor to ceiling window, he watched his grandchildren teasing each other. Back then, he never thought his choices in life would hurt his family this much. Looking at his grandchildren reminded him of how close and happy his boys were.


    ¡°They are getting along very well.¡± Lucy said, cing the tea tray on his office desk.


    ¡°Yes, if only I can stop her from doing what she is nning. Prevent her from being so hateful and resentful, then we would all be happy.¡±


    ¡°Are you afraid of meeting Johnson face to face?¡± She asked handing him a cup of tea.


    ¡°I knew this day was inevitable, but I¡¯m worried about what it might do to them.¡± Sighing he sipped the tea, his eyes glued on David and Melissa.


    ¡°They will understand once they get to know everything that happened in the past and hopefully you and Johnson can get along again like the good old days.¡± She touched his arm looking at his old face reminding her of the yful boy she always tagged along with.


    Life has hardened him but she could still see that boy in his eyes and from his smile as he watched his grandchildren from afar.


    ¡°Remember, stand with your back straight, legs apart, and well bnced before shooting.¡± David instructed Melissa fixing her earmuffs at the shooting range. Unlike Melissa, David studied in a military school. All his life his mother trained him to defend himself since she knew the family theye from. And when he met his grandfather and joined Edward¡¯s securitypany he became one of the best training instructors.


    Breathing in, Melissa closed her eyes for a second then opened them and fired all the bullets at the target.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Drawing the target near she screamed hugging David. ¡°Yesss! I f*cking did it. I hit the bull¡¯s eye, haha.¡± For days she had trained, missing the target every time to a point of almost giving up but now she did it. Picturing Sasha in front of her gave Melissa the focus she has been missing. ¡°Again, I want to try with a moving object.¡± She said loading her gun as David changed the target.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough for the day. Why don¡¯t you sit down and have something to drink.¡± Betty called out to them setting a tray of iced tea and bread on the table. ¡°Keep that thing away from me. I don¡¯t understand why you feel so happy handling such a dangerous weapon.¡± Betty shook her head pushing the gun Melissa was holding away from her.


    At first, when Melissa said she was going to live with the Edwards, her aunt was happy to join her but seeing how she was changing rmed her. She was not the same sweet loving forgiving girl she was taking care of. The Melissa she saw in that house was full of hate and revenge. If she forcefully goes to the Johnsons like this she will get hurt and that broke Betty¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Aunt you don¡¯t have to be scared, it¡¯s safe.¡± Melissaughed teasing her with the gun in her hand.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am someone is here to see you.¡± One of the maids informed Melissa.


    Walking into the waiting area, she met with the private detective that David had rmended to her.


    ¡°Have a seat.¡± She smiled at him as they shone hands. ¡°What did you find out?¡± The man took an envelope from his briefcase.


    ¡°There is information about your aunt¡¯s family.¡± He handed her the envelope.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡± Seated opposite him she went through the report.


    ¡°Like you ordered ma¡¯am, we checked all the cemeteries but nothing came up. So I went to thepany and though thepany¡¯s name had changed after Mr. Richard¡¯s ident, the ownership didn¡¯t. An old employee recognized Ms. Betty from the photo, but surprisingly enough he believed she was dead.¡± The detective exined.


    ¡°So after the ident, they relocated? Does this mean they are alive?¡± Melissa asked, ncing from the report to the detective.


    ¡°Yes, but he remarried. Here are the pictures taken not so long ago.¡± The detective spread numerous pictures on the table.


    ¡°What is his rtionship with the Johnsons?¡± She asked looking at the picture with Mark, Robert, and Mr. Richard in it.


    ¡°When Mr. Richard¡¯s parents died, they left him under Mr. Johnson¡¯s care. The Johnsons adopted him.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Staring at the face she had not seen in months, Melissa wondered if he knew all along. ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll have the rest of our agreed payment wired to your ount.¡± Getting up from the chair, she shook his hand as the maid escorted him out.


    ¡°So the Johnsons are the family that never epted your rtionship aunt? All these years you have mourned the loss of your husband and son yet Mr. Richard lives happily with another woman. I¡¯ll make them suffer as much as you have suffered, aunt.¡± Clenching her fist, she swore, watching her aunt chart happily with David.


    She not only wanted to get her son but also unite her aunt with her son and spit on Mr Johnson¡¯s face. Show them they have no power to control people¡¯s lives, no matter how rich they are.


    Stepping down the stairs getting back to training, Melissa got a message from Nancy. With range, she trembled like a leaf on a stormy night, looking at the content of the message.


    Leaning on the handrail for support, Melissa read through the message as silent tears cascaded down her cheek breaking her heart all over again.


    ¡°Stop Melissa, stop.¡± Taking a deep breath, she wiped her face.


    Regaining herposer, she headed back to the training area and joined her aunt and David.


    ¡°We will go to the Johnsons on this date.¡± She stated, cing her phone on the table for them to look at it.


    ¡°What?¡± Betty took the phone, then stared at Melissa with eyebrows raised. ¡°This can¡¯t be. Mark and Sasha are getting married?¡± She asked, handing the phone to David.


    Putting an ice cube in her mouth, Melissa nodded briefly closing her eyes avoiding eye contact.


    ¡°How do we get in?¡± David asked


    ¡°It¡¯s simple. We go in as guests invited to the party.¡± She responded as she chewed on a piece of bread, acting like the news didn¡¯t affect her.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that simple Melissa, we need the invitation card to get in. It¡¯s a requirement in most of these high end parties.¡± David said, cing the phone back.


    ¡°I have taken care of that. The Edwards will receive a formal invitation to the engagement party.¡±


    ¡°Melissa, are you going to stop the engagement?¡± Betty asked after listening to their ns.


    ¡°No aunt, I¡¯m going to get my son. This is the perfect opportunity to get to him. I don¡¯t care who Mark chooses to marry. I¡¯m done with him.¡± She loaded the gun, heading back to the shooting range.


    When Sasha brought her the divorce papers, she thought they had tricked Mark into signing them, but looking at their picture on the magazine cover, announcing their love for each other hurt more than it did signing those documents. ¡°I¡¯ll not let you do to me what your family did to my aunt. I¡¯ll get Tommy back, no matter who I have to kill. You can¡¯t win, not this time, Johnson.¡± She uttered to herself, shooting at the target as tears filled her eyes, blurring her vision.


    ¡°I¡¯m worried about what she may do. Please talk her out of this.¡± Betty conversed with David as they watched Melissa. She worried about Melissa¡¯s mental health. ¡°If pushed too far, she may snap.¡±


    ¡°You know how stubborn she is, aunt. If we don¡¯t support her, she will do it on her own. As Melissa said, this party will be a brilliant cover for us to get to the Johnson. Don¡¯t worry aunt, I¡¯ll do all I can to protect her. Mr Johnson won¡¯t dare harm my sister, not when I¡¯m still around.¡± David assured Betty, easing her worry.

 Betty鈥檚 family, the hidden truth

    ¡°Oh wow.¡± Diana uttered when she saw the magazine¡¯s cover picture. ¡°I would love to see your face Melissa. Haha, how does it feel to lose the love of your life?¡± Sheughed holding Melissa¡¯s picture. Sasha had finally managed to get what she wanted. With Mark out of the picture, Diana nned to get Melissa. She had a perfect n to catch her prey.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, we have a problem. Luke Edward has been snooping around our territory asking about the supplier. What should we do?¡± Her assistant walked in breathless.


    ¡°Why spoil my happy moment?¡± She asked, turning around. ¡°Do something to keep him busy in his ownpany so that way he will leave my business alone.¡± Since the organization broke up, Luke Edward ordered his people to stop all illegal transactions but Diana gathered some customers and went on with the supply. She had made her factory under the Edward¡¯s. For years she had been supplying without Luke Edward¡¯s knowledge.


    After closing her casinos for two months, they were opened and operational. With more young girlsing in, the business was back and even bigger than it was before.


    ¡°I¡¯m the queen, I¡¯ll get everything I want. Watch out Melissa, I¡¯ming for you and the Edward¡¯s can¡¯t save you from me.¡± Sheughed, tracing Melissa¡¯s face with her gun. ¡°This time I wille for you myself.¡±


    ¡­..


    At the ranch, Mark sat out in the garden with hisptop watching the videos he took on their family trip. Every day he missed Melissa deeply. Seeing her ying around with Tommy by the seashore and her sweet face when she woke up beside him, ease the ache in his heart.


    ¡°I know you still love her.¡± Joining him, his mother said when he quickly closed theptop.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about mother.¡± He tried to cover up but she was not easily persuaded.


    ¡°Son, I¡¯m the one who doesn¡¯t understand why you¡¯re turning your back on your wife. I know you love her.¡± She touched his arm making him look at her. ¡°Son, I may not agree with you but I will always support your every decision.¡± She sighed, taking a seat beside him. ¡°But first I need to tell you a story.¡± Holding the old photo album she had carried out, she told him about his uncle¡¯s first marriage.


    Richard¡¯s family had chosen a youngdy from a wealthy family for him to marry but when he met his new secretary after taking over his father¡¯spany, he fell in love with her and they secretly got married. ¡°You see, father was against it. He had made a promise to his best friend to take good care of his son and make sure he got married to the chosen girl from a wealthy and well known family. But Richard was head over heels in love with his wife, he refused to let her go. Insisting for months after the birth of their son, your grandfather agreed to the marriage. Your uncle was happy with her, the happiest I have ever seen him until that fateful day. We nned a big feast at the mansion to wee his wife and son to the family but they didn¡¯t show up. We waited for hours only to hear about the ident on the news. That ident changed Richard¡¯s life. It took him and his son away from his wife. They were both on the verge of death so we had to transfer them to a better hospital. And it took months for Richard to recover. When he healed, he was too traumatized to go back.¡± She told him the painful story.


    ¡°I heard his wife died. How did she die?¡± Mark asked, sitting straight to listen to the story that was almost simr to his.


    ¡°They said due to depression she hanged herself to death. Neighbors found her dead in her house, something Richard didn¡¯t believe until they showed him the grave. He mourned for years. I believe he still mourns for her. His wife was very beautiful much like Melissa and still is.¡± She said showing Mark a picture of Richard and young Betty.


    ¡°This, she is uncle Richard¡¯s wife? Howe?¡± He questioned, staring at the picture.


    ¡°When Mary told me at first I didn¡¯t believe it. Until she sent me Betty¡¯s picture. I didn¡¯t understand how she was alive. We thought she faked her death leaving her small son behind but after what has been happening to you these couple of months, I think someone yed a trick to keep them apart.¡±


    Mark shook his head remembering what Melissa had told him. ¡°Who could have made up such a lie? Do dad and uncle Richard know that she is alive?¡± He asked, thinking of every detail from his mum.


    ¡°No, only Mary and I know about it. I want you to find out who nned to keep them apart before we can break the news to them.¡± She said closing the album.


    ¡°Okay let¡¯s keep it that way for now. I have to make this right mother. Betty has been living in pain thinking her husband and son died in the ident yet uncle Richard and Robert are still alive.¡±


    ¡°I trust you know what you¡¯re doing son. I don¡¯t want anyone to get hurt, especially you, my son. Fight for your marriage, don¡¯t let Tommy grow up deprived of a mother¡¯s love. When you face your grandfather and exin how you feel he will understand. Make him end the rivalry with Mr Edward so you can unite your family.¡± She tapped his shoulder getting back to her work.


    With the partying up she was busy organizing it with Sasha¡¯s help.


    ¡°Did she see it?¡± Momentster Mark asked Robert as he sat beside him.


    ¡°Yes, Lisa called me thirty minutes ago just as you expected. Are you sure this is worth it?¡± Robert asked, looking at him.


    ¡°It is, make sure they get here on time and bring her aunt along.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you call and exin everything to Melissa, man? I bet she will understand instead of making her suffer this much.¡± Robert persuaded him.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing this for the whole family. You will understand once they get here.¡± Robert offered his hand to help him up but he rebuffed it. ¡°I can do it on my own.¡± He said supporting himself on the walking stick as he went to rest in his room.


    ¡°What were you and Mark discussing?¡± Sasha pulled Robert to the backyard.


    ¡°Whatever we discuss is none of your business Sasha, get your hands off me.¡± She didn¡¯t budge no matter how hard Robert pushed her away.


    ¡°I know you love me Robert and you would love to see my engagement to Mark canceled.¡± She yed with his tie getting closer to him. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare tell him anything that will ruin my day.¡± She warned smoothing his tie as she stepped back from him.


    Holding her by the waist, Robert pushed her against the wall. ¡°What are you so afraid of Sasha?¡± Leaning closer he caressed her cheek. ¡°Mark will never love you, no matter what you do he will only think of Melissa. She is the woman for him.¡± His face a breath from hers, he grinned staring deep into her eyes.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± She asked, cing her palm on his chest feeling the sizzling muscles under his white shirt.


    ¡°What does it look like I¡¯m doing?¡± He stared at her slightly parted red lips. Looking at her smooth spotless face, he saw the anticipation in her eyes as she ran her tongue along her lips to moisturize them.


    ¡°You disgust me.¡± He whispered into her ear as he stepped away letting her go.


    Tempting as she was, he walked away from her.


    Seeing Sasha¡¯s reaction to him reminded him of the one woman his heart belonged to.

 They are alive

    Everyone in the mansion stopped to stare at Melissa as she walked down the stairs in a short sleeved white dress that red around her ankles.


    Raising it slightly with one hand supporting herself on the handrail with the other, she gracefully took a step after the other.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She smiled as David offered his hand guiding her down thest steps.


    ¡°My baby sister looks stunning. When Mark sets his eyes on you, he won¡¯t know what hit him.¡± He teased, handing her a gun.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tter me, brother. You know why we are going there, so don¡¯t get carried away.¡± She said putting the gun in her sp pochette bag.


    ¡°Do you need to take that?¡± Joining them, Betty asked, with a concerned look on her face.


    ¡°Yes aunt I have to. I¡¯m not leaving that ce without my son no matter what.¡± Sighing, she turned to look at her aunt. ¡°For your safety aunt, you can¡¯te. Please stay here. I don¡¯t want you to get hurt.¡±


    ¡°I promised to take care of you, honey.¡± She touched Melissa¡¯s hand. ¡°However dangerous it is, I¡¯ming along.¡± Insisting, she proceeded to the waiting vehicle.


    ¡°You should tell her before we get there.¡± David advised sitting beside Melissa in the car.


    ¡°I know if only I can stop it. It will hurt her once she knows her husband lied so he could take their son away.¡±


    In the private ne, Mr. Edward sat with a newspaper in his hands as shes of his childhood crossed his mind. For his granddaughter, he was going to meet with the one person who ruined his life and took away his happiness and freedom. He never thought of meeting him in such circumstances.


    ¡°Grandpa, are you okay?¡± David¡¯s voice woke him from his nightmare.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, my child. I¡¯m only worried about what this anger will do to your sister. She is a kind and loving person but everything happening in her life right now might break her. I¡¯m afraid she will turn into the monster I have been.¡± He said his eyes fixed on Melissa.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry grandpa, I¡¯ll take care of her. She trusts me and no matter what I¡¯ll be by her side.¡± David assured him.


    Once the ne was steadily in the air, Melissa left her seat to sit next to her aunt


    ¡°Aunt, I have to tell you something before we get to Johnson¡¯s farm.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°When we got to the city months ago, I promised myself I would look for your family¡¯s resting ce. I wanted you to move on. I wanted to ease your pain and make you happy so I went to all the cemeteries in the city but I couldn¡¯t find them. Since I couldn¡¯t find any answers, I recently hired one of Edward¡¯s private detectives to help me look.¡± She held her aunt¡¯s hand assessing what her reaction would be.


    ¡°You¡¯re so thoughtful my child, but you don¡¯t have to go through so much trouble. It¡¯s been years, I can¡¯t forget them but I¡¯ve learned to live because I have you.¡± Betty smiled, touching Melissa¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°No Aunt, you don¡¯t deserve that pain. You never deserved it because they are alive. I found them, aunt. Mr. Richard and Mathew are still alive.¡± She confirmed handing her the phone with pictures of the whole report as the ne touched down on the small airstrip. ¡°That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t want you toe. I don¡¯t want you to get hurt, aunt. Mr. Richard is married, he faked his death to keep Mathew from you.¡±


    ¡°What? This can¡¯t be true. You¡¯re trying to stop me froming with you but it won¡¯t work.¡± She handed back the phone then stepped out of the ne.


    ¡°Watch my aunt David. I don¡¯t want her to meet Mr. Richard or his wife.¡± Leaving the ne, Melissa told David as they met Lisa who stood waiting beside two hired vehicles.


    Lisa had gone earlier to make travel arrangements and secure their invitation. ¡°Has the party begun?¡± Melissa asked, sitting beside Lisa in one of the cars.


    ¡°Yes, are you sure you want to do this today?¡±


    ¡°We are here Lisa, there is no turning back. We¡¯ll leave as soon as I find Tommy.¡± Melissa said, looking out the window as they drove the short distance to the ranch.


    ¡°Melissa, Mark is waiting for you down the hall. He asked me to take you to him. You two need to talk.¡± Lisa informed her as they stepped out of the car outside the house.


    ¡°Lisa, I didn¡¯te all the way to see Mark. I came to get Tommy from them. I won¡¯t let my son live with the Johnsons. Stick to the n.¡± Shemanded, stepping out of the car smiling at other guests arriving for the party.


    ¡°You can do this.¡± Taking a deep breath, she stormed into the building looking for her son. She checked one room after the other calling his name like a crazy person. In the corridor to the hall which was set up and decorated for the small intimate party, Melissa pumped into a hard masculine chest almost falling on her back but he held her in his arms.


    Smelling the so familiar Cologne, she raised her eyes only to see the face she has been missing and dreaming of all these months. For a moment she forgot about her son and her mission of the day because all she wanted was to be with him. Feel his arms around her again and forget the world existed.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Get your hands off me. Where is my son?¡± She stepped back trying to get away from him.


    ¡°We have to talk, Melissa.¡±


    ¡°I have nothing to talk about with you Mark.¡± Lisa had told her he lost his memories after the attack and his grandfather was taking advantage of his condition to get him engaged with Sasha but looking at him, she knew it was a lie.


    He chose to be with another woman to please his grandfather and it hurt her more than she imagined it would.


    Melissa thought being angry and resentful towards him and his family would make the strong feelings she had for him go away, but being this close to Mark brought back all the memories and feelings she fought so hard against.

 Meeting an old friend

    ¡°Mum?¡± Tommy came running to her, jogging her memory.


    He was the reason she hade.


    Stepping back further away from Mark, she turned to find her son staring up at them eyes wide open with a big smile on his face. All this time they had been embracing each other and Melissa didn¡¯t even realize it until Tommy showed up.


    ¡°Oh, my son.¡± She hugged him in her arms as tears filled her eyes. ¡°I missed you so much, honey.¡± She sniffed kissing him on the cheeks.


    ¡°Stop mum, I¡¯m not a baby anymore.¡± He saidughing. ¡°Mum, have youe to make daddy get better?¡± He asked, ncing at his father.


    ¡°No, I came to get you. We are going home now.¡± She turned her gaze to nce at Mark who stood watching them.


    Seeing them together brought joyful tears to his eyes. That day lying in a pool of his blood, hearing Melissa¡¯s sob as she screamed his name, he thought he would never see them again.


    All this while Melissa had not noticed Mark was supporting himself on a walking stick. He looked thinner and worn out. Not as strong as shest saw him but she was d he had woken from hisa.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, say goodbye to your father.¡± Briefly closing her eyes she took a deep breath. It was hard for her to leave him but she had to. She was not going to let his presence sway her from her ns.


    Tommy¡¯s call for his mother had attracted people in the hallway. They alle out including the furious old Mr. Johnson.


    ¡°Who let this vicious woman into my home? Mary get the security to kick her out and take the boy.¡± Mr. Johnson ordered


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving with my son. You have no right to keep him away from me¡± Melissa carried Tommy to leave but the security stopped her.


    She had known that they wouldn¡¯t let her go so she brought her security along.


    Drawing out her gun, she pointed it at the old man. ¡°Try and stop me¡±


    She held her son in one hand and a gun in the other, ready to shoot anyone who dared to get in her way.


    The six bodyguards protecting the Johnson family stood before her.


    ¡°Melissa¡¯ please put the gun down.¡± Mark¡¯s mother pleaded with her. She tried to calm her down so as not to scare the boy or hurt him but Melissa didn¡¯t back down.


    ¡°Step away from my granddaughter.¡±


    Just in time Mr Edward came with his men and stood beside her with guns in their hands ready to shoot. ¡°We finally meet, Johnson.¡± Mr. Edward said, looking at his enemy face to face.


    ¡°Edward, how long has it been? Twenty, thirty years since they took you away. I see you have grown some balls toe from your hiding ce.¡± The two stood nose to nose.


    ¡°You set me up, you bastard. You had me thrown in jail so you could take Helena from me. For years I have been waiting for this day. The day I see your angry face and do this.¡± He punched Mr. Johnson in the face. ¡°That¡¯s for the ten years I spent in jail.¡± He said shaking his hand to ease the pain.


    ¡°Grandfather, are you okay?¡± Mark held Mr. Johnson protectively.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Get these lowlifes off my property and if they resist, shoot them.¡± Mr. Johnson ordered.


    ¡°Grandfather stop this. Please let all calm down. Melissa let Tommy down so we can talk.¡± Mark said walking towards her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to talk, I only came for my son. You can visit him anytime you want but he can¡¯t stay here.¡±


    ¡°I said shoot them if they don¡¯t leave.¡± Angry Mr. Johnsonmanded taking a gun from one of his men.


    ¡°No dad, no one is getting shot today. Mr. Edward please just leave. Let¡¯s talk once everyone is calm.¡± Mark¡¯s dad tried to separate the two groups.


    ¡°We are leaving and there is nothing to talk about. Grandpa lets go.¡± Melissa turned ready to leave.


    ¡°You¡¯re not taking the boy.¡± Mr. Johnson stopped them.


    ¡°Grandfather, that¡¯s enough. Melissa, please let¡¯s talk. Give me a chance to exin everything.¡± Mark went after Melissa.


    ¡°Mark, I want no exnations from you. I never want to see you or talk to you again.¡± She held her son stepping away from him.


    ¡°Melissa please.¡± He pleaded holding her by the elbow.


    ¡°Lisa take Tommy to the car.¡± Stepping away from Mark she gave Tommy to Lisa who had joined them.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay son, go with your aunt.¡± Mark nodded at Tommy when he hesitated to take Lisa¡¯s hand.


    For a few seconds, they stood staring at each other. ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re better now.¡± She bit her lip as Mark drew her closer.


    ¡°Melissa I missed you.¡± He touched her cheek holding her gaze.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry it had toe to this Mark. I have to leave with Tommy..¡± She stepped back as tears filled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Turning away, she wiped the tears that fell down her cheek.


    ¡°Mark, Mark are you okay?¡± Sasha rushed to him followed by her parents and his parents.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± He nced from her to his mother.


    ¡°The guests are waiting, let¡¯s go back.¡±


    Standing there Melissa looked at Sasha¡¯s hand in Mark¡¯s. With his parents beside her, it was evident the Johnsons had epted her and Mark chose to be with her.


    With a heavy heart, she walked away disappearing down the corridor despite how hard Mark called out to her.

 Ending the war

    The two old men sat out of breath after pping and punching each other a few times. ¡°You¡¯re getting old Edward.¡± Mr. Johnson sneered, stretching on the coach.


    ¡°You never see yourself, do you Johnson? You¡¯re way older than I am. I only let you go out of pity.¡± Mr. Edward spoke, wiping sweat from his forehead.


    ¡°You want us to start again Edward? Don¡¯t be too full of yourself.¡± Mr Johnson got up pointing a finger at him then sat back as fast wincing in pain. ¡°This body keeps failing me.¡± They bothughed despite the exhaustion and pain. ¡°What happened to us, Edward? You were my best friend, my brother.¡± Johnson asked, feeling worn out.


    ¡°I always ask myself the same thing.¡± Mr Edward sighed. ¡°That night when the police arrested me, a dark cloud fell in my heart. I hated you so much for what you did to me. Seeing my father¡¯s disappointment in mepletely broke me. All these years I¡¯ve tried to get back at you so I can erase that pain.¡±


    ¡°I know you never believed me back then but I didn¡¯t set you up. I was not the one who put those gold jewelry in your jacket. I would never do that to you, Edward.¡± Mr. Johnson exined.


    ¡°You married Helena despite knowing how much I loved her. How do you expect me to believe you? I spent ten years in prison paying for something I was not part of and my father died in shame.¡± He said remembering thest day his father went to visit him in prison.


    ¡°I had nothing to do with it. When your father and my father died in an ident they were both working hard to get you out. I have med you and your family for years for taking him away. He spent most of the time worrying about you, looking for people to help reduce your sentence. After my father died, my mother made me marry Helena to save the farm.¡± He spoke remembering how much they had suffered.


    ¡°Merging the two families secured the crumbling business. Helena always loved you. I knew it and I was okay with it though I was in love with her for the longest time. The day you were set free from prison she came looking for you but you had moved on. She told me you had another woman so from then we decided to work on our marriage. She was my best friend Edward, I loved her so much and I would never do anything to hurt her. Hurting you would mean hurting her too.¡±


    They grew up together since Edward¡¯s father started working at Jonson¡¯s farm. Edward, Johnson, Helena, and Lucy were best friends, always hanging out together until the day Edward was used of stealing jewels from the governor¡¯s house and sentenced to ten years in prison.


    When he heard Helena was married to Johnson, he was devastated. Almost giving up on life until that day he met Isabe.


    Walking around town drunk not knowing how he could face his mother or what to do with his life, he bumped into a youngdy.


    She was very beautiful. The mere sight of her face was a breath of new life. ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful.¡± He still remembered the first words he said to her before passing out.


    She took him to her apartment for the night and became his partner and support in the small business they started after giving up on her ballet dancing career. Over the years he fell in love with his wife but his thirst for wealth and power pushed him to join the trafficking business and in a few years, he ruled it all. He became the underworld king but at the expense of his family.


    ¡°Isabe stood by me and I let her down. Anger and hate towards you ruined my family Johnson. All I¡¯ve longed for these past years is to push you to your knees, now I¡¯m ready to let it go. Please don¡¯t let Mark suffer. We have to stop this war for our grandchildren.¡±


    ¡°You are right, I¡¯ve hated you for so long yet you did not cause the ident. I thought Mark marrying that girl was right but I now see how much he loves your granddaughter. I have been so cruel to her, I hope she doesn¡¯t take it out on him.¡±


    ¡°Not only did you hurt my granddaughter but her aunt too.¡± Mr. Edward said.


    ¡°Her aunt, I don¡¯t think I know her.¡±


    ¡°The youngdy your son Richard married secretly over twenty years ago is my granddaughter¡¯s aunt.¡±


    ¡°Richard¡¯ste wife is her aunt? Indeed this is a small world. When Richard married her I was against it. I wanted to fulfill my friend¡¯s wish but the boy was infatuated and so determined I couldn¡¯t keep them apart but unfortunately, fate did.¡±


    ¡°I doubt fate had anything to do with it, thatdy is still alive. She was told her husband and son died in the ident. All these years she has been living in grief and mourning for people who are alive and well.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s cruel, who would do something so sinister?¡± Mr. Johnson asked then thought of Cassandra.


    ¡°I thought you did it since wealth and ss mean so much to you.¡±


    ¡°You know me, Edward, I would never stoop so low. I think I know who lied to her but I¡¯ll need to investigate.¡± He said taking out his phone.


    ¡­..


    Sasha watched as Mark left running after Melissa. All this while she thought he had amnesia but he was ying her. He made her believe he remembered nothing about Melissa and she even paid the doctor thanking him for his good work. ~This was supposed to be my day. The day Mark proposes marriage to me~. She thought to herself as Mark disappeared down the corridor.


    ¡°Mother, what happened? Why can¡¯t Mark love me?¡± She turned to her mother, then looked at Mark¡¯s mother with tears in her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry dear, I told you to stop this. Your grandfather wanted you to marry Mark but he didn¡¯t ask you to force yourself on someone who will never love you. Let Mark and his wife live happily. I don¡¯t like seeing you like this, my child.¡± She reprimanded, wiping Sasha¡¯s tears.


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand mother and you will never understand.¡± Pushing her mother¡¯s hand away Sasha ran into the house.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what my son did, he shouldn¡¯t have deceived you like this.¡± Mark¡¯s mother apologized to Sasha¡¯s mother.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize, I understand his intentions. I¡¯ll go check on my daughter. Excuse me.¡± Feeling ashamed of what had happened, she went after her daughter.


    ¡°Why, why?¡± Sasha sat on the bed crying thinking of how happy they would have been if Melissa had not ruined everything.


    Since Melissa came into Mark¡¯s life, he only wanted her. Yet she stayed by his side helping him through his recovery but he never saw her. ¡°Robert was right, Mark will only love Melissa and I will only be his childhood friend.¡± She held the pillow to her face to muffle the sobs.


    ¡°What happened out there, Sasha? I thought the n was sessful?¡± Her aunt Cassandra asked, joining her in the room.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know aunt. I even paid that stupid doctor to erase Mark¡¯s memories but he didn¡¯t. Somehow Mark found out and acted like he had memory loss, now I don¡¯t know what to do.¡± She screamed on the pillow with frustration. ¡°I even made her sign those stupid divorce papers.¡± She said remembering how easy it was to trick Mark into signing them.


    When Mark left the hospital, by Mr. Johnson¡¯s orders his secretary brought a bunch of documents for him to sign but before she could get into his room, Sasha bumped into her. Helping her pick and arrange the scattered papers, she managed to slip the divorce papers between the documents.


    Volunteering to take care of Mark, she stayed around him all the time monitoring his every movement. When the secretary brought the documents, she watched himContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Once he was halfway done, Sasha sent the secretary out to get a clean ss of water for his medicine. As he signed the documents, she distracted him whenever he stopped to read.


    With so much medicine in his system to lessen the pain and the trust he had in his secretary, she knew he couldn¡¯t read all of them. And once he was done signing, she managed to pull the documents out before the secretary got back.


    ¡°It was so easy, aunt, threatening to hurt her son made her¡­.¡±


    ¡°You did what? Sasha, what is wrong with you? Why are you doing this to yourself?¡± Her mother barged into the room.


    ¡°Mother you won¡¯t understand, just leave me alone.¡± Sasha pulled the nket over her head so as not to have any more arguments with her.


    ¡°Do you know how you made our family look? We are getting out of this ce right now.¡± She opened her bag and started packing.


    ¡°You can¡¯t keep treating Sasha like a child. Let her do what she wants.¡± Cassandra interjected.


    ¡°Haha! Do what she wants? You have brainwashed my daughter, always telling her how important it is to be married to the Johnsons. I¡¯m sad that all you care about is money, Cassandra. I don¡¯t want my only daughter to be as miserable as you are.¡± She spoke furiously, stuffing the clothes in the bag.


    ¡°Me miserable? Haha, you must be dreaming. Your marriage to that low life ountant is so boring you¡¯re jealous of me.¡±


    ¡°Stay away from my daughter, get out.¡± Sasha¡¯s mother shouted pushing Cassandra out of the room.

 Cassandra鈥檚 nightmare

    Looking for a way into the party hall through the back door, Betty bumped into Lisa carrying Tommy in her arms. David had left her in the car after warning her not to join the party for her safety which she agreed to only to put him off.


    ¡°Where is Melissa?¡± She asked, taking Tommy from her to calm him down.


    ¡°She ising. I left her talking to Mark back there. We have to get to the car.¡± Lisa responded, proceeding her to the car.


    ¡°Is she okay? Calm down.¡± Betty asked, kissing terrified Tommy on the cheek.


    ¡°She asked me to wait in the car.¡± Lisa stopped at the doorway as she nced back.


    ¡°I have to look for her. Don¡¯t cry honey, I¡¯ll go get your mum. Stay with aunt Lisa okay.¡± Betty handed Tommy back to Lisa and went into the building calling out to her. ¡°Melissa, Melissa.¡± Worried she may get hurt, Betty ran along the corridor opening all the doors shouting her name.


    ¡°Betty!¡± When she heard her name, she closed the third door she had opened and turned to look at the men behind her.


    ¡°Richard! So it¡¯s true?¡± She asked before copsing and losing consciousness.


    ¡°Aunt! What did you do my aunt?¡± Melissa ran over to find Mr. Richard holding her aunt on the floor.


    ¡°Betty, I thought you died. Howe you¡¯re here? All these years Betty, I thought you were gone.¡± Mr. Richard held her in his arms supporting her head as his tears fell on her cheeks not minding who was watching them.


    ¡°Richard it¡¯s you, you¡¯re alive, our son what happened to Mathew?¡± Opening her eyes, she asked, touching his wet cheeks.


    ¡°He is here, our son Matthew is here.¡± He said looking at Robert who walked towards them.


    ¡°She is my mother? Howe? We have met so many times and I didn¡¯t realize it?¡± Robert knelt beside Betty and helped her up.


    ¡°What is going on here?¡± Rushing from the house, Cassandra stopped before them, ncing from Richard to Betty. ¡°You, what are you doing here? You are supposed to be dead.¡±


    ¡°Aunt, are you okay? Did they hurt you?¡± Melissa asked, checking her aunt¡¯s body ignoring everyone.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay Melissa. I¡¯m not hurt.¡± She responded looking from Richard to Cassandra who was clinging onto him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go aunt, we have to leave now.¡± Melissa held her aunt¡¯s hand directing her to the exit.


    ¡°But I have to talk to¡­.¡±


    ¡°No aunt we are leaving. Get her to the car and grandfather too.¡± Melissamanded the security team who had joined them leaving everyone speechless.


    ¡°Melissa, what are you doing?¡± Mark called to her, stopping her from leaving.


    ¡°What does it look like I¡¯m doing?¡± She walked back and looked him eye to eye. ¡°I won¡¯t let your family hurt any of my family members anymore.¡± She told him.


    ¡°I did all this so our two families would talk. So your aunt would see her husband and son and be with them again. The party was to bring you here Melissa, all of you.¡± Mark tried to exin.


    ¡°I almost lost my mind when they took you and Tommy away but I told myself when you wake up you wille back to me. What did I get? You sent your lover to bring me divorce papers, Mark. I didn¡¯t want to believe the times I saw you kissing and making out with Sasha.¡± She closed her eyes briefly. ¡°I was such a fool to believe in love yet I was just a project to you. You got me from the province. I¡¯m grateful for that but you deceived me many times. Now I want nothing to do with you or your family.¡± Not giving him a chance to speak, she walked to the car.


    ¡°Melissa it¡¯s not what you think¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, let her go.¡± David stopped Mark from going after Melissa.


    ¡°Who are you to stop me? That¡¯s my wife.¡± Mark looked at him clenching his fist ready to punch him.


    ¡°She is my sister. I won¡¯t let you hurt her anymore.¡± David stood between him and Melissa protectively.


    ¡°Let go David. Don¡¯t waste your breath talking to them.¡± Melissa called him into the car leaving behind chagrined Mark and his family.


    ¡°Dad, Mark, what¡¯s going on? Can someone please tell me what just happened? Is it true Melissa¡¯s aunt is my mother? Come on, talk to me?¡± Robert asked with his hands on his head as he watched them drive away.


    ¡°I too don¡¯t understand, son.¡± Mr. Richard said, looking as confused as Robert was.


    Once all the guests had left, the whole family sat to talk about what had happened.


    Biting her finger nails Cassandra sat beside Richard hoping he wouldn¡¯t leave her. She never thought a day woulde when she had to fight for her position as his wife again. Betty was supposed to be dead. ¡°How is it she is still alive?¡± She kept asking herself.


    ¡°Cassandra, did you hear me?¡± Richard questioned staring at her.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You took me to the graveyard and showed me where my wife was buried. Howe she is alive? Have you been lying to me?¡± He asked, getting more agitated.


    ¡°No Richard, at the office they told me she killed herself after your ident and they took us to her grave. I¡¯m as surprised as you are.¡± She tried to exin.


    ¡°Mark, you knew my mother was Melissa¡¯s aunt all this time and you didn¡¯t tell me? You of all people know how much I wished to see my mother.¡± Robert looked at Mark feeling betrayed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you sooner but I only found out a few days ago so I thought bringing them here was the right thing. That¡¯s why I nned this party. It was the only way but I didn¡¯t expect Melissa to hate me more.¡± He sighed, taking a ss of water.


    ¡°Thanks to your n son I was able to talk with Edward. Now I see how selfish I¡¯ve been, forcing you to marry someone as deceitful as Sasha. Edward also informed me that Cassandra told Betty that Richard and Robert died in the ident. All these years she has been grieving.¡± Mr. Johnson said as everyone looked at Cassandra.


    ¡°What? Why did you lie to my wife?¡± Richard asked.


    ¡°I.. I.. I¡¯m sorry, I was furious she didn¡¯t look for you after the ident so when I found her at the office I told her you died just to hurt her. Later they told me she killed herself before I could bring her to the hospital.¡± She tried to exin. ¡°Richard, please believe me, I was not thinking.¡± She touched his arm but he moved away.


    ¡°I have to get my wife back.¡± He looked at her then got up to leave.


    ¡°No, Richard, wait. I¡¯m your wife, we have been married for years. You can¡¯t do this to me Richard please.¡± She begged running after him. ¡°Richard.¡± Cassandra watched as Richard got in his car and drove off. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this is happening to me?¡± She ced her palm on her forehead as his car disappeared.


    She had paid so much money to convince Richard that Betty was no more. ¡®I should have killed you when I had the chance.¡¯ She thought to herself.


    ¡°Robert, Robert please hear me out.¡± She ran to Robert when he walked out but he too wanted nothing to do with her.


    ¡°Not now, mother. I need time alone to think. We will talkter.¡± He got in his car and drove off as well.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°I see your world is scrambling around you, Cassandra. Just let them be. Come home with us and once everyone has cooled off you can talk to Richard.¡± Her sister embraced her and wiped her teary face.


    ¡°Are you mocking me?¡± Cassandra pushed her hand away. ¡°You are happy now aren¡¯t you.¡± She said, stepping away from her.


    ¡°I¡¯m your sister and I love you so much, Cassandra. Why would I be happy when you¡¯re suffering? I¡¯m only trying to offer my support. Pleasee home with us.¡± Sasha¡¯s mother insisted.


    ¡°Mum is right, aunt let¡¯s go home. Right now they will only look at you as the bad guy. Pleasee with us.¡± Sasha opened the car door urging her to get in.


    Cassandra knew what Richard was going to do to her once he found out what she did so she left with her sister praying that with time she could win him back again.

 Do you judge me

    On the ne back home, no one spoke to Melissa. She sat with sleeping Tommy in her arms remembering Mark¡¯s hurt disappointed look as they drove away. She wanted so much to go back. Hug him and tell him how much she loved him, how much she missed him but she couldn¡¯t.


    With every waking moment, she missed waking up to his smiling face watching her sleep but it was over now. He deceived her many times; she didn¡¯t know what the truth was anymore.


    ¡°Grandma, what is wrong with mummy? Why did she leave daddy today?¡± Standing behind the door at the mansion Melissa overheard Tommy and her aunt¡¯s conversion.


    ¡°Mommy is just going through something right now. We have to be patient with her. I¡¯m sure she and your daddy will be okay soon.¡± Betty tried to exin as simply as she could.


    ¡°Grandma, I don¡¯t like this mommy. I miss my daddy. He has been feeling pain every day. Can¡¯t mommy go take care of him to make him better?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry honey, mommy will take care of daddy and he will get better. Go to sleep now, I¡¯ll stay here watching over you.¡± She promised as she ced a goodnight kiss on his forehead.


    Feeling pain in her heart, Melissa went to her room. Curled up on the bed she hugged her pillow. ¡°You did the right thing.¡± Sheforted herself as tears filled her eyes.


    She wanted her son beside her so she could keep him safe but now she didn¡¯t know if everything she did was right. Tommy hated her and she couldn¡¯t me him. At times she hated herself too for not letting the pain in her heart go.


    ¡­..


    ¡°Do you judge me too?¡± Melissa nced at David as they drove to Steel¡¯s pany for the first meeting as the new owner.


    ¡°No, I know you are doing what you believe is best for the people you love. Protecting them is understandable but don¡¯t let anger consume you, Melissa. Give Mark a chance to exin his side of the story and let aunt Betty be happy. She loves you so much she will do anything you ask her to.¡± He squeezed her hand.


    Since they got back, Mark tried to see her. He went to the mansion almost every day but she often locked herself in the bedroom refusing to meet him. After trying for several days he stopped but made sure to see his son whenever his grandmother took him to Johnson¡¯s mansion.


    ¡°Give yourself a chance to love again.¡± David nced at her as they stopped at the parking lot.


    ¡°I¡¯ll think about it.¡± She dismissed him, stepping out of the car.


    Walking into the office building, all the employees stopped to see the new employer. Most of them were worried they would lose their job¡¯s once the new owner took over.


    With her bag in one hand, Melissa walked gracefully to the boardroom as one of the secretaries directed them.


    ¡°Sorry we arete. This is my brother David, he is also part of thispany.¡± Sitting at the end of the table she introduced David who stood behind her.


    ¡°So, what is so urgent you had to call for a board meeting?¡± Diana asked, sitting back on her chair.


    ¡°As the majority shareholder, I¡¯m making a few changes of how thispany will run. I believe that you are the acting CEO. A position that was previously held by Mr. Stevens.¡± She confirmed looking at Diana who in turn smiled at her. ¡°Well that position is quite sensitive, it needs a well educated and qualified person. Going through your documents Diana, I don¡¯t think you¡¯re fit for the role so I¡¯m bringing someone to take over with immediate effect. His details and qualifications are in the folder before you. Secondly, I will go through all contracts you have signed with our clients. I also want to know what thispany is transporting so I will be stopping them in transit or at the port for random inspections. If you have any illegal businesses going on here you better stop before you get caught.¡± She warned looking at the three men around the table. ¡°That¡¯s it for today¡¯s meeting. Any questions?¡± She asked, looking directly at Diana.


    ¡°Are you going to fire the employees?¡± One of the men present asked.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll just make adjustments where necessary. If no further questions please excuse me, I have a staff meeting to attend. Diana, you will introduce me to the staff.¡± She smiled at Diana who smiled back with a clenched fist. ¡°Thank you for attending on such a short notice.¡± Melissa shook hands with them as Diana directed her to the meeting hall.


    ¡°Do you have to do this Melissa? You may have the majority shares but that does not give you the right to sideline the other investors. What if they pull out?¡± Furious Diana argued, stopping Melissa at the door way.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready to buy out any of them. I¡¯m in charge now Diana, you either do things my way or you quit.¡± She challenged, staring at her eyeball to eyeball then walked past her.


    After introducing Melissa to the staff, Diana went to her office.


    Facing Melissa at the board room, she felt like strangling her, she had to clench her fist hard to control her range. Looking at her bloody palms where nails dug, she took the coffee mug from the table smashing it on the wall. ¡°Damn you, Melissa. If you think I¡¯ll let you take everything from me you are mistaken.¡±


    ¡­.


    After the meeting at thepany, Melissa went to visit Mr. Steven in prison. Diana refused to pay her father¡¯s bail money and from how haggard he looked, she knew no one had gone to visit him.


    A few days back her godmother had called asking if she could help them get back to the country to visit him. Apparently Diana had ceased all their finances when her father authorized her to take charge.


    ¡°Cough! Cough! Melissa, you are thest person I expected to visit me. What good have I done for you to grace me with your presence?¡± Mr. Stevens inquired over the phone before getting another fit of violent cough.


    Staring at him seated behind the ss window, Melissa felt sorry for him. ¡°I¡¯m taking over Steel¡¯s operations and I have some questions.¡±Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Cough! Diana has all the documents you need. She can give you all the information you need but be warned¡­ Cough! Cough! Be weary of her. I raised her myself but she left me to rot in here just because I didn¡¯t do what she wanted. Cough cough!¡± His coughing was so severe Melissa couldn¡¯t ask him any more questions.


    She sat with the phone in her hand as the warden took him to his cell then went to the chief warden¡¯s office to ask if she could pay for his treatment and upkeep.


    Though he betrayed her father¡¯s trust she understood his intentions and was willing to help.


    ¡­..


    Spending the day going to different offices and meeting most of the employee¡¯s, Melissa felt exhausted. She was afraid she couldn¡¯t keep up but David was a good teacher. Standing behind her they thought he was there to guard her but he was directing every move she made.


    He did not only train her how to shoot and defend herself but he also trained her how to manage the transportpany and how to face the board members whom she suspected were working with Mr. Stevens in the illegal business.


    ¡°What is going on here?¡± She and David walked in only to find Mr. Edward, Mr. Johnson, and Lucy chartingughing and in the lounge.


    ¡°Oh Melissa, David you are back. Come, we have been waiting for you. Johnson wants to have a word with you Melissa.¡± Mr. Edward said, cing his teacup on the table.


    ¡°I have nothing to talk to Mr. Johnson about. Please excuse me.¡± Melissa said, turning to the stairwell.


    ¡°Melissa, I¡¯m here to apologize. I know we have not been getting along well since I was not supportive of your rtionship with my grandson.¡± Mr. Johnson¡¯s words stopped her. ¡°Mark went along with my n for the engagement party so he could bring me and Edward face to face. He wanted us to end our lifelong hatred which I¡¯m grateful for. Please forgive him. I have been bitter for a long time and it has hurt my family. I don¡¯t want what I did to destroy the beautiful thing you two have.¡±


    ¡°Is that bitterness the reason you hurt my aunt?¡±


    ¡°Melissa, show some respect.¡± Mr. Edward roared.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Edward.¡± Mr Johnson touched his friend¡¯s arm to calm him down. ¡°I was not on board when Richard told me of his choice for marriage but after seeing how happy he was I couldn¡¯t keep hurting them. For that, I let him be with the person he chose. If I couldn¡¯t force my son then why force him?¡± He exined. ¡°No matter how hard I try to keep you away from my grandson, I know he only loves you. Please talk to him, don¡¯t hurt yourself and your son anymore.¡± Melissa closed her eyes, took a deep breath then turned to face him.


    ¡°Thank you, I understand you wanted the best for Mark but he shouldn¡¯t have sent you. He cane and talk to me himself. Excuse me.¡± She smiled briefly then walked to her room and locked herself in.


    ¡°How long will you keep this up, Melissa? This is hurting you and the people around you.¡± Shey curled up on the bed. ¡°I miss you so much Mark. I want to be with you yet I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll lose you again. Keeping you away from me is easier than losing you a second time.¡± She sniffed, trying to hold her tears back. ¡°I can¡¯t be with you, not because I don¡¯t love you or the pain in my heart is greater but because I can¡¯t manage to lose you again.¡± She looked at Mark¡¯s picture with tears in her eyes.


    Startled by a knock on her door, she hid the picture under her pillow and sat up wiping her tears before her aunt walked in. ¡°I¡¯ve brought you some juice. I know you must be tired.¡± Betty smiled, handing her the ss.


    ¡°Thank you aunt.¡±


    ¡°Talk to me, Melissa. It¡¯s been almost a month now and you haven¡¯t talked to Mark or anyone. You don¡¯t even spend time with your son. What is going on?¡± Betty sat beside her and held her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for how I¡¯ve been treating you, aunt. You deserve to be happy and I shouldn¡¯t get in your way.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay my child. I know you want what is best for all of us. If I were in your shoes I would do the same. Being afraid is okay, but losing is part of life. My dear, don¡¯t stay away from your family because you¡¯re afraid to lose them one day. Mark loves you, he did all this for you. Crying with his picture will only drive you mad I know it. Get up and face your fears honey, fight for your family and be happy no matter what.¡±


    ¡°Oh, aunt¡­.¡± Betty hugged her, smoothening her hair soothing her to stop crying.


    ¡°Shh..¡± Without uttering a word she held Melissa until she fell asleep.

 Planned meeting at the park

    At the breakfast table, they all sat enjoying their meal when Melissa joined them.


    Looking around she sat at the table but no one paid any attention to her. After Mr. Johnson¡¯s visit, she hoped to see Mark when she got from her room but he didn¡¯t show up making her feel a little disappointed he had given up on her.


    ¡°Are you waiting for someone?¡± Her grandfather asked when he noticed how her eyes kept darting to the entrance.


    ¡°Hmm! No, who could I be waiting for? You are all here apart from uncle of course.¡± She said coughing a little to mask her feelings then concentrated on her meal and missed the look they exchanged between them.


    ¡°Mummy, do you have to go to work today?¡± Tommy asked after the meal as she got up to leave.


    ¡°Yes honey I have to, why are you asking?¡± She sat back to talk to him.


    ¡°I want to go to the park. Can you take me?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t right now baby, why don¡¯t you let grandmother take you and next time mummy will apany you.¡± She tried to persuade him but he pouted his mouth as tears welled in his eyes.


    ¡°I want you to take me, mummy. Do you love me anymore?¡± He asked, wiping his tears.


    ¡°I love you so much, baby.¡± Sighing she nced at her aunt remembering their conversation. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take you. Let me get changed first then we can go.¡±Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No.¡± They all shouted in unison, startling Melissa.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to. So you can get to the office from the park.¡± Her aunt exined.


    ¡°Okay, are you sure you¡¯re not up to something you guys?¡± She nced at each one of them but they shook their heads acting dumb.


    Though she felt their behavior was odd, she didn¡¯t hint at what they were nning. ¡°Aunt, what¡¯s going on?¡± Melissa asked as the car drove off but her aunt said nothing.


    When got to the park she took off her heels as Betty handed her a pair of sneakers.


    ¡°Ha ha aunt, I¡¯ll look ridiculous wearing blue sneakers with my trouser suit.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better than running around in bare feet.¡±


    ¡°Mummy run, see if you can catch me,¡± Tommy called running around. With no other choice, Melissa put on the sneakers and went after him. ¡°You can¡¯t catch me.¡± Tommy giggled, making herugh as well.


    From how her family was acting Melissa thought they had something or someone at the park waiting but looking around she didn¡¯t see the one person she was longing for.


    ¡°I¡¯m exhausted. You¡¯re too fast, baby I can¡¯t keep up.¡± Melissa hunched forward her hands on her knees trying to catch her breath.


    ¡°Sit here mum, I¡¯ll get you a bottle of water from grandma.¡± Tommy beamed. Then wiped her forehead after guiding her to sit on the grass.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take too long.¡± She smiled, impressed by how mature he was acting.


    He brought her to the park to cheer her up and there she was looking for someone who had given up on her. With her eyes closed, she rolled her shoulders to ease the tension as she waited for Tommy to get back.


    The park was not crowded, she could see their car and no one could harm him. Feeling rxed with her eyes closed, Melissa heard a dog groan making her open her eyes in flight. She had not seen any dog at the park yet when she opened her eyes, a dog stood before her with a red rose between its teeth.


    The dog reminded her of the times she was on campus. The dog friend brought her a rose every time she went to the park.


    ¡°Oh! Well, thank you.¡± Smiling Melissa took the rose and caressed the dog when it sat snuggling beside her.


    ¡°I sent you to deliver the flower, not to take the girl.¡± The dog moaned when he heard his master. ¡°Come on boy go on now.¡±


    Whining in protest, Spark ran towards Tommy who threw a ball for him to catch.


    ¡°You, what are you doing here?¡± With a straight face, Melissa looked at Mark as he sat beside her.


    He looked much stronger though he still supported himself on a walking stick. ¡°Did you n this with Tommy?¡± She asked, staring at the red rose.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be mad at them. I didn¡¯t know if you would want to see me, so we decided to trick you and Spark offered to help.¡± He smiled at her silently praying she wouldn¡¯t push him away. ¡°Melissa, I¡¯m sorry for hurting you. I only went along with Sasha¡¯s ns so I could protect you and bring our family together. She tricked me into signing the divorce papers but Jason found out and stopped the process. You are still my wife Melissa. The only one I want in my life. Please forgive me, I love you so much.¡± He exined hoping she won¡¯t shut him out and forgives him.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize, Mark. Mr. Johnson exined to me and now I realize my mistake. I should have trusted you more. Honestly, I¡¯m the one who should apologize to everyone for being so rude. Please forgive me.¡± She smiled, tears lingering in her eyes.


    Gazing into her eyes he caressed her cheeks as he wiped the single teardrop then lightly kissed her lips. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much.¡± Leaning his forehead to hers he gazed into her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too.¡± Looking deep into his eyes she confessed.


    Holding her close he brushed her hair as people came towards them apuding. Looking up, she saw her family and Mark¡¯s family cheering.


    ¡°You all nned this?¡± Melissa asked, looking at them all as Mark helped her up.


    ¡°We want you two to be happy dear. Wee to the family.¡± Mark¡¯s mother hugged her cheerfully. ¡°You better take good care of my daughter.¡± She warned Mark as she joined their hands together.


    ¡­.


    Seated in her car a few feet away from them, Sasha watched as they hugged andughed. As anger surged through her, she clenched her fist so hard that her nails dug into her palm.


    ¡°Damn you, Melissa. I¡¯m going to kill you myself for taking Mark from me. I should be his wife by now, not you.¡± She swore getting her key to start the engine.


    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Diana, who was seated beside her, took the key from her hand. ¡°Melissa is mine. If you harm her, I¡¯ll give you a slow and painful death.¡± She warned, pointing at Sasha¡¯s face.


    ¡°How hard is it for you to get rid of her? You have failed so many times I highly doubt you can kill a fry.¡± Sasha mocked Diana.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try me, I can sh you if I want.¡± Diana whispered into Sasha¡¯s ear as she twisted her hand behind her back harder, making her winch in pain. ¡°You failed to aplish what we had nned and now you don¡¯t stand a chance with him. me yourself for your ipetence.¡± Diana sneered.


    ¡°I want Melissa dead. With her out of the picture Mark will surely love me, I know it.¡±


    ¡°I have a n to get her, just make sure you don¡¯t fail me this time.¡± She warned, letting her go.


    ¡°What n? Tell me, I¡¯ll do anything to get rid of that pest.¡± She urged Diana touching her sore arm.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when the time is right. For now, do what your grandfather said and be nice to the Johnsons.¡± Diana smiled at her stepping out of the car.


    After what had happened, her grandfather asked her to go back to the States. He was taking her out of the projects she worked on with the Johnsons to restore their trust.

 First anniversary, renewing the vows

    ¡°Morning sunshine.¡±


    ¡°Ah! What are you doing here?¡± Melissa covered her head with the nket pushing Mark off the bed.


    ¡°Can¡¯t I kiss my wife good morning anymore?¡± He asked, pulling the nket which she held tightly.


    ¡°I told you it¡¯s bad luck to see the bride on the wedding day.¡±


    ¡°We are already married, Melissa. It¡¯s our first anniversary and we are only renewing our vows.¡± He kept trying to get her from the nket.


    ¡°We are going to the church, so it¡¯s like a wedding to me besides our whole family will be there. Can you go please, I¡¯ll see you in church.¡± She said tightly covering her head.


    ¡°Okay, but can I get my morning kiss before I leave? Promise I¡¯ll keep my eyes closed.¡± Insisting he leaned towards her.


    Piping under the nket, Melissa gazed at his handsome face.


    With his eyes closed, for the first time she was able to admire his handsome features.


    With her lips curved up, she looked from his thick eyebrows, and his straight nose to the lips that made her quiver every time they made contact with her bare skin.


    ¡°I¡¯m still waiting.¡± He spoke getting closer.


    Pulling down the nket, Melissa lightly touched her lips to his but he leaned closer joining their lips, and deepened the kiss.


    Her eyes closed, she moaned as he sucked and nibbled her lower lip causing electric ripples to run through her body. She quivered as her tongue touched his and his masculine fingers ran deep into her hair massaging her scalp.


    ¡°Mm, I¡¯ve missed you so much.¡± He groaned, cing wet kisses along her neck while tugging down the strap of herce nightgown.


    ¡°Oh Mark, stop. Mmm please stop, we have to get ready for the ceremony.¡±


    ¡°Rx, we still have some time¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, my God! I¡¯m so sorry. I¡¯lle backter.¡± Lisa said, closing the door as fast as she had opened it.


    Startled by Lisa¡¯s presence in the room, Melissa pushed Mark off her as she covered her face. ¡°This is so embarrassing.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha, ops sorry. I forgot to close the door.¡± He mutteredughing at her reaction.


    ¡°Get out.¡± With the nket over her head, she threw a pillow at him as he locked the door behind him.


    ¡­.


    After showering, Nancy and Lisa came to style her hair and help with the make-up while Jenifer sat enjoying herself.


    ¡°Lisa, can you stop giggling?¡± Melissa smacked the back of her hand.


    ¡°Ouch! I¡¯m sorry, I just can¡¯t unsee what I saw, and neither can I forget the expression on your face when I walked in on you.¡± She said, teasing her.


    ¡°Why, what did you see?¡± Nancy inquired trying to get every juice from her.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, let¡¯s concentrate on getting me ready.¡± Melissa firmly dismissed them. ¡°Jenny honey, can you help me with the dress?¡± She requested ncing at Jenifer who was seated on the sofa.


    ¡°Mm, this is so yummy. Better than the one I usually buy.¡± Jenifer said enjoying the pie in her hand. ¡°Hey stop, give it back, that¡¯s mine.¡± Jenifer roared, rushing after Nancy when she took the te from her.


    ¡°Jenny, how many of these have you eaten?¡± Nancy asked, holding the pie from her.


    ¡°The baby wants more, what can I do?¡± She said, pouting her mouth as tears shimmered in her eyes.


    ¡°Give back her pie or she will start crying again. My God, I never knew pregnancy was this hard.¡± Lisa said, walking to the closet to get Melissa¡¯s dress.


    ¡°Jenifer you can¡¯t indulge every time you feel like it, try to control yourself sweetie, okay? Too much won¡¯t be good for your health and the baby.¡± Squatting beside her, Melissa coaxed taking away the te.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Okay then, can we talk about something fun to keep my mind off that pie staring at me.¡± Jenifer said standing up with Melissa¡¯s support.


    ¡°Being in love makes you growl, I see it in all three of you. I should get myself a guy out there today.¡± Nancy voiced lightening up the mood.


    ¡°What happened to the date you had for today?¡± Lisa asked, going for her dress.


    ¡°What date? Nancy has a crush on Jason, she says no to every guy who asks her out.¡± Jenifer blurted then covered her mouth when she realized she had said too much.


    ¡°Oh!¡± Melissa and Lisa said in unison.


    ¡°We are running out of time, they will get impatient waiting for us.¡± Nancy got herself ready ignoring their questioning stares.


    Once they were all dressed, they walked to the sitting room joining the rest of the family who sat patiently waiting for Melissa to walk down the stairs.


    ¡°This is it, Melissa. Time to go meet the love of your life.¡± With a bright smile on her face and sparkling eyes staring back at her, she told Melissa on the other side of the mirror dressed in a pure white mermaid gown with a veil fixed over her head.


    Putting on the gold earrings that belonged to her grandmother given by her grandfather, she looked more and more dashing.


    Every step she took down the stairs in her white strapless heels while her son, aunt, brother, grandfather, and her three best friends watched her, felt so unreal.


    A few months ago she thought her marriage was over but now she had another chance to celebrate her love with the whole family present. The family she never knew existed and the people who over the months have be so dear to her. They have held her hand in good and bad times, always supporting her and never judging her whenever she made a mistake.


    ¡°You look so beautiful dear.¡± Betty held her hand as they walked out. ¡°This is a happy day dear, don¡¯t shed any tears or you will spoil your makeup.¡± Feeling emotional Betty smiled, wiping Melissa¡¯s face.


    ¡°Thank you aunt, for taking such good care of me and always supporting me.¡± Melissa hugged her aunt, getting emotional all over again as they drove to the church.


    Walking down the aisle she looked from her grandfather to her brother beside her. His smile reminded her of their father. Having him beside her felt like her dad and mum were there as well.


    Smiling back at him she wished her parents were still alive to hand her over in marriage. For them to witness the happiest day of her life.


    ¡°You are breathtakingly gorgeous.¡± Mark whispered to her while lifting the veil waking her from her never ending thoughts.


    Gazing deep into his eyes she smiled at him, as he smiled back at her saying vows that were imprinted in their hearts.


    Taking the ring Spark brought with Tommy beside him, Mark rolled the ring down her finger then sealed their union with a kiss as directed by the priest while everyone stood up cheering and congratting them.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Wee to the family, I¡¯m so happy for the two of you.¡± Mark¡¯s mother hugged Melissa for the tenth time at the reception.


    ¡°Mother, can I have my wife now?¡± Mark asked, taking Melissa¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Okay, go on dear.¡± She smiled at them as they went to the dance floor for the first dance. ¡°They remind me of the day we got married.¡± She leaned to her husband and kissed him, not minding the numerous guests looking their way.


    Holding Melissa in his arms with family and friends watching them was a dreame true for Mark.


    From the very first day he saw her, he knew she was the only one for him. Looking at her sunny smile and her sparkling eyes he wanted her more.


    Never did he think he would fall in love with her deeper than he did five years back.


    Back then, every time he watched her in that park he wished she would gaze at him and say she loved him as much as he did.


    ¡°We have gone through so much the past year. I don¡¯t want to ever lose you, Melissa.¡± He caressed her cheek staring into her eyes.


    Briefly closing her eyes she snuggled in his arm. ¡°I¡¯m yours forever Mark, no one can keep us apart.¡±


    ¡°I love you so much.¡±


    ¡°I love you more.¡±


    Still dancing with her eyes closed, Melissa heard amotion behind them. When she opened her eyes and turned back, she saw the one person she didn¡¯t expect to see on her wedding day.


    ¡°Sasha? What are you doing here?¡± Mark questioned, holding Melissa to his chest.


    Dressed in a long white strapless dinner dress with a long slit ending slightly above her knee, Sasha stood before them staring at Melissa.


    Her lips curved up with wrinkles at the corner of her eyes, she turned her attention to her craps bag as she rummaged through it.


    With every gaze on her, the guests stepped back one after the other on high alert afraid of what she would do.

 My wedding gift to you

    Standing before them Sasha wished she had a gun. She would have loved to put a bullet between Melissa¡¯s eyes but she had to y it cool and follow Diana¡¯s n.


    ¡°I know you didn¡¯t expect me here but I can¡¯t live with myself if I don¡¯t get to congratte my best friend on his wedding day.¡± She smiled at the couple as the guest watched her every move anticipating her reaction. ¡°This is my wedding gift to you.¡± Getting a white envelope from her bag, she handed it to them.


    Mark took the envelope, looked at the hotel reservation leaflets inside then gave it to Melissa.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for all the pain I caused you Melissa, please forgive me.¡± She apologized, almost kneeling before them but Melissa stopped her.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Sasha, I forgive you.¡± Melissa held her hand in assurance with a bright smile on her face.


    Taking Mark¡¯s hand, Sasha joined it to Melissa¡¯s. ¡°You two are perfect for each other. I wish you all the happiness in the world.¡± She smiled, masking the hatred she felt for Melissa.


    As the guests resumed dancing, Sasha turned to Mark¡¯s parents. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry aunt.¡± She pleaded with them for forgiveness and since their two families were very close, having practically grown up at the Johnsons, none of them would stay mad at her. Not after her seemingly sincere apology that she made on behalf of her aunt Cassandra.


    Sasha was ready to humiliate herself in front of everyone just to get Mark and his family to trust her again.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Grandfather, please forgive me.¡± She humbly went to Mr. Johnson¡¯s table to plead mercy. He was the head of the family though disappointingly he was apanied by Mr. Edward, but she knew with his help she could aplish her mission.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay my child, don¡¯t beat yourself up too much, we all make mistakes. The good thing is that you realized and repented.¡± Mr. Johnson consoled her, feeling partly responsible for Sasha¡¯s actions since he had encouraged her to be with Mark.


    He saw Sasha as his granddaughter and deep in his heart he wanted her for Mark but he couldn¡¯t force him to be with someone he didn¡¯t love.


    ¡°I don¡¯t trust that woman one bit. How dare she interrupt the ceremony with some worthless gifts.¡± Lisa argued watching Sasha while serving herself on the buffet table.


    ¡°I too don¡¯t trust her, she only came here to make a scene. Who dresses in white at someone¡¯s wedding? I bet she is trying to out shine Melissa.¡± Nancy was agitated. ¡°I should ssh some soup on her face, that might bring her to reality.¡±


    ¡°You two quit it. Don¡¯t cause any trouble and spoil Melissa¡¯s wedding with your childish ns. We only have to keep an eye on her.¡± Jenifer reprimanded them.


    ¡°Okay, stop being all motherly to us, mum.¡± They allughed at Nancy¡¯s sarcasm as they walked to their table.


    ¡°Jason can¡¯t stop looking at you Nancy, why don¡¯t you go ask him to dance?¡± Lisa nagged her as they took their seats.


    ¡°Oh no I can¡¯t, did you see the one he came in with? She is a model, way more beautiful than I am.¡± Nancy said digging into her food avoiding Jason¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°I never took you for a coward Nancy, you once told me to always fight for what I believe in. What¡¯s stopping you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a coward Lisa, I just don¡¯t want to be rejected on a day like this. It will only make me feel like I will never get married my whole life.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t be rejected since he is very much interested in you. They areing this way, don¡¯t look up.¡± Jenifer sipped her juice looking over the ss rim as the two men approached their table.


    ¡°What?¡± Nancy looked up to find Jason standing beside her. She gazed at him briefly then stuffed food in her mouth to avoid talking.


    ¡°May we join youdies?¡± Robert inquired, pulling a chair to sit beside Lisa.


    ¡°Sure, you too Jason sit beside Nancy.¡± Jenifer invited them then winked at Nancy.


    Sasha looked from Melissa to her friend who was getting cosy with Robert in disgust.


    Since childhood Robert was in love with her, he always did whatever she asked of him though she never reciprocated his feelings. All her life she dreamt of marrying Mark while she kept a secret affair with Robert who despite knowing her intentions kept begging for her love.


    Thest time they met Robert turned her down but now seeing how he gazed at Lisa with admiration in his eyes, her fears were confirmed.


    Blinded by her ambition to be Mrs. Johnson, she didn¡¯t explore her true feelings. Believing Robert would always be waiting for her, she never gave him a chance.


    He was the one she truly loved and now she was losing him too because of Melissa. ¡°I hate you so much Melissa. I¡¯ll make sure to wipe that smile off your face.¡± She swore in her heart smiling at the couple while shooting daggers at Lisa with her eyes.


    ¡­.


    Seated in the top office, Diana puffed the cigarette releasing the smoke from her mouth with a ss of whiskey in her other hand. ¡°My n is now in motion. Ha ha Melissa, Melissa, you think your life will be all rosy from now on? Hmm wait and see what I have in store for you darling. You will enjoy every bit of it. You will be crying in agonizing pain begging me to end your life. Ha ha oh, Melissa.¡± Sheughed looking at the wall full of Melissa¡¯s pictures with her whole family and a building n of Edward¡¯s mansion.


    This time Diana was going for Melissa herself. ¡°It¡¯s time we face each other.¡± She said releasing more smoke.


    Throwing the cigarette butt in the full ashtray, she took thest sip of her drink then closed her eyes to feel the burning sensation in her throat as the liquid flowed to her stomach.


    For the longest time she nned for the day Melissa white would kneel before her begging for mercy which she wouldl never grant.


    ¡°Boss, she¡¯s here.¡± One of her surveince people informed her.


    Walking down the stairs, she looked at everyone enjoying themselves at the casino. Walking towards Sasha who sat at the bar table waiting, she smiled secretly. The first time she saw Sasha drunk and distressed, Diana thought to herself how useful Sasha would be in her ns. Which over the months of working with her had been and though she had failed severally this time it would be different.


    ¡°Come with me.¡± She whispered into Sasha¡¯s ear then took her hand.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Sasha asked as Diana directed her to the VIP area which was only essible to wealthy, well known men and women who wanted their private lives kept a secret.


    The corridor led them to the strip club in the basement. ¡°Since you did so well at the wedding, you get to have your private dance.¡± She told Sasha, handing her a ss of whiskey from the barmaid.


    The dimly lit hall made the ce more intimate with the soft music and several exotic dancers entertaining men who were drooling all over.


    ¡°What is the next step? I can¡¯t stand being in the same room with Melissa.¡± Sasha asked, gulping the drink while looking around the room.


    ¡°For now enjoy yourself. I¡¯ll let you know what you have to do next when the time is right.¡± She whispered in her ear handing her over to two male dancers to entertain her. Diana knew the deeper she got Sasha involved the safer she was.

 Blooming love

    Seated in the office at the steelspany, Melissa smiled remembering the wonderful ces they visited over the weekend. The family of three took road trips most of the free weekend¡¯s, which was both exciting and educational for Tommy as they visited different parts of the world.


    Mark was extremely affectionate, always pampering her and providing everything they needed more than they asked for. Which often reminded her of her father. The man who worked hard to provide for his little girl.


    After the ceremony they had moved into the Johnson¡¯s mansion but since his mother was back at the farm and her aunt had moved to live with the Edward¡¯s as she prepared to move to her husband¡¯s home, they went back to the vi house.


    After years of mourning, Betty reunited with her son and husband.


    Cassandra didn¡¯t ept Richard going back to Betty. In a fit of range she attacked Betty and threatened to slits her throat if she didn¡¯t turn down Richard, luckily Richard and the family intervened and stopped Cassandra from stabbing her. Despite the attack and Cassandra¡¯s confession of hiring men to kill her twenty years back, Betty chose not to press any changes against Cassandra when Richard sent her back to her family.


    They decided to start over as a family. To remarry in a grand wedding once Richard¡¯s divorce was finalized.


    It was quite difficult moving into the vi without her aunt, who has always been by her side but deep down Melissa knew it was time for her to be happy, to be with her family and recover the lost time. Seeing the people she loves happy and safe was all Melissa wished for.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She had found everything she was looking for and being with Mark was the one thing she was not going topromise. They were the new power couple in town envied by everyone. Always sticking together dropping off Tommy to school everyday then going to work together. She and Mark were inseparable, spending every minute they could spare together like teenagers in love for the first time.


    Over the six months their lives were more peaceful though there were many unanswered questions Melissa let Mark handle the investigation. They were always cautious and guarded by numerous bodyguards but she was grateful for the peace in the family. Mr Johnson and her grandfather were inseparable friend¡¯s. He treated her like his granddaughter and Sasha was very friendly. They always got along well whenever she came to visit Mr Johnson and Diana had also epted the changes in thepany working closely with her.


    The police did random checks on their cargo trucks and wear houses but no illegal merchandise was found. She also closely monitored Diana, double checking all the documents but nothing came up. Diana was a totally different person from the one she saw at the abandoned house and at times she thought she had misjudged her.


    ¡°Hi Mel, joining me for lunch today?¡± Diana inquired standing at the doorway.


    ¡°Hey! No I can¡¯t, I¡¯m going to visit a friend at the hospital. Maybe tomorrow, my treat.¡± Melissa responded, ncing at the wrist watch.


    ¡°Fine then but I was wondering if I can take the afternoon off.¡± Diana requested smiling at her.


    ¡°Yes of course you can, you don¡¯t have to ask me. Besides you spend so much time in the office you should take a day or two off to get some rest.¡± Melissa smiled at her shutting the officeputer.


    ¡°Thank you but the afternoon is enough. Working keeps me busy and I don¡¯t have a family to go home to like you do.¡± She said cursing Melissa in her heart counting the day she was going to wipe that smile off her face.


    The office phone rang interrupting their conversation. ¡°See you tomorrow.¡± Melissa answered the call as Diana walked away. For some reason Melissa couldn¡¯t stop thinking about her brief conversation with Diana. The expression on Diana¡¯s face and how she looked at her when she said thest words kept nagging her.


    ¡°Melissa, are you okay?¡± Jenifer asked, touching her hand.


    ¡°Yes, yes I¡¯m fine. Congrattions again, the baby is so cute.¡± Melissa smiled tapping Jennifer¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Oh look at these tiny hands, they look so yummy. Now I see were all those pie¡¯s were going to.¡± Nancy praised watching the sleeping baby on the crib beside Jenifer¡¯s bed.


    ¡°Nancy, your going to scare her, have you never seen a newborn baby before?¡± Lisa asked, pulling her away. ¡°You have been staring at the baby the whole afternoon, move let me see her.¡±


    ¡°Can you two stop your little lovers¡¯ fight or I ban you from getting close to my child? If you wake her, I¡¯ll name Melissa as the only godmother.¡± Jenifer¡¯s warning made the two stop. ¡°Seriously Melissa what is going on?¡± Jenifer asked, holding her hand.


    ¡°I have noticed your mind is preupied since you came in. Are you having trouble with Sasha again?¡± Lisa asked, sitting beside her.


    ¡°I knew that Sasha was not to be trusted, she is pure evil. You should stay away from her Melissa.¡± Nancy jumped in as always.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not Sasha. I don¡¯t know why I feel weary of Diana, she has been so friendly to metely but the look in her eyes is frightening at times. I can¡¯t figure out what she is up to.¡±


    ¡°I guess she dislikes you for taking thepany.¡± Jenifer said and the rest agreed.


    ¡°At first Diana didn¡¯t like the idea and all the changes I made butter when I expected her to quit, she decided to work with me. Maybe you¡¯re right, if it were me I would be resentful too. Enough of my troubles, tell us Lisa when you and Robert are nning to tie the note?¡±


    Avoiding the question Lisa stuffed her mouth with cake they had brought Jenifer making everyoneugh waking the baby. She and Robert had met a couple of times while helping Melissa and Mark get back together. Then started dating a few months back but none of them has openly said anything about wanting more from the rtionship. Though Robert talked about living together, he has not proposed. She was very much in love with him but she was still afraid ofmitting herself after herst rtionship.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Guys I¡¯ve finally found her, the one woman I¡¯ve been looking for.¡± Jason hit Andrew on the shoulder sitting beside him in the meeting room.


    ¡°We have heard that so many times already. Four different women in thest few months and you always leave them devastated.¡± Andrew said, ignoring Jason¡¯s enthusiasm.


    ¡°This time I¡¯m sure. I was going about it all wrong. Getting women from the bar or clubs was a dumb move when she was always here. I couldn¡¯t see the woman of my dreams yet she was right here.¡± He exined leaning on the table.


    ¡°So who is this woman that¡¯s making you silly?¡± James asked, teasing him.


    ¡°It¡¯s Nancy, Melissa¡¯s friend. We have been going on dates since the wedding and oh man she is¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, Jason. Do you know what you¡¯re doing? This is my wife¡¯s best friend you are talking about. If you hurt her then I will have problems which I don¡¯t need right now.¡± Mark lectured him.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious about her man and no we have not done anything. I¡¯m waiting for that special night when she bes my wife.¡± Jason exined though his friends looked at him like he had lost his mind.


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe. You said she was annoying and she talks too much, now you say you¡¯re willing to wait? Man has someone hit you on the head?¡± James touched his head to check if he was bruised.


    ¡°Stop, I¡¯m serious. Her talking is quite interesting, you can¡¯t get bored.¡± He smiled dreamily thinking of Nancy.


    ¡°I¡¯m happy for you Jason. As for me, I don¡¯t know how to convince Lisa. Every time I mention living together she changes the subject.¡± Robert raised his shoulders in dismay.


    ¡°Maybe she is feeling insecure after finding out about you and Sasha. Show her how much she means to you, then propose. Trust me, she won¡¯t turn you down.¡± Mark advised turning on the projector for their meeting.


    ¡°We got wind of a warehouse in a nearby small town and we were able to rescue fifty girls, most of them minors.¡± James exined disying the pictures.


    ¡°Did they give any names of the abductors?¡± Robert asked, taking notes.


    ¡°Melissa White, that¡¯s the name they all mentioned despite how hard we tried to make them talk.


    ¡°We suspected Luke Edward could use his niece¡¯s name but with the organization dismantled, I don¡¯t think he is involved in this.¡± Andrew said, leaning back on his seat.


    ¡°Yes I agree.¡± Mark shook his head. ¡°The Edward¡¯s did illegal businesses but not this kind. Let look at everyone who could be against Melissa and raid all the house¡¯s they mentioned, we might find something.¡± He ordered as they went through all the information.

 You are all mine

    Driving from Edward¡¯s mansion with her brother, Melissa got a message from Sasha. She asked to meet at a hotel a few miles out of town for some interior deco inputs on an office she was opening in the States where she nned to relocate to.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯te with you to thepany. Sasha wants us to meet for lunch. She needs my help with something.¡± She informed David after reading the message.


    ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s okay to meet with her alone? I can take you there.¡± David said, feeling restless about the meeting.


    ¡°She is not that bad of a person when you get to know her and I have to be friendly with her for Mark. The two families are very close. Whether I like it or not, she will always be around whenever we go for any of Johnson¡¯s family functions.¡± She said, trying to ease his worries.


    ¡°The driver will take you. Be very careful. If you suspect anything, get out and make sure to call me once your meeting is done.¡± He instructed, still feeling reluctant to let her go alone. ¡°On a second note, maybe I shoulde with you.¡±


    ¡°No, I promise I¡¯ll be very careful and I can very well defend myself. I¡¯m trained by the best.¡± She smiled as they dropped him off at Edward¡¯s office building.


    ¡°Make sure to call Mark, and let him know about your meeting.¡± Giving the final instruction, he kissed her cheek before stepping out of the car.


    As they drove downtown, Melissa tried to call Mark¡¯s number, but he didn¡¯t answer. After trying several times with no response, she left him a voice message with the hotel address and the meeting details.


    When she walked into the hotel, Melissa scanned the room but didn¡¯t see Sasha. Sipping the mint lemon iced tea she had ordered while waiting, a woman dressed in the hotel staff uniform approached her. She handed Melissa a note informing her that Sasha was at the car park, not feeling well.


    rmed, Melissa rushed but when she got to the rear car park, she saw two men leaning on a car, but Sasha was not there. Looking around, she realized that Sasha¡¯s lunch invite was a ploy to get her out of the city.


    ¡°How stupid?¡± She reprimanded herself for being naive. As the two men approached her, she took a step back and cautiously opened her purse.


    ¡°Come quietly, you won¡¯t want innocent people to get hurt.¡± One man ordered, then he adjusted his jacket to reveal the gun tucked in his belt.


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡± Melissa studied their every move as she stepped forward toward them. With her finger on the trigger, as they directed her to the van, she pulled out the gun and shot the man, ordering her on the leg. Turning to his partner, she hit him on the stomach with her left elbow, then hit him at the back of his head with the gun, knocking him out.


    ¡°Who sent you?¡± Stepping on the bleeding leg, Melissa pointed the gun at him. ¡°If you move, I¡¯ll blow your head off.¡± She warned, taking his gun. ¡°Tell me who sent you? I¡¯m not going to ask again..¡± The gunshot whooshing slightly above the man¡¯s head, hitting the car tire startled Melissa, making her step back from the bleeding man.


    Looking before her, Diana stood with a gun in her hand. ¡°Well, they say if you want a clean job, do it yourself.¡± She said, smiling.


    ¡°Diana! It¡¯s you, you sent them to kidnap me?¡± Melissa asked, pointing her gun at Diana.


    ¡°Are you going to shoot me, Melissa?¡± Diana asked, pointing her gun back at her.


    ¡°Put your gun down and we won¡¯t have to shoot each other,¡± Melissa responded slightly, removing her finger from the trigger.


    ¡°No one is going to shoot.¡± Before Diana¡¯s words could die down, something heavy fell on the back of Melissa¡¯s head, making her unconscious.


    The people in the hotel ducked under the tables and called the police when they heard the shots. Though they thought terrorists were attacking them, no one got in and no one got hurt.


    None saw the two vehicles as they drove off either.


    ¡­


    When David got to the office building, he first went to his office toplete some work before picking up the documents his grandfather had sent him to get.


    Walking into the home office, he found Mark going through the contract they were to sign for the two families to work together after years of hating and fighting each other. As the most efficient securitypany in the country, Edwards offered services to the Johnsons for both business and private guards.


    It had been hours since he parted with Melissa. Time and time again he kept looking at his watch, wondering how long the meeting was tost since she had not called.


    ¡°Mark, did Melissa call you?¡± He inquired, sitting on the opposite chair and handing the documents to his grandfather.


    ¡°I¡¯ve not talked to her. Why isn¡¯t she at the office?¡± He asked, getting his phone only to find several missed calls and a voice message with which he listened to.


    His phone was in silent mode since he went to a meeting and he forgot to turn the volume up. ¡°Have you tried to call her?¡± He nced at David while dialing Melissa¡¯s number.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No, I asked her to call me once the meeting was over.¡± David responded rmed by Mark¡¯s reaction.


    ¡°She is not picking. I¡¯ll call Sasha.¡± Mark spoke while scrolling for Sasha¡¯s number. ¡°Her phone is off too.¡± Pacing around the office, Mark tried calling the office.


    ¡°Call the driver David. I¡¯ll talk to the police chief.¡± Mr. Edward said, getting his phone.


    ¡°The driver is not picking up, I¡¯ll go to the hotel¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Mark stopped David at the door. ¡°Sasha left the country at noon. Her assistant at the office just informed me. This only means someone got to Melissa. She won¡¯t be anywhere near that hotel by now.¡± Mark mmed on the chair and covered his face with his hands, trying topose himself.


    ¡°There were gunshots at the hotel¡¯s car parking lot. From the surveince cameras, it¡¯s evident they took her. Right now, the police are at the scene gathering more information and trying to track down those people caught on camera. Also, they shot our driver, but they managed to rush him to the hospital on time. David, ask Lucy to go to the hospital right now. Find out everything he saw.¡± Mr. Edward ordered, leaning on the office desk.


    ¡°We can¡¯t sit here and do nothing. I have to look for Melissa. I can¡¯t lose her again.¡± Mark held his head, feeling flustered.


    ¡­.


    Melissa woke up with a slight headache with her hands tied at the back of the chair. ¡°Let me go. Please let me out of here.¡± She shouted, trying to free herself.


    ¡°I see you are awake.¡± Diana smirked, walking into the room.


    ¡°Diana, what is going on here? Please let me go.¡± She kept pulling at her hand¡¯s trying to free herself, but the ropes didn¡¯t budge.


    ¡°You¡¯re going nowhere Melissa, don¡¯t even waste your strength.¡± She taunted, walking around her.


    ¡°Why are you doing this, Diana? If it¡¯s because of thepany, I¡¯ll hand it back to you. Just let me go, please.¡± Melissa pleaded.


    ¡°I want you to watch something first before I tell you why I¡¯m doing all this.¡± She informed her turning on the screen.


    The hidden camera in Mr. Edward¡¯s office captured them perfectly. ¡°You have a camera in my grandfather¡¯s office?¡± Melissa gasped watching them on the big screen as they made call after call. The worried looks on their faces said it all.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure they must have heard about you by now. Ha ha ha, one more person and my gift for you will beplete.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Melissa asked, moving her face away as Diana ran the remote phone down her face to her neck.


    ¡°One press at the red button and boom, your beloved husband, brother, grandfather, and that idiot uncle you dislike so much will blow into pieces. How do you like that for a gift? Ha ha.¡± Diana¡¯sughter kept ringing in Melissa¡¯s ears as she watched her uncle rush into the room. ¡°Finally, the four of them in one room, just as I nned.¡± She said, holding the remote.


    After a year of being with him, Diana knew how much Luke loved his family and would give his own life to save them. She purposely leaked information to his men. Informing them that the bomb in Mr. Edward¡¯s home office would explode in an hour only to draw him in so she could finish them up together as Melissa watched.


    ¡°No!¡± Melissa shouted as she kicked Diana hard on the stomach, making her drop the remote. Then kicked it away, but Diana wed and pressed the button. In a split second, the st turned everything into dust.


    ¡°No, Mark, David no¡­¡± Staring at the nk screen, Melissa wiggled, trying to free herself,


    ¡°There is no one to save you now Melissa, you are all mine.¡± Diana said, before hitting her on the back of her head, making her unconscious.

 The revenge

    When Melissa opened her eyes, she nced from the blue bed sheets to the grey painting on the wall. With her hands and feet tied, she looked around the unfamiliar room.


    A few minutester, the door opened inviting in a youngdy carrying food and water on a tray, followed closely by one of Diana¡¯s armed men.


    ¡°Take some medicine for your head.¡± Thedy instructed, handing her the ss of water and a white pill.


    ¡°Please untie my hands.¡± Melissa requested which the man obliged to. Then cuffed her left hand on the bed.


    ¡°Make sure you eat. I¡¯lle for the teter.¡± Thedy instructed, after making sure she had swallowed the pill.


    ¡°Where is Diana? I want to see her. I demand to know if anyone survived the explosion. Hey, where is Diana?¡± She asked, but no one talked back to her. They left the room, locking the door.


    Curled on the bed, Melissa stared at the food for a while. Watching the explosion felt like her world had ended. She didn¡¯t want to imagine life without Mark, but she had to be strong. Though she didn¡¯t feel hungry, she had to get her strength back.


    She tried to stay positive, not to think much about the explosion. Telling herself that they must have left the room before the bomb went off, which was practically impossible. She also had Tommy to go back to.


    Walking into the roomter that day, ordering for the tes to be cleared, Diana turned on the TV screen for Melissa to see the damage she had done.


    The explosion of the multi million mansion was on every news station.


    One side of the mansion where the office was, had turned into a rubble of rocks. No report of the number of deaths or casualties but the pictures said it all.


    No one could have survived. Though Melissa wanted to keep a positive mind, she couldn¡¯t help but believe they were all gone.


    ¡°What do you get out of all this Diana?¡± She asked, tears cascading down her cheeks.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That look on your face, Melissa. Seeing you devastated after losing everything brings joy into my heart.¡± She smiled, holding Melissa by the hair. ¡°Once I¡¯m done honey, you will wish you were dead.¡±


    ¡°Why Diana? We have been childhood friends and I love you like a sister. Why are you doing this to me?¡± Melissa cried, feeling helpless.


    ¡°This is payback for what your father did to my family. I want you to suffer like I¡¯ve suffered all these years.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? My father gave your father a job at thepany. He supported your family through that difficult time when Mr. Stevens was facing a criminal trial.¡±


    ¡°No, no, you¡¯re mistaken as always.¡± Melissa looked at Diana with wide eyes and raised eyebrows, confused by her statements. ¡°Mr. Steven is not my father. He only took pity on my mother while she was pregnant and adopted me when she died. I¡¯ll tell you a brief story about Peter Edward, your so called father.¡± She slightly pped Melissa¡¯s cheek twice.


    ¡°Being the ruthless monster your father was, he med my father for killing his mother. So he nted a bomb in their warehouse. Luckily, my dad acted fast and got his pregnant wife out, but the st caught him, killing him and most of his employees on the spot and left my grandfather crippled for life¡­¡± Diana exined what her grandfather had told her.


    While in junior high school, a man iming to be sent by her grandfather kept approaching her. She ignored him several times since she believed Mr. Steven was her father until the day she overheard her parent¡¯s argument. Mr. Steven loved and pampered her more than Jessica and his wife was not happy about it.


    ¡°If you keep treating Diana this way, she will never learn from her mistake. Show her that money is not everything in life, Steven. You¡¯re only spoiling her.¡± Closing her eyes, Diana still remembered Lydia¡¯s words.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want Diana to feel unloved the day we tell her she¡¯s not my daughter. She and Jessica are equal. They are both my children. I don¡¯t see the point of reprimanding her every time.¡± Mr. Steven showed her love more than a father would, only because he felt pity and obliged to care for her. Diana thought, standing behind the door.


    Soon after, she connected with her grandfather, who told her about her parents and the man that destroyed their family.


    ¡°No, my dad would never do that. How can you believe those lies, Diana? Mr. Steven is your father. He loves you so much. He sacrificed his freedom for you.¡± Melissa still couldn¡¯t believe what her father was capable of.


    Though Mr. Edward told her that her father used to run the organization with an iron fist; she didn¡¯t think he could kill in cold blood.

 Revealing the truth

    ¡°I only used Mr. Steven to get close to your family. I¡¯m the one who got him fired so he coulde to work for your father. With the close friendship between your mother and Lydia, I easily got him to work at White¡¯s Transport Company. Knowing all of my father¡¯s weaknesses enabled me to control him.¡± She touched Melissa¡¯s hair with a smug on her face. ¡°Your uncle Luke thought he could use me for drug trafficking, but I manipted him instead. I found out about his n to destroy the White Company, so I used him to get what I wanted and lured your father out. Your stupid uncle thought I¡¯m na?ve, yet I ran my businesses under his nose. He even sent me to find the person using your identity for human and drug trafficking in his territories several times.¡± She said pacing around the room.


    ¡°You are sick Diana. How could you do this to the people who cared about you?¡±


    ¡°Cared about me? No one ever cared about me Melissa, they only felt sorry for me. From my so called parents to Luke Edward, my enemy, yet I thought we had a simr target. Luke was the only man in my life who never looked at you with lust, but his protectiveness of you was infuriating. That¡¯s why he had to go. He cared for his family greatly. Used me for his pleasure and set me aside whenever he was satisfied. As for you Melissa, I was the employee¡¯s daughter you dragged around whenever you needed to go shopping. Buying me cheap clothes showed me how low you perceived me.¡±


    ¡°No Diana, I loved you. I still love you like a sister. I always took you along not because I felt sorry but because I want to share everything I had with you.¡± Melissa tried to exin as Diana matched towards her.


    ¡°Your father deprived me of a family.¡± She roared, pinning Melissa against the headboard. ¡°me him for everything because I will make you feel the loss that you will wish to end your life.¡±


    ¡°No Diana, you probably misunderstood. My father¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up. Your family is full of monsters, Melissa. They put my family down every time, starting from the day your grandfather Edward walked into my grandfather¡¯s life. He became Johnson¡¯s best friend and pushed my grandfather away. They still favored Edward, even after my grandfather had him imprisoned. He took my grandfather¡¯s territories and destroyed everything he had worked for. But now, I¡¯ll take it all back.¡±


    Feeling partly guilty, Melissa just stared at Diana with tears in her eyes. She was close to her father, yet she didn¡¯t know him at all. Her entire childhood was a lie.


    ¡°Making you cry helplessly is thrilling Melissa, that night I wanted you to wake up feeling filthy for losing your innocence to an old man¡­¡±


    ¡°You drugged me that night?¡± Melissa asked, trying to push her off.


    ¡°Yes, I lost when you ended up in Mark Johnson¡¯s room but I still got my way when I crushed your parents to death. Crying all alone with no one to turn to, was sweet revenge.¡± Dianaughed, pping her hands.


    ¡°How cruel are you Diana? Did you n for my son¡¯s kidnapping as well?¡± Melissa asked though she already had an answer. Every negative thing that happened in her life was Diana¡¯s way of hurting her.


    The person she loved and cared for like a sister had destroyed her life all because of some sick revenge.


    ¡°That boy was lucky he got away just like his father did. Get this Melissa, I will take everyone you love from you while you watch helplessly. Ha ha ha, Melissa Melissa.¡± She lightly pped her face twice then caught the tear falling down Melissa¡¯s cheek with her finger, then tasted it in her mouth.


    ¡°Mm.. salty, just as I like it. Get some rest. We have a long way to go. This is only the beginning.¡± Diana walked outughing.


    Lying on the bed, Melissa cried feeling lost and powerless. She didn¡¯t know how she could get away from Diana when the people she loved, the only people who could look for her, were gone.


    ¡°You still have Tommy Melissa. You can¡¯t let Diana hurt him.¡± She reminded herself, cing her hand on the ne Mark gave her on their wedding day.


    ¡°If only you were here, Mark.¡± With her eyes closed, she ran her hand along the ne, wishing he was lying beside her.


    With a heavy sigh, her eyes closed involuntarily, and fell asleep from exhaustion.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­¡­


    ¡°Why is there no news yet? I want to see their lifeless bodies.¡± Diana shouted, throwing the ss on the wall and smashing it into pieces.


    ¡°The police have closed off the area. They prohibited anyone from getting near thatpound. We sent a drone to find out what happened, but they shot it down.¡± One of her men exined.


    ¡°This is not good.¡± She tapped her nails on the table.


    ¡°They are hiding something. We have to move out now before it¡¯s toote.¡± Her right hand man suggested.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I don¡¯t like this silence. Tell them to have the ne ready. We leave first thing tomorrow morning.¡± She ordered them. ¡°I can¡¯t let you go, Melissa. Not when I¡¯ve finally seeded.¡± She murmured, picking up the phone to make a call.


    ¡°We are leaving the country tomorrow at eight hundred.¡± She informed the person on the other side of the phone.


    ¡°I asked you to kill them all. Why is she still alive?¡± The male voice asked.


    ¡°I did what you sent me to do as per our agreement. I can¡¯t kill her, killing her is too easy. I want her to live in agonizing pain. Watching her beg to die will be the best revenge.¡± She said before ending the call.

 Get a second chance

    Two days earlier.


    In Mr Edward¡¯s office, Mark almost went mad calling everyone on his contact list. As he looked for ways to get Melissa back, David and Mr Edward organized a search team with the police and his security team when Luke Edward barged in.


    ¡°You have to get out.¡±


    ¡°Luke!¡± Mr Edward roared as the door bust open.


    ¡°There is a bomb in the office dad. We have to leave now.¡± The three men stared at him as he checked the bookshelf and the cabs.


    Trying to get information on the new gang in town, Luke sent one of his trusted men to investigate.


    The man waster captured and tortured. While locked up, he overheard the n to bomb Edward¡¯s mansion and as they took him out to finish him off, he escaped.


    Then went straight to Luke¡¯s office. When Luke got the information, he instructed his men to take him to their private doctor as he ran to the mansion. Though he never saw eye to eye with his father on most things, he still loved him and was willing to risk his life for him.


    At the mansion, he asked Lucy to get everyone out, then proceeded to the office to get his father out.


    ¡°What!¡± They said in unison, staring at him with raised eyebrows.


    ¡°Uncle, are you high?¡±


    Luke never cared for anyone so David didn¡¯t take his words seriously.


    ¡°This is no time for games.¡± Luke nced at David.


    ¡°I found it. Oh my!¡± Mark took a step back staring at the small phone attached to the safe.


    ¡°Oh! We have to leave. Grandfather!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s remote controlled, we have no time.¡± They all froze staring at the two seconds disyed on the gadget.


    ¡°We can remove it,¡± Mark suggested.


    ¡°No, it will be toote. Come, we have to move fast.¡±


    In seconds the ce was blown into pieces as Diana got to the remote.


    ¡°Grandfather, cough, cough, grandfather?¡± In a dark heap of dust, David crawled calling for Mr Edward.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine.¡± He coughed trying to get up. ¡°Mark, Luke?¡± He called out.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    The massive explosion took out everything in the office. Luckily Mr Edward acted fast. He opened a secret exit behind the bookshelves and urged them to leave. But before the door locked, the explosion caught them and knocked them down.


    ¡°Luke!¡± With David¡¯s support, Mr Edward walked towards Mark.


    ¡°He¡¯s unconscious.¡± Mark knelt beside Luke.


    He wasst to exit the office. The st impact threw him against the wall leaving him unconscious.


    ¡°We can¡¯t stay here, he have to move.¡±


    The smoke was sipping in making it hard for them to breathe and see clearly.


    Walking deep into the tunnel, the motion sensor light turned on lighting what seemed to be a garage with several vehicles parked there.


    They carried unconscious Luke Edward into the car and drove to a safe house deep in the forest. Away from the mansion they called the family doctor and airlifted Luke for an emergency head surgery.


    ¡­


    ¡°Doctor, is my son going to be okay?¡± Mr Edward asked seated beside his son¡¯s hospital bed.


    ¡°The surgery went well. We managed to stop the brain bleed but we have to closely monitor him for any changes. More good news is that the brain swell has reduced and no major damage was done. Once he is awake we will run more tests, but for now, let¡¯s keep him under observation.¡± The doctor exined before leaving the room.


    ¡°I can¡¯t lose you, my son.¡± With tears in his eyes, Mr Edward stared at Luke¡¯s face. ¡°First it was your mother. My beloved Isabe then your brother, and now my missing granddaughter. ¡°He sniffed back the tears holding Luke¡¯s hand. ¡°How long will these tragedies keep happening to my family?¡± Mr Edward sobbed, unable to control the tears.


    ¡°Please spare them. I¡¯m the one who hurt people for money.¡± With his eyes closed more tears rolled down his cheeks. ¡°Trying to get above everyone I single handily ruined this family. I¡¯m the one who should feel all the pain, not my children. Please help me bring my little Isabe home and give Luke another chance, please.¡± Though Mr Edward was not much of a believer, he knelt beside his son¡¯s bed, tears soaking the bed sheets as he prayed for another chance.


    ¡­.


    ¡°How long are we going to hide out here? It¡¯s been two days now, I have to find Melissa.¡± David paced around the room in the safe house they had gone to.


    ¡°We have to stay here for now, until we find out who we are up against.¡± Mark said trying to cool him off though deep down he felt the same anxiety.


    ¡°Stay here? My sister is missing. My uncle is fighting for his life. I can¡¯t stay here doing nothing. I have to find her soon.¡± David sat down covering his face with his hands breathing in and out trying to calm down. ¡°This is all your fault, Johnson, she became friends with Sasha to please you.¡± Getting up, he confronted Mark. ¡°If anything happens to Melissa I will never forgive you.¡±


    ¡°I will never forgive myself for not being there to protect her.¡± Mark sighed running a hand through his hair. ¡°But Sasha had nothing to do with this. Her phone was stolen at the airport as she said. The police report confirms it.¡± Mark tried to exin.


    ¡°And you believed those cheap lie¡¯s? That woman tricked you into signing your divorce papers, what can¡¯t she do? I never thought you were this dumb.¡±


    ¡°I understand your anger, David. You¡¯re trying to pin this on me because you feel guilty for letting her go alone. I¡¯ll let this slide for now since my wife¡¯s safety is more important than wasting time fighting someone like you.¡± Mark stepped back checking his phone.


    ¡°You me me for Melissa¡¯s abduction, don¡¯t you Johnson?¡± David asked charging forward. ¡°Why don¡¯t you say it to my face?¡± He shoved Mark but Mark stood his ground.


    ¡°Yes, I me you for not sending enough security along for her protection and I me myself for trusting you could keep my wife safe which you people couldn¡¯t. Rather than picking fights with me, do a better job and find her.¡± Mark roared staring at David eyeball to eyeball with clenched fist.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Just then Mr Edward walked in stopping David from punching Mark.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, Melissa is in danger and someone tried to kill us. We have to n carefully for our next move. Fighting and ming each other won¡¯t help.¡± Mr Edward spoke as he turned on the screen ying the surveince video taken from the hotel.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just feel like my mind will explode.¡± David apologized.


    ¡°Judging from the shock on Melissa¡¯s face and her hesitation to shoot, I think the person who took her is someone she is familiar with.¡± Mark exined looking at Melissa¡¯s bodynguage ignoring David¡¯s apology.


    ¡°Who would want to take her and kill us?¡± David asked thinking of anyone Melissa might have been weary of. ¡°I still don¡¯t understand how they nted a bomb in the mansion.¡±


    ¡°Someone working in the mansion could have nted it. That¡¯s why we can¡¯t let them know we are alive until we find the person behind this.¡± Mr Edward said looking at the screen. ¡°We have to find Melissa soon. Every minute we waste, we risk her life.¡±


    ¡°My team is checking every employee¡¯s background and from the information I gathered, that bomb was remotely triggered. They watched us on the hidden camera waiting for the perfect time to strike. When we were in the same room. Whoever took Melissa wanted her to watch the explosion. I think this person wants Melissa alive.¡± Mark said.


    ¡°You think so?¡± David turned his gaze to Mark. ¡°Is this the same person using Melissa¡¯s identity?¡± David inquired.


    ¡°Yes. The police interrogate that hotel employee and it seems the person who sent her to call Melissa outside used the same name. They also found the man Melissa shot. He was dead with multiple shots in his chest. This is a person with no remorse, they will do anything to get what they want.¡± Mark outlined the information James had sent him.


    ¡°We have no lead. How do we find her now?¡± David mmed on the seat feeling useless.


    ¡°Son, this is not on you. Don¡¯t me yourself.¡± Mr Edward said to David taking a seat beside him.


    ¡°I promised to take care of her grandpa. If anything happens to her, I¡¯ll never forgive myself.¡±


    ¡°This was well nned. If you had gone along, they might have killed you. Do me a favor son, and get your head on the game. Do what you do best and bring your sister home.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, grandfather.¡± David wiped his eyes looking away from the old man. Mr. Edward tapped his back with a smile on his face remembering how Luke used to do the same when he was young.


    ¡°I know where to find her.¡± Mark rushed into the room holding his beeping phone. ¡°It¡¯s not far from here, let¡¯s pull all the men we have.¡± He suggested showing them the map they had to follow and Mr. Edward called for arms and more men from hispany.


    In seconds everything was mapped out.


    ¡°Be careful.¡± The old man hugged Mark and David as they walked out after formting a n to rescue Melissa.


    ¡°You had a tracker on her and didn¡¯t say anything all this time?¡± David asked annoyed by Mark¡¯s callousness.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything since I was waiting for her to turn it on. It only activates when you touch it in panic or fear.¡± Mark exined.


    ¡°So she knew when to touch the tracker?¡± David asked.


    ¡°No, she had no idea. I guess it took her long since she was tied up.¡± Mark said loading his gun.


    ¡°You are¡­ I honestly don¡¯t get how you put a tracker on someone? Which most probably can¡¯t help.¡± David said getting agitated wishing he could punch him.


    ¡°Melissa got rid of every tracker I nted on her, so I had to improvise. It worked, didn¡¯t it? We will save her no matter what.¡± Tapping David on the shoulder, Mark left the room and called his men.

 I鈥檒l never let you go

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, we have a problem.¡± One of Diana¡¯s men got into the office out of breath. ¡°Our men on the perimeter just informed me, there are several vehicles with armed men ending this way.¡±


    ¡°What? Are they police?¡± Diana asked as she gathered her things, stuffing them in a travel bag.


    ¡°No, they look like the men from Edward¡¯s security.¡± He exined.


    ¡°Damn it. How did they find us?¡± She ran a hand through her hair.


    ¡°What do we do now ma¡¯am?¡±


    ¡°Get my car ready. We have to get to the ne.¡± She ordered walking out.


    ¡°You think you can outsmart me?¡± Diana banged the door open and woke Melissa up.


    ¡°What happened? Ouch, you¡¯re hurting me.¡±


    ¡°Get up.¡± Diana pulled Melissa up by the hair then frisked her body for a phone. ¡°You brought them here.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? I have nothing on me, Diana.¡± Melissa cried out as Diana pulled her hair.


    ¡°What is this?¡± Diana asked, looking at the tiny red light on Melissa¡¯s ne.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°F*ck, this led them straight to us.¡± Diana plucked off the ne. ¡°Don¡¯t think they can save you.¡± She threw the ne across the room and itnded beside the door.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you let me go? We can end this without any of us getting hurt.¡±


    ¡°Let you go? Haha, never. Not until I have taken everything and everyone you love. Sedate her then put her in my car. We are moving out now.¡± She ordered as she took a gun from one of her men on her way out.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Diana hit the office desk several times cursing Melissa in her heart.


    ¡°Hey, stop. What¡¯s going on?¡± Diana¡¯s second inmand rushed in. He held her, stopping her from hurting her hand.


    ¡°How did you miss that?¡± She pushed him off. ¡°She had a tracker on. How could you miss it?¡± She lit a cigarette and stared out the window.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry ma¡¯am. Our machine didn¡¯t detect the tracker when we checked her.¡± As Diana picked the gun from the table, he clenched his fist and stood straight as she approached him.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°You f*cked up.¡± She nced from the gun in her hand to the man staring at her. ¡°Make sure the ne is ready when I get there. And don¡¯t fail to finish all of them.¡± She ced the gun on his chest.


    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°No more screw ups.¡± She puffed the smoke on his face and stepped closer to him.


    ¡°Mmm!¡± Gazing into her eyes, he pulled her into his arms and ravished her lips.


    ¡°Sorry ma¡¯am.¡± He took a step back apologizing for kissing her.


    ¡°You better be good.¡± Diana wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.


    ¡°Mmm!¡± Enjoying the smoke taste on her lips, he deepened the kiss. Ravishing and devouring them as she pulled down his zipper running her hand along the fly.


    ¡°I¡¯m still your boss, don¡¯t forget that.¡± She whispered into his ear, biting her lower lip trying to stay in control.


    ¡°I know and I like it. If I die today I will die a happy man. Having served you to the fullest ma¡¯am.¡± He groaned as he drove his cock into her altar of love making her lose control over and over. She forgot the urgency to leave.


    ¡°My love Diana.¡± He kissed her hair as theyy back on the couch.


    Licking his lips he gazed into her eyes smiling back at her.


    ¡°We have to leave.¡± Diana got off him and picked up her clothes.


    ¡°Yes!¡± He nodded, pulling his trousers up.


    ¡°Get everyone ready to move and not a word of this to anyone.¡± She warned, yfully biting his lower lip.


    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am. Your wish is mymand.¡± With a smile on his face, he held her by the waist briefly enjoying having her so close. He had finally achieved what he had been dreaming of all the years he served beside her.


    ¡­..


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Where is she taking me?¡± Melissa asked thedy preparing to inject her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t talk to you. If they see us talking I may lose my head.¡± Thedy said looking back at the armed man guarding the door then nced at the camera.


    ¡°Please help me. I have a son who needs me, please.¡± Melissa pleaded, pulling her arm away.


    ¡°You asked me about the explosion. All I can tell you is, two people died and a few were injured but they were all employees.¡± She exined. ¡°I¡¯m instructed to inject you with midazm so they can quietly get you out of the country but I won¡¯t. I need you to fake your unconsciousness until you can get away from Diana.¡± She whispered, holding Melissa down. ¡°There is only one bridge out of this ce to the airstrip. Get out anywhere at the bridge and run into the forest. They can¡¯t cover the whole forest.¡± She instructed blocking the guard and camera from seeing what she was up to. ¡°In twenty seconds you have to pass out. Take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°What.¡± Melissa held her hand as she turned to leave. ¡°Why the change of heart? Why are you helping me?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Your uncle saved my family once, this is to repay his kindness. Your family is on the way here. No matter what, escape before they get you on that ne.¡± Handing her a penknife, thedy left as the men unshackled her from the bed taking her to the car.


    ¡°Make sure no one follows me,¡± Diana instructed her trusted men as she got in the car. ¡°See you on the other side.¡± She nced at her second inmand and drove off escorted by two more vehicles.

 Is she going to kill Melissa

    ¡°They are moving, I have to get to Melissa.¡± Mark nced at the tracker in his hand.


    ¡°We are almost there.¡± Robert fastened his seat belt.


    ¡°Once they pass the bridge it will be toote. Call Andrew and the police chief, they have to close the road.¡± Mark instructed him. ¡°I can¡¯t lose you again Melissa.¡± He said to himself looking at the wedding ring on his left hand clutching the steering wheel.


    ¡°Careful bro. We can¡¯t save her if we are dead.¡± Seated beside Mark, Robert cautioned as he elerated the speed.


    ¡°We are running out of time, Robert. I promised to protect her.¡±


    ¡°And you will get her back.¡±


    On the other side, David and his security team raided the house. They shot dead most of Diana¡¯s men, injuring several of them.


    ¡°Where did they take my sister?¡± He beat up one of the guards but no matter how hard he hit him, he didn¡¯t say a thing.


    ¡°Stop, you¡¯re going to kill him.¡± Thedy who helped Melissa shouted. ¡°These people know nothing, even if you kill them they won¡¯t talk.¡±


    ¡°So what if I kill you? You seem to know where they are taking her.¡± David got his gun out walking towards her. ¡°Talk or I¡¯ll put a bullet between your eyes.¡± He threatened, holding the gun on her forehead. ¡°Will you talk?¡± His finger on the trigger, he coldly stared into her eyes.


    ¡°Aah!¡±


    ¡°Stop, stop.¡± She shouted when David shot the man beside her in the foot. ¡°Please stop hurting them. I¡¯ll tell you, but not here.¡± She pleaded.


    ¡°Get up.¡± David took her to a separate room followed by Jason.


    ¡°Talk.¡± He ordered pushing her into the room.


    ¡°What¡¯s in it for me? Ouch!¡± David pped her causing her to fall on the coach.


    ¡°You think this is a joke?¡± He almost punched her but Jason held his hand.


    ¡°Calm down man.¡±


    ¡°No, every minute we waste put¡¯s Melissa¡¯s life in grave danger.¡±


    ¡°Then we kill her since she knows nothing.¡± Jason took out his gun and at her.


    ¡°Aah! I¡¯ll tell you.¡± She cried curled up on the couch. ¡°A¡­a small ne is waiting in the east. It will take them out of the country. I told Melissa to get out before they get to the ne.¡± She exined.


    ¡°Is she going to kill Melissa?¡± David asked, sitting at the table before her.


    ¡°No, what she has nned for her is worse. She is taking Melissa to a madhouse. Being surrounded by crazy people can break anyone. That is what Daina wants. For Melissa to be trapped in her own body watching as she takes everything from her.¡± She told them of Diana¡¯s ns.


    ¡°You¡¯reing with us.¡± David pulled her up as Jason called his team to make sure the ne did not take off.


    ¡°Mark is onto them,¡± Jason said, joining David in the car.


    ¡°We need to back them up. We are a long way out.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a shortcut.¡± Cuffed in the backseat, the nurse offered to help.


    ¡­.


    Lying in the backseat, Melissa opened her eyes.


    She smiled looking at the ne. She had picked it up as the men took her out of the room. ¡®Please save.¡± She silently prayed for the people tracking it to save her.


    The day Mark gave her the ne, he made her promise never to take it off. The gold chain ne was the first gift he bought her after their reconciliation and she never thought he would put a tracker in it.


    At that moment it was the only thing she had from him. The possibility of losing him forever broke her heart but she didn¡¯t want to believe it. She didn¡¯t believe he had died in the explosion. She couldn¡¯t lose him again.


    Holding onto the ne, the hope of reuniting with her family kept her going.


    ¡®Get out anywhere at the bridge and run into the forest.¡¯ Looking outside the window she remembered thedy¡¯s instructions.


    From where shey, all Melissa saw were trees. The road was surrounded by endless trees.


    Getting the knife from her blouse sleeve, Melissa slowly got up. Watched Diana¡¯s movements before sitting behind her holding the knife against her throat.


    ¡°Stop the car, Diana.¡± She threatened firmly holding the knife to her throat.


    ¡°Oh I see, someone has failed to do their job. I should have killed that little nurse when I wanted to.¡± Diana said her hands firmly on the wheel. ¡°Now, now, what will you do Melissa? Slit my throat?¡± Dianaughed mockingly. ¡°We both know you have no guts to do it.¡± She kept taunting her.


    ¡°Diana, please stop this. That Diana I grew up with is not a cold blooded murderer. Stop the car, let¡¯s talk this out, please.¡± Melissa tried to persuade her.


    ¡°Ha ha ha, that¡¯s your problem, Melissa. You look for the good in everyone. You are weak.¡± She stopped the car abruptly and hit Melissa on the face with her elbow making her drop the knife. ¡°I told you, you are weak and pathetic.¡±


    ¡°Diana, remember the days we went horse riding? Those days we went swimming and how godmother had to pull us out every time. We promised to be sisters forever and despite everything you are still my sister, Diana.¡±


    ¡°Shut up Melissa. I was never your sister.¡± Looking at the bridge ahead from a distance, she saw the police barricade blocking the road and behind her, the vehicles gained in on her fast after overpowering her men.


    Slowing down she looked from the numerous police vehicles to the trees around.


    ¡°Stop the car, there is no way out. I promise to make sure they don¡¯t hurt you, just let me go.¡± Melissa pleaded with her covering her now swelling eye.


    ¡°You are wrong. I can¡¯t let you be happy Melissa, and no one will stop me because there is always a way out.¡± Diana said stepping on the gas panel driving towards the bridge.


    ¡°Diana, stop. Let¡¯s talk about this. I¡¯ll give you anything you want.¡± Melissa pleaded as Diana elerated.


    ¡°There is nothing you can say or do to bring back all that I have lost.¡± Diana roared, reaching for her gun.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let you do this.¡± Melissa got up trying to get the steering wheel but Diana hit her on the head with the gun making her fall unconscious against the door.


    ¡°We die together, Melissa.¡± Diana swore turning the car off the road.


    She hit the bridge barrier and the car went off the bridge driving uncontrobly down the steep hill. When it hit a stone, it lost control making it overturn several times ending at the bottom of the cliff near the river.


    ¡°No!¡± Seeing the car Melissa was in veer off the road, Mark stopped his car. He ran out to save her as Robert went after him.


    ¡°Melissa! Melissa?¡± He called out trying to push Robert off as he held him down when the car exploded. ¡°Melissa, I have to save her.¡± Despite his recent injury, he managed to break from Robert¡¯s hold and ran towards the burning car when


    ¡°Mark, stop. There is nothing we can do.¡±Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t lose her. Melissa! Please tell me she is not gone.¡± He cried struggling to go to the car wreck but Jason and Robert held him down on the grass as Mr. Edward and the police stopped David.

 I never meant to hurt you

    At the states, Sasha sat opposite her mother and grandfather, biting her fingernails. She couldn¡¯t dare look her grandfather in the eyes.


    ¡°Please forgive me. I never meant for all this to happen. Mum!¡±


    When her mother overheard her phone conversation with Diana, she forced her to confess to her involvement in Melissa¡¯s kidnapping.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you are capable of this Sasha. Do you see how your obsession with Mark has hurt people?¡± Her mother asked with tears in her eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± She sniffed trying to hold her mother¡¯s hand.


    ¡°This is my fault. I pushed my daughter and granddaughter too hard. I turned them into heartless monsters. Being a Johnson was my dream and now my children suffer because of my greed.¡± Sasha¡¯s grandfather said ashamed of what he had made them do.


    ¡°No father, you only did it thinking of their well being. Don¡¯t me yourself father, they chose to force what was not working.¡± His eldest daughter tried to console him.


    ¡°But I put the idea in them. How I wish I could turn back time.¡± The old man held his chest as tears filled his eyes.


    ¡°Over thirty years ago, mypany was in ruin.¡± The old man looked at his eldest daughter. ¡°Having my daughter marry Richard was the only way to keep us afloat.¡± He closed his eyes and recalled asking Sasha¡¯s mother to get married for the money. ¡°You said no despite knowing he liked you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I disappointed you dad.¡± Sasha¡¯s mother clenched her father¡¯s hand.


    ¡°No honey, you¡¯ve made me proud and I was too stubborn to see it. When Cassandra agreed to the arranged marriage, I treated her like a princess and overlooked all she did to keep Richard from the young girl he loved. I turned my daughter into what she has be. And I let the same thing happen to my granddaughter.¡±


    ¡°No grandpa, we chose this. I chose this. I¡¯m sorry for not listening to you mother. Please forgive me.¡± Sasha knelt before her mother and grandfather.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay honey. It¡¯s going to be okay.¡±


    ¡°Ahem! Sir, Ma¡¯am, the police are here.¡± The maid stood at the doorway with two men in police uniform behind him.


    ¡°Okay,¡± When the old man nodded she directed them into the living room.


    ¡°The police? Mother, grandfather you promised there wouldn¡¯t be any police. I can¡¯t go to jail, mother. Please don¡¯t let them take me,¡± Sasha cried kneeling before her mother begging for her help.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry honey, it¡¯s out of my hands.¡± She took a step back as the police lifted Sasha and cuffed her hands behind her back.


    ¡°Miss Sasha, you have toe with us. You are under arrest for kidnapping Mrs. Melissa Johnson¡­¡±


    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t kidnap her. It was Diana. She forced me. Mother, grandfather, please tell them. It was not me. I don¡¯t want to go to jail.¡± She kept pleading.


    ¡°Miss, anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Let¡¯s go.¡± The two officers read her rights, forcing her out of the house.


    ¡°That¡¯s not necessary, uncuff her.¡± Walking into the room supporting himself on a walking stick, Mark stood tall as Sasha¡¯s knight and shining armour.


    ¡°Mark, you came?¡± With the cuffs off her hands, Sasha ran towards Mark. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for what I did, please forgive me, Mark. It¡¯s Diana who forced me to do all that.¡± Sasha knelt before him begging for his forgiveness.


    ¡°We are not pressing any charges against you because the information you gave us helped end a drug and human trafficking cartel but I don¡¯t think I can ever forgive you. My whole family trusted you, Sasha. We gave you a second chance but what did you do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I swear I never meant to hurt you or your family. Please give me onest chance.¡± She sobbed while holding his leg.


    ¡°Enough Sasha, no amount of tears will work this time.¡± He held her by the elbow and lifted her up.


    ¡°No, no Mark, I love you so much. Being your wife is all I¡¯ve ever wanted. That¡¯s why I did everything. All of it to fight for the great love I feel for you. Please Mark..¡± She held his suit jacket as more tears flowed down her cheeks.


    ¡°Get your hands off me Sasha. The sight of you makes me nauseated.¡± She stumbled and fell on her back when he pushed her off. I never want to see you near my family ever.¡±


    ¡°Mark, Mark I¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough Sasha, don¡¯t you have shame? After what you did to his family you still think he will reciprocate your feelings.¡± Her mother reprimanded, dragging her up and out of the room.


    ¡°Mother you don¡¯t understand, I need him to forgive me. I need Mark, or I can¡¯t live anymore.¡± Her mother pushed her out of the living room to the garden as she rumbled on trying to go back. ¡°Let¡¯s talk to grandfather Johnson, he will talk some sense into Mark. He will make him take me back. Ah!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough Sasha.¡± Her mother pped her on the face stopping her bubbling. ¡°Stay away from that family. Can¡¯t you see the pain you have caused them? Because of you Mark almost died, and his wife is in the hospital fighting for her life. How do you expect them to ever trust you? How do you expect them to wee you into their lives again?¡±


    ¡°Mother I¡¯m sorry.¡± She sniffed and wiped her tears as she curled up on a chair. ¡°I wanted Mark so much I agreed to work with Diana. She was supposed to get Melissa out of his life and he would marry me.¡± Her knees drawn to her chest, she sobbed. ¡°Diana used me.¡±


    ¡°You have to forget Mark. Above all, you have to stay away from the Johnsons.¡± Her mother walked out and locked the door. ¡°Don¡¯t let her out of your sight.¡± She instructed a maid to watch Sasha.


    With a heavy sigh she went back to join her father and Mark in the living room ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for everything, Mark.¡± Sasha¡¯s mother apologized taking a seat beside her father.


    ¡°As I was saying to you sir, as Johnson¡¯spany director, I¡¯ve decided to personally inform you that we are canceling all the newly signed contracts with yourpany. And once the old ones expire, we won¡¯t renew. I¡¯m sorry sir, ma¡¯am, I hope you understand. I¡¯m only doing this to protect my family.¡±


    ¡°I understand your position, my child but please reconsider.¡± The old man almost went down on his knees but Mark stopped him. ¡°You are our major client. Without you thepany will copse. Please reconsider, I¡¯ll keep my daughter and granddaughter away from your family. Don¡¯t end our partnership.¡± The old man coughed holding his chest.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir.¡± Sighing Mark looked at the old man feeling sorry for all he was going through. ¡°I¡¯ll put in a good word for you with otherpanies and get you more contracts. That¡¯s all I can do. Have a good day.¡± The old man nodded as Mark got up from his chair.

 Losing her forever

    ¡°Richard, you¡¯vee.¡± Cassandra rushed from the first floor carrying a doll in her hand and ady dressed in white running after her.


    ¡°Aunt Cassandra!¡± Mark stared at her as she wrapped her arms around his waist.


    ¡°Cassandra!¡± Her sister peeled her from Mark.


    ¡°You see, I told you Richard wille for me and our baby.¡± She smiled, holding onto Mark¡¯s arm, stopping him from leaving.


    ¡°Yes Cassandra, let him have some rest first.¡± Sasha¡¯s mother took Cassandra¡¯s hand forcing her to let go of Mark.


    ¡°So sorry for that.¡± Sasha¡¯s mother apologized holding Cassandra back. ¡°They diagnosed her with dementia. Most of the time she makes things up and confuses people.¡± She exined to Mark who froze staring at Cassandra.


    After learning of Cassandra¡¯s evil scheme that kept his family apart, Richard sent her away. They didn¡¯t have her imprisoned but Richard declined allmunication with her.


    ¡°Oh! I¡¯m so sorry.¡± Mark took a step back when she tried to hold his arm again.


    Staring at what she had turned into, he felt sorry for her. Though she was not in a prison cell, she was locked up in her mind.


    ¡°Cassandra, let¡¯s get the baby cleaned. Richard will be here waiting.¡± She coaxed her sister, directing her to the bedroom.


    ¡°No, I want to stay with Richard.¡± She pulled her hand off and hid behind Mark.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll be here waiting. Go have the baby cleaned.¡± Mark touched the doll and smiled at her.


    ¡°Look, he is not going anywhere.¡± Her sister took her hand as Mark nodded at Cassandra. ¡°Get the medicine.¡± She whispered to the nurse as they took Cassandra away. A few steps up, she turned to smile at Mark, who stood in the hallway staring at them with his mouth half opened.


    With a heavy sigh, Mark shook his head walking out of the house to his car. He somehow understood how hard it was for Sasha¡¯s mother taking care of her family.


    When he saw the car go up in mes, he felt like his entire world shuttered.


    Lying on the grass thinking he had lost Melissa, his heart broke into painful tiny pieces.


    As they held him back, he saw her face smiling at him.


    ¡®You can¡¯t take her from me. Not now.¡¯ Was the only prayer in his heart.


    He couldn¡¯t imagine life without her. Without her sunny smile and those bright hazel eyes staring at him.


    ¡°Ah! I can¡¯t lose her.¡± He tried to push Robert off him.


    Without her, his life was over. Losing Melissa, he wished to die too. She was his heartbeat, his sunshine.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, man.¡± Robert held him in ce, holding back the tears in his eyes.


    As the fire zed, everyone believed Melissa was dead until he heard someone groaning in the bushes.


    They saw the car burst into mes, but somehow she had fallen from the car.


    Covered in her blood, shey on the bushes groaning in pain, half conscious.


    ¡°Melissa!¡± Despite the pain in Mark¡¯s body, he pushed his way to where shey. ¡°Help, help her.¡± He picked her up in his arms and almost fell to his knees, but Robert and David held him up as the ambnce came to get Melissa.


    ¡°Save my wife.¡± He begged as his body gave up.


    ¡­.


    For weeks hey in the hospital bed as the doctors treated his injured back watching and hoping Melissa would wake up.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Now flying back to the country, he prayed for her to wake up. He longed to see her gaze at him lovingly, as she always did.


    With a heavy sighing, he looked at his emails and messages, checking if anyone had contacted him in thest twelve hours he had been away from her.


    Physically, the doctors said, nothing was wrong with her after the several conclusive tests done on her by different specialists. Their theory was she didn¡¯t want to wake up. That some fears in life stopped her from waking up and if it goes on for long, they might lose her forever.


    Closing his eyes, Mark still remembered thest doctor¡¯s words a day back.


    ¡°She probably feels she has nothing toe back to. Her health is worsening by the minute and we may not be able to get her back. I suggest you bring her loved ones toe to see her often and talk to her. That may encourage her toe back.¡± He had proposed.


    And every day from then he brought Tommy to spend time with her, but she still didn¡¯t wake up.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Mother, father, ah¡­¡± Running to meet her parents, Melissa stopped clenching her stomach. ¡°Ah, it hurts.¡±


    ¡°Melissa, honey, you need to go back. The pain is increasing because it¡¯s not your time yet. Your family needs you now.¡± Her mother smiled at her, helping her up.


    ¡°You and father are my family too. I want to stay here with you. Most of the people close to me got hurt because of me Mother. Staying here will keep them safe. I have to stay here.¡± She insisted as the pain intensified.


    ¡°Melissa, honey, none of what happened was your fault.¡± Her mother touched her face and wiped her tears.


    ¡°We love you so much and will always watch over you, my child. It¡¯s time for you to go back. Think of your son and husband. Think of the pain he is going through.¡± Her father hugged her and showed Tommy to her. He sat beside her hospital bed with tears in his eyes, begging her to wake up.


    ¡°Husband!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mark is alive. You need to go back.¡±


    Turning her gaze from Tommy, Melissa saw Mark beside him, touching her immobile body with tears in his eyes.


    ¡°No! Mother, father? I love you.¡± She said holding onto her parents¡¯ hands as the fog pulled her away into intense pain.

 Epilogue: New beginnings

    At Edward¡¯s mansion, the whole family sat together for the first time since the explosion. The st that imed three of Mr Edward¡¯s employees.


    Mr Edward apanied by David made a press briefing assuring the country that his family was safe and the explosion was caused by a gas leak. Now with the renovationsplete, the mansion stood greater than it was before.


    Mr Edward, Ms Lucy, and Mr Johnson sat in the garden talking mostly about their childhood and how their lives had changed since they fell apart.


    Thanks to Diana¡¯s confession, they now knew her grandfather was the one who nted the gold jewellery in Edward¡¯s jacket, sending him to prison.


    Moses¡¯ father was an employee at Johnson¡¯s farm but got fired when his drinking and negligence caused the farm a handful of cattle. When Edward¡¯s father reced him, Moses fathermitted suicide, and since then, Moses med Edward for his ruined childhood.


    When Edward started the organization, Moses¡¯ empire copsed.


    He then sent his son to kill Edward but the bullet caught Isabe, Edward¡¯s wife. After Peter¡¯s retaliation, he was left paralysed and all his family members dead.


    With the few connections he had, he learnt about Diana and contacted her. Moses trained her secretly for years and brainwashed her into destroying and killing Edward¡¯s family. He wanted to take over Edwards¡¯ businesses believing he deserved his wealth.


    With everything out in the open, Moses was arrested and sent to prison for the rest of his life to pay for his crimes.


    Their grand children¡¯s marriage uniting them, Johnson and Edward restored their brotherhood and merged their two family businesses into one strong empire.


    ¡°Aunt is very happy, finally she is back with her family.¡± Melissa smiled watching her aunt seated next to Richard. Later Robert joined them with Lisa by his side. After months of convincing her, she agreed to give their rtionship a chance.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve never seen uncle Richard happier. After all aunt Cassandra¡¯s effort to keep them apart, they managed to find each other and it¡¯s all because of you.¡± Mark held Melissa in his arms thankful for the second chance.


    ¡°No, you made it happen.¡± She leaned on Mark¡¯s chest.


    When she smiled at him, his heart fluttered.


    That day when Diana hit Melissa on the head, she fell on the door which flung open throwing her out as the car overturned down the hill.


    Finding her lying half consciously in the bushes covered in blood, Mark cried in pain wishing he had done more to protect her. He had failed to protect her. Save her from the pain she went through.


    Holding her in his arms after months in the hospital fighting for her life, was a miracle he would forever be grateful for.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you are here with me.¡± He confessed as he ced a light kiss on her head.


    ¡°Thank you for holding onto me.¡± Smiling, she nced at her family then at him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t save our baby.¡± Gazing at him, she frowned touching her stomach as tears filled her eyes.


    ¡°It was not your fault, love.¡±


    As tears fell soaking his shirt, she remembered the first news she got when she woke up on the hospital bed.


    Unable to bear the excruciating pain in her stomach after the second surgery, she forced the doctor to tell her what was wrong.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Mrs Johnson, you lost your pregnancy and we had to operate on you to stop the bleeding.¡± The doctor¡¯s words felt like ice cold water sshed on her face.


    That day¡¯s trauma and the impact that she suffered flying out of the car, and hitting herself on the trees caused her to lose her two months old pregnancy.


    ¡°What did you say? I¡­ I was pregnant?¡± Running her hand over her t belly, tears filled Melissa¡¯s eyes.


    Her second child was gone before she even realized she was going to be a mother again.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, this is a happy day. No more tears.¡± Mark smiled gazing into her hazel brown eyes. ¡°We can always have another baby.¡± He assured her then kissed her cheeks wiping her tears soothing her not to fall apart again.


    After the doctors told her she had suffered a miscarriage, Melissa fell into depression. For two days she didn¡¯t utter a word to anyone, no matter how hard the family and her friends cheered her up. Only Tommy¡¯s presence brought a smile to her face.


    ¡°Mark, I¡¯m okay.¡± She touched his face and smiled at him. ¡°I¡¯m grateful for you and the whole family¡¯s support.¡± She sighed looking at all of them seated in the garden chatting while enjoying their meal. Including her uncle who was in a wheelchair.


    The head injury broughtplications that left him paralyzed but he was now ready to start over a new life with his family. He started a foundation to support young people in themunity through rehabilitation and education. Giving them a second chance in life.


    ¡°All this happened because of you. You brought all of them together.¡± Mark wrapped his arms around her waist, hugging her tightly.


    ¡°Thanks to my uncle you survived that explosion.¡± She smiled watching Luke y with Tommy and David.


    ¡°Your uncle is a good man, despite every bad thing he did in the past.¡± He said turning her to face him. ¡°Are you sure about getting Mr Steven out of jail?¡± Mark questioned brushing her hair from her face.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure. It¡¯s the least I can do after what my family did to him. My godfather is a good man too. His only mistake was loving and spoiling Diana. He deserves to be happy with his family.¡± Leaning on his chest she sighed and closed her eyes. ¡°At times I wish I could have saved Diana. Having her locked up in jail would probably change her.¡± She voiced what she felt was her shoring.


    ¡°I guess Diana got what she deserved. I know you loved her like a sister Melissa, but she hurt many people. Don¡¯t forget she tried to kill us.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think she wanted that? Maybe if I had spoken to her or tried to get close to her, her life would have been spared.¡±


    ¡°No, nothing can change such an evil person. Don¡¯t be too hard on yourself honey. You can¡¯t save everyone.¡± He kissed her forehead holding her close.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, she probably was in deep. There is nothing I could do to save her but burning to ashes was too cruel a death for her. I¡¯m d it¡¯s all over now and you are here with me. Thank you for helping me find the truth. I love you so much Mark Johnson.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll always be here to love and protect you Melissa. Together for eternity.¡± He smiled and captured her lips in a sensual hot loving kiss.


    As the whole family including his parents on a video call from the ranch cheered, the fireworks disyed in the sky ushering in the new year.


    She had finally found her family, the family she never dreamt of but will always be grateful for.


    With Mark and her son Tommy beside her, Melissa weed the new year which held the promise of a happy and peaceful life.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!