《Mr CEO鈥檚 Little Bride》


 Meeting the Staffers

    Meeting the Staffers


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Wait here Michael. Lemme go get you another cone of ice cream ¡± I said to my little brother as I hurried out to go get him another ice cream. The one with him was finished.


    I was on my way, when I felt a beep. My phone


    I brought it out and checked who was calling, then smiled seeing who the caller is


    Diane. My best friend.


    I picked it up and ced it on my left ear, with a huge smile on my face.


    ¡± Hey girlfriend¡± she cheered happily into the phone. That¡¯s her usual tone though- always happy and excited; there¡¯s never a dull moment with her


    ¡± Whatsup?¡± I cooed


    ¡± Guess what?¡± she said excitedly, making me wonder whatsup


    ¡± You know very well I can¡¯t guess ¨C i¡¯m not good at it¡± I said, hoping she¡¯ll just skip the whole guessing part and tell me.


    ¡± Just try,¡± she persisted.


    ¡± Diane, I can¡¯t please; just tell me¡± I whined, as I got closer to the ice cream vendor.


    I have to hurry, because my brother is alone at the park.


    ¡± Okay, killjoy! It¡¯s about Louis ¨C he¡¯sing back to our school¡± she informed me and I gasped.


    ¡± You don¡¯t say,¡± I shrieked.


    ¡± Am telling you girlfriend. I can¡¯t just wait for this holiday to be over so we¡¯ll go back to school. Next session is surely gonna be a boom¡± she said.


    ¡± Hell yes! This is so¡­ Gosh! I don¡¯t even know what to say¡± I said, still in shock.


    ¡± How did you get hold of this information?¡± I asked her.


    ¡± Well¡­ a little birdie told me¡± she said and we both burst intoughter.


    ¡± I¡¯m gonna use the rest of this vacation to go shopping in the mall. I need to change my wardrobe, get lovely stuff. Next session is gonna be hot¡± she rapsed as I nodded to every word she was saying.


    Diane is a crazy fashion girl. That¡¯s also one of the things I love about her.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    No one can beat her when ites to fashion ¨C no one evenes close.


    ¡± Oh, Louis! All the girls are gonna go wild¡± I said.


    ¡± You bet. I hope to not be the first one out¡± she said and gave a shortugh.


    Wondering who Louis is? Well¡­ he¡¯s the school¡¯s Greekgod..


    Did I say Greek God?. Yeah!!!.


    He¡¯s the most handsome guy I¡¯ve ever seen on the surface of this earth.


    He crowns it all with his great artistic skills, and doesn¡¯t fail to show it whenever an opportunity presents itself. He holds the school¡¯s record for; Best male singer, during our middle school days.


    He left about two years back, for some reasons still unknown to everyone, and now¡­he¡¯s back.


    Damn!!!.


    I can¡¯t wait to see my longtime crush.


    Did I just say longtime crush. Oh, Yeah! you heard me right.


    I¡¯ve had this really huge crush on him since our elementary school days. Too bad he¡¯s not into girls.


    I don¡¯t even think I¡¯ve seen him with any girl before, neither have I heard rumours of him dating anyone.


    But what I do know is ¨C I¡¯m not the only girl crushing on him, and I can ce a bet on it and damn sure, all the girls in Cali¡¯s High is crushing on Louis.


    ¡± Diane,  you sure know how to get yourself ready¡± I teased.


    ¡± You can say that again. I always like to be prepared¡± she replied confidently.


    Iughed.


    ¡± Alright girlfriend ¨C let the best girl win. I gotta go. I left my kid brother toe get ice cream¡± I told her.


    I heard her mouthed an OH.


    ¡± Bye Ruby, talk to youter¡± she said and the call disconnected.


    I bought the ice cream, and started heading back.


    Thoughts of Louis filled my head.


    His sweet, deep, baritone voice whenever he speaks or sings.


    I envisioned him perfectly in my thoughts ¨C the way he climbs up to the podium and holds the mic, and then stares back at the audience before performing.


    Holy, heavens!! I wonder what he¡¯s like now?.


    ¡± What took you so long?¡± that was Michael.


    I knew I had stayed longer than I was supposed to, which isn¡¯t right; so, the best thing to do right now is to start apologizing.


    I don¡¯t wanna be the reason he doesn¡¯t have much fun earlier on.


    ¡± I¡¯m so sorry honey, was caught up with something¡± I said, squatting to his height, but his face was still squeezed up.


    ¡± Here¡­. look, I even got you two cones¡± I said raising it up to his face.


    I was d he buys it because he smiled immediately, dragging them out of my palm.


    He made do with one first, holding on to the other tightly.


    I stood up and held his hands as we walked to the park.


    ¡± So, no one for me, yeah?¡± I asked him yfully


    ¡± You¡¯ve forgotten the other is for your apology¡± he said and ran off to the park to meet the other kids there, leaving me behind.


    Smart kid brother I¡¯ve got here.


    I folded my arms as I watched him get on a swing, with the other kids.


    I smiled from afar where I stood, watching them all as they y.


    *


    *


    ¡± I had lots of fun today, Dad¡± Michael said to dad, immediately he was back from work.


    ¡± I can see you did. You¡¯re so excited and happy. Ruby took good care of you¡± Dad said, not too happily.


    I could see the look of sadness in his eyes, but he was trying his possible best to smile.


    ¡± Yes, Dad. Did you get me anything?¡± Michael asked him.


    ¡± Michael, he just got back.. Let him go freshen up first. You can have your giftter¡± I scolded.


    He made a puppy face as he walked to the couch.


    I sighed and went to Dad.


    ¡± Wee back Dad¡± I collected his briefcase as he led the way to his room, taking the stairs.


    I followed him to his room, dropped the briefcase and came back to the sitting room.


    Michael was watching his favorite cartoon.


    I stared at him for some seconds before walking over to the dinning.


    I set the table for dinner, and went to call Dad.


    *


    *


    ¡± You still haven¡¯t given me what you bought for me Dad¡± Michael said. I shot him a hard re, which he returned with a smile.


    ¡± Can¡¯t you see Dad¡¯s exhausted. You¡¯ll get something some other time, not today¡± I chided.


    ¡± Let him be Ruby. He¡¯s just a kid. They don¡¯t understand stuff like this¡± Dad said, touching his chin.


    ¡± Hope you¡¯re enjoying your meal?¡± I asked him.


    He nodded.


    ¡± You don¡¯t even need to ask me that. As long as you¡¯re the one that prepared it, then I must surely enjoy it¡± he said and we bothughed over it.


    ¡± I promise to get you something on my way back from work tomorrow, okay?¡± Dad said, facing Michael.


    He nodded excitedly.


    ¡± Should I tell you what I want?¡± he asked.


    Dad thought for a while and nodded.


    ¡± I want a huge bowl of ice cream, and popcorn,¡± he said happily.


    I gaze at the mini definition of a cute demon, in front of me.


    I don¡¯t get why a guy will so much be in love with ice cream. I thought only girls adore it.


    ¡± What¡¯s with you and ice cream?¡± I asked.


    ¡± It¡¯s not something you would know¡± he said, sticking out his tongue at me.


    ¡± Dad, did you see that? Did you see what this son of yours just did?¡± I asked angrily.


    ¡± Just let him be Ruby, he¡¯s a kid. I tell you all the time. By the way, when are you resuming school?¡± he asked, changing the topic.


    My dad is very good at this ¨C changing topics.


    I took it from him though.


    ¡± About a week from now¡± I replied


    He nodded and didn¡¯t utter a word.


    The dinning was engulfed in silence, as each person face their meal.


    *


    *


    We finished eating, and I cleared the table with Dad helping me with the dishes.


    Michael went to the couch to continue his cartoon, but fell asleep immediately.


    ¡± I¡¯ll take him to his room and then go to mine. Make sure you retire to bed early¡± Dad said picking up Michael from the couch.


    I nodded and switched off the tv.


    He took the stairs. I stared at him till they were both out of sight.


    Oh, what a day! I thought sitting on the couch.


    I wasn¡¯t feeling sleepy yet, and I didn¡¯t want to go to my room.


    I was now left with only two options ¨C either to watch a movie, or chat with my friend ¨C Diane; thats if she¡¯s even online.


    After much thinking, I decided to go with the movie.


    I walked to the mini table at the center of the sitting room, and picked up the remote from it.


    I switched on the tv, and searched through the channels for anything meaningful to watch.


    I searched for a while, and atst, saw a very interesting programme


    I decided to make do with it, as I rxed myself on the couch-fortably, stretching out my legs.

 De Martins

    De Martins


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± What¡¯s it, Dad?¡± I asked during breakfast.


    He forced a smile at me and shook his head. I know he¡¯s lying, but what can I do?.


    I let it slide as I served breakfast. Michael looked excited and already dressed up for summer ss.


    I don¡¯t get why Dad had insisted on him going. I hate summer ss like hell.


    I finished dishing theirs, and dished mine before taking my seat.


    I watched Dad closely from the corner of my eyes.


    I knew something¡¯s wrong ¨C something¡¯s definitely amidst.


    I started noticing it, right from the day he told us there will be no vacation for us.


    I had gotten so angry and furious and had locked myself up all day, but then I had a rethink ¨C he¡¯s never done that before.


    Dad loves spoiling us with gifts, and ever since I was a kid, we¡¯ve always been going to vacations ¨C term in, term out. We¡¯ve never missed it. So, it didn¡¯t make sense to get angry at him just this once.


    I tried to make him tell me what was wrong, but he wouldn¡¯t. I know all isn¡¯t well.


    He didn¡¯t even get Michael something on his way back from work, yesterday.


    If only he can just talk to me? Why can¡¯t he open up to me?.


    Does he still think of me as a kid?.


    For goodness sake, I¡¯ll be neen soon. Isn¡¯t that adult enough?


    The breakfast was a quiet and quick one. He finished eating and picked up his briefcase, pecked us both before heading out.


    ¡± You better hurry, and let me go drop you off¡± I told Michael angrily.


    He stuck his tongue out at me again.


    ¡± It¡¯s like you¡¯re forgetting Dad isn¡¯t here ¡± I snapped at him.


    He rolled his eyes and went back to his meal.


    *


    *


    We finished eating and I had to clean the table and take the dishes to the kitchen.


    I finished with that and went to get Michael from the sitting room, before heading out of the house, going to drop him off at summer school.


    This is actually the first time Michael is attending it.


    We are supposed to be on vacation now ¨C maybe in a faraway country or anywhere.


    I took my car keys on my way out.


    We got to the garage and I helped Michael into the car.


    I walked to the other part and got in also, igniting the car engine immediately


    This car was my sixteenth birthday present from my Dad.


    That day is one of the most memorable days in my life.


    ¡± Aren¡¯t you gonna help me with my seatbelt?¡± Michael whined close to me.


    I red at him, before moving closer to help him with it.


    I don¡¯t know why kids don¡¯t understand bodynguage.


    Can¡¯t he tell I am not in the mood for his dramas and ys and just quit already.


    I might scream at him next, or do something I wouldn¡¯t like, and that won¡¯t be pleasant.


    ¡± All done. Let¡¯s go¡± I said, trying to be as cheerful and as calm as I can be.


    I don¡¯t know what¡¯s with my mood this morning?.


    Guess I woke up on the wrong side of the bed.


    I did my seatbelt too, before handling the wheel again.


    *


    *


    The drive was a quick one as we got there in time.


    I parked and went round, to get Michael out of the car.


    ¡± You didn¡¯t buy me anything,¡± he whined.


    I rolled my eyes and sighed.


    Seriously?.


    ¡± I¡¯ll get you something on our way back home¡± I said, hoping I am convincing enough.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He pouted, folding his arms across each other.


    ¡± You¡¯re gonna bete Michael¡± I grumbled.


    I know it¡¯s all my fault. I actually forgot to get him something ¨C it had slipped my mind.


    Courtesy of thinking too much.


    But why didn¡¯t he remind me when we were still on the road? Why now?.


    He¡¯s just trying to get on my nerves.


    I don¡¯t even know what to say to him to appease him. I am so not in the mood.


    ¡± I promise, okay?¡± I said effortlessly.


    ¡± Promise?¡± he asked, loosening up.


    ¡± Yeah¡± I cooed, and yed with his hair.


    He giggled and hugged me, before running off into the building


    I smiled at his disy of childishness.


    Just before he got in, he turned back once more and waved at me. I waved back with a smile on my face.


    I don¡¯t think I can ever stay angry at this soul?.


    I thought as I turned back, heading to the car.


    *


    *


    I got home, really tired and exhausted.


    There¡¯s nothing to do at home.


    Is this really how I¡¯m gonna spend the holiday?.


    Oh, yeah! This is really how I have been spending it.


    So far, so good, I¡¯ve been surviving.


    I¡¯m supposed to be at the beach now or somewhere else ¨C making friends and trying out new things.


    What exactly happened? Why can¡¯t Dad just tell me? It¡¯s really bothering me alot.


    There¡¯s nothing to do. I can¡¯t even watch movies anymore, because I¡¯m tired of watching.


    I leaned on the couch, thinking about it.


    ******


    DE MARTINS COMPANY


    Mr Martins walked majestically to the board of directors officers.


    ¡± What¡¯s the reason for this meeting?¡± he asked them, looking from one person to the other.


    They murmured and whispered to themselves, before one spoke up.


    ¡± We heard the news about our associates in China, and we are worried,¡± a middle aged man spoke up.


    Mr Martins stared at him with anger.


    ¡± How do I keep repeating myself that my son has gone to China to fix it. He¡¯s doing something about it already, so what¡¯s the fear?¡± he asked them.


    ¡± But¡­ he¡¯s talking too long already. What if they don¡¯t listen to him? I think it¡¯s better we start looking for another alternative now¡± another said.


    ¡± Really? And what better ideas have you alle up with?¡± he asked.


    There was a short silence, before another cleared his throat.


    ¡± Well¡­ we are thinking of giving in to their request. Why don¡¯t we just give them a share in thepany? After all, it¡¯s gonna do us more good than harm¡± a man said, and the others nodded supportively.


    Mr Martins looked at each of them.


    ¡± And you think this is the best way to go about it? Have you thought about what will happen if they finally seed in getting a share in thispany ¨C it will be like giving them ess to our lives ¨C to thepany, the shares, the stocks ¨C everything we own. Have you thought about that?¡± he asked sternly.


    None of them spoke up, so Mr Martins decided to go further


    ¡± You know very well how these people work and how they operate. This is apany ¨C business enterprise. Giving them that leverage, will be like giving them ourpany, don¡¯t you know that?¡± he asked.


    Murmurings filled the hall.


    ¡± What if Nathan is unable to talk to them? What if he¡¯s unable to negotiate with them and make them see reasons with him, what then do we do, that¡¯s the question?¡± another asked.


    ¡± Then, we¡¯ll think of another way. Let¡¯s just wait for him to return first. Let¡¯s wait and see how it goes. There are many alternatives to this thing. We can¡¯t just rush into decisions like that. If we are gonna start doing this , it¡¯s gonna ruin thepany and bring it down¡± Mr Martins said.


    ¡± And I know no one of you sitting here will like their sweat and hard work to go down the drain just like that, ¡± he said. They nodded.


    ¡± Good, and if there¡¯s nothing more to discuss, I¡¯ll like to take my leave now,¡± Mr Martins said and got up from his seat.


    He shook hands with some of them close to him, before walking out with his bodyguards.


    *


    *


    Mr Martins arrived home after about one hour of driving


    The car door was opened for him as he walked into the mansion.


    The first person he saw was his wife ¨C Tracy ¨C Nathan¡¯s stepmother.


    ¡± How was It?¡± she asked, referring to the meeting.


    He had told her before he left, that he was going to attend the board meeting which they had scheduled that morning.


    It wasn¡¯t his n to go to thepany that day, but he had to, because of the board meeting.


    ¡± It was fine,¡± he replied.


    ¡± What was discussed?¡± she asked, helping him take off his suit.


    ¡± Nothing of importance,¡± Mr Martins said.


    Tracy smiled and walked to the wine bar. She brought out a bottle of wine and two sses.


    She opened the wine and poured it into the two sses, then handed one over to her husband.


    ¡± Perhaps, this might help relieve your stress,¡± she said.


    Mr Martins took it and gulped it down at once.


    ¡± Where¡¯s E?¡± Mr Martins asked her.


    E is his child with her and their only daughter.


    ¡± She told me she¡¯s going out with some of her friends,¡± Tracy replied.


    Mr Martins turned to look at her.


    ¡± When did she leave?¡± he asked.


    ¡± This morning. Immediately you left¡± she replied.


    ¡± And she didn¡¯t tell you where she was going to?¡± he asked again.


    ¡± No,¡± she replied.


    ¡± Stop worrying. She¡¯ll be fine. This isn¡¯t the first time she¡¯s going out. You worry too much¡± she teased.


    He sighed.

 A fraud

    A Fraud


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    I came out of the bathroom to find my phone ringing.


    A towel tied round my waist, I walked to the bed and picked it up, then looked into it.


    Dad!.


    I picked it up hastingly, cing it on my ear.


    ¡± Hey, Dad,¡± I said casually.


    ¡± How are you son?¡± he asked.


    ¡± I¡¯m fine. About to go meet a client¡± I said.


    ¡± Good. How¡¯s it going over there?¡± he asked again.


    ¡± It¡¯s going pretty well¡­ but slow¡± I replied.


    There was a short silence at the other end.


    ¡°Just wanted to check up on you and know how things are going over there. I had a meeting with the board of directors some days back¡± he informed.


    I arched my brows, although he couldn¡¯t see me.


    ¡± W¡­ why?¡± I asked lowly.


    ¡± They are worried, son. They think your reason for being there isn¡¯t yielding in any way ¨C it¡¯s not bringing any help. We haven¡¯t seen results¡± he cooed.


    I itched my forehead with my index finger.


    ¡± I¡¯m trying my best, Dad. I¡¯m still meeting with them today. I believe there¡¯ll be progress when I get there. I¡¯ve already discussed it with most of them and they promised to get back to me¡±.


    ¡± I¡¯m expecting something positive. Let¡¯s just keep our fingers crossed ¡± I exined.


    I heard him sigh at the other end.


    ¡± Alright, get back to me when you¡¯re back. We need to pull this off as soon as possible¡± he said.


    I nodded even if he couldn¡¯t see me.


    The call ended and I quickly dressed up, after taking a look at the wall clock.


    I was almost runningte.


    I dressed in my formal wear -a suit, tie, shoes and the rest.


    Soon, I was down the stairs and out of the house in no time.


    I half ran to my car, got in and drove off immediately.


    *


    *


    The drive was a tedious one and even more difficult, because I wasn¡¯t familiar with the roads.


    I was finally able to locate the Restaurant we were meeting at, after much struggle.


    By the time I got there, they were all seated ¨C waiting for me.


    Damn!.


    I apologized for myteness and quickly sat down.


    *


    *


    The meeting ended on a fair note. I shook hands with virtually all of them, before we parted, going our separate ways.


    I exhaled and inhaled deeply when I got to my car.


    That was a close one!. I¡¯m d this ones aren¡¯t as strict as the first ones I hade in contact with.


    They were quite easy to talk to.


    Damn!! I¡¯m hungry.


    I ignited the engine, and drove off ¨C looking for the best chicken ce in the environment.


    I must admit, their chicken is one of a kind ¨C very lovely and tasting.


    It¡¯s one of the things I¡¯ll miss when I go back home.


    I drove into the Restaurant, and ordered plenty of it.


    They wasted no time in bringing it to me and I set to work immediately, doing justice to it.


    Hphm¡­. so nice! I moaned.


    *


    *


    Mr Staffers Pov;


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry sir, but we have to get this case to the police to handle. It¡¯s beyond us now¡± Jonah, my secretary, said.


    ¡± How much more do we have in the ounts?¡± I asked him.


    ¡± I¡¯m afraid we don¡¯t have a lot sir, and we have to do something fast about it before we go bankrupt. The business might copse when that happens¡± he said with shaken emotions.


    I shut my eyes tight for sometime.


    ¡± I¡¯ve heard all you¡¯ve said. I¡¯ll get back to you¡±I dismissed.


    He nodded and walked out of the office.


    God!!.


    How did this happen? How could I have let this happen?.


    I thought and sat back on my chair frustratedly.


    It all started with a merger. I had nned on merging mypany with someone else¡¯s, and was just looking for the rightpany, when a guy approached me. He imed to own a softwarepany in Korea, and even brought proof and everything.


    I agreed to merge with him and we agreed to share the profits 50-50; but then, as soon as we merged hispany with ours ¨C I mean¡­. mine, he was able to get ess to thepany¡¯s fund and deducted a veryrge amount, then disappeared Into thin air, taking alongside with him the money the Company has given to him which he requested for ¨C iming it was for a project.


    I don¡¯t know why I didn¡¯t suspect he was a scam. I mean¡­ I couldn¡¯t, no one could. He looked so genuine and responsible; plus, the documents and everything he showed us, really match the details of apany when we made researches and enquiries.


    Thepany really does exist.


    The question now is ¡®How did he get hold of thepany¡¯s documents and files when he¡¯s not even a worker there?.


    Yeah¡­. we also did a background check on the workers, but it was toote ¨C we did it at the wrong time, after we¡¯ve been duped of millions, enough to bring down mypany.


    I don¡¯t think I can ever recover from this. I have to get to the bottom of this. I have to make him pay.


    He has to be caught and dealt with, but how?. How do I get him, when even his name, identity, passport and everything he showed to us are all fake?.


    God!!.


    I don¡¯t even know where to start from. I¡¯m so confused and this thing is really eating me up.


    Should I just follow my secretary¡¯s advice and get the police involved?.


    Of course, the police are gonnae in sooner orter, I don¡¯t just think it¡¯s time to involve them yet.


    I don¡¯t really like dealing with them.


    Ring, Ring.


    The cellphone on the desk rang out noisily.


    I picked it up absentmindedly.


    ¡± Is this REELS ENTERPRISE?¡± The voice asked over the phone.


    ¡± Yeah, yeah. This is it¡± I responded, tiredly.


    ¡± Alright. We¡¯ll like you toe clear out some issues with your bank¡± the female voice spoke again.


    I removed the cellphone from my ear and stared at it, before cing it back, saying nothing.


    ¡± Hello, hello. Are you there?¡± she asked.


    I itched my forehead in frustration.


    ¡± I¡¯m here. I heard what you said¡± I said.


    ¡°Okay¡± she replied and hung up.


    I ced the cellphone back on the table, with shaky hands


    I can¡¯t really exin how I am feeling. It¡¯s like¡­ it¡¯s like,


    I dunno know what to say.


    How can my life be ruined in less than a month? It¡¯s not possible. It doesn¡¯t make sense.


    I stood up again, and walked out to the window.


    My whole body was on fire, as I thought andmented in regret.


    This can¡¯t be happening¡­ it just doesn¡¯t feel right.


    Taking a few steps back to my desk, I picked up the cell phone and dialled Jonah¡¯s number.


    ¡± Come to my office immediately¡± I said as soon as he picked up, then ced the phone back.


    I need to act¡­ and I need to act very fast


    *


    *


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I woke up just a few minutes to the time I was supposed to go pick up Michael from ss.


    Oh, no! How did I get to sleep this long?. I haven¡¯t been able to do that for a while now.


    I fled from the couch in haste, picking up my car key from the table. Good thing I had kept it there and not gone to drop it in my room.


    I ran to the garage, got into my car and drove off, with speed.


    *


    *


    Boom!!


    I heard a loud noise. It was a hit. I looked up to see a car in front of me, and it looked like my car had hit the car.


    I stepped down in rage, going to confront the owner of the car, not minding if it was my car that had hit the other.


    It¡¯s partially my fault, because I was in haste and driving speedily, but hell no¡­ I¡¯m not gonna own up to that.


    No way!!


    Yeah¡­ I admit it¡­ I was in haste, but the car should have checked well to see if any car wasing, before attempting to reverse.


    I checked for any scratches on the car and when there was none, I marched forward to meet the owner of the other car.


    Just before I got to the car, a very slim, brte girl stepped down from the car.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    She also went to the back of her car first, to see if there were any damages, before turning to me when she found out there was none.


    She was about my age and very beautiful, but I wasn¡¯t there to take in her details.


    ¡± Are you blind or what? Didn¡¯t you see a caring before trying to reverse?¡± Ished out at her.


    She scoffed and looked at her both sides, like she¡¯s trying to look at the person I was talking to.


    ¡± Who¡¯s that E?¡± another girl stepped down from the car, then two others.


    Guess they are all her friends.


    They were all dressed. Seems they were going out.


    I thought and then looked to my left, and realized we were in front of a mall.

 Oh, no! Michael

    Oh, no! Michael!


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Who¡¯s this crazy bitch?¡± One of her friends asked.


    I scoffed, pointing my index finger to myself.


    Did¡­did that psycho just call me a bitch?.


    ¡± What did you just say?¡± I let out with fury.


    They stared at me awkwardly.


    ¡± Come on girls, let¡¯s just leave her and go our way. I don¡¯t think she¡¯s okay¡± another said, and that angered the hell out of me.


    I walked to their car and towards the one that had said it.


    ¡± I dare you to repeat what you just said¡­to my face¡± I challenged, burning with anger and fury.


    ¡± I dare you¡±


    ¡± Come girl, she¡¯s not worth it. We are rubbingte already¡± the first girl from earlier spoke up.


    ¡± Actually, she does. Can¡¯t you see this bitch¡­¡± I didn¡¯t let her finish her statement, beforending a very hot p on her cheek.


    She held it immediately, as she winced in pain.


    The others rushed out of the car immediately, two held the one I had pped, whiled thest one ¨C the one driving, marched towards me.


    My angry gaze met hers, as we interlocked for few seconds.


    ¡± What the hell was that? We both were at fault; but no, you wouldn¡¯t let it slide. Who the fuck do you think you¡¯re dealing with, huh?¡± She rasped in anger, spitting the venom in her.


    ¡± Oh, E! I don¡¯t get why you¡¯re still there exchanging words with this mother fucking, Godforsaken bitch. Just let us teach her a lesson¡± one of the girls said.


    I grew mad with rage.


    ¡± Who did you just call Godforsaken? Who?! You uncircumcised lunatic¡± I fired back.


    She scoffed and let go of her friend, immediatelying to meet me.


    The E girl tried to hold her, but she pushed her arm away and walked to meet me still.


    ¡± Bitch, repeat what you just said¡± she thundered.


    ¡± You¡¯re an uncircumcised, lowlife¡­¡± she attempted to p me but couldn¡¯t, because I was faster and smarter.


    I caught her hand in mid air and threw it bact to her, ending it with a p of my own.


    She staggered back a little bit and almost fell if not for the timely intervention of E.


    Passersby were already stopping to watch, and I realized I was causing a scene ¨C we actually.


    ¡± Gosh, girl! I want to know what exactly your problem is. Are you demented or youck self control?¡± E threw insultive words at me.


    I clenched my fist tight in anger, shut my eyes close and very tight and tried to get over all the insults.


    ¡± You¡¯re just a psychotic bastard¡± I retorted.


    ¡± I don¡¯t think you have any idea who you¡¯re talking to? But not to worry, I won¡¯t stand here engaging in a word fight with you, because it¡¯s very obvious that¡¯s what you want. You can go do that with the people in your neighborhood, because it¡¯s obvious you all are uncivlized and uncultured¡± she unleashed in anger, and instead of me getting angry and pissed off, I found myself smiling.


    Smiling for no reason.


    ¡± At least, they didn¡¯t teach us how to be a weakling¡± I said with a smirk.


    She gasped and I grinned.


    ¡± How dare you¡­¡±


    ¡± Can you believe this girl right now. What, huh? You think so highly of yourself but guess what, you¡¯re nothing¡± one of her lowlife friends said.


    ¡± Really? If that¡¯s the case, then why do you all look so scared and¡­¡± I stopped when I remembered.


    Oh, no!!! Michael!!.


    Holy heavens!!.


    I had been so carried away that I had forgotten all about him. I was actually going to get him.


    Geez!!.


    I nced at my watch and saw I was already thirty minuteste.


    Not sparing the girls even a nce, I ran like a possessed kid into my car, reversed and zoomed off in speed.


    I know they were all surprised by my actions. It¡¯s so evident in the way they were looking at me, their mouths wide agasped, but I¡¯ve got no time to think about that right now.


    Getting my brother safely was most paramount to me now.


    E¡¯s Pov;Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    The psychotic girl¡¯s sudden behavior left us all in a state of shock.


    The crowd gradually began dispersing. They all got back into the car, boiling with rage and anger.


    I was thest to get in and I started the car immediately I entered ¨C reversing.


    ¡± This isn¡¯t the way to the karaoke centre¡± Gen said.


    ¡± Yeah¡­I know that. I¡¯ve changed my mind ¨C no longer in the mood¡± I said lowly.


    I could see the look of disappointment on their faces, but I cared less.


    I just wanted to get home and have a good rest, after taking a cold bathe.


    I need to erase this incident from my head, because it¡¯s really eating me up.


    Jeez!! That girl has got some guts!


    Imagine the audacity¡­the effrontery.


    I won¡¯t me her, she didn¡¯t know who she was dealing with.


    I dropped the girls off at their respective houses, apologizing and promising them another get together before school resumes.


    How that girl has ruined our almost perfect outing.


    It¡¯s been long I did it with my friends and decided today was the day. She just had toe from nowhere and ruin it.


    What a girl?.


    I drove into thepound, parked my car and came down, not even bothering to take what we had brought from the mall.


    I should have even given it to them.


    I hurried my footsteps into the house and came face to face with mom


    ¡± E!¡± She beamed when she saw me, but my face held no sign of excitement or happiness, which immediately drained down hers.


    ¡± What¡¯s it? Why¡¯s your face like this? Didn¡¯t the outing go as nned?¡± She asked so many questions, staring at me all over .


    I heaved and slumped on the couch close to her, then rested my head on her shoulder.


    ¡± What happened dear?¡± She cooed softly.


    ¡± A certain girl ruined our day¡± I replied.


    She turned to stare at my face on her shoulder.


    ¡± What girl is that? Huh? Tell me who had the guts to make my daughter unhappy¡± mom thundered.


    Gosh!! Why did I even say that?.


    I know how mom gets ¨C she can be really creepy.


    I should have just kept shut about it.


    ¡± Don¡¯t worry about it mom, it¡¯s not something you should get worked up for¡± I said and forced out a smile, hoping that will convince her.


    ¡± Where¡¯s Dad?¡± I asked her, before she could say something else.


    ¡± In his room¡± she replied, looking at me suspiciously.


    ¡± Is he sleeping?¡± I asked, pretending not to see the way she was looking at me.


    ¡± Why did you divert?¡± Se asked.


    I heaved deeply.


    That¡¯s Mom for you. She doesn¡¯t let go of things.


    ¡± I¡¯m hungry mom¡± I whined.


    ¡± E!¡± She called, giving me that suspicious look


    ¡± What mom?¡± I mumbled.


    ¡± Tell me what happened. Who¡¯s this girl you mentioned?¡± She muttered.


    Oh!! Here we go again.


    I rolled my eyes and jumped off the couch.


    ¡± I¡¯m hungry. Lemme get something to eat first¡± I said, running towards the kitchen.


    I know that¡¯s the only way I can escape  ¨C not full escape though, because she might bring up the issue again, when you least expect her to.


    I got to the kitchen and told the maid I saw there to cook me what I wanted to eat, while I went to the dinning to wait.


    *


    *


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I drove like a lunatic to Michael¡¯s school.


    Oh, Lord! Help me.


    I promise never to get into trouble again.


    I got there in less than thirty minutes, thanks to my reckless driving.


    I ran into the building like a person possessed by a demon. I¡¯m sure I look so crazy right now.


    I got to his ss and almost fainted when I found it empty.


    Oh, no! No, no no!.


    I¡¯m so dead. I just pray nothing happened to him. I just pray he¡¯s alright.


    I searched the whole ce but saw no one still.


    It was quiet and lonely.


    What do I do? Where would he have gone to?.


    Who do I call now?.


    Yess!! I have the teacher¡¯s number.


    I scurried out of the ss, running to my car. I opened the door and picked up my phone, dialing the teacher¡¯s number.


    She picked up at the first ring.


    ¡± Hello.. Goodday ma¡¯am. This is¡­¡±


    ¡± Ruby¡± shepleted.


    My heart was beating so fast, with my left hand on my chest, while the rest was on the phone.


    ¡± Yes, yes. This is Ruby¡± I said hurriedly and in fright.


    ¡± Where have you been? Why didn¡¯t youe to get your brother on time? She asked rather raucously.


    I swallowed hard.


    ¡± Please, tell me he¡¯s okay. Where¡¯s he?¡± I asked with fear.


    My head was pounding and I couldn¡¯t think straight.


    Tears was already threatening to drop down anytime soon.


    ¡± He¡¯s here with me¡± she said and I staggered backwards a little, leaning my back on the wall, as I took in deep heavy breaths.


    ¡± Hello, hello. Are you still there?¡± The teacher¡¯s voice came up again.


    ¡± Yeah, I¡¯m here. Where do I get him?¡± I asked, thanking my stars for saving me.


    I would have been in hot soup.

 Trouble in Paradise

    Trouble in Paradise


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I received a text message. I checked to see it was the address the teacher had sent.


    I hurriedly went back to my car and got in, before driving off in speed


    The ce wasn¡¯t far from the school. It was a coffee shop closeby.


    I got there in less than ten minutes. I parked, came down from the car and rushed in.


    I got in and looked round for the teacher and Michael. I was d when I saw them at the left hand side of the shop .


    I ran to them and engulfed Michael in a hug as soon as I got there.


    He beamed with smiles, hugging me back.


    ¡± Did you get me anything?¡± He asked , all smiles.


    ¡± No Michael. I was in a hurry, but I promise to get you something on our way home¡± I told him, ying with his hair as he stood up. He giggled happily.


    ¡± Thanks a lot ma¡¯am¡± I said appreciatively to the teacher .


    She gave me a smile and a small nod.


    ¡± Just make sure to never repeat it. It¡¯s a good thing I was still there and I don¡¯t have anything doing¡± she said.


    I could tell she¡¯s a really nice person. I was so d and happy for what she did.


    What would I have said?.


    ¡± Alright Mic, your sister is here now. I gotta go¡± she said, getting up from the chair.


    She smiled at Michael and he returned it.


    ¡± I¡¯ll see you on monday, okay¡± she said, ruffling his hair.


    ¡± What about tomorrow?¡± Michael asked innocently.


    ¡± Oh, Michael, tomorrow¡¯s Saturday, there¡¯s no school,¡± the teacher said, breaking into a short chuckle.


    She smiled at me, waved at him and then walked out, going to her car.


    Michael waved back at her till she got into her car and zoomed off.


    ¡± What do you want?¡± I turned to Michael immediately and asked .


    He grinned widely.


    ¡± I want ice cream, cheese, Pizza¡­pop corn¡­lolli¡­¡±


    ¡± Geez, Michael! What are you gonna do with all these things?¡±I asked in disbelief.


    ¡± I want to eat them,¡± he said cutely, pouting.


    Oh! That pout. I could never resist it.


    ¡± Alright then, let¡¯s go get you those things¡± I said, leading the way out of the coffee shop.


    I helped him to the other side of the car, and walked back to the driver¡¯s seat.


    We were on our way home in no time.


    I stopped by a mall to get Michael his stuff.


    He giggled, shouted and chuckled like a child.


    I had even bought excess. I know he won¡¯t be able to finish them, but still, I bought them because he requested them.


    ¡± You happy?¡± I asked him, when I was done with his seatbelt.


    He nodded excitedly, scooping arge amount of ice cream into his mouth.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± Woah!!¡± He moaned in ecstasy.


    ¡± Alright kiddo, let¡¯s go home¡± I said, rounding up with my seatbelt.


    I stepped on the wheel immediately and we were on our way home soon.


    *


    *


    Mr Staffer¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Sir¡­I¡¯m afraid the situation is getting really delicate. We have to do something now¡± my secretary informed me.


    He spoke with so much worry and concern in his eyes.


    ¡± Alright Jonah, set up a meeting¡± I ordered him.


    He nodded before leaving the office.


    I took a deep breath, gulped hard, and arranged a few things on my desk before leaving the office.


    I got to the hall that was used to hold meetings, to see all the board of directors there. They were chattering, but stopped immediately I stepped in.


    The whole ce suddenly became quiet and still.


    ¡± I¡¯m very sure you all know the reason this meeting was called,¡± I said, looking from one person to the other.


    They murmured and whispered to themselves.


    ¡± Mr Staffers, we are worried . What¡¯s going on? We believe with the way this is going, we¡¯ll have no choice but to remove our shares from thispany¡± Mr Bal said.


    The others shook their heads in agreement to what he had said


    ¡± We feel it¡¯s no longer safe. It¡¯s a dead end already and we can¡¯t take that risk. We have to pull out and invest somewhere else¡± another said.


    I sighed deeply as I looked from each person to the other.


    It seems they had spoken the minds of all, because no other person said anything after that.


    I cleared my throat and adjusted on my seat, before speaking up.


    ¡± You all have spoken very well, and spoken your minds as well. I understand how you feel and assure you that I¡¯m trying my best ¨C really, I¡¯m really doing the best I can and trying to save whatever is left of thepany. If you all have made up your minds to dissolve your partnership with thispany and take back your shares, I will do nothing to stop you¡±


    ¡± But also remember that we made this decision together and agreed to partner with the fraudster together. You all were with me on it, so I dont get why I should be the only one to suffer for it¡±


    ¡± It hits rock and you all wanna run away and hide your faces. You wanna take your shares and go somece else to invest, think about¡­¡±


    ¡± They spoke for themselves, not for everybody. I¡¯m not in support of it and have no intention of withdrawing my partnership with thispany¡± Mr Dennis said .


    I smiled at this and looked around to see if anyone else would say anything, but no one did.


    Guess they still stood by their decisions.


    I¡¯m d I have an ally at least. I have someone that will help me fight this hard time, while the rest of them are trying to run away.


    ¡± Thanks a lot Mr Dennis. Your empathy¡¯s really encouraging and won¡¯t be taken for granted, either will it be forgotten¡± I paused and let silence take over.


    ¡± If that¡¯s all then I¡¯ll like to¡­¡±


    ¡± When do we get our shares?¡± Another asked, cutting me off .


    I was taken aback by this question.


    Are they that eager to leave thepany? Were they even¡­I don¡¯t even know what to say.


    ¡± You can meet with my secretary for that¡± I said, and speaking of the secretary, he chooses to walk in right at that minute.


    He whispered something to my ears and left immediately.


    I got up from my seat with a smile on my face.


    ¡± If that¡¯s all, I¡¯ll take my leave now¡± I said with a smile and walked out.


    *


    *


    ¡± What¡¯s the meaning of what you just did, Mr Dennis?¡±.


    ¡± What¡¯s the meaning of that sorry ass stunt you just pulled?¡± The other board of directors attacked Mr Dennis, immediately Mr Staffers walked out of the room.


    ¡± I don¡¯t get what you¡¯re saying? What¡¯s the outburst for?¡± Mr Dennis asked with disbelief.


    ¡± How could you say a thing like that? I can see you want your shares, money and all you¡¯ve invested to perish along with thispany¡±


    ¡± I know you¡¯re trying to be sympathetic and passionate, but it¡¯s not worth it really. We already know there¡¯s no way thepany can bounce back. It¡¯s a dead end¡±


    ¡± We don¡¯t have to suffer with him. We have done a lot of that in the past when thepany was still growing up, now is the time to enjoy and he¡¯s expecting us to sit down, fold our arms and watch while all we¡¯ve worked hard andboured for go down the drain. Which man in his right senses will do that?¡±


    ¡± And to think he¡¯s still smiling and trying to make us feel bad.. I know for sure that I¡¯ll never regret this decision¡± these and many more were said.


    ¡± You think?¡± Mr Dennis asked , referring to thest person that spoke.


    ¡± I know too well. Thepany¡¯s as good as gone. We better start packing whatever we have left in here, so we can get the hell out of here, because the next thing would be theming to tear down this building. I don¡¯t wanna be here when that happens¡± .


    Mr Dennis watched and listened as they flickered and blickered like kids and hypocrites that they are.


    He couldn¡¯t believe it were the same people he had been with, worked with, talked with, shared ideas with, started everything up with, that were talking this way. It pained him so much.


    He shook his head in hurt, self pity, anger, resentment and got up from his chair slowly and walked to the exit door.


    He stopped, shot onest nce  at them before walking out.


    ¡± Let him go. He will surely regret his decision ande back to us¡± one of them said, while the others nodded in agreement.


    *


    *


    Mr Staffers walked to the entrance of thepany to behold lots of reporters and Newscasters.


    Damn!! Where¡¯s he gonna start answering questions from?. He thought inwardly as he walked closer to them, his guards by his side.


    The whole ce was in amotion and chaos ¨C rowdy and noisy.


    He was still trying to wrap his head around what was happening, but no matter how hard he tried, it was just so hard.


    And finally¡­

 Long lost friend

    Long lost Friend.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Dad went to his room first to freshen up beforeing down for dinner.


    We all had dinner- it was a lovely family moment.


    *


    *


    ¡± I wanna watch cartoons,¡± Michael whined.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    We were all seated on the couch in the living room, watching a movie.


    The movie has ended and they were about to show another, but Michael kept insisting we allow him watch cartoon.


    ¡°Go to your room and watch it. There¡¯s no ce for you here¡± I groaned angrily.


    He pouted angrily and made a sad face.


    ¡± Just let him, Ruby¡± Dad said in a soothing tone.


    ¡± But Dad, I don¡¯t wanna watch cartoon¡± I cried out.


    ¡± Then go to your room¡± Michael said.


    I re at him in anger.


    ¡± He¡¯s your younger brother. You should give in to him. You should always let him have his way and make sacrifices because you¡¯re the eldest¡± Dad cautioned.


    I made an angry face, as I angrily changed the channel, looking for a cartoon channel.


    I was still looking for one, when I switched to a certain channel and stopped.


    Something caught my attention.


    Hold on; Isn¡¯t that Dad¡¯spany?.


    ¡± Dad¡± I called, as I turned to look at him and he was staring back at me


    I increased the volume and adjusted back to the chair.


    Even Michael has stopped whining.


    I focused my gaze on the TV as I watched the ruckus.


    Dad was in an interview with some reporters, I think it¡¯s earlier in the day


    Wait¡­what are they talking about? What do they mean bankrupt?.


    I gasped as I turned to look at Dad, and without saying a word, I ran up the stairs to my room.


    I got to my room and slumped on the bed ¨C weeping.


    I knew it. I knew it. I knew something was amidst. I knew something was wrong.


    Why didn¡¯t he tell me? Why did he keep it a secret from me? Why?.


    ¡± Ruby¡± I heard a gentle knock on the door, followed by Dad calling my name.


    What does he want now?.


    I¡¯m so mad at him and I don¡¯t think I want to talk to him.


    ¡± Ruby, please open up¡± he begged, trying to get the door open, but it was impossible because I had locked it from inside.


    I didn¡¯t even remember I did.


    He knocked for a long time, pleading.


    I has stopped sobbing.


    I shouldn¡¯t make it hard on myself and him too.


    It wasn¡¯t his fault. I guess he was a victim of fraud. We all know how these things work.


    This is the time he needs us most, I should be there for him; not crying and whining like a kid. He has always seen me as one, and I hated it. This is the time to show him I¡¯m no longer a kid. I¡¯m now mature ¨C an adult.


    I cleaned my eyes and got up from the bed, heading to the door.


    I opened the door and stood face to face with Dad, staring at him.


    He stared back with an apologetic look on his face.


    ¡± Can Ie in?¡± He asked softly.


    I nodded and walked a bit away from the door, creating enough space for him to walk in.


    He went to the bed and sat down and I joined him.


    I ced my head on his shoulder and allowed us enjoy the peaceful silence.


    Dad was sad, and I know it . He¡¯s only trying to be strong, but I know it¡¯s hard.


    Thatpany is everything ¨C it¡¯s his legacy.


    He has invested alot in it to get thepany to where it is today ¨C money, time, energy, resources, years of hard work, name it; and now, it¡¯s all almost gone.


    One of the bestpanies in town is almost down in a space of how many months.


    ¡± Do you wanna talk about it?¡± I asked, slowly raising my head from his shoulder to look at his face.


    He heaved and turned to look at me also.


    ¡± I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything to say ¨C I got duped and thepany¡¯s bankrupt, that pretty much sums it up¡± he said with a sad smile.


    ¡± It¡¯s okay Dad. You still have Michael and I ¨C we are here for you. We are gonna fight this and pull through together. All hope isn¡¯t lost yet¡± I said with a reassuring smile.


    He nodded and smiled back.


    That smile meant alot to me ¨C a whole lot.


    Dad is the only one I have apart from Michael. I love them both very much and would do absolutely anything to make them happy.


    Absolutely anything!!.


    *


    *


    ¡± Honey, honey¡± Tracy yelled, calling her husband who was upstairs.


    Mr Martins hurried down the stairs, wondering what the problem is.


    ¡± What is it?¡± He asked her as soon as he got there.


    She pointed at the TV. Mr Martins looked to see the biggest shock of his life.


    ¡± What?!!¡± He eximed as he went closer to the TV.


    ¡± This is Staffers¡± he said, looking back at his wife.


    ¡± Yeah. I saw it and thought he looked like your best friend you told me about. So, I decided to call you toe see for yourself¡±


    ¡± I wonder what happened to hispany though¡± Tracy said,  sipping from her wine as she crossed her legs against eachother.


    ¡± Oh, no! This isn¡¯t good. I have to contact him right away¡± Mr Martins said in panic.


    ¡± Thought you said you lost contact with him?¡± She asked him.


    ¡± Yeah, I did; but now, I know the name of hispany and can use that to contact him. Excuse me¡± Mr Martins said and hurried up the stairs.


    He got to his room and picked up his phone, calling his secretary.


    ¡± Goodday Sir¡± the secretary greeted, as soon as she picked up.


    ¡± Yeah. I want you to switch on your TV right now and check thepany that¡¯s showing on it. I need information on it by tomorrow¡± he said and hung up, then sat on his bed.


    Staffers! He called slowly.


    They had been best friends right from high school till college.


    They were almost inseparable and had nned their lives together.


    Staffers had helped him in setting up hispany before leaving to set-up his, and couldn¡¯t get in touch till date.


    He¡¯s so d to have found him, but sad because it¡¯s in a bad situation.


    He wondered how his wife was still able to recognize him.


    He had left immediately he got married to her and he¡¯s not sure she saw him up to three times.


    God!! He couldn¡¯t wait to meet his friend again after so many years.


    *


    *


    Mr Staffers Pov;


    I was getting ready for work that morning when my phone rang.


    I stopped what I was doing to go pick it up.


    ¡± Hello. Who am I speaking with please?¡± I asked.


    ¡± Goodday sir, this is Annie from De Martinspany. M boss would like to meet with you¡± the girl said.


    I furrowed my brows in confusion, removed the phone from my ear to see it was an unknown number, before cing it back.


    ¡± I don¡¯t know your boss, so why would he want to meet me?¡± I asked her.


    There was a short silence befroe she spoke up again.


    ¡± Perhaps, it¡¯s rted to yourpany¡± she said.


    My eyes widened as I became interested.


    ¡± When and where do I meet him?¡± I asked, with an unexined emotion.


    ¡± I¡¯ll text you the address¡± she said and disconnected.


    De Martins! Sounds familiar. Sure I¡¯ve heard of it before.


    I racked my brain to think where and gave up when I couldn¡¯t remember.


    *


    *


    Annie also called Mr Martins to tell him of the progress of things. He was overwhelmed and told her to fix the meeting right away, while he hurriedly went to dress up.


    Annie ced another call to Mr Staffers, telling him the meeting was in an hour¡¯s time and also texted him the address.


    Both Mr Martins and Mr Staffers hurriedly prepared for the meeting, but only Mr Martins was aware of the situation.


    *


    *


    Mr Martins got to the restaurant they were to meet.


    He had came with only few guards, because he doesn¡¯t want attention.


    He was hardly seen in the public these days, and it was for the best.


    He had almost retired from thepany, with his son talking over from him.


    ¡± Your best table,¡± he said to the receptionist he met there.


    She directed him to a special table at the far end of the room.


    It was far from the rest and decorated.


    Mr Martins walked to it, sat down as he eagerly waited for Mr Staffers to arrive.


    He had told the receptionist to direct Mr Staffers there when hees in.


    He was so eager to meet his long lost Friend.


    Few minutester, Mr Staffers walked into the restaurant.


    He went to the receptionist to ask for directions. She figured out he was the one Mr Martins was referring to and directed him to the table.


    Mr Staffers thanked her, as he hurried his steps to the table.


    He got there and stopped right in his tracks, when he saw the person he wasing to meet.


    ¡± Martins¡± he called in shock, his eyes bulging out of their sockets.

 A merger

    A Merger.


    Mr Staffers couldn¡¯t believe his eyes, while Mr Martins got up slowly, with a huge grin on his face.


    ¡± Yes Staffers, it¡¯s me Martins¡± Mr Martins said to his friend who was looking lost and dumbfounded.


    ¡± Oh, my God¡± he ran to hug him. They engaged in a very tight hug as they exchanged manly pleasantries.


    *


    *


    ¡± Woah¡­ it¡¯s been what now.. eighteen years?¡± Mr Staffers said happily.


    Both friends still couldn¡¯t believe they had found eachother.


    ¡± It¡¯s been so long,¡± Mr Staffers said again.


    ¡± Yeah¡­I¡¯m so d we finally met again after so many years¡± Mr Martins said too, with excitement.


    ¡± Yeah¡­how were you able to locate me?¡± Mr Staffers asked in bewilderment.


    ¡± I saw you on the news. Actually, it was my wife that saw you and called me toe see . I was dumbfounded and thrown aback when I saw it was you. I couldn¡¯t believe my eyes at first¡± Mr Martins said happily.


    ¡± Yeah¡­I guess you know then¡± Mr Staffers said sadly.


    ¡± Speaking of wife, are you referring to Tracy?¡± He asked. Mr Martins nodded.


    ¡± Let¡¯s put that aside. What happened? Why was yourpany in that state?¡± Mr Martins asked with concern.


    Mr Staffers took in a long, deep breath.


    ¡± It¡¯s a long story, but to cut it short ¨C I got involved with a certain guy I didn¡¯t know is a fraudster, got duped and now mypany is in a mess¡±  he said with a pitiful look on his face.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s not that bad¡±


    ¡± It¡¯s worse¡­I couldn¡¯t even take my kids for vacation this¡­¡±


    ¡± You¡¯ve got kids? How many?¡± Mr Martins asked with smiles.


    ¡± Two. A girl and a boy¡± Mr Staffers replied And they bothughed.


    ¡± That¡¯s lovely¡­I also have another child ¨C aside Nathan ¨C a girl¡±


    ¡± Tracy¡¯s child?¡±


    ¡± Yeah. She¡¯s eighteen now¡±


    ¡± Woah!! Same with Ruby¡± Mr Staffers eximed.


    ¡± Ruby?¡±


    ¡± The name of my daughter¡±


    ¡± Nice name¡± Mr Martins said and a short silence stepped in.


    ¡± So¡­what ns are you setting up to get yourpany back on its feet?¡± Mr Martins asked after a while of silence.


    ¡± I honestly don¡¯t know. In fact, I don¡¯t think I have anything to do. I just have to look for a way to clear up the debts and then maybe close up the¡­¡±


    ¡± What? No¡­you shouldn¡¯t do that. There has to be a way out¡± Mr Martins butted in.


    ¡± But there¡¯s none. I think giving up is the best thing to do right now. I can always go back to setting it up when things are alot better, but for now¡­it¡¯s a no no¡± Mr Staffers said sadly, his mind already made up.


    Mr Martins sighed and thought of what to do to help his friend.


    That¡¯s the main reason he called for the meeting.


    Hispany is where it is today because of his help and he can¡¯t just sit down and let his fall down.


    He could think of only one way to help his friend and needs to share it.


    ¡± You mentioned having a daughter?¡± Mr Martins said but it sounded more like a question.


    ¡± Yeah. What?¡± Mr Staffers asked , examining him with his eyes.


    ¡± I know this might sound crazy and probably stupid, but it¡¯s the only thing I cane up with. It¡¯s also the only thing the board of directors, shareholders of mypany ¨C anypany, would understand¡±


    ¡± What¡¯s that?¡± Mr Staffers asked with eagerness in his eyes.


    His ears were itching to hear what his friend has to say.


    ¡°I was thinking¡­how¡­how about a merger?¡± Mr Martins asked, not knowing how best to put it. He doesn¡¯t know how his friend is gonna react to it.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± Mr Staffers asked, looking perplexed.


    ¡± Your daughter¡±


    ¡± Yes¡­what does my daughter have to do with this?¡± Mr Staffers asked, giving him a cranky look.


    Mr Martins didn¡¯t say anything and just stare at his friend.


    Mr Staffers figured out he was trying to tell him to think and figure it out himself.


    He thought for a while till it finally clicked.


    He gasped when it dawned on him what his friend was trying to say.


    His daughter¡­a merger.


    Oh!!! A marriage contract.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Dad has left super early. Not that early though, but I had woken upte.


    Not thatte, but¡­urghhh!!


    Whatever. I just know I didn¡¯t see him when I woke up this morning


    Michael was downstairs watching cartoons as usual. I wasn¡¯t in the mood to watch those dumbass cartoons with him, so I had stayed back in my room ¨C doing nothing


    There was nothing for me to do. No one to talk to.


    Iid on my bed and rolled from one end to the other,pletely consumed by boredom.


    This is the boriest holiday of a lifetime. I shut my eyes tight, trying to get sleep toe, but it was just so impossible, probably because that¡¯s what I¡¯ve been doing since the start of the holiday.


    I heard the doorbell rang, followed by Michaels shouts.


    ¡± Dad, Dad¡± he screamed out.


    My eyes snapped open immediately, as I ran out of the room.


    I got downstairs with a thumping heart to meet Dad with Michael.


    He was all smiles as he gave Michael the things he bought.


    Why did hee home early?.


    I watched as Michael happily went back to the couch, opening the cup of ice cream as he began eating from it.


    Dad walked closer to me, till he got to where I was standing by the stairs.


    I stared at him with a questionable look. He itched his head as he took his gaze to mine.


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry sweetie¡­I didn¡¯t get you anything and I know¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that. Why are you home so early?¡± I asked, studying his expressions.


    He sighed and took his hand to his hair, giving it a gentle ruffle.


    ¡± We need to talk, Ruby. I wanna discuss something with you¡± he said, his face void of emotion.


    I stared at him, as he started walking to the dinning. I followed him and we both sat down.


    He sighed again, making me wonder what he has to say.


    *


    *


    ¡± What Dad?? You gat to be kidding me?¡± I screamed out in disbelief.


    No way!! I just hope Dad isn¡¯t being serious right now. I just hope it¡¯s one silly joke he¡¯s trying to tell me, so I¡¯llugh over it and then It¡¯s over. I just hope.


    ¡± I know Ruby, I know it¡¯s stupid, inappropriate and out of control?¡±


    ¡± Exactly¡± I butted in.


    He sighed in frustration.


    ¡± But I want you to know I¡¯m also doing this for you¡­for us¡± he said and I scoffed.


    ¡± Are you being serious right now Dad? You call marrying me off to some guy, just because you need money to set yourpany up again, helping me? Really?  Are you being serious right now? Are you even listening to yourself?¡± I roared in anger and bitterness.


    Of all the things he coulde up with, why this?.


    Why did he even give the suggestion a thought? Why?.


    ¡± Look honey, I know how you feel¡±.


    ¡± No Dad, no you don¡¯t know how I feel and I don¡¯t think you want to know¡± I said and ran out of the dinning, climbing up the stairs.


    ¡± Ruby¡± he called, but I ignored him and ran to my room.


    I got to my room and mmed the door hard, before slumping in the bed, covering  myself up with a duvet, with my face on the pillow, soaking it with tears.


    How could Dad do this to me? How??.


    *


    *


    ¡± Have you told Nathan about it?¡± Tracy asked her husband.


    ¡± No¡± he replied.


    ¡± I think you have to soon¡± she said.


    ¡± I know¡± he replied and continues eating.


    ¡± Where¡¯s E?¡± Mr Martins asked.


    ¡± In her room¡± Tracy replied, as she watched him eat.


    Mr Martins Pov;


    I was in my room when my phone started ringing. I picked it up to see it was a call from Nathan.


    ¡± Good news Dad¡± he said immediately I picked up the call


    ¡± What son?¡± I asked with furrowed brows.


    ¡± I just signed the deal,¡± he said happily.


    I sat upright immediately, on hearing the good news.


    Woah¡­it¡¯s good news indeed and a splendid one at that.


    It¡¯s a multimillion dor deal we have been trying to get for some months now, and now, it has finally been signed.


    It sure is goodnews and definitely calls for celebration.


    ¡± Woah son! This is superb¡± I enthused.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± I know right. Well, I just called to let you know I¡¯ll being home soon¡± he said.


    I nodded with a smile. I suddenly thought it was a good time to tell him about the merger that was scheduled to take ce when he eventually returns.


    ¡± Son?¡± I called slowly.


    ¡± Yes Dad,¡± he answered.


    I took in slow breaths, before speaking.


    ¡± There¡¯s something I¡¯d like us to discuss,¡± I told him.


    ¡± I¡¯m all ears dad, what is it?¡± He asked.


    I sighed again, not knowing how to break it to him.

 Finally back home

    Finally Back Home


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    I couldnt believe my ears. Is Dad for real?


    ¡± What are you saying Dad?¡± I asked coldly, trying to stay cool and not get angry.


    ¡± Yes son, I think this will really¡­¡±


    ¡± Cut the crap Dad¡± I cut him off in anger.


    I don¡¯t think I can hold it in any longer.


    ¡°Are you for real? Like I should get married. I¡¯ve told you countless times that I don¡¯t want to ever get married. I don¡¯t wanna engage in that stupid union called marriage¡± I rasped in anger.


    ¡± I know son, but as it stands, I don¡¯t think you have a choice. It has already been decided and concluded¡±.


    ¡± What are you talking about?¡± I asked.


    ¡± I¡¯m talking about thepany. It¡¯s either you get married to her for the betterment of thispany or you step down as the¡­.¡±.


    ¡± What nonsense are you saying to me, Dad¡± I cut him off in anger again, my heart beat increasing.


    Is he really threatening me with that?.


    Hell no!!.


    Why do I have to get married for any reason? I hate the idea so much.


    ¡± It¡¯s your choice, son. Better make the right choice beforeing back because the date for the wedding will be fixed soon¡± he said and I heard my phone make a beep sound.


    He hung up.


    ¡± Hello, hello, Dad!!¡± I called several times, but there was no response.


    F**k!! He really hung up¡­he fucking hung up on me.


    I threw the phone away with anger, not minding where it wouldnd.


    Damn!! How could Dad do this to me?


    Why do I even care? I¡¯m better off without hispany. I¡¯m already sessful enough without itm


    I mean, I¡¯ve got my own money, so, what¡¯s the threat for?.


    I thought about this over and over again, but no matter how I look at it, I knew I still have to do it.


    It¡¯s not just about thepany. I know what Dad is capable of if I don¡¯t concur to this.


    Fuck!! I hate this so much.. I need to think of something.


    Who¡¯s the girl?.


    I have to do something. First, I have to get back.


    Yes¡­I have to.


    *


    *


    It¡¯s been almost three days since Mr Staffers had broken the news to his daughter and since that day, she¡¯s neither talked to anyone, nor has she eaten or even stepped out of her room.


    Mr Staffers became worried, while Michael missed his sister so much.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    There was no one to eat with him, no one to talk with him and no one to take him to school.


    ¡± Dad, is she still in her room?¡± A worried Michael asked his Dad who was going to work.


    ¡± Don¡¯t think about that too much, okay. I left your breakfast on the dinning, eat, take your bathe and stay here till I get back. I promise to talk to her when I get back¡± Mr Staffers said to him, with a reassuring smile.


    Michael nodded to all what his Dad said and waved at him till he was out of the house.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I had refused toe out of my room, since Dad told me about the merger.


    I think it¡¯s been three days and those three days have been hell for me.


    I miss Michael. I miss my little brother¡­a lot.


    He always came up to my door when Dad had left for work ¨C knocking and begging me to open the door for him, telling me how much he misses me, and then, I always end up crying.


    It¡¯s the fourth day now and Dad just left.


    I knew because I could hear his car leaving thepound.


    I got up from the bedzily and went to the bathroom. I eased myself and turned to the mirror to stare at my reflection.


    Damn!! My face was rugged.


    My eyes are bulgy and my face swollen. I had done nothing but cry, but now, all of that is over.


    I won¡¯t cry any longer. It¡¯s of no use. I won¡¯t cry for something I know I can¡¯t change ¨C for something I know will still happen.


    It will also mean helping Dad. I know he wants this so much and I¡¯m the only one that can help him  ¨C so why not?.


    Besides, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be that hard.


    Although, I still think I¡¯m way too young to get married, but nheless, it¡¯s all for the best.


    I got back to my room to find my phone ringing.


    Diane!!.


    A small smile creeped into my face as I picked it up.


    ¡± Hey girlfriend¡± came her cheerful voice.


    ¡± Hey¡± I cooed slowly.


    ¡± What¡¯s up girlfriend? Why¡¯s your voice down?¡± She asked, noticing my sad mood.


    ¡± I dunno Diane, I don¡¯t just know what¡¯s wrong. I feel so empty and frustrated¡± I let out frustratedly.


    ¡± Tell me about it best. What happened?¡± She asked again.


    Should I tell her? I thought.


    She¡¯s my best friend, so why not, I can trust her.


    I sighed and exined everything to her, excluding the bankruptcy part.


    ¡± Oh, girl! That¡¯s not so good. I mean, you¡¯re still young and will only be done with high school a few months from now. What¡¯s with the rush? Is your Dad that eager to have grandkid?¡± She asked, amusingly.


    ¡± I dunno Diane, I feel so.. what should I do?¡± I asked her, not even knowing how I was feeling.


    ¡± I don¡¯t think I have an answer to that. I¡¯m as confused as you are¡± she said.


    ¡± Oh, damn! I¡¯m so done¡± I whined.


    ¡± Who¡¯s the guy?¡± She asked.


    ¡± I dunno him. I haven¡¯t even met him or seen him. I only know he¡¯s the CEO of De Martinspany¡± I replied.


    ¡± Oh, my!!!¡± Diane screamed as soon as I said that ¨C loud enough to damage my eardrum.


    ¡± What?¡± I asked perplexed.


    ¡± Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re talking about Nathan¡­Nathan Martins¡± she eximed.


    I ceased my brows in confusion.


    ¡± Uhm.. I dunno, I think so¡± I said confused.


    ¡± Oh, girl! I think you¡¯ve won a jackpot¡± she squealed.


    Okay .. whatsup with her?.


    ¡± Jeez Ruby! Do you know who that guy is? If truly he¡¯s the one, then girl, I think your Dad is the best Dad in the whole world¡± she said in excitement.


    Okay¡­ she¡¯s getting really weird.


    What¡¯s she talking about??.


    I asked myself, staring into space in confusion.


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    I got down from the ne and took off my shade, staring round the airport till my eyes finallynded on the person I was looking for.


    The chauffeur! I sighted him at the left hand side, leaning close to the car.


    He saw meing and came to collect the bags from me, as I got in.


    In no time, we were on our way.


    I couldn¡¯t wait to get home.


    There are sure alot of things I need to sort out with Dad.


    *


    *


    We finally arrived at our destination, after several minutes on the road ¨C if not up to an hour.


    ¡± He¡¯s here. He¡¯s here¡± my little sister, E, screamed back into the house.


    Soon, my Dad and his wife ¨C my stepmom, came rushing out.


    I stopped walking when I got to them.


    E ran to me, and engulfed me in a tight hug, which I didn¡¯t reciprocate.


    I saw the maids hurriedly take my things out of the car to the house.


    ¡± Wee back son. Let¡¯s go in¡± Dad said, with a smile as he led the way into the house.


    E held me by the arm tightly, smiling and giggling like a child.


    I dunno when she¡¯s gonnae off this obsession she has over me before it turns to something else.


    I¡¯m her brother for crying out loud.


    ¡± Go freshen up ande join us for dinner son. We have a lot to talk about afterwards¡± Dad said.


    I nodded and made to walk away when I saw E still holding me firmly by the arm.


    I looked at her to see and met her cute eyes and pouty lips.


    ¡± You didn¡¯t get me anything¡± she whined, like a baby.


    Naturally, I¡¯m supposed to get angry, but I am used to it already. It¡¯s just E being E around me.


    I wiggled my hand out of her hold, heading to the stairs.


    ¡± Not now E¡± I said and left.


    I got to my room and took off my jacket, as I looked round the room.


    Ahhh!! I¡¯ve missed my room.


    I undressed and went to get a towel, before walking into bathroom to take a shower


    Water. Here Ie.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I wasn¡¯t able to get all the things Diane had told me about Nathan off my mind.


    How sure am I that this is not really a bad idea like she had assumed?.


    Imagine I didn¡¯t even know his name not until she mentioned it.


    Damn!! I¡¯m so confused.


    I dressed up after taking my bathe and walked down the stairs to see Michael seated on the couch, his gaze fixed on the TV screen.


    ¡± Michael!¡± I called lowly, but loud enough for him to hear me.


    His eyes snapped up to my face, as he got up from the couch in haste and ran to where I was standing, hugging and kissing me in happiness


    He sure missed me and I did too.


    The door opened slowly and I looked up at it to meet his gaze.


    Dad!!.

 In two weeks time

    In two weeks time


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I wiped the tears from my eyes, and stood upright.


    Dad¡¯s eyes didn¡¯t leave my face and I had to bring it down to look at Michael, distracting myself in the process.


    ¡± Dad!?¡± Michael ran to hug him, leaving me standing there like a destitute.


    I sniffed for a while, fighting my tears hard.


    I had no idea he would be back so soon, I would have just stayed indoors still.


    ¡± How are you son?¡± he caressed Michael¡¯s hair as he asked the obvious question, while they took slow steps towards me.


    Michael was grinning from ear to ear, and I was surprised he didn¡¯t ask for anything.


    Is he that happy to see me get back on. my feet? Is he that happy to see my face again?.


    The only thing that made me feel lighter was his smile that looks more like the spring sunshine ¨C it was radiating and pleasant to look at, and I thank God for giving me such a cute soul


    He¡¯s so adorable


    He fell to the couch behind with Dad, as they chatter about some things I didn¡¯t care to even listen to.


    I simply just smiled at them and walked to the stairs, going up to my room.


    I was going to lock myself back in. I don¡¯t think I am ready to face and talk with Dad just yet, although I badly want to ask him about the guy I was getting married to.


    What Diane had told me the other time kept bothering me and questions kept raising within me.


    Who exactly is this guy? And if he¡¯s as famous as Diane has said, then why don¡¯t I know of him?.


    Or is it because I¡¯m too fixated on myself and my family and don¡¯t give a damn about others, or maybe because I¡¯m not the social media type?. I¡¯m on it, but not the tech savvy type.


    I¡¯m not there because other people are there also, there¡¯s nothing more to it.


    Phew!!


    I took in a long breath, before sitting on the bed.


    Gosh!! There¡¯s just one week left before I go back to school. It¡¯s not usually the time to wait for school to reopen, but this holiday has been the worst of a lifetime.


    The days were borier as they came, and now I will be going back to school. At least my boredom will be gone because I¡¯ll get to see my friends.


    Iid on the bed, staring up at the ceiling, trying not to think about the whole marriage stuff, but it was impossible ¨C it¡¯s actually quite ridiculous, and now I know we don¡¯t really control the lives that we live.


    It would have been better if¡­.


    A knock on the door was enough to pull me out of my thoughts.


    I sprang up from the bed, contemting whether or not I should get it.


    Michael wouldn¡¯t be able to knock this way, so it definitely means it was Dad.


    Goodness!! I didn¡¯t even know I had locked the door. I guess I don¡¯t really want to see him.


    Then should I ignore him and when he¡¯s tired he¡¯ll go?.


    It seemed like the perfect idea but my conscience kept pricking me and I badly wanted to hear him out.


    I walked slowly to the door and opened it to see his sad face.


    What exactly is he sad about?.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I walked quickly to sit on the bed as soon as I opened the door for him to get in.


    He got in and walked over to meet me on the bed.


    He dragged my palm into his, and I tried to resist but he was stronger, so I had to give in in the end.


    My face was in despair and there was no sign of a smile or whatever. I was trying to pass a message.. trying to tell him how mad I was at him.


    I guess he got it because he smiled and tried to make me face him but I didn¡¯t bulge.


    He let out a deep frustrated sigh and started talking.


    ¡± Ruby!¡± he cooed, squeezing my tiny palm in his.


    ¡± I know you¡¯re going through a hard time right now, and it¡¯s because of me. I  won¡¯t ask you to understand and try to take this decision I¡¯ve made, but I want you to know that whatever your decision will be, I¡¯ll be waiting¡±


    ¡± Bur just knows that there¡¯s not much time left, ¡± he let out sadly, and as soon as he was done saying that, he let go of my hand and stood up, then started walking to the door.


    Just as he got to the door handle and was about to open it to go out, I stopped him.


    ¡± I¡¯ll do it¡± I yelled, enough to make him halt.


    He turned and I could see the bright warm smile on his face, before he stretched out his arms for a warm embrace and I wasted no time in running in and getting into it.


    I had missed him.


    He¡¯s the only one I have apart from Michael, so I think I can do this much for him. I can sacrifice my happiness for him.


    And who knows, the marriage might not be temporary.


    Breaking off the hug, we walked back to the bed and sat down again to discuss alot  more.


    *


    *


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Woah!! You¡¯re finally here. I was actually thinking you were swallowed up by your room or something ¡± E said sarcastically as soon as I walked in.


    ¡± Ahh, ahh, very funny¡± I replied to her.


    Dad and Mom said nothing and the maids quickly dish out my meal before going back to their positions.


    ¡± So, about what I was telling you the other day..¡±


    ¡± I thought we agreed to discuss it when we¡¯re done eating?¡± I cut him off rudely.


    I definitely don¡¯t want to have the conversation here.


    ¡± Yeah, we still have to discuss a bit moreter, to look into more details, but I¡¯d like us to start it up here because your Mom also has something to say about it¡± he informed me and I turned to look at Tracy ¨C my stepmom.


    Other people refer to her as my mom, but I like to refer to her by her first name ¨C Tracy, and it¡¯s a good thing she doesn¡¯t mind because calling her mom totally creeps me out.


    She smiled when I turned to look at her and I had to quickly divert my eyes back to my meal.


    ¡± Like I was saying¡± Dad resumed, finishing up with the food in his mouth.


    ¡± The girl¡¯s father is my long-time friend, infact, he was the one that has helped me set up thispany you¡¯re seeing today, so you can see¡­.¡±


    ¡± Yeah, yeah, I get it. You¡¯re trying to return the favour as a good friend that you are, so what¡­ what¡¯s the big deal? There are many other ways you can help a friend, for instance, by giving him a loan¡±.


    ¡± Ourpany is more than capable of giving him any amount he wants, so why are you choosing to do this to me? Do I really have to get married to her?¡± I let out my anger and frustration.


    The atmosphere suddenly turned cold and I tried hard to stop my chest from heaving, from all the anger I was feeling.


    ¡± You done?¡± Dad asked with a very, irritating grin on his face.


    ¡± Wait? What? Who¡¯s getting married?¡± E asked, shocked.


    She held her Mom¡¯s hand with pleading eyes but got nothing out of that


    A brief silence ensued after that and I couldn¡¯t think of any other thing to say to Dad to make him change his mind.


    His nonchnt attitude was already telling me that there is nothing I would do that would make him have a change of heart.


    I know him better than anyone and I know I am just wasting my time on this, so the best thing to do was to do it my own way.


    I let the silence linger and went back to my meal, but Dad¡¯s eyes didn¡¯t leave me.


    ¡± I¡¯d advise you get rid of an negative thoughts you¡¯re having, because it¡¯s not going to do either you or I any good¡± he said, but it sounded more like a warning


    ¡± Mom! Can you please tell me what¡¯s going on?¡± E whined like a baby to her mom.


    Her whining was beginning to irritate me.


    I couldn¡¯t concentrate on my meal.


    ¡± Where are you going?¡± Tracy asked when she saw me get up.


    ¡± I¡¯ve lost my appetite ¡± I replied coldly, before walking out, and as I did, I could still hear E¡¯s whining.


    Gosh!! I can¡¯t believe this is how they wee me after two months of being in China.


    Dad is so interesting. I know alot more about him than he does, so I think I have a greater chance at winning.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± What???¡± I yelled at the top of my voice after hearing that ridiculous sentence.


    What exactly does Dad mean by ¡® I¡¯m getting married in two weeks time?¡¯.


    Oh, goodness!!.

 The final straw

    The final straw.


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    I mmed the door angrily, walking to and fro in anger.


    I can¡¯t believe this man I call my father.


    What exactly does he take me for? Does he seriously still see me as that little boy of yesterday who had just lost his mother and was so vulnerable, fragile and gullible?.


    I thought he would have known better by now.


    I thought he would know alot about me now, but his current behavior just shows he doesn¡¯t know a single thing about me.


    I think it¡¯s time to let him know. I was so angry and mad and didn¡¯t think I would be able to stand him.


    I walked to my wardrobe to change my clothes to go out.


    I already had ns with Rex ¨C my best friend, to hang out at our favourite barter in the day.


    I didn¡¯t like the outfit I was putting on so I wanted to change before I heard a knock on the door.


    I knew who it was already and didn¡¯t even bother to go answer it or see who it was when the person walked in.


    ¡± I have no ns of discussing this with you any¡­.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s true¡­ it¡¯s true that you¡¯re getting married?¡± I heard her tiny voice, but it felt weird, as if she was crying .


    I had to quickly turn to look at her and I was right.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She has tears stuck to her corner of her eyes.


    ¡± E¡±  I called with a surprised look on my face.


    What is she trying to pull right now? I¡¯ve got no time for this nonsense stunt of hers.


    ¡± Get out. I have somewhere I need to be and I was just about to change before you came in¡± I told her off rudely.


    ¡± Seriously? Do my tears mean nothing to you or do you think I am acting sick? Oh, lemme guess, you don¡¯t give a damn about your only sister again because you¡¯re about to get married right?¡± she said like a sick puppy, fighting for its owner¡¯s love and attention.


    Goodness!! I really don¡¯t think I can deal with her.


    She¡¯s so frustrating.


    ¡± Exactly what I was about to say. You¡¯re my sister so act like it and stop acting like a jealous girlfriend¡± I scolded.


    She wiped her tears and scoffed.


    ¡± She must be really pretty¡±


    ¡± Get out ¡± I was so damn angry right now and could do something I would regret if she didn¡¯t leave right away.


    I¡¯m not gonna do this with her.


    ¡± Nathan!!¡± she yelled my name.


    I diverted my gaze when I saw tears running down her cheeks.


    What sort of rubbish is this? Why is she being such a drama queen?.


    ¡± You¡¯re so out of your mind¡± I rasped in anger, took my clothes and was about to get into the bathroom, when she ran to me and held me, preventing me from moving an inch further.


    ¡± W¡­ what are you doing?¡± I batted my eyshes at her.


    ¡± C¡­ can¡­ can you not get married?¡± she asked, but it sounded more like a request.


    ¡± Were you deaf back at the dinner?¡± I got so mad at her.


    ¡± What if there¡¯s a way to stop this, will you let me help you?¡± she asked. I looked in her eyes and they were full of hope.


    Gosh!! How did I end up with someone so crazy as a sister?.


    She¡¯s as crazy as her mom. Gosh!!.


    ¡± Get out!!¡± I yelled a little louder, and pushed her off me.


    She was taken aback but I cared less. She seriously has to stop behaving this way around me, if not I would have to cut off all ties with herpletely.


    I can¡¯t have her acting all that way around me, it¡¯s getting irritating and I was no longer finding it funny.


    Before, I used to think of it as a sister¡¯s affection and fondness, but now I know it¡¯s more than that.


    I think she¡¯s obsessed with me¡­ not in a good way, and it creeps me out.


    I think it¡¯s time I finally move back to my penthouse.


    Good thing I¡¯m getting married anyway, that would be a good reason to move out of this hellhole I call a house.


    Speaking of marriage, I have just the perfect n for that.


    I thought and grinned.


    *


    *


    Rex waved at me, directing me to where he was.


    We usually have our own spot at the bar but I couldn¡¯t find him there. I was surprised at first and had thought he wasn¡¯t there yet, then decided to call him and here we are.


    I walked to meet him and we exchanged pleasantries in the form of a handshake.


    ¡± What¡¯s up bro? It¡¯s been a while¡± he said, all smiles, before calling on the bar man.


    ¡± You can say that again¡±.


    ¡± What? You don¡¯t look so good¡±.


    ¡± Tell me about it. I just got back to find out that I am about to be a married man¡± I informed and instead of getting a surprised response at least, he bursted outughing.


    I was shocked at his reaction, as I quickly emptied the ss of alcohol that was ced in front of me.


    ¡± What¡¯s so funny?¡± I asked irritatedly.


    Why¡¯s everyone so determined to be annoying today?.


    ¡± Are you serious? Bro!!¡± he squealed and I couldn¡¯t ce my hands on why he was reacting this way.


    ¡± What are you getting at? Stop acting like a lunatic¡± I told him.


    ¡± Alright, alright ¡± he said, letting down hisughter.


    ¡°Please tell me you¡¯re joking,¡± he enthused.


    ¡± When have I ever done that? When have I ever joked with you?¡± I asked him.


    ¡± Right, just what I was about to ask, but dude, if what you¡¯re telling me is true, then what happened, because I know you swore never to get married. Why the sudden change of heart?¡± he asked, a bit more serious now.


    Good. Now I can have a decent conversation with him.


    ¡± It¡¯s a long story,¡± I said with an exasperated sigh.


    ¡± Shoot,¡± he said, picking up his ss of alcohol.


    I took my time to exin everything to him, and was d he didn¡¯t go aboutughing like he did a while back


    ¡± Oh, my! This is insane¡± he cussed.


    ¡± You can say that again, but not to worry, I already have the perfect n mapped out¡± I said with a happy look on my face.


    ¡± Really? What is it?¡± he asked with eager eyes.


    I simply smiled and started drinking again.


    It¡¯s not something I n on getting out.


    We had fun in the bar because it had been a while, and after that, it was time to go home.


    Rex was so wasted and I had to take him home, before heading back home myself.


    I got home, parked my car and went straight to my room.


    I got to the sitting room first and was surprised to find no one in it.


    It wasn¡¯t thatte yet. Can¡¯t believe they have all gone to bed.


    I took the stairs and was halfway in it when the lights came on.


    ¡± We need to talk¡± that was Dad¡¯s voice.


    What was I thinking? How could he possibly be asleep by this time?.


    ****


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± I¡¯ll be your maid of honor,¡± Diane said happily.


    I think she enjoys torturing me, because I don¡¯t see why she can¡¯t seem to understand me.. Why can¡¯t she see that I am in a very bad mood?.


    I mean, is this really funny to her? Is she stupid or is she acting oblivious? I don¡¯t know which it is, but I was so pissed.


    ¡± Do you know you¡¯re acting so inconsiderate and unbelievable right now?¡± I let out, unable to hold my anger any longer.


    ¡± Chill babygirl. You have to calm down. It¡¯s not as hard as you think. What¡¯s even there to be sad about? It¡¯s Nathan we are talking about here. I¡¯m pretty sure other girls won¡¯t even mind being his hundredth wife?¡±.


    ¡± Really?¡± I said in disbelief.


    ¡± Yes really.. Get a hold of yourself and stop acting like a baby. You think I am being unfair by not sympathizing with you, but really girl, what¡¯s there to sympathise for? It¡¯s not even like you can do anything about it?¡±.


    ¡± From all you told me earlier, it¡¯s been decided that you¡¯ll get married in two weeks time, so what¡¯s your deal?. There¡¯s nothing you can do at this point and I¡¯m sure you know it. You just have to put on a broad, bold smile and go along with it and that¡¯s exactly what I am trying to help you with, well, unless you don¡¯t want to help your Dad¡± she let out and as crazy as it sounds, I know she was telling the truth.


    There¡¯s nothing I can do anyway. I just have to make use of the time I have left as a spinster and have fun for the veryst time.


    ¡± When are youing back?¡± I asked her suddenly.


    ¡± Saturday. Why?¡± she asked.


    ¡± Get ready, we¡¯re going out¡± I told her and ended the call.


    I got up and walked to the bedroom.


    I can do this.

 The wedding party

    The Wedding Party


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    The house filled up in an instant with swarms of people, lurking at every corner that it was now impossible to go through very easily.


    I was mesmerized by the crowd I was seeing. It still felt like I was dreaming.


    I couldn¡¯t believe I was already married and this was my wedding party.


    I pinched myself severally to believe this outrageous lie but it turns out to be true each time I did.


    ¡± Oh, my! Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re sulking¡± Diane barged into my room, grinning from ear to ear.


    She was dressed so beautifully like the maid of honor that she is and with the way she stood, I knew she was here to snap at me.


    I have been acting weird and moping all day.


    She can¡¯t entirely me me. I still can¡¯t believe all this is real.


    I felt a cold chill rush through my spine and my throat tightened making it hard for me to breathe.


    Goodness!!.


    How did I get here? Is this really happening? So it finally did happen?.


    I thought as my mind suddenly drifted to all that had happened during thest one week.


    ONE WEEK AGO


    ¡± Woah!! I can¡¯t believe this. I thought Diane was joking when she told us about it¡± Lily said, with a surprised look on her face.


    She was sitting close to Ivy and I with Diane. We were four friends.


    I was so happy to be finally back in school. I usually don¡¯t get this excited about resuming, infact, it was the other way around, I was always the type that wished school never reopens so I could have some lots of more fun.


    But then, things decided to take a different turn¡­ a drastic one at that. One I never expected.


    ¡± It¡¯s true. Is there anything else you¡¯re still unsure of?¡±I rasped, not in the mood to ease their curiosity.


    I was still trying to understand it myself.


    ¡± And is it true that it¡¯s Nathan¡­ like Nathan Martins. Oh, my!!?¡± she asked and squealed.


    Why did she ask if she already knows the details?.


    I rolled my eyes and brought out a textbook just to distract myself.


    ¡± Calm down girls. I¡¯m sure she has a lot more shocking news that she¡¯s not ready to share?¡± Diane said in an absurd tone.


    I raised my head to look at her wondering what she meant, and she winked at me.


    I didn¡¯t get it so I sighed and took my gaze back to the book.


    ¡± Woah!! I still can¡¯t believe this. Ruby!¡± Ivy suddenly called out of the blue.


    ¡± What?¡± I mumbled.


    ¡°Do you think we could switch lives?¡± she asked in a very weird and funny manner, but it wasn¡¯t funny to me, maybe because of the predicament I was in.


    ¡± Tell me about it. I actually asked her if we could switch Dad, because her Dad has got to be the best Dad in the whole world¡± Diane mused.


    ¡± You can say that again. It¡¯s not everyday we see a father that gets a lifetime golden opportunity for their children¡± Lily went on.


    ¡± Golden opportunity!¡± I repeated.


    ¡± I seriously don¡¯t know why you¡¯re sulking and acting as though the whole world is about toe to an end. This is Nathan we are talking about¡­.¡±.


    ¡± Enough with all Nathan talks already. He¡¯s a human like us for all I care, so I don¡¯t get why you all are talking about him like he¡¯s a god or something!¡± I yelled at Lily, cutting her off.


    She scoffed and stood up from her seat.


    ¡± Well, maybe to you he is¡± she said inaudibly but I heard her.


    ¡± What? What did you say?¡± I asked angrily.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± You heard me. To you he is a god, not only a god but your savior¡± she said spitefully.


    I scoffed.


    ¡± Are you insane? Is something wrong with you upstairs?¡± Ished out at her, my temper raising.


    ¡± I should be asking you that. Acting all pretentious and cunny like you actually aren¡¯t happy about it. At least have the decency to appreciate him, if not for anything, but for the fact that he¡¯s trying to save your wretched family who¡¯s now bankrupt¡± she blurted out, making a gasp escape through my lips.


    Woah!! She finally let  it out. I knew there was something amidst the moment they stepped into the ss.


    They were acting all funny and abnormal, and even the way they spoke about Nathan and talked to me. Only Diane was acting normal as before.


    I knew something was up.


    I was so shocked to my bone marrows that I couldn¡¯t even utter a word.


    ¡± Oh!! So you think we don¡¯t know, we do girl¡±  Ivy added.


    ¡± Lily, Ivy, you girls stop. I thought we agreed not to talk about this or bring anything rted to it in front of her¡± Diane yelled, but they both rolled their eyes and Ivy stood up and walked over to Lily.


    ¡± Yeahh, we were going to do just that, not until she started acting like some bitch and I couldn¡¯t hold it back anymore¡± Ivy said with a re.


    ¡± What? He¡¯s not a god. Oh, please!¡± she waved her hair to the side of her face and folded her arms across her chest.


    I was dumbfounded and tongue-tied. Tears gathered at the corners of my eyes and I had to bring my head down to hide it and hide my humiliation also.


    This has got to be the most embarrassing moment of my life.


    I never imagined something like this would happen to me, ever.


    I used to be the richest girl in JENNERS HIGH, can¡¯t actually believe this is happening.


    I felt so sick all of a sudden.


    ¡± Gosh girls, I¡¯m so disappointed. How could you both even think of speaking this way to her, she¡¯s our friend for god¡¯s sake¡± Diane tried to bring them to order.


    ¡± So what, are you now her mouth piece? What happened to all that high and mighty Ruby. The untouchable Ruby that no one could dare talk back to or even talk to, huh?¡± Ivy spitted out.


    ¡± I guess being poor really brings out a person¡¯s true color¡± Lily added and they both burst intoughter.


    I was furious and almost exploded from the anger.


    Yeah, they are right ¨C I¡¯m Ruby and I still am, so they aren¡¯t supposed to be talking to me the way they are doing now.


    I have to put them in their ce.. I sniffed back my tears, bringing up my head to look at them with a bold smile carefullyid on my face.


    ¡± So what, do you think you are above me because my father¡¯spany is having issues?. Yeah, I admit, all what you¡¯ve said is true, including the part where you said no one cane close as much as talking to me, and am going to show you why am the Ruby you just spoke of¡± I enthused, leaving them both in surprise.


    Diane had a pleasant smile on her face, like she was proud of me or something.


    ¡± What the hell are you getting at, you¡­¡±


    ¡± I wouldn¡¯t do that if I were you. What? Do you honestly think you can overthrow me? Or have you forgotten so soon that am going to be a part of the Martins family very soon ¨C a Mrs Martins¡±


    ¡± You bitch, so we were right, you were just acting up¡± Ivy nudged at me but was held back by Diane.


    ¡± You girls started this, just you remember that, because I¡¯m going to show you all exactly why no one can  mess with me. I¡¯m going to show you why am Ruby and why I¡¯ve lived up to that name. It¡¯s true that my family is facing some financial crisis right now and I guess you would never have found out if it weren¡¯t for the news, damn that TV station¡± I cussed angrily.


    ¡± Anyway, just watch out, because you won¡¯t know what hit you if you dare try to do something funny¡± I warned and walked out angrily.


    I knew if I stayed longer I would do something I will regret because I¡¯ll have to continue exchanging words with them, and besides, I¡¯m sure I¡¯ve passed the message across very well.


    The looks on their faces were satisfactory to me.


    I hadn¡¯t walked up to a mile when I heard footsteps behind me.


    ¡± Woah girl! I loved the way you told them out¡± Diane appeared beside me gurgling.


    I guess she¡¯s the only friend I have now and she¡¯s definitely going to be the only one that will attend my wedding.


    ¡± Enough about them. Let¡¯s talk about something else¡± I told her.


    ¡± What?¡± she asked me.


    ¡± Tell me how your vacation went. I¡¯ve been dying to hear about it, and don¡¯t tell me you got me nothing?¡± I asked, stopping to look at her.


    ¡± Oh, you know that¡¯s not even possible¡± she enthused and we bothughed, then walked hand in hand to the field.

 A dinner date

    A dinner date


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    So, in a nutshell, that¡¯s how Lily and Ivy ended up being my enemies and noting to my wedding. But that isn¡¯t even the problem, the problem started when Dad informed me of Nathan¡¯s and his parentsing.


    Apparently, they wereing in hope that Nathan and I would at least get to see each other before the wedding and hopefully, bond.


    I didn¡¯t act sad, shocked or surprised, I simply just asked him for the day, prepared and looked forward to it.


    The day eventually came and I got up early to prepare for their visit.. They would being by evening so I have a lot of time to prepare.


    We barely have any domestic staff so I had to call Diane over to help me and too good she wasn¡¯t busy.


    She dly followed me to the supermarket, mall and other ces.


    These are things that were supposed to be done by a mother, but the heavens decided to take mine away from me early, so I have to do this much .


    I¡¯m used to it so it wasn¡¯t that hard anymore, and Dad has been the best Dad also.


    ¡± I think that should be all,¡± I told Diane, looking through the things we bought again, before cing them at the back of the car.


    I didn¡¯t hear her say anything, so I turned to check whatsup with her and found her grinning like a frog.


    ¡± What¡¯s up?¡± I cooed.


    ¡± Do you think I could stay over for dinner as well?¡± she asked in an absurd manner.


    I didn¡¯t need to ask her why.


    ¡± Please Diane, I don¡¯t have anything to say to you. You¡¯ll surely get to see Nathan on the wedding day. You¡¯ll get to see him as much as you want, so please just go home okay. I can¡¯t deal with you¡± I bluffed and walked over to the driver¡¯s seat, and within seconds she sat close to me and we left.


    She was acting all pouty, but there¡¯s nothing I could do because Dad would surely not allow it.


    I just want to get this over with quickly.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    *


    *


    Evening cane sooner than I had anticipated, it¡¯s like the day wasn¡¯t doing me any favors but good thing I was done before then.


    Diane had gone home as well, so I quickly went to freshen up before they arrived.


    Michael was at the dining with Dad, I left the rest of the work for them and hurried up to the bathroom.


    Gosh!! The feel of cold water on my body eased my spine and calmed my nerves. I have been so stressed out since that morning and the water would go a long way to help.


    I wasted no time there still, and quickly hurried out to dress.


    ¡°Oh, my!! I should have asked Diane for help with my dressing before she left¡± I shuddered. It would have made sense to get a dressing tip from JENNERS HIGH fashionista, but it¡¯s toote now, she¡¯s already gone and I don¡¯t think I can call her back.


    It¡¯s just some minutes left before Nathan arrives with his parents.


    I had to quickly browse through the wardrobe for anything that looked outstanding.


    We were now broke but were once well off, so my wardrobe is freaking hot because I always went shopping with my friends.


    I had a proud smile on my face as I looked through it. It¡¯s really not bad.


    There were so many dresses to pick from.


    Gosh!! I really needed help, not that it was a big deed, but I just wanted to look presentable.


    I want to look more than beautiful.


    I finally settled for a strapless blue gown, with a little split at the knee level, just before the inner thighs.


    The neck was turtleneck and it took a perfect shape on me when I put it on.


    It suited me perfectly, bringing out all my curves.


    I smiled because I loved what I was seeing.


    I walked over to the dressing table and picked out two tiny balls of gold earrings.


    I brushed my hair and let it fall down straight on one shoulder.


    I did a little makeup, wore my wristwatch and sandals.


    I didn¡¯t think it was cool to wear heels when it¡¯s not like we are going out or anything.


    I was almost done when I heard a car pull over at our garage.


    I left what I was doing to run to the window and have a look.


    There were two cars and the first one, a man and a woman came down. I  knew right away they were his parents, and from the second car, a guy and a girl came out.


    I gasped suddenly. My eyes widened and my chin tightened.


    Goodness gracious!!.


    What am I seeing?.


    I was a lot more shocked from seeing the guy than I was at the girl as she eventually turned out to be someone I had had an altercation with.


    The mall girl I almost had a fight with in front of the mall, with her friends.


    I was supposed to be shocked seeing her here but I wasn¡¯t , instead I was more shocked by the guy beside her and kept wondering if he¡¯s human.


    Truth be told, I¡¯ve never seen anyone like him before.


    He¡¯s so perfect. I haven¡¯t even seen him up close and he looks this perfect.


    His steps were perfect as he walked into the house majestically with a kind of dark aura going along with him.


    My smile stretched to the widest parts of my mouth but they soon disappeared when I saw the girl clinging onto him like a jealous girlfriend and him trying to push her off.


    Huh, What¡¯s going on??. I batted my eyshes several times to be able toprehend this but I couldn¡¯t.


    He shook his head and walked briskly unto the house angrily.


    What was that?.


    I was about to leave the window when my eyes caught sight of someone else, a female also.


    I didn¡¯t notice her earlier because it seemed like she was thest to get out of the car.

 Dinner date

    DINNER DATE


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    She was just as beautiful as the rude girl I met at the mall the other time.


    Come to think of it, why was the rude girl clinging onto Nathan so much. How annoying!!.


    Who¡¯s she to him? I was so curious and quickly left the window to go finish up with my dressing.


    Gosh!! Howe she¡¯s here?. I was so mad as the memories of that day came flooding in.


    Was she acting that way because she¡¯s rted to Nathan?.


    Ahh!! Can¡¯t believe she¡¯s here.. in my house. The world is indeed a small ce.


    I don¡¯t know who she is to Nathan but they look quite close and I knew without a doubt that she would be trouble for me.


    There¡¯s no way she would have forgotten about that day, just as I haven¡¯t. Let¡¯s just hope she will keep her mouth shut, at least until dinner is over.


    I added a little lipgloss to my lips before stepping out of the room.


    I wanted to stay in a little while longer but I knew it was rude to keep the guests waiting. My father raised me better than than.


    *


    *


    Mr and Mrs Martins exchanged pleasantries with Mr Staffers, Ruby¡¯s father.


    ¡± Oh, Staffers. It¡¯s so good to see you again after all these years¡± Tracy greeted warmly.


    ¡± Good evening sir, ma¡¯am¡± Michael greeted also, with his cute innocent voice.


    ¡± Evening darling, how you doing?¡± Tracy asked, ruffling his hair with a huge smile on her face.


    Nathan greeted Mr Staffers grumpily before going to take a seat on the couch.


    E greeted also and so did their cousin that went with them, Chelsea.


    She was a kind, sweet girl.


    The duoter left to go meet Nathan, leaving the adults to talk about private stuff.


    ¡± I can¡¯t wait to meet the girl you would be getting married to¡± Chelsea said smilingly to Nathan who was just pinging away on his phone.


    He seemed to be unconscious of all that was going on around him.


    He didn¡¯t give a damn or even brought his head to look at Chelsea when she was talking to him.


    He had ignored herpletely, but she understood him because she knew he has always been like that. It¡¯s not like she was even expecting an answer or anything like that.


    Chelsea was his second cousin ¨C his mom¡¯s older sister¡¯s daughter and that¡¯s why he was so fond of her.


    He has lots of other cousins and rtives but only Chelsea was close to him the way E was.


    To him, she reminds him of his mom because they have a striking resemnce.


    Weird right!!  Everyone had found this strange but it was a good thing for Nathan and that¡¯s one of the reasons he adores her so much, and that¡¯s why she could talk to him in a way others can¡¯t and she also seem to be the only one that understands him.


    He¡¯s a very difficult person and people often ask her how she copes with him, and in situations like this, she would only smile rather than give a suitable answer.


    She has gotten used to his cold personality since there was nothing she could do about it.


    She has tried so much in the past to help him change, but all her efforts yielded no results and she decided to give up and just try to look for ways to be supportive of him instead.


    ¡± I really don¡¯t know why you have to get married¡± E whined for the upteenth time.


    She was irritating Nathan so much but he decided to keep his cool and not do anything about it.


    In a way, his marriage will be a way to get her out of her weird fantasy and the obsession she has over him.


    ¡± I can see you are all set. Where¡¯s Ruby? I don¡¯t see her here¡± Mr Martins asked Mr Staffers.


    ¡± Oh!! She went in some minutes ago to freshen up. You know, she was the one that prepared all these, so..¡± Mr Staffers tried to exin.


    ¡± You don¡¯t need to exin, we understand¡± Mr Martins enthused.


    ¡± Oh, my! She prepared all these herself. You must have brought her up so well. I must say she really grew up well without her mom¡± Tracy added and they all bursted intoughter.


    ¡± Uhmm¡­ where¡¯s your little boy? I thought he was here some minutes ago¡± Mr Martins asked, noticing Michael¡¯s absence.


    ¡± Yeah, I am sure he went to meet his big sister,¡± Mr Staffers answered.


    They went on to talk about other things pertaining to the wedding.


    Meanwhile, Michael was on his way to go meet Ruby when he saw her on the way.


    ¡± Ruby!!¡± he ran to meet her and embraced her warmly as he did.


    She ruffled his hair, pulled him off her and held his hand, as they both walked to the dinning.


    They got there to find the others already seated.


    They hurriedly walked in.


    ¡± Oh, here they are¡± that was their Dad.


    Ruby walked with Michael¡¯s tiny hand in hers. She couldn¡¯t get why she was feeling so uneasy.


    It was all so new and strange to her.


    They got to the table and she froze as she did, battling her eyshes severally to be sure her eyes weren¡¯t deceiving her.


    What the¡­??


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Holy Molly!! I didn¡¯t think I could breathe at that point.


    Now I get why Diane was acting all crazy. This guy is definitely not human. I now understand what she was saying.


    While I was surprised to see his beauty up close, the mall girl was shocked to see me.


    I noticed her gasp but ignored it as best as I could, before snapping out of my reverie and dragging my feet to a chair close to Dad, making Michael sit close to me.


    I got up again to dish our meal before sitting down again and that was when the conversation started


    ¡± Oh, my!! You¡¯re so pretty¡± ady said.


    I couldn¡¯t tell if she was ady or just a woman. She was very young and could pass for a teenager.


    Also very pretty too.


    ¡± Good evening sir, ma¡¯am¡± I greeted.


    They both smiled at me and asked how I was doing.


    They were so nice and spoke calmly and sweetly.


    All this time, I stole nces at Nathan and noticed he was the cool type.


    I guess he doesn¡¯t like to talk much or maybe he¡¯s just flustered.


    I ended my small conversation with his parents and we all returned to our meals but the mall girl or whatever, wouldn¡¯t stop ring at me.


    I guess she¡¯s mature after all. She didn¡¯t say a word.


    But I so know we have a score to settleter and her eyes were telling me all these.


    I then decided to try as much as possible to avoid making eye contact with her.


    I looked at the toher girl who introduced herself as Chelsea. She smiled lovingly at me and I could tell she was nice.


    He was her cousin, while the mall girl was his sister.


    Gosh!! Why does she have to be his sister I could never have guessed.


    I hope she won¡¯t  pose a problemter on, because I¡¯m more than ready to deal with her.


    I¡¯m not scared of her, and what was that act she was putting on  earlier? Why was she holding onto him like that? It totally creeped me out back there.


    Goodness!!.


    I¡¯ll have to put her in her ce. She better not try anything with me.


    Except for the sound of our cutleries, no other noise could be heard.


    This went on for a long time until Nathan¡¯s father finally decided to break the silence.


    ¡± So, Nathan, how long is it gonna take you to introduce yourself. Everyone here at this table has done that?¡± he asked, not raising his head to look at who he was talking to.


    ¡± You should be happy I came here with you¡± Nathan said spitefully, his head down to his meal, which he was barely eating.


    He hasn¡¯t put a single thing in his mouth.


    But damn!!! His voice is so angellic, I couldn¡¯t stop drooling.


    His Dad kept quiet. I guess he was dumbfounded, but that doesn¡¯t matter much to me, as I took out that quiet time to study Nathan¡¯s features.


    As I had already known from the little time I was able to get a glimpse of his face, his eye color were ocean blue, and they dazzled, so much¡­ so much that I got lost staring at them.


    It was just for a while but I could feel my heart racing.


    My crazy heart. I wonder why I was feeling that way.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    I have never felt that way before, not  even towards Louis.


    What¡¯s suddenly wrong with me?.


    His pale skin and bloody red lips made his beauty more alluring and princely.


    His round face looked like it was already made for the type of hair cut on his hair.


    His hair was silky, rough and dark. He didn¡¯t bother to fall or even make it straight. It was curly and scattered, covering a small part of his face, but all of his forehead.


    He looked insanely handsome this way. He was in an all ck attire with gold jewelries dripping from him.


    I wondered why a guy would love jewelries so much.


    I bet he would be glittering when he gets under the sun.


    Goodness! He¡¯s just so heavenly in every way, I was in a bind.. I couldn¡¯t believe this was the guy I was gonna be getting married to.


    Holy Christ!! How am I even gonna live with him? I¡¯m sure I would suffocate to death.


    His voice will keep sweeping me off my feet and I would keep getting lost in his deep blue eyes.


    Oh, my!! I¡¯m in huge trouble.


    ¡± Woah!! I have to say, you did a great job Ruby. The meal was wonderful¡± his mom¡¯s voice snapped me out of my thoughts.


    I looked at her and the rest of them to see they were done with their meal.


    I managed a smile out of my lips. I was feeling uneasy and my palms were all sweaty.


    I was the only one apart from Nathan that still have a te full of food.


    Well, mine his different from his because he wasn¡¯t eating in the first ce.


    I bet he just decided to sit there because he didn¡¯t want toe off as disrespectful.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ please excuse me, I would like to use the restroom¡± I said and quickly excused myself, walking to my room.


    I got in and slumped on the bed and let out the breathe I didn¡¯t know I had been holding.


    Goodness gracious!! I couldn¡¯t breathe properly out there.


    It was so much tension that am not used to


    I¡¯m a tough girl but there are still a lot of things I can¡¯t handle.


    ¡± I found you¡± I heard that familiar voice, with a hint of spite in it.


    I got up to find her in my room.


    Great! How did she find me and why¡¯s she here?.


    I sat on the end and we engaged in a eye battle.


    She folded her arms across her chest as we both waited for the other to say something.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ aren¡¯t you going to say anything to me?¡± she asked, flickering her eyes at me.


    I looked round and then back at her.


    ¡± I don¡¯t get. What am I supposed to say to you?¡± I asked her, honestly not getting where she wasing from.


    ¡± Seriously. Are you sure you have nothing to say to me?¡± she asked again and I shook my head.


    She huffed.


    ¡± Arent you gonna apologize to me?¡± she asked irritatedly.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ what for?¡± I asked surprised.


    ¡± Seriously? You¡¯re asking me what for. Have you forgotten what happened at the mall. Oh, woah!! I can¡¯t believe this. I can¡¯t believe we ended up meeting  each other like this. I can¡¯t believe we found each other and I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re saying this to me now?¡±


    ¡± Have you forgotten you¡¯re getting married to my brother? What do you think he will do if he finds out what¡­¡±


    ¡°Get out¡± I cut her off rudely, getting of from the bed.


    I was going to walk past her when she held my hand, dragging me back..


    ¡± What the? Fuck off!!¡± I cussed angrily, as I turned to face her and we both red at eachother.


    ¡± What¡¯s going on here?¡± we heard a voice behind us.

 A Disguised Angel

    A Disguised Angel


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I wriggled E¡¯s hold away from my arm and turned to re at her in anger.


    We both turned to face Chelsea who stood at the door, with both arms above her chest.


    ¡± What¡¯s going on here?¡± she asked us again, walking closer this time.


    I scoffed and went back to the bed to sit, while E angrily storm out.


    Why are they in my room? I don¡¯t get it.


    ¡± You look angry. Don¡¯t be. E has always been a spoilt brat¡± she said with a chuckle.


    ¡± I¡¯m more than ready to break her wings. She better no try any rubbish with me¡± I said sternly.


    She smiled and came to squat in front of me.


    ¡± I¡¯m d you¡¯re saying this, because you¡¯re getting married to her brother. It would do you alot of good if you will be able to handle her, but as you would already know, she¡¯s not an easy person and it¡¯s not gonna be easy¡± she exined.


    I heaved, understanding what she meant.


    At least, she is alot nicer and better than the so called E. I only wished she was his sister instead of E.


    ¡± You must be so excited, huh?¡± she broke the silence that was supposed to take over.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡±


    ¡± Nathan. He¡¯s every girl dream guy¡± she said with a broad smile on her face


    I rolled my eyes.


    ¡± Well, not mine¡±


    ¡± You sure about that?. Did your heart not skip a bit when you saw him?¡± she asked but I kept quiet, because I knew she was right, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to admit it.


    ¡± I know right¡± she took my silence to mean yes and I didn¡¯t have the strength to argue over what was right and what she already knows the answer to.


    ¡± Yeah, I know that feeling and I know this may sound crazy, but if Nathan weren¡¯t my brother, I would have killed to get with him¡± she revealed with a smile on her face, and I only turned to look at her with widened eyes


    Maybe she¡¯s crazy.


    ¡± Yeah, I know it sounds insane, but it¡¯s truth. I don¡¯t care about his personality and I don¡¯t care what people say about him, all I know is that I love him¡­ so much, but there¡¯s nothing I can do because we are rted. I often curse myself for being born in the same family as him, it¡¯s just so heartbreaking, so you see, you should be thankful. You¡¯re truly lucky¡±.


    ¡± Many girls would do absolutely anything to be in the position you are in right this minute. I know a lot would kill to  have him just look at them¡± she went on and on and I understood nothing she was saying


    I huffed.


    ¡± How exactly are you all expecting me to be happy getting married to someone I know absolutely nothing about?¡± I grumbled with frustration.


    Is this fun to them? This is my life. I know am still very young and I might not have any experience about marriage, but I know I certainly want to get married to someone I love and who loves me too. Someone I understand and know, not all this.


    It wasn¡¯t fun to me and I don¡¯t care how popr, rich or handsome he is. I know too well that I am never gonna be happy in this marriage and that¡¯s why I¡¯m not gonna expect anything from it.


    I¡¯m just gonna see it as a contract marriage because honestly speaking, that¡¯s what all this is. I don¡¯t want anyone talking me into anything.


    ¡± Is it that easy?¡± I asked again.


    ¡± Well, if you want to know about him, that wouldn¡¯t be a problem. I can help you with that¡± she said.


    ¡± How?¡± I asked, looking confused.


    ¡± No one knows him like I do, trust me¡± she stated and an ¡®oh¡¯ expression escaped from my lips.


    I kept quiet and waited for her to go on.


    ¡± Well, how do I put it?. Nathan is an easy going person if you really get to understand him. A lot of people think he¡¯s hard, rude, difficult and mean, but he¡¯s far from it. If you get to understand him, you¡¯ll see that he¡¯s very simple. He¡¯s just a principled man that loves to live by his rules and principles¡±.


    ¡± Uhm, he¡¯s stubborn ¨C no doubt about that; hard to please- this is the main problem everyone has with him. He¡¯s ridiculously goodlooking ¨C 100%;. He loves easily and when he does he doesn¡¯t let go¡±.


    ¡± He gets jealous easily, so make sure never to get him jealous because he would never forgive you, because he hardly forgives ¨C it¡¯s almost impossible. Avoid getting him angry ¨C he¡¯s like a demon when he gets angry. He¡¯s like a puppy when he falls in love and when he does, he does with all his heart and truly opens his heart ¨C he bes vulnerable, behaves childish and act cute, But remember, don¡¯t ever make him jealous and angry, just think of it as a danger zone ¡± she concluded, leaving me with a huge smile on my face.


    The tips would be really helpful and I was so d she had exined everything to me.


    Woah!! So he does fall in love. I was so curious to know who his first love is, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to ask her.


    The girl must have been so lucky.


    ¡± Well, I guess I¡¯ve said enough¡± she stood up and started walking to the bathroom..


    Huh, I thought she came because of E, seems she was really here to use the restroom unlike E.


    I waited for her toe out and when she did, we left for the dinning together.


    We got there to see they had all move to the sitting room.


    Nathan was sitting at the far end of the sitting room, his head buried in his phone.


    Chelsea walked ahead of me and went to meet E.


    ¡± You¡¯re here¡± Dad beamed at me, and from what I saw, they have been waiting for me.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes Dad¡± I replied and the rest of them turned to look at me also.


    ¡± Well dear, we have decided to give you both some time alone. At least, you both should get to know each other. We¡¯ll excuse you now¡± Dad said and they all got up and started walking out one after the other.


    It was not until they had all left that I realize what he had said. I became nervous all of a sudden, and my palms became sweaty too.


    I carried my wobbling legs to a couch behind me and quietly sat on it.


    The room became as quiet as a graveyard and only the sounds from the wall clock could be heard.


    Goodness!! The tension was too much for me to handle and I wished they didn¡¯t have to do this.


    There¡¯s nothing for us to talk about. I doubt if he will even talk to me.


    I opened my mouth to try and say something but nothing came out. My tongue was glued to my mouth and I couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    Gosh!! Where did the bold Ruby suddenly run off to? This isn¡¯t me.


    The situation wasn¡¯t looking good. I resorted to peeping at him, carefully so he wouldn¡¯t see me.


    His long eyshes became even longer with the way his head was down. With the way he stared at the phone, I knew he wasn¡¯t doing anything in it.


    He was just staring at me and that gave me hope that maybe he was also finding it hard to start up a conversation.


    I bit my lower lips and stared at the ceilings. What kind of predicament did I get myself into?.


    My heart was beating so fast and I feared he would hear it from where he was sitting.


    Just as I was about to turn and stare at his handsome face once more, he abruptly stood up.


    ¡± I guess we are done here, since you have nothing to say¡± his angelic voice came.


    The old me was supposed to get angry and get mad at him and even cuss at him and challenge him, but I was too dumbstruck to even do anything.


    I stood like someone that was being controlled like a remote and watched him walk out of the sitting room.


    Goodness!! I released the breath I had been holding and fell back to the couch.


    Who the hell raised that boy? His personality sucks so much.


    Is this what am gonna be facing everyday? He didn¡¯t even have the decency to say a proper goodbye.


    Woah!! What a jerk! I can¡¯t believe this.


    I can¡¯t deny the fact that he¡¯s incredibly handsome and I couldn¡¯t do anything about the situation.


    Something like this has never happened to me before. I had never been smitten by a guy before. I had never lost control over a guy before.


    All the feelings I was having were totally new and strange to me and there was nothing I could do about them.

 An idea

    AN IDEA


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;.


    I left Dad and Michael and walked to my room.


    I ran my mind through all that has happened.


    Goodness!! Why did he have to act so cold?. It¡¯s so frustrating.


    Dad didn¡¯t bother to call me back and ask how it went.. I¡¯m guessing he didn¡¯t want to bother me as well.


    Iid on my bed, my back to the bed and my face upward, facing the ceiling.


    His handsome face suddenly shed into my eyes.


    Woah!! Those eyes and lips. I couldn¡¯t get enough by just staring at them.


    He¡¯s the definition of perfection and in a way, I think he deserves to act the way he was acting.


    I mean, he has the looks, charisma, character, money, fame and all.


    Phew!! What a life.


    How could only one person end up with such things?.


    I turned slightly to the beeping of my phone.


    It got me distracted from my thoughts and I had to quickly go pick it up when it started ringing for the second time.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I cooed into the phone without even checking who it was.


    ¡± Hey baby girl!!¡± her voice loud enough to hurt my eardrum came in.


    I had to quickly take the phone away from my ear.


    Crazy girl.


    ¡± How did it go?. What was Nathan like? Did you get to talk to him? How¡¯s his family? Are they nice?. I want you to tell me everything¡± she demanded and in a way, I regretted not asking her to stay.


    How do I start answering all these questions?.


    ¡± Goodness Diane. I¡¯m really exhausted right now. Do you think you could call back another time, so we can talk about it?¡± I asked grouchingly.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ did something happen. Didn¡¯t the dinner date go well!¡± she bombarded me with more questions.


    ¡± It did, and that¡¯s why I¡¯m so exhausted right now¡± I replied, and as I did, I suddenly remembered I didn¡¯t clear up the dinning table before leaving for my room.


    ¡± Uhm Diane, lemme call you back¡± I told her and ended the call before she could say anything.


    I stood up from the bed and walked back to the dinning to see it was neat and tidy.


    Ohh!! Dad!! He didn¡¯t have to.


    I looked over at the sitting room and he wasn¡¯t there.


    Where could they have gone?.


    Hphmm! I wasn¡¯t about to go on a search party but I was sure they were somewhere around the house.


    I walked back to my room and fell hard on my bed, resuming my thinking spree.


    *


    *


    The journey back home seems like a long one for the Martins family.


    The car ride was awkward, ufortable and suffocating.


    Mr Martins has insisted they all take one car home.


    It almost turned to a battle before they could get Nathan in the same car with them and through-out the ride, his head had been buried down on his phone, making it difficult for his Dad to aplish his mission as to why he has asked him to ride with them in the same car.


    He wanted to hear about his talk with Ruby, but no matter how many times he was asked, he neither said anything nor even acted like he was being talked to.


    He kept mute and kept a straight face and this angered his Dad alot.


    Hence, the car became silent as no one dared utter a word after that.


    The tension was a lot and it wasn¡¯t supposed to be because the day was supposed to be a happy one.


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    I seriously don¡¯t get why Dad was acting this way towards me.


    He should just tell me what he wants, because this marriage stuff isn¡¯t looking funny to me anymore.


    Why does he always do things that pisses me off?


    He knows why I am still working for him when I could easily just set up my ownpany.


    Although I might not be as influential as he is, I am very wealthy and that¡¯s more than enough to sustain me and get me any kind of poprity I so desire.


    He¡¯s really pissing me off that I am now having a rethink about the whole thing.


    I don¡¯t even understand what¡¯s going on anymore.


    Is this supposed to be a joke or what? I think the prank was going on for far too long?.


    Does he enjoy torturing me so much?.


    We got home and I didn¡¯t wait for him to pack properly before getting out of the car.


    I walked straight to the gate and walked out.


    I needed to get away from them because I was too angry and offended.


    He keeps treating me as a child and it¡¯s getting so demeaning and irritating.


    He knows too well how much I hate stuff like this and it¡¯s exactly what he went ahead to do.


    I think he always chooses to do the things that pisses me off and make me mad or unhappy.


    I¡¯ve never seen a parent that doesn¡¯t care about the feelings and wellbeing of their child.


    I think he¡¯s so selfish and only cares about himself, or maybe it¡¯s just me he doesn¡¯t care about.


    Maybe he just loves torturing me so much that he¡¯s trying to tame me and put me in a tight corner.


    This was the height of it. I already agreed to the so-called marriage, was meeting with them really important?.


    Goodness!! She¡¯s so young¡­ so young that I felt guilty.


    I don¡¯t even know how I am going to carry out my ns. How could I dare to hurt such a girl. She¡¯s E¡¯s age mate if I am not mistaken.


    I know my personality sucks, but I am not a jerk to that extent.


    I don¡¯t think I would be able to carry on with the initial n I had in mind.


    In  a way, I felt we both were in a dilemma.


    I had a change of heart right there and then and decided to look for another approach to it¡­. the best approach.


    One that I am sure won¡¯t hurt or harm her in any way.


    I smiled when an idea suddenly came to mind.


    Finally..N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

 Wedding

    WEDDING


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I stared at my reflection in the mirror for the one thousandth time.


    Yeah, I was dropped dead beautiful ¨C I knew it and needed no one to tell me.


    Any other girl would be over the moon on a day like this, but not the girl standing in front of a mirror right then¡­ not me. I was nowhere close to being excited, talkless of happy.


    I reflected on the happenings again and thought if all this was really happening. I felt nausea build up in my stomach and my adrenaline arched up like a thick muscle.


    Staring at the wless, beautifully decorated white dress, which had some extras measuring a few metres, my neck was adored with jewelries of various types and kinds, my hair was decorated with beautiful ornaments, my wrist with bracelets, gold chains and fingers with diamond rings and the like.


    My feet weren¡¯t left out, it was graced with the most beautiful, sparkling silver heel I have ever seen.


    I looked like a queen, I smelled like a queen and I felt like a queen, but the feeling was nostalgic and soon enough, I felt the old feelings surging through me, they were stronger¡­ like a whirlwind and like that, consumed me as a whole, relinquishing the feelings I once harboured.


    ¡± Oh, my!!!¡± I heard a gasp at my back, and peeped through the mirror to see who it was.


    ¡± Diane¡± I beamed a fake smile, turning to stare at  her.


    I did a model pose, cing my right hand on my waist, and the other on my thigh, my face covered with smiles and my lips stretching to each side, showing her the perfect picture she should be seeing.


    She covered her mouth with both of her palms after gasping, then gently cat walked towards me in a gracious manner.


    She sure looked like a maid of honour.


    There was no time to scavenge through her dress, because soon enough she came close, engulfing me in a warm embrace.


    ¡± You look so beautiful dear¡± she squealed, immediately letting go of me.


    ¡± I would say the same for you¡± I beamed.


    ¡± What are you still doing here?¡± she asked, checking out my dress one more time.


    ¡± I¡­¡±.


    ¡°You need not to look at the dress anymore, everything looks perfect and you look splendid¡± she enthused.


    ¡± We are all waiting for you outside, so¡­ shall we?¡± she asked, moving a few inches further from me.


    I chuckled at her disy of charisma and demonstration. She was acting so childish, but I liked it because it kind of elevated my spirit.


    I was feeling so down and seeing her now brought different kinds of emotions.


    I suddenly thought of my mom. She¡¯s supposed to be here on a day like this¡­ she¡¯s the one that¡¯s supposed to assist in dressing me up and she¡¯s the one that¡¯s supposed to be checking in on me now and asking how I am feeling or what I think.


    But, she¡¯s gone and I realised how early she had died.


    Imagine how early I got married and she still wasn¡¯t here.


    It¡¯s so unfortunate that it made me think how my  life would turn out¡­ what the future has in-store for me?.


    At that point, I realized I haven¡¯t really felt it that much, and I was just starting to really feel what it means not to have a mother.


    ¡± Hey¡± Diane cooed, pulling me closer to herself and snapping me out of my thoughts


    I raised my head to see Michael standing close to Dad, both of them standing close to the car.


    They both beamed at me and I left Diane to go meet them.


    I hugged Michael first before standing upright to look at Dad.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He smiled, and touched my left cheek.


    ¡°You look so beautiful dear¡± he said with so much affection in his eyes.


    ¡°If only your mother was here to witness this day¡± he said as if he had read my thoughts.


    My expression went nk and I had to quickly adjust and wear a fake smile.


    ¡± Sorry to interrupt the father ¨C daughter moment, but we got to go, like now¡± Diane stepped in and I was d she did.


    I walked ahead and got into the car after Dad opened the door for me, and the rest of them joined soon enough.


    *


    *


    I don¡¯t know how long the ride has been but the car suddenly pulled over in front of the church where the wedding was to take ce.


    I snapped out of my thoughts as soon as the car came to a halt.


    Without saying a word, I stepped out of the car and the others did also.


    ¡± So¡­ I¡¯ll take it from here¡± Dad said, walking closer to me.


    ¡± Yeah, I¡¯ll go inform the others¡± Diane said and beckoned Michael to go with her which he did.


    Dad and I were left alone. He suddenly stretched out his arm to me and I ced my arm around it, as we went in this way.


    *


    *


    ¡± Do you take her to be yourwfully wedded wife, in sickness and in health, riches and poorness¡­¡± the priest asked Nathan and without batting an eyelid, he said ¡® YES¡¯.


    His answer was swift, cold and sharp.


    ¡± You may now kiss the bride¡± the priest gave the finalmand and a scoff escaped from his mouth.


    Ruby¡¯s palms be sweaty all of a sudden, as she awaited this dreadful moment.


    ¡± Can¡¯t we just skip this and move on to the next path?¡± Nathan groaned, not hiding his anger and displeasure.


    The priest was a bit shocked and taken aback. It was probably his first time witnessing something like that.


    ¡± What¡­ what do you mean. Aren¡¯t you supposed to¡­¡±.


    ¡± Are you deaf or what?¡± Nathan barked, making Ruby shake like a leaf close to him.


    The priest gulped down hard, took a nce at Ruby and then his eyes back to the crowd.


    ¡± I now pronounce you husband¡­¡± hepleted the statement amidst the murmurings and whispers from the crowd.


    Hisst sentence was soon greeted with a horrendous round of apuse, cheers, screams and shouts.


    Flowers filled the air immediately and the music came on. Some stood, some shouted and some just stayed perplexed and uneasy.


    It was still a shock to everyone. Some thought it was strange, while some thought something had happened.


    Whatever the case was, it was a happy day and everyone was supposed to be merry and should be merry.


    Nathan pulled out his arm to the amazement of Ruby. She had to do a mental check before cing hers in his.


    They then marched outside, with the crowd pulling behind them.


    The rest of the events followed. They took photos, greeted and shook hands with friends, business associates and the likes.


    It was a hectic day for both families, and also a happy one.


    And finally, the sad moment came ¨C the moment for Ruby to go home with her new family.


    Michael weeped his eyes out and it took a lot from his Dad to get him into his car, and a promise from Ruby to always visit him.


    After making sure he was alright, Ruby walked to the car that was to take her and Nathan to their honeymoon.


    The after party was only for members of the families because Nathan had a business deal to sign that day, and he had to go.


    He had chosen the ce as where they would be having their honeymoon also.


    So, the car drove them straight to the airport where they boarded the ne.


    Ruby has quickly changed into a simpler outfit.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I turned to my side to see my so-called husband deeply engrossed in hisptop.


    Jeez!! I know nothing¡¯s gonna happen between us ever, but can¡¯t he at least skip work for only that day.


    I don¡¯t know if he¡¯s just a workaholic or he¡¯s trying not to have anything to do with me.


    Sleep soon came and by the time I opened my eyes, I was on the bed. How and when I got there was still a mystery to me.


    I itched my eyes with the back of my palm, sat upright on the bed and looked around..


    Damn!! The room was beautiful. It was painted with white and the bed I was on was so huge, soft andfy.


    The designs were woah and the lights were splendid.


    I struggled to get out of the bed, and as I did, my stomach rumbled, reminding me that I haven¡¯t had anything to eat all day.


    I dragged my feet from the floor to the door. I opened the door and came across a small hallway leading to the stairs.


    I walked through it and came to the stairs. I walked down the stairs and contemted which way to go to locate the kitchen.


    My stomach rumbled again.


    Damn!! I was so hungry. I quickly held it with my palm. I didn¡¯t even know what time of the day it was.


    ¡± Good day ma¡¯am¡± I heard a tiny voice say behind me.


    I turned abruptly to see a young girl, maybe in her mid twenties, beautiful, slender and soft looking with puppy like eyes and an adorable face.


    ¡± How can I help you ma¡¯am?¡± she addressed me so respectfully, that I wondered who she was.


    From all indications, she was a lot older than me.


    ¡± Who .. who are you?¡± I stuttered, the hunger taking a toll on me.


    ¡± I¡¯m Lara, one of the housekeepers,¡± she informed me.


    I mouthed an ¡®Oh¡¯.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ where¡¯s this ce?¡¯ I managed to ask.


    ¡± You¡¯re in the De Martins vacation home ma¡¯am. I¡¯m guessing Mr Nathan is here on a business trip because he onlyes here when he has business to do here¡± she exined to me.


    I was losing strength, so I walked slowly to the couch and she followed suit, but remained standing.


    ¡± Are you okay ma¡¯am?¡± she asked.


    The ma¡¯am was making me cringe so much. How do I tell her to stop?.


    ¡°Is there anything I can do for you or help you with?¡± she asked again.


    I held my hand up for her to drop.


    ¡± Is there anything to eat? I¡¯m famished¡± I asked breathlessly.


    ¡± Oh!! There are plenty of dishes, but we didn¡¯t prepare the table yet because we didn¡¯t know what you¡¯ll like, so we were waiting for you to wake up so we could ask what you would like to¡­¡±


    ¡± Please, just get me anything, I¡¯ll be fine with it. ¡± I cut her off immediately. I wasn¡¯t really in the mood to be picky at that point.


    She bowed and made to walk away but I called her back when I remembered something.


    ¡± What day is it?¡± I had to ask, because it was so bright, although the sun wasn¡¯t in the sky.


    ¡± It¡¯s the 12th day of June ma¡¯am¡±she answered.


    I nodded slowly,pletely amazed.


    I looked over at the wall clock and it read, 8:15am.


    Goodness!! It¡¯s morning. That exins why I am so hungry. I had absolutely nothing to eat the previous day.


    But howe? How did I sleep this long and deep?.


    I looked at my outfit and saw I was in a  lingerie.


    Who changed my outfit? Who carried me from the ne to the car, and from the car to that room?.


    Oh, my! I can¡¯t believe this, and where the hell is he?.


    I can¡¯t believe he came here to work? Is he for real? Am I like a joke to him or what?.


    I know it¡¯s an arranged marriage and we shouldn¡¯t expect anything but it wasn¡¯t cool.


    How could he just leave me all alone in a ce I don¡¯t even know? With people I don¡¯t know.


    I can¡¯t believe this¡­ I can¡¯t believe him. He probably doesn¡¯t know who he¡¯s feeling with noyet.


    I think I¡¯ve been quiet for far too long.


    Who does he even think he is, hub?


    Rubbish!!.


    I formed in anger.

 Talk it out

    TALK IT OUT.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I smiled broadly, scooping thest spoon of rice into my mouth. The meal was delicious and I enjoyed every bit of it.


    I was now fully energized and would surely have all the energy to give Nathan a piece of my mind.


    Thoughts of school flooded my mind. We were to resume the next day, and I was so far away.


    Goodness!!.


    I got up from the chair, my stomach so much that I feared I would be able to take anything again for that day.


    I walked to the sitting room, taking a position on the couch I was seated on before.


    I picked up the remote control, and started searching through the channels for a good programme to watch and relieve myself.


    I have to say, this has got to be the weirdest honeymoon in history. Can¡¯t believe I¡¯m sitting here all by myself and the funny thing is I don¡¯t even know the whereabouts of my so-called husband.


    When he left or when he¡¯sing back ispletely unknown to me.


    ¡± Would you like anything else ma¡¯am?¡± the maid from earlier ¨C Lara asked.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ a ss of juice¡± I said simply.


    She bowed again and was midway when I stopped and called her back.


    ¡°Can you drop the ma¡¯am thingy. You can just call me Ruby. My name is Ruby ¡± I told her, all smiles.


    She smiled too.


    ¡± I can¡¯t do that ma¡¯am, ¡± she replied.


    ¡± Why not?¡± I asked puzzled, although I was expecting her to say that


    She chuckled.


    ¡± Even a year old baby brought here would be addressed as Sir. It¡¯s the rule here and the right thing to do¡± she exined.


    I wanted to object but I just decided to let it slide, because it seems nothing I say now will change her mind. She will only think I am trying to get her into trouble.


    So, I just nodded and allowed her to be on her way.


    She had left when I heard a car horn outside.


    I needed no one to tell me it was him. I  adjusted on my seat, awaiting its presence, and it came sooner than I expected.


    He came walking in majestically, and swiftly into the sitting room.


    He took one quick, sharp nce at me and that was it, he was on his way to the stairs, not taking another nce at me again.


    I was sure if I hadn¡¯t seen him nce at me, I probably wouldn¡¯t have known about it.


    How dare him act like I don¡¯t exist? He must think I¡¯m calm and a good girl, or that I¡¯ll go easy on him because I¡¯m way younger than him.


    He better start thinking again because I ampletely different from all girls my age.


    I hurriedly got up in front of the couch and stormed after him.


    He was in already and I got in to find him at the wardrobe, ransacking through it.


    I sat on the bed, and when he turned and saw me there, he was taken aback but quickly hid it.


    He carried the clothes he had brought out from the wardrobe with him to the bathroom.


    I waited for close to 20 minutes before he came out again, fully d in casual wear.


    I blushed hard at his handsomeness, admiring all his features.


    I loved the way water dripped down from his wet hair, and fell to his face.


    He picked up ab from the dressing table and startedbing it, a towel hanging down from his neck.


    He shot me a nce and I quickly took my eyes elsewhere.


    My eyes had been so fixated on him that I didn¡¯t know when he turned.


    He did all I think he had to do and started heading to the door.


    To say I was shocked was an understatement.


    How could he? Not even a word?.


    I was speechless and my lips were left hanging.


    Before he could open the door and go out, I ran there, standing in front of him.


    He was shocked but only looked down at me.


    ¡± What¡¯s this?¡± he groaned, his eyes spitting fire.


    I got scared immediately but it was toote to back down, and even if I wanted to, there was no way to move my feet  ¨C they werepletely glued to the ground.


    ¡± I¡­ i. i wan.. I wanted to ask.. ask when¡­¡±N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡± Can¡¯t you talk?¡± he barked, and I didn¡¯t know when I started sweating.


    Jeez!! How did I ever think I can face him?.


    I clenched my fist tightly. It¡¯s a good thing he hasn¡¯t shoved me out of his way, and that gave me a little courage to say what I had in mind.


    ¡± I have something to say to you¡± I finally let out.


    ¡± I don¡¯t have time for this. Make anything you want to say wait, we¡¯ll discuss itter¡± he said sternly, but I didn¡¯t budge.


    I stood my ground and insisted.


    ¡± No. We have to discuss it now, or do you have somewhere you¡¯re going to?¡± I was enthused.


    ¡± I don¡¯t, but I have things to do¡± he bemoaned.


    ¡± Good. Do themter. We need to talk. Now!¡± I ordered, going back to sit on the bed.


    He stared at me with a puzzled look on his face and I stared back, not scared.


    He must be shocked at my behavior and I was d I had made the impression I wanted him to have of me on him.


    But I was amazed when his res suddenly turned to smiles.


    He walked slowly towards me, cing both of his hands in his pockets.


    With a smirk stered on his face, dangling from one side of his lip to the other, he bent slightly, cing his mouth to my left ear.


    My breath arched and my heartbeat elerated in ways I never thought was possible.


    His blue eyes stared deep into mine and my adrenaline formed, my heart beating fast and hard.


    Damn!!! Why does he have toe so close? What does he have to say now?.


    I bit my lower lips as his breath fanned my neck, sending shivers down my spine.


    Goodness Ruby!! What the hell are you thinking of right now? I scolded subconsciously.


    ¡± Actually..¡± his angelic voice came in whispers, making the butterflies in my stomach dance for joy.


    ¡± I also have something I wanna discuss with you¡± he finished.


    There was no room to be shocked, because whatever feeling I was having haspletely overwhelmed how shocked I should be by this revtion.


    He withdrew himself from me when he was done making this statement, and smirked again.


    I stared at him, taking note of every move he was making.


    The smirk left his face and he went back to the door, opened it and got out.


    I did nothing to stop him this time around, because I couldn¡¯t do anything. I waspletely and deeply mesmerized by him. It was like a charm and I slowly began to regain myself when he was long gone.


    Holy heavens!!.


    What just happened back there.


    I ced my palm on my chest to see how fast my heart was beating. After that, I ced both of my palms on both sides of my face to ease the tension I was feeling.


    Oh, my!!.


    It¡¯s way too early to start feeling this way.


    Hold on; I don¡¯t feel anything for him right?.


    Yeah, yeah, I don¡¯t. I was just slightly captured by his beauty.


    I still don¡¯t understand how a guy would be so beautiful, even more than alot of girls.


    It¡¯s just too cute.


    Jeez!!.


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    Seeing her act that way reminded me of E.


    They sure are agemates.  I guess all teenagers act that way.


    It¡¯s annoying and yet cute at the same time. I had to get a grip of myself to avoid getting mad at her.


    How could she think of blocking my path? And what, something to discuss? What could be so important that she couldn¡¯t wait.


    She looks so young and so vulnerable and it made my heart bleed for her.


    It hurts me to see she¡¯s gonna be in this hell hole for a marriage.


    She doesn¡¯t deserve any of this. She¡¯s still too young and has her futureid out for her, but there¡¯s nothing I can do since Dad wants this so bad.


    So, taking the document with me, I walked out of the study, heading back to the room.


    I was d when I found her still there, still sitting on the spot I had left her.


    She jerked up when the door came swinging open.


    She looked up at me but quickly diverted her eyes.


    It was so swift, that it made me wonder why she acted like that, but as usual, I cared less.


    I walked slowly to her, the document on my palm. I stretched it to her when I got closer.


    She stared up at me before looking back at the paper and collecting it from me.


    She looked at it and I could see her jaws dropping in shock.


    What the..??!!

 Throw a fist

    THROW A FIST


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    My eyes dted in shock and my jaw dropped in astonishment.


    What was before me left me utterly speechless, clueless and confused.


    I sprang up to my feet immediately, putting the paper to his face.


    ¡± Sign it¡± hemanded, taking out a pen from his pocket.


    He really came prepared for this.


    ¡°And why should I? What¡¯s this by the way?¡± I asked angrily, my heart thumping hard against my chest.


    ¡± I thought you¡¯re still in school. Can¡¯t you read or what?¡± he growled.


    ¡± I¡­¡±


    ¡± I¡¯ll go straight to the point¡± he cut me off, snapping the paper out of my palm.


    ¡± I know we both don¡¯t want this marriage ¨C we were just forced into it, so I see no reason why we should suffer ourselves over it¡± he said, already seated.


    I was still standing and all I could do was stare at him.


    I dare not re, I know better than that. The mere sight of this man scared me so much. I don¡¯t have an older brother, so I don¡¯t know how I was feeling.


    Was it fear or respect, or anger? I didn¡¯t know.


    ¡± And if I refuse?¡± I asked solemnly.


    ¡± Have you even gone through it?¡± he asked.


    ¡± You¡¯re not even in a position to reject it, because it would do you a lot more good than harm, and also, it¡¯s for your own benefits. You¡¯ll benefit more from it than me¡± he said raucously.


    ¡± I¡¯m not telling you to decide if you want to or not¡­ I¡¯m not giving you a choice, I¡¯m just telling you to sign it¡± he said with a tone of finality, and the next thing I saw , he was on his feet.


    I traced him with my eyes and saw him walk out the door.


    I released the scoff I have been holding, ced my left palm on my forehead.


    He¡¯s such a piece of work!. Gosh!!.


    But wait! What do I do now? Should I really sign it?.


    I scanned through the terms in the paper again and scoffed.


    They were likeable and tempting, but didn¡¯t appeal to me.


    Is he trying to work his own contract on me? Why are they all tossing me around? Trying to make me bend to their will?.


    That had never happen to me before. Never.


    With the paper still with me, I stormed out of the room and went to meet him. I saw him, seated at the wine bar, sipping wine from a ss.


    He didn¡¯t seem to notice my presence so I made it known to him.


    ¡± I have a question, actually, questions, to ask¡± I stated.


    He only nced at me and continued what he was doing.


    It was then I noticed the paperworks upying the little space on the bar.


    I gulped down and contemted whether or not to go ahead.


    ¡°What if I refuse?¡± I asked through gritted teeth.


    He turned to look at me, and this time, he didn¡¯t remove his gaze. His blue eyes stayed fixated on mine.


    ¡°Have you gone through it?¡± he asked in a calm tone, which was very unlike him.


    I nodded.


    He didn¡¯t see me but he went ahead.


    ¡± If you¡¯re going to act foolish, then do itter, as you can see, I¡¯ve got lots of work waiting for me¡± he stated.


    My throat turned dry immediately.


    ¡°No, I need to talk to you¡± I said boldly.


    He stared again and only nodded.


    I breathed in and out, before proceeding.


    ¡± Do I really have to sign this and what happens if I don¡¯t?¡± I asked.


    ¡± You¡¯re to sign it and not ask me questions¡± he barked, making me almost jump out in fright.


    What the..? Is he always like this?.


    ¡± I¡­ I.. I just wanted to know, or dont I gave the right to know?¡± I asked, almost crying.


    I¡¯ve never been in such a situation before and didn¡¯t know how to handle it.


    He was acting so cold towards me like it¡¯s all my fault and it hurts so much¡­ so fucking much.


    I fought hard for the tears not toe rolling down.


    Gosh!! I don¡¯t want to cry over a guy. That¡¯s one of the things I detest so much.


    ¡± I need to go to school tomorrow¡± I mumbled frivolously.


    He nodded again and that pissed the hell out of me.


    ¡± Is that a you can do? Can¡¯t you at least say something?¡± I asked, I wanted to yell at him, but it wasn¡¯ting out the way I wanted it to.


    ¡± The driver will take you to the airport tomorrow morning. Is that what you wanna hear?¡± he asked


    Nathan¡¯s Pov;


    I asked her and she didn¡¯t say anything for a while.


    She looked back at the paper and signed it, then angrily ce it onto eh table and stormed out


    I know she has alot more to say but was just withholding herself.


    As long as she sticks to the contract she just signed, then we wont behaving any issues.


    Its our own personal contract and secret and should stay between us.


    I picked it up to see her signature on it then, tossed it under the other papers


    I¡¯m very d she has insisted on going to school instead of staying here.


    It would help me get rid of this madness called honeymoon.


    For goodness sake, I have alot of work to do back at the office.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I only came here because I had a impending job to do. I saw it as an opportunity to not do the honeymoon and use work as an excuse, but good thing, I can finally go back home now in peace.


    *********


    E¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± I¡¯m telling you mom, that¡¯s the girl¡± I said with anger consuming the whole of me.


    ¡± What girl?¡± she asked with a puzzled look on her face and I had to take my time to take her back to the day I had cut off my outing with the girls because someone has ruined my mood.


    ¡± Remember I told you it was a certain girl?¡± I asked her and eh nodded.


    ¡± That¡¯s the girl¡± I said.


    She was still looking confused.


    I sighed, not knowing how to exin it to her again and just when I wanted to add more details to she can remember quickly, she got it and her eyes litted up.


    ¡°What? You mean the girl that made you to mad?¡± she asked with mixed reactions.


    ¡± Yes mom, that¡¯s her. I can¡¯t believe this. I can¡¯t believe she got married to my brother and is now a member of this family. I can¡¯t believe she¡¯s now my sister inw. It¡¯s all so unbelievable and there¡¯s no  way I¡¯m gonna ept this¡­ there¡¯s no way I¡¯m going to ept her¡± I rasped in anger, fumbling and fuming.


    Mom sighed. She was acting so calm and quiet which is very unlike her.


    Mom doesn¡¯t joke with anything that concerns me. I was expecting her to be raging mad with anger and siding with me in ranting and venting out my anger, but she¡¯s doing the exact opposite, putting me in a tight corner and what she said next shocked me to my bones.


    ¡±  My dear¡± she adjusted, now facing me, and she held my hand.


    ¡± I would like you to forget about all that happened that day¡± she said calmly.


    ¡± What do you mean Mom? What are you talking about? I just told you about the girl that ruined your daughter¡¯s day and this is all you can say? D you have any idea how much I¡¯ve been longing to meet her again¡­ to set my eyes on her again after what transpired that day? Do you even know how much I was humiliated?¡±


    ¡± I know dear, believe me I do¡± Mom said.


    ¡± No, you don¡¯t. I don¡¯t think you do, because if you do, you won¡¯t be asking me to calm down or stay calm. I can¡¯t even believe you¡¯re saying this to me right now. I cant even believe this is happening. Gosh!!¡± I said and ran off.


    ¡°E!!¡± Mom called after me but I never replied.


    I can¡¯t believe her. Is she serious? Is she for real?.


    Goodness!!.


    I ran to my room, and shut the door hard behind me, then started pacing.


    My phone started ringing and I was d it did.


    That would distract me at least and take my mind away from this anger.


    I was relieved to see who was calling.


    It was ra ¨C one of my friends.


    ¡± Hey girl!!¡± she shouted happily into the phone.


    ¡± Hey¡± I said calmly.


    ¡± What¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked sensing I wasn¡¯t alright.


    ¡± Dunno.. I¡¯m fine¡± u replied.


    I know she didn¡¯t buy it.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ can wee over?¡± she asked suddenly.


    I wasn¡¯t expecting her to ask that because I thought she had something to say when she called.


    I wanted to ask her about it but didn¡¯t.


    ¡± Yeah, sure. You cane¡± I said.


    ¡± Alright. See yater¡± she said and disconnected.


    Phew!!.

 Back to school

    BACK TO SCHOOL


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    The car drove speedily to the school and as it got closer, the smile on my face only increased.


    I wanted to tell the driver to take his time and slow down.


    Yeah, I waste but there was no need to rush. It¡¯s not like anyone¡¯s going to punish me.


    Woah!! I giggled as we got close to the school gate.


    How I¡¯ve missed being here?.


    To be honest, I don¡¯t really know the reason I was smiling so much.


    I guess it¡¯s because of what transpired earlier on.


    FEW HOURS BACK.


    I stood gloomily in the mirror, checking out my dress.


    I had woken up with a slight migraine and felt sluggish.


    The feeling of excitement I thought I should be having about going to school wasn¡¯t there.


    I didn¡¯t know it would be as bad as this ¨C the marriage I mean. Guess I have to prepare for the worst things toe.


    ¡± All done¡± I turned to Lara who had been there for a while now. She hade to inform me that the driver had already gotten the car ready and was waiting for me.


    I took a deep breath, picked up my purse and walked out.


    Something was still bothering me. It¡¯s something I didn¡¯t get to ask Nathan yesterday.


    I couldn¡¯t because I don¡¯t like the way he talks to me and I know he wouldn¡¯t have answered.


    ¡± Is everything alright ma¡¯am?¡± Lara asked behind me


    Damn!! Why¡¯s she walking behind me?


    She scared the hell outta me. I¡¯m not a baby for crying out loud. I obviously know my way to the garage.


    Oh, my! I didn¡¯t even get to tour this beautiful house.


    It was so sad to leave but I had to go. I have nothing to do here.


    ¡± Lara?¡± I turned swiftly and called, startling her a little bit.


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry about that¡± I quickly apologized.


    ¡± It¡¯s nothing ma¡¯am¡± she said, taking her head to the ground.


    This girl is way older than me. I don¡¯t know why I feel so uneasy about her calling me ¡® ma¡¯am¡¯. A lot of people used to call me that when Dad was still very rich and influential.


    But I guess it¡¯s because we¡¯ve never had any househelps before, for as long as I can remember.


    I have been the one doing the dishes, cooking, washing and sometimes cleaning since I came of age.


    I enjoy doing it, not because Dad couldn¡¯t afford it or we weren¡¯t well off.


    Yeah, we weren¡¯t as wealthy as the De Martins family, but we were superfortable and I missed life that way.


    I don¡¯t get why I have to do all this. I¡¯m supposed to still be enjoying my life and ying around, not all this seriousness in my life.


    ¡± You called ma¡¯am. Do you have something to say to me?¡± Lara brought me back to reality


    ¡± Uhm¡­ Oh! yeah, yeah¡± I stuttered, trying to recall what it is I wanted to tell her.


    ¡± Oh, yeah! I have been meaning to ask. You were here the day we first came in right, I mean Mr Nathan and I?¡± I asked lowly.


    ¡± Yeah, you were asleep,¡± she replied.


    Good. That means she would know the answers to the questions I¡¯m about to ask next.


    ¡± Then who brought me in?¡± I asked further.


    ¡± The driver¡± she replied quickly too.


    I paused and stared at her for a few seconds.


    That wasn¡¯t the answer I was hoping to get.


    I¡¯m very sure he only took me in. I fell asleep even before the ne took off.


    Hold on; Don¡¯t tell me he waited for the driver to get there and asked him to carry me?.


    Goodness! I can¡¯t believe that jerk.


    I scoffed in disbelief.


    ¡± Is everything okay ma¡¯am?¡± Lara asked, noticing my angry mood.


    ¡± How about my dress? Who undressed me?¡±


    ¡± I did¡± she replied, and just then, I turned around and started walking towards the door, not saying another word to her.


    She must have been shocked at my behavior.


    I got out and saw the car waiting for me, with the driver in too.


    He quickly came down and opened the door for me.


    I waved at Lara who was standing by the entrance of the house and she waved back with smiles on her face.


    He opened the door then I got in and almost froze.


    What the..?!


    I couldn¡¯t believe what I was seeing. Not that it was something to be that startled off, I dont get why I just reacted so surprised.


    His head was down to his phone,pletely engrossed in it.


    The diver shut the door when I got in and went back to his seat, before starting the car and zooming off.


    I rxed myself and adjusted to the tension I knew only I was facing.


    I stole nces from him from time to time.


    I couldn¡¯t get over the thought that he was worried about me and wanted to see me to the airport.


    Awwnn!! How sweet!!. I giggled childishly like a child.


    I was acting so weird and had to quicklyport myself before he starts getting any weird ideas and also not to get him offended.


    When did I be this calm and obedient?.


    Phew!!.


    I saw his phone lit up and he picked it up even before the first ring. I have been staring at him the whole time ¨C stylishly. I don¡¯t want him to notice.


    ¡± Yes¡± he cooed into the phone.


    He listened to whatever the person was saying for a while.


    ¡± Fine. I¡¯ll be there in the next 17 hours. Get the documents ready so I can sign them immediately I return¡± he said back into the phone and ended the call as soon as he was done talking.


    I knew right away he was talking to an employee, which means he¡¯s going back with me¡­ for work purposes.


    What was I expecting again?.


    I just lost interest in whatever and stared out the window till we got to the airport.


    *


    *


    The flight was a tiring one, but it was all good because I wasn¡¯t as tired as I was thest time.


    I mean, I didn¡¯t sleep all through.


    Nathan got down immediately and walked in a hurry to the car that was awaiting us.


    I had to practically run after him.


    The chauffeur already took our bags to the car.


    We got in and he drove off immediately.


    *


    *


    ¡± Wee home dear. How was the flight?¡± his Mom asked, weing me with an open arm, all smiles.


    ¡± It was good,¡± I beamed.


    She was young and beautiful and I doubted if she was really his mom. she could pass for his elder sister, but mom¡­ that¡¯s a big no, and it got me thinking.


    ¡± How are you feeling? Are you tired? Are you hungry?¡± She pampered and bombarded me with questions and it made me wonder if she naturally was like this.


    I was expecting her to be hostile towards me. Or, hasn¡¯t her daughter told her about what transpired between me.


    No way! I¡¯m sure she would have bbed about it already.


    So, what was this acting for? It was making me so ufortable.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± I¡¯m okay and I¡¯m not hungry, I ate on the ne. I just need to shower and rest¡± I told her.


    His Dad soon came climbing down the  stairs, grinning from ear to ear.


    ¡± Look who we have here. It¡¯s my married son and his wife¡± he said with a proud look on his face, which made Nathan scoff.


    Today is actually the first day of resumption, so I guess that exins why I was seeing E anywhere around.


    Wrong¡­ so wrong¡­ totally wrong.


    I waspletely wrong because she came running down the stairs soon enough.


    She ran past me all the way to her brother, hugging, giggling and smooching him.


    Goodness!! Is she the only one with an older brother or what?.


    ¡± How are you Ruby?¡± Mr Martins asked.


    ¡± Good morning sir. I¡¯m good. Thanks¡± I replied, hoping they would release us soon.


    I really need to shower and get some rest. I was so exhausted.


    ¡± You look tired. Honey, I think they should go in now and freshen up, then join us for breakfast, what do you say?¡± she asked her husband, then turned to Nathan and I.


    ¡± No mom, Nathan has been gone for so long and I miss him. Don¡¯t tell me to go¡± E whined.


    I rolled my eyes irritated by how she was acting.


    Does she realize she¡¯s hugging another person¡¯s husband?


    ¡± Stop that already E. Is wife is here¡± her mom chided.


    ¡± And so what? I¡¯m his sister¡± she barked, giving me a deadly re, but trust me to return it to her.


    ¡± Nathan, Ruby, go freshen up and join us¡± Mr Martins finally said and I was d he did that.


    Nathan was going to walk away but couldn¡¯t because a pest was hovering around him.


    I saw him take in a deep breath after trying to get her off him but it wasn¡¯t working.


    ¡± Will you get off me??!¡± he yelled and immediately she let go of him.


    I smiled within me and turned to give her a mocking smile.


    She red hard at me and that made meugh even more, as I hurried up the stairs.


    That was sure a pleasant sight to behold.


    I thought.

 Like a fairytale

    LIKE A FAIRYTALE


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    The mini crowd gathered outside immediately had their eyes fixated on the car.


    Some were in groups, while some were walking to and fro and others were going about their normal business.


    I smiled broadly as I stepped out of the car. I didn¡¯t wait for the driver toe get the door for me.


    As soon as I did, the students started murmuring and whispering to themselves indistinctively.


    I walked majestically amidst them and could hear what some of them were saying.


    * Woah! Can¡¯t believe she¡¯s Nathan¡¯s wife?*


    * Tell me about it. She¡¯s now a De Martins*


    * Did you see that car? That must have cost a fortune*


    * She¡¯s so lucky. I wish I were in her shoes*.


    These and many more I heard and they all made me smile. I was feeling so proud for the first time, until I heard one girl say something.


    ¡± Isn¡¯t she supposed to be in her honeymoon?*.


    She asked and that made me halt.


    They all seem to agree with her and started discussing about it, giving me questionable looks.


    The jealous ones red at me and gave me looks that could kill.


    I stared at the girl that had said it and she threw her face away. I wanted to go give her a piece of my mind when I felt a grip on my arm, I turned to see Diane grinning widely at me.


    ¡± Let go. I need to give this girl a piece of my mind¡± I told her through gritted teeth.


    ¡± Who?¡± she asked with widened eyes.


    Goodness! She doesn¡¯t even know. I thought she was holding my arm to prevent me from going.


    ¡± Then why are you holding me by the arm?¡± I asked her irritatedly.


    ¡± You don¡¯t want toe in?¡± she stated. I didn¡¯t know if it was a question or statement.


    ¡± What happened girl?¡± she asked with concern in her eyes.


    I sighed and wiggled my arm out of her hold.


    ¡± Nothing. Let¡¯s go¡± I said and walked out.


    I heard her running behind me and she soon caught up with me.


    ¡± Why are you in school?¡± she asked the same question that had made me so angry a while back.


    I red hard at her and walked out again. Still, she caught up with me again, dragged me by the arm to face her.


    ¡± What¡¯s the problem? What¡¯s the matter with you?¡± she asked again.


    ¡± Can you let go? Why do you keep grabbing me by the arm? It¡¯s annoying¡± I told her off with an eyeroll.


    ¡± Whatsup? Did something happen with Nathan?¡± she enthused.


    ¡± Look Diane, let¡¯s just go to ss¡± I told her tiredly.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    This isn¡¯t the wee I was expecting.


    We got to ss and as soon as they saw me, they started their own round of murmuring and whispers.


    I needed no one to tell me what they were talking about.


    I just walked silently to my seat, with Diane tagging behind me.


    Lily and Ivy had moved to another seat far from us, and from there they sat,  they stared at us and whispered amongst themselves.


    ¡°So¡­ spill¡± Diane said, facing me.


    ¡± What?¡± I asked.


    ¡± What happened?¡± she asked again.


    ¡± I dont get what you mean. Why do you keep asking what happened? Is something supposed to happen?¡± I asked her back.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ I thought.. By the way, why are you in school?¡± she asked instead.


    ¡± Where am I supposed to be?¡± She gave me a puzzled look.


    ¡± What did you bring for me? Come on, gist me. I need all the gist¡± she changed the topic instead.


    ¡± I don¡¯t know what you are hoping to hear, but I¡¯ve got nothing to say¡± I said rigidly.


    ¡± Okay babe, what exactly is going on?. You¡¯ve got to tell me something¡± she said, keeping her gaze intense on mine.


    ¡± Okay¡± I said, taking in a very deep breathe.


    ¡± We decided to go for our honeymoon during the holidays¡± I exined to her.


    She wasn¡¯t looking really convinced, so I decided to spill the truth, afterall, she¡¯s the only friend I have now and I know I can trust her.


    ¡± I wanted toe to school¡± I spilled out sadly.


    ¡± Why?¡± she asked surprised.


    ¡± Because he¡¯s busy and I felt like a burden¡± I said. I couldn¡¯t still bring myself to tell her the whole truth.


    She sighed and held my palm in hers.


    ¡± You did the right thing¡± she said with a broad smile.


    ¡± You think?¡± I asked, not quite sure.


    ¡± Yeah, of course, and who knows, you might earn his respect because of this and now, he might start seeing you as not just a kid, but someone who¡¯s actually mature. What do you think?¡± she asked and I forced out a smile.


    ¡± I wish that would be the case. Well, I don¡¯t have the time to¡­¡±


    ¡± Hey Ruby, we heard something and just wanted to confirm, because I still can¡¯t believe it¡± that was Stacy, my archenemy and rival.


    She was with her two friends, or should I say minions.


    She was like their queen and they were like her maids. She has a way of making them do her will and obey her everymand.


    It¡¯s sometimes so annoying and irritating to see.


    I know I¡¯m also the type that make my friends do things for me, but am not the controlling type and I don¡¯t force them to do those things for me, neither do I treat them as my maids.


    They are my friends and we understand eachother.


    Well, I don¡¯t even have to think about that again because I have only one friend now.


    ¡± What do you want?¡± Diane asked with a defensive tone.


    ¡± Oh, jeez!! Don¡¯t get all snappy on me. Was only trying to hear from the horse¡¯s mouth¡± she said annoyingly.


    ¡± Is it true that you got married to Nathan Martins¡± one of her friends ¨C I think Beatrice, asked.


    ¡± Do you really expect me to answer that.¡± I threw at her.


    The three of them stared at me, awaiting my answer, their arms crossed above their chests.


    ¡± I¡¯ll answer your question but first I need you to answer mine. How poor are you guys that you can¡¯t even manage to afford a TV?¡± I asked menacingly and the loud booed I heard from the ss ced a big smile on my face.


    Which means they have all been listening to our conversation.


    I don¡¯t think they even have to listen because Stacy was damn loud.


    I know she was trying to humiliate me, but too bad she has forgotten who Ruby really is.


    ¡± What?!!¡± she shrieked in terror and I was loving the reactions I was seeing.


    ¡± You heard me dear. If that¡¯s what is the issue, then I think I can help, afterall I¡¯m now married to the most influential and wealthiest family in the country, so buying you guys a tv won¡¯t be an issue for me. Just think of it as a gift from me to you¡± I said, a huge smile stered on my face.


    The look on Stacy¡¯s face was so frightening and amusing.


    She stormed out in anger, and that out smiles on my face.


    Finally, I¡¯ve finally gotten something that will keep me excited for the rest of the day.


    ¡± That was awesome girl¡± Diane turned to me and said


    I gave her a smile, and the bell rang immediately.


    The teacher came in and we started sses right away.


    *


    *


    Woah!! Coming to school was a good decision I made.


    It was so overwhelming to be receiving all sorts of attention.


    All the teachers didn¡¯t fail to give me their congratry statement before leaving the ss, and I felt fly and on top of the world.


    We went to the cafeteria and I kept receiving nces from different corners.


    Infact, I was the talk of school for the whole day.


    *


    *


    ¡± Uhm.. what about Louis?¡± I was forced to ask.


    I had looked for him and had been waiting for him toe to ss but he never showed up.


    ¡± Oh, Louis!¡± Diane dragged.


    ¡± Yeah, he wasn¡¯t in school today, or is he not resuming this week?¡± I asked.


    ¡± I think he isn¡¯t, but let¡¯s wait tomorrow and see¡± she replied.


    ¡± Everyone hadpletely forgotten about him¡± she said.


    ¡± How?¡± I asked puzzled.


    ¡± The students are more interested and caught up with your marriage to Nathan  that no one seem to remember anything about Louis¡± she exined.


    ¡± But I heard something though¡­ just a rumor¡± she said and that seem to caught my attention.


    I waited patiently for her to speak up and she had to move her mouth closer to my ears to avoid being heard.


    ¡± There¡¯s a rumor going round that he was involved in a death scandal and that¡¯s why he¡¯s back¡± she said and I gasped.


    ¡± Just like I said, it¡¯s a rumor¡± she reminded.


    ¡± Woah!! I know you said that but I¡¯m still just so surprised¡± I said, going over what I have heard again.


    Hold on; What if it isn¡¯t??.


    Goodness!!..

 Too good to be true

    TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Oh, jeez Ruby!! Why didn¡¯t you tell me about this earlier!!¡± Diane squealed in happiness, making me wonder the cause of her happiness.


    I arched my brows and stared at her in confusion. She saw this and let down her happy mood.


    ¡± You didn¡¯t know?¡± she asked amusingly.


    ¡± Know what? No, I didn¡¯t¡± I shook my head, looking lost as ever.


    What could be making her this excited?.


    She shrugged and the next thing I know, she took my palm in hers and started dragging me out of the ssroom, not forgetting to take my bag with me.


    I wanted to object because it wasn¡¯t closing time yet, but she did the shush signal and that kept me shut immediately.


    I had absolutely no idea what was going on with her and just went with her, only toe out and meet the biggest shock of my life.


    Damn it!!.


    I couldn¡¯t believe it. Nathan¡¯s car was right in the middle of the schoolpound with him inside and all the students of my school practically gathered around it, giggling, chuckling, smiling and doing one sort of funny thing or the other.


    They were all amused, thrilled and woahed by him.


    I couldn¡¯t believe it. What¡­ What¡¯s he doing here?.


    He¡¯s soplicated. I couldn¡¯t wait to find out why he was here.


    The noise died down a bit and I stretched to see why. His bodyguard was out of the car and walking around. I knew without a doubt that he was looking for me.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The ce was now calm and quiet unlike before. The students behaved themselves and some even shifted as he approached, thereby creating some sort of space for him to go through.


    It didn¡¯t take long before he found me and as soon as he did, he bowed, then came to me, took my bag and started leading me to the car.


    All this while, I was in a truce. I couldn¡¯t do or say anything.


    I blinked rapidly as he led me to the car and as we did, all I could hear were whispers and murmurs.


    I didn¡¯t even care to give thoughts to them but I felt on top of the world.


    I¡¯ve be even more popr in school.


    Goodness!! Who knew Nathan could do something like this?.


    I wondered what happened tho, because I know he¡¯s not the type to be like this.


    Just before I got into the car, I turned to take onest nce at Diane, she smiled at me and gestured for me to go on, which I did eventually.


    I got into the car to find Nathan seated there, staring directly into his phone.


    How was he able to concentrate on his phone with all that noise around him?.


    It¡¯s not like he had anything to block out the noise from his ears.


    Gosh!! I don¡¯t even know.


    He didn¡¯t even turn to take a look at or acted like someone was in the car with him.


    The driver wasted no time in turning on the engine and we were on our way soon.


    That was something.


    I was curious to know why he hade to pick me up at school but I couldn¡¯t dare ask.


    I¡¯ve gotten a lot more timid than thest time. I don¡¯t know if it has anything to do withing back home.


    I was quite bold back in our honeymoon.


    I fiddled with my fingers and bit my lower lip.


    I looked for what to think about and what Diane had told me earlier at the cafeteria seemed toe to my mind again and I decided to ponder on that.


    It was a hassle trying to figure out if it truly was a rumor or otherwise.


    I wasn¡¯t even close to this guy and I don¡¯t even know him enough to know what is the truth.


    Oh, my! I could feel everything in my life going the wrong way.


    First, it was my father¡¯s business, second my life and this marriage, and now a guy that I¡¯ve had a crush on since elementary school.


    The car suddenly felt suffocating.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ could¡­ could you open the window a little bit?¡± I asked the driver in a low pitched tone.


    My palms were sweaty and my throat became dry and stuffy.


    The air inside became so hot all of a sudden despite the  Air conditioning.


    Sweat gushed out from all over my body making me uneasy and ufortable and making me wonder if I had done something to irritate my sweat nds.


    I felt as though I wanted to make use of the toilet so badly, but that wasn¡¯t the case. I felt slight pains below my abdomen, and that¡¯s when I realised it was taking ages for the driver to grant my wish.


    I turned to Nathan and discovered he was the reason.


    The driver possibly can¡¯t do it without getting permission from him also.


    ¡± Do it¡± he gave out the instruction quickly, like he knew I was going to ask and didn¡¯t want me to disturb him.


    The window turned up and I gasped and leaned closer to the window, inhaling the fresh breeze that wasing in.


    Just what I needed.


    I ced my hand on my stomach and tried to subside the pain by rubbing it gently, but it did nothing to pacify the overwhelming pain that had taken over in a short matter of time.


    I tried to make it not so noticable, although I know the guy beside me wouldn¡¯t even flinch or turn to take a look at me.


    Just like what seemed like a miracle, the car came to a halt and the driver stepped down.


    He opened the car doors for us and we came down also.


    I came face to face with a very tall, huge building.


    I arched my brows in confusion, wondering what we were doing at a ce like that, but there was no one to ask.


    The driver stood outside, while Nathan led the way.


    I stood there looking lost.


    ¡± Is anything the problem? You have to go with Sir Nathan¡± the driver came and whispered behind me.


    I jerked up and nodded, then hurried my steps to catch up with Nathan who was so close to the door.


    I got in with him just before he closed the door.


    We walked to the elevator and got in, heading to thest floor.


    The pains came nudging at me with full force, and I had to hold the walls for support.


    Holy Christ!! Why now? Why today of all days?.


    The pains were bing unbearable and I just wished whatever we were there to do won¡¯t take so long.


    I really needed to take care of this as soon as possible.


    We got to our destination and Nathan walked out right away, walking into a room¡­ like a conference room just close by.


    There were few men in suits and they all shook hands with him.


    It was obviously a business meeting so I wondered why he had brought me with him.


    They discussed and did some other stuff that made no sense to me, and after that, they signed some documents and it was time to call it a day.


    I was so d.


    ¡± Nice to meet you Mrs. I¡¯m d I finally got to meet the wife of the almighty Nathan. Who knew he could get married with this personality of his, and a very beautiful wife at that¡± one of the men said andughed out loud.


    The word ¡® Mrs¡¯ sank into me and that¡¯s when I realized my marital status has really changed.


    ¡± Let¡¯s just hope we¡¯ll start seeing some changes in him now that he¡¯s married¡± another said, and I stood up to bow and greet them but Nathan did a shocking thing.


    He held me by the wrist and threw me down to the chair, making me sit my butt back down.


    I was shocked, perplexed and confused and I know the men there were too.


    They all exchanged puzzled looks, but quickly covered it up with fakeughter.


    I had no way of knowing if they were angry or not.


    They exchanged pleasantries with Nathan and I once more, before taking their leave, leaving just Nathan and I.


    I guess they are used to his cold personality, so his behavior didn¡¯t freak them out.


    I was more confused when he was still seated. I was expecting him to walk out with them.


    Goodness!! Doesn¡¯t he want to go home?.


    He stood up as soon as they were fully gone.


    I stood up also, walking behind him like a stray dog.


    ¡± Won¡¯t you just sit your butt down?¡± he barked at me and I flinched.


    Why¡¯s he so mad and why¡¯s he taking it out on me? What have I done now?.


    I can¡¯t just understand him and his temper, because from all indications, the business whatever had gone well, so what¡¯s with him?.


    ¡± With all due respect Mr Nathan, I would appreciate it if you tell me why you¡¯re so mad at me?¡± I said angrily and sarcastically too.


    ¡± How dare you use that tone on me?¡± he shot at me.


    ¡± How about the tone you¡¯re using on me?¡± I shot back, making his jaws drop in shock.


    He so wasn¡¯t expecting that.

 Cramps

    CRAMPS


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I couldn¡¯t believe I just said that to him.


    Like¡­ what the f**k?!.


    I watched as he quickly reced his shocked expression with a re and then a normal face.


    My heart was pounding so much and beating so fast.


    I thought that would be the end of me. The situation wasn¡¯t looking too good and I don¡¯t know what he¡¯s gonna do to me here.


    I saw this dark glow in his eyes that sparkled and ran out just as quickly as they hade.


    He was trying hard to control his temper right that minute and thest thing I wanted was to get him more upset, so, I just did what I thought would be best, which is to keep my mouth shut.


    That¡¯s exactly what I did. I didn¡¯t want to get into further arguments with him.


    ¡± Uhmm¡­ I think we should¡­ uhm.. go now¡± I stuttered terribly.


    ¡°I told you to sit your ass back down. That hasn¡¯t changed, you know¡± he groaned, bringing his phone out of his pocket.


    He shifted away from me while I struggled to put my butt back on the chair.


    ¡± Arrgghh!!¡± I let out a slight groan.


    He quickly turned to look at me and heaved a sigh of relief.


    Woahh!! That was a first. I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s just me, but I think he¡¯s worried about me¡­ like really worried and that got me hooked.


    Damn, this thing! I don¡¯t know why it had to happen today of all days.


    I could do a lot right now, like stare at his handsome face and watch him and drool all over him as he makes his phone call.


    He¡¯s just so adorable and I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s the guy I am married to¡­ it all still feels like a dream¡­ to me.


    The call ended and he started walking back to me.


    He nced at me before taking his seat.


    Why is he acting soplicated? Cant, he just let me know the reason we are still here?


    For goodness sake, I need to change and get out of this mess, but how do I even tell him about it?


    He probably won¡¯t understand and I don¡¯t want to bother him.


    He didn¡¯t only sit down, but he did and brought out his phone.


    Does he see me as a statue or what?.


    I couldn¡¯t even say anything. I couldn¡¯t utter a word and that was the most painful part of it all.


    *


    *


    I didn¡¯t know for how long I¡¯d dozed off, but I felt a slight tap on my back, and by the time I woke, I did see a shocker.


    What the fuck?!!.


    I gasped at the shocker in front of me which was hanging and my jaws dropping.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ what¡­ is this?¡± I turned to ask my so-called husband with the driver standing close to him.


    ¡± Go get changed in the restroom. He doesn¡¯t know the brand you use, hence, he brought different brands. You get to choose¡± he said wlessly, like he was giving a speech.


    I was so mesmerized and immensely swayed by the way he spoke.


    Goodness!! How is he so perfect? It¡¯s wonderful.


    Hold on! How¡­ how did he know about it?.


    I gasped and rushed to my feet, checking my skirt only to see bloodstains.


    Oh, my!! So that¡¯s how he knew. He had seen everything and didn¡¯t want me to be humiliated and that is why he had asked me to sit down in front of all those men.


    Oh, my? And I had acted so rashly and rudely.


    Jeez!! What was I even thinking? He¡¯s a lifesaver¡­ He¡­ is my lifesaver.


    The driver bowed and walked out and when he was fully gone, I grabbed the brand I use and ran to a restroom.


    I changed and came out to meet him. He was still there¡­ waiting. I had to increase my pace despite the pain I was feeling, so I wouldn¡¯t keep him waiting.


    He got up and started walking out and I went after him.


    We got to the car and he asked the driver to go get the rest sanitary pads which he did and came back immediately and we were soon on our way.


    Despite the pains, I couldn¡¯t hide and contain the joy I was feeling.


    I couldn¡¯t believe he could do something like that for me.


    The drive one was a good and wonderful one and all through, I couldn¡¯t stop stealing nces at him.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    He¡¯s now like my knight in shining armor¡­ my guardian and Mr right.


    What he did melted my heart. I never could have thought or even imagined that he would be this caring and attentive.


    I never imagined he could do something like this for me.


    Heavens!!


    *


    *


    We finally got home and I eagerly walked to the sitting room.


    The cramps were taking a great toll on me, but I tried and did my best to put on a smile and appear good.


    ¡± Oh dearies!! You guys are back¡­ just right in time¡± his mom greeted us with her usual cheerful smile.


    I sighted his Dad in his seat and we took turns in greeting them


    ¡± How did it go?¡± his dad asked and I figured he was talking to his son.


    Nathan hummed a response and was about to go inside.


    ¡± Nope¡­e have dinner first, and then you can go showerter on and go to bed¡± she insisted, blocking our paths.


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯ll have to pass for now. Come on Ruby ¡± he said and turned to me, leaving me shocked and stunned.


    ¡± Hey bro¡± E yelled from the stairs, not giving me enough time to get over the shock.


    ¡± Hey kiddo ¡± he cooed at her and she ran all the way to the stairs to meet him.


    ¡± I¡¯m so d you¡¯re back now, I have a lot to tell you about school and¡­¡±


    ¡± Not now E,e on Ruby ¡± he beckoned me again and I felt the worms dancing in my stomach.


    It made me cringe so much but I had to admit that I felt kinda weird and somehow happy.


    Jeez!! What was that? Or is he just acting that way because his Dad is there?.


    Don¡¯t think so because he did do something for me earlier.


    Gosh!! I¡¯m so confused.

 A warm bathe

    A WARM BATHE


    Rubys Pov;


    I scurried behind him like a lost puppy, grinning from ear to ear.


    I couldn¡¯t get the look on E¡¯s face out of my head.


    It was so interesting.


    ¡°Are you okay? How you feeling?¡± he turned swiftly and asked, taking me by surprise.


    My breath seized for a moment and all I could do was stare at him.


    ¡± Yeah¡­ I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m fine¡± my voice came out weirder than I had expected.


    Why do I always seem to stammer around him?.


    He nodded and moved to the wardrobe. He brought out a shirt from it and walked into the bathroom.


    I gritted and bit my lower lip in pain as soon as he was gone.


    The pain came nudging at me and I fell to the bed, grabbing and holding the bed sheet tight like it¡¯s the cause of my predicament.


    I tried hard not to cry.


    No¡­ he can¡¯t see me cry. He definitely can¡¯t. Not after I¡¯ve told him I¡¯m okay.


    I seem to be better when he¡¯s around.


    I heard the bathroom door creaking open, and I had to quickly adjust and put on a smiling face.


    He dropped his towel and walked out, without turning to take a look at me.


    Huh!.. Is he mad?.


    Iid silently on the bed, trying to fight the pains.


    I shut my eyes close to see if I could fall asleep, but sleep seem to have eluded me at that moment.


    I could do nothing. I  couldn¡¯t think straight, or do anything. I tried distracting my mind from it but it was impossible.


    ¡± Argh!¡± I yelled silently, grabbing the bed sheet tighter.


    Oh, goodness!! Lord! What did I do to deserve this?. I just wish there¡¯s a way I personally can stop experiencing this. Mine always hurt like hell.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I heard his calm voice which immediately forced my eyes opened.


    I jumped up on the bed in a sitting position, to see him staring at me and I stared directly into his eyes also.


    My heart skipped a beat.


    I could¡¯ve sworn I didnt hear hime in.


    He didn¡¯t say anything and just stared at me and I was starting to feel ufortable.


    He brought his palm closer to my forehead and ced it there, then ced the other on his.


    ¡± You¡¯re burning up¡± he enthused, taking his phone out of his pocket.


    He stared at it for a while and got up, walked to the bathroom to do only God knows what.


    I was pretty sure he had nothing to do in there again because he recently just got out.


    ¡± Come on, I prepared a warm bath for you,¡± he said, making my jaw drop in shock.


    Okay! What¡¯s going on?. To say I was shocked was an understatement.


    Why¡¯s he acting all sweet and kind? . He hasn¡¯t been harsh or rude either. Something¡¯s definitely up.


    He stretched out his palm and I ced mine in it, then he helped me up to my feet.


    I got into the bathroom and took afortable spot in the bathe he had prepared.


    Woah!! It was heavenly. Why hadn¡¯t I thought of this?.


    The warm water soothed the pains for a while and I felt sore also.


    I was nning to spend forever in it, but I knew I had to get out and eventually I did.


    But as soon as I stepped out of it, the pains returned¡­ in a thousand fold.


    I literally had to hold the wall for support to walk.


    I got back to the room to find a tray of whatever on the bed. It was covered with a lid.


    I smiled happily.


    How sweet!


    Why¡¯s he being so caring? I doubt it¡¯s because I¡¯m in pains.


    I slowly walked to the bed and undid the lid,ing face to face with some pancakes and tea.


    ¡± I got that for you.. Thought it would help¡± I heard his voice at the door and raised my head to it, to see he was right there.


    I nodded, smiling inwardly.


    I picked up a pancake and had a bite. It was splendid.


    He stayed there and watched me till I was done. The only time he went out was when I went to change into something.


    He helped me get into bed when I was done and sent a maid to get the tes and tray after that.


    I tried so hard to fall asleep but it was impossible. The pains increased as the seconds went by.


    Oh, my! I can¡¯t believe after all the efforts he¡¯s put into this. I obviously couldn¡¯t let him see me like that.


    Iid on the bed, tossing from one side to the other.


    Mine alwayses with the worse set of cramps.


    If I had known it woulde so early, I wouldn¡¯t have bothered going to school. I would have stayed at home and take care of it.


    I wrapped the duvet around my body, but it wasn¡¯t helping matters.


    It¡¯s like my whole body was on fire and st that point, I struggled to keep my eyes close in hope of falling asleep.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I heard him cooed.


    ¡± You okay?¡± he asked and all I could do was nod, but I was pretty sure he saw for himself and knew I was lying.


    ¡± What about drugs, have you taken them? Heard pain relievers could go¡­¡±


    ¡± I already had enough of them, so they don¡¯t seem to work anymore¡±I cut him off, but not rudely tho.


    ¡± Still, you should try ¨C take some and see what happens¡± he said in a convincing voice and I had toply.


    I waited for about 30 minutes and a maid brought the drugs to me on a tray.


    I didn¡¯t know when I dozed off after taking them.


    Guess it decided to work because I haven¡¯t taken them in a long while.


    *


    *


    Michael sat in the sitting room, watching his favorite cartoon.


    His new maid , Mona, came to him to help him get changed.


    ¡± Aunt¡± he called as he usually does, but this time, not in a cheerful tone, which is so unlike him.


    ¡± What dear? Is anything the matter?¡± Mona asked, seeing the sad look in his eyes.


    She wondered what could possibly be wrong with him that he was that sad. She knows so well that he¡¯s a cheerful kid.


    ¡± When is Rubying? I miss her¡± he pouted, his shiny round eyes clouded with tears.


    ¡± Oh dear! I¡¯m pretty sure she woulde see you soon. Don¡¯t worry about it, okay¡± she told him in aforting tone.


    Just then, Mr Staffers came in. Michael¡¯s mood brightened up a little as he ran to his Dad.


    ¡± Good evening sir¡± Mona greeted him.


    ¡± How are you dear?¡± he asked her.


    ¡± Fine sir¡± she replied, taking his briefcase from him.


    ¡± And how¡¯s my little cutie doing?¡± he turned to Michael and ask but was stunned to find him unhappy.


    ¡± Whatsup boy? What¡¯s the problem?¡± he asked, taking him back to the couch.


    ¡± Ruby, I miss her¡± he said in his childish tone.


    Mr Staffers heaved a sigh.


    ¡± But I told you she woulde visit when she has the time¡± he said frustratedly, not knowing how to exin the situation for a five years old.


    ¡± Okay Michael, I promise she woulde see you¡± he reassured him.


    ¡± When?¡± Michael asked because that¡¯s all that seems to matter to him.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡± As soon as she can, and if she doesn¡¯t, then I¡¯ll take you to her¡± Mr Staffers said and Michael beamed immediately.


    ¡± Really?¡± he asked happily.


    ¡± Sure¡± his Dad replied, d he had finally be able to put the kids mind to rest.


    He called on the maid to take over while he go freshen up.


    ******


    Somewhere not so far away in the same city, stood a magnificent building. It¡¯s beauty supercedes all that was before and around it.


    The house which was painted in white and gray was a sight to behold.


    It wasnt just beautiful exteriorly but interiorly also.


    The water fountains, German tiled floor, flowers, green grasses, art designs were some of the unique features of the house.


    Inside here was Louis, who was having a serious argument with his mom.


    ¡± I told you I don¡¯t wanna go to that school, Mom!¡± he yelled at her, curling up under the duvet again.


    She dragged it away from him for the upteenth time, and he groaned.


    He really hated her attitude that morning and there was no way to send her sway. Nothing he did or say seem to get to her.


    ¡± Mom!!¡± he whined, sitting upright on the bed.


    ¡± Why? Why? Why dont you want to go, huh?¡± she asked, moving closer to him.


    She attempted to touch him but he pushed her hand away from him.


    ¡± Do I really need to tell you why? Do I have to spell it out for you?¡± Louis asked through gritted teeth. Anger and resentment burning deep inside him.


    Andorra ¨C his mom, took a deep breath and sat close to him on the bed, ignoring the murderous res he was sending her way.


    She knew she had to talk to him. She might not have been the best mom, but she cares deeply for her son and wants the best for him, and his inability to see this was what hurts her most.


    ¡± Son!¡± she called and touched him by the thigh, but the look on his face made her have a rethink and she had to keep her hand to herself.


    She wondered what she had done to make him turn this way against her?. He¡¯s so mad and bitter and it¡¯s because of her.


    He¡¯s back after so many years and and she can¡¯t seem to get a normal rtionship with her son.


    It was disheartening or perhaps, she had hoped for too much.


    ¡± Just say what you want to and leave!¡± he barked, bitterness echoing in his voice. His eyes spitting fire were murderous and they ze through her skin, sending shivers down them.


    ¡± You have to be there son. There¡¯s nowhere else you need to be than that school. Going there will help you get closer to him¡±


    ¡± Here we go again. I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re already saying this. I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re actually saying this.. Is this really all you care about? Do I mean nothing to you at all?¡± he shuddered, taking in deep hot breaths.


    His breath wavered and his eyes were clouded with unshed tears.


    ¡± No son, don¡¯t say that. You know you mean alot to me, but if you would just listen and try to understand, then you¡¯ll see what am trying to¡­¡±


    ¡± I don¡¯t want to!!¡± he yelled at her and she flinched.


    Lady Dora, as she was fondly called , got up from the bed feebly. She knew there was nothing she would say that would ease him at that moment, so she decided to let him be for the meantime.


    ¡± I never should havee back. I should have just stayed back there¡± Louis shivered, his face sweaty and his breath rattling.


    It was hard for him¡­ so hard. How could she not see it? What kind of a mother is she? Is wealth all that really matters to her?.


    Has she never thought of his wellbeing? How could she think of sending him back there? She knows more than anyone how he doesn¡¯t want to be close to them¡­ to that family.


    ¡± You¡¯re unbelievable mom¡± he said hisst words before running into the bathroom, leaving her rooted to the spot.


    The tears he had been trying to hold still came pouring down and he did nothing to stop them.


    He had tried to be strong for a long time and knew he still had to be, but he doesnt know for how long he would be able to go on.


    It keeps getting harder and tougher for him.


    He has absolutely no one by his side¡­ no one


    No friend, no father, no mother ¨C because he can¡¯t say he has one,


    no sister and no brother.


    Maybe someday he¡¯ll finally get to find what he truly wants, but for now¡­ he just have to stay strong and hang in there¡­ not for anyone, but for himself.

 Hidden Emotions

    Hidden Emotions


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I woke up in the middle of the night to a heavy ache on my head.


    It was aching me so bad that I felt like copsing.


    I didn¡¯t know what time it was and for how long I¡¯ve slept.


    I felt weak and struggled to get myself off the bed.


    I walked to the bathroom after a sessful attempt to release my bowels.


    I wondered what happened while I was asleep.


    Did Nathan go back to the office or did he stay back?.


    Jeez!! I don¡¯t even know what time it is. The pains form earlier had subsided but I was still feeling weak and nauseous.


    I opened the door to the hallway and took a peep.


    What was I expecting?. It was quiet as usual.


    I brought my head out and then my whole body, before leaving the room finally.


    I walked slowly but gently towards the sitting room.


    The whole ce was so quiet and it felt like I was alone in the house.


    I finally got to the sitting room ad there was no sign of anybody.


    I turned slowly to the direction of the wall clock and my eyes flew open.


    It was past midnight already. No wonder it was so quiet.


    They were all asleep already. I guess it¡¯s because I went to bed early.


    To be honest, I didn¡¯t even know why I woke up?.


    I¡¯m supposed to be sleeping like a baby now due to the pains.


    I sighed and turned to go back to the room when I started hearing faint voices.


    Whaaat??!.


    I didn¡¯t hear that the first time I came here. I strained my ears to see if I wasn¡¯t imagining things and I was right, they were indeed persons out there¡­ discussing.


    From the look of things, they seem to be approaching the sitting room because they voices kept getting clearer and more audible.


    Without thinking twice, I ran to hide myself at the wine bar just in time before they came in.


    I was finally able to ce faces to the owners of the voices which turned out to be Nathan and his Dad.


    I knew the right thing to do wase out of my hiding spot, but I have absolutely no idea why I stayed rooted there, but the next thing I heard made me happy that I didn¡¯t.


    ¡± Remember, whatever you do, she¡¯s the key to your bing the sessor of De Martins¡± Mr Martins stated, leaving me in utmost shock.


    Phew! I don¡¯t even get why am this surprised. I already know this is all for business.


    ¡± You don¡¯t have to threaten me with that Dad. I already did as you wanted so there¡¯s no need for all this. If you continue doing this, then I¡¯m gonna move out¡± Nathan grumbled frustratedly.


    He was obviously sick of talking with the old man but didn¡¯t have much of a choice.


    ¡± You¡¯re supposed to do that anyways. You¡¯re married after all¡± Mr Martins said btedly leaving nathan with a despondent look on his face.


    ¡± It¡¯s veryte now. You should get some sleep¡± he told his son before walking over to the stairs.


    I watched  Nathan stare at his Dad as he took the stairs.


    The look on his face spell exhaustion.


    i thought he was gonna follow suit after his Dad, but he didn¡¯t. Instead, he started walking over to where I was, making my heartbeat elerate I¡¯m a thousand fold.


    Oh, my!! Is this how I will get found out? Can¡¯t he just go away? It¡¯ste for crying out loud. Shouldn¡¯t he be getting some rest now?.


    I asked mentally, holding my breath.


    He walked over to the wine bar and took out a ss and a bottle of wine after which he went to the couch to sit.


    My heart almost left my chest when he approached me.


    What would he think of me if he had seen me there like that?.


    How would I have exined myself to him? There¡¯s no way he would have understood something like that.


    Fuck!! How do I get out of here now? I never should have left my room.


    He was busy sipping from his wine and working ok hisptop.


    Goodness!! He¡¯s a workaholic even at home? Does he not care about his health?.


    For how long will I continue to stay here? I was getting tired and the pains weren¡¯t helping matters at all.


    This is by far the worst, but no matter what happens, I will never allow him to see me here like this.


    Finally, he got up and started walking to the stairs.


    I beamed and quickly got out of my hiding ce.


    I walked to the couch he was sitting on and took a quick nce at what he was working on.


    The problem now was how to get to my room.


    I don¡¯t know which room he¡¯s in and he took the stairs. So, there¡¯s a possibility I will run into him if am to take the stairs now also.


    So, I guess I have to wait for him toe back. It will be better to just make up some excuse as to why am down here like this.


    ¡± What are you doing?¡± I heard his smooth voice ask.


    I looked up to see him staring down at me with disputable and questioning eyes.


    But, I don¡¯t know what the questions are.


    ¡± When did you leave your room to this ce?¡± he asked with disbelief.


    ¡± Just now¡± I said, followed by a nervous chuckle.


    The amazement on his face was rming and I suddenly started thinking what I might have done wrong.


    He suddenly stopped showing his emotions and his face turned icy cold and void.


    ¡± What do you mean? I just went up to your room and you weren¡¯t there? When did you leave and when did you get here? Why didn¡¯t I see you on my way there either?¡± he bombarded, leaving me speechless, shocked and confused.


    Oh, no!!.


    I had no idea he was going to my room.


    ¡± Wh¡­ why¡­ why did you to my room?¡± I knew the question was ridiculous but I still had to ask anyway.


    He scoffed and took a sit, not giving me a response.


    Oh, Ruby! What are you even thinking right now.


    He must be wondering what¡¯s going on?.


    There was no emotion on his face, so I couldn¡¯t tell what he was thinking.


    I had to quicklye up with something.


    ¡± Uhmm.. I went to the kitchen to get water. I was feeling plumpy when I woke up¡± I lied effortlessly hoping he would believe me.


    ¡± Go back to bed now¡±came his response after a while.


    Gosh!! What¡¯s with the attitude now? He did fine back in the day, don¡¯t tell me he¡¯s gone back to his old self.


    And here I was thinking I could talk to him some more before going to bed.


    I wasn¡¯t feeling sleepy one bit and I needed something to kill time.


    I thought talking with him would help and then I can go back to bed when I stadt feeling sleepy again.


    But seems I don¡¯t have a choice.. I have to go and leave him alone.


    He¡¯s definitely not in the mood to talk. I don¡¯t. just get why he won¡¯t leave the workload for tomorrow.


    I doubt he would even talk to me now if he still didn¡¯t have work to do.


    She quite mad I can tell. Not mad in the right sense of the word, but I believe the situation earlier didn¡¯t make sense to him but he just decided to let it be because he doesn¡¯t want to stress it and make it a big deal.


    ¡± G¡­ goodnight¡± I muttered under my breath while getting up.


    He only nced at me and after which, he took his gaze back to he screen.


    I slowly walked out of there, heading to my room.


    I got back to my room and fell on the bed noisily.


    Holy Christ!!!.


    His attitude is so confusingly.


    I don¡¯t know why but I silently yed he won¡¯t go back to how he used to be before.


    I wished he would just stay this way forever.


    With this thought in mind, I finally drifted off to sleep.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    *


    *


    I woke up the next mornings and quickly did all I had to do.


    I was dressed and ready for school in no time.


    I walked downstairs to see breakfast was already served with everyone on the dinning.


    Seems I was thest one to get there.


    I greeted everyone and took my seat.


    A maid stepped forward and served my meal after which I started eating.


    ¡± Huh, before I forget, you both would be attending a marriage counseling sster on¡± Tracy suddenly said amidst mouthfuls.


    I couldn¡¯t help but choke on my meal and started coughing immediately.


    A maid got me water to drink immediately.


    Nathan was also surprised with the news.


    ¡± A what?!¡± he roared.


    Oh, my!!

 LOUIS!!

    LOUIS!


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I watched as he eyes quickly changed from anger to rage and to other emotions that I can¡¯t describe.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± he asked calmly this time.


    ¡± I made her arrange for it. Ruby is still very young and this would help her learn alot. She would benefit alot from it also, I figured¡± his Dad spoke up calmly.


    He was way too calm and I know this angered Nathan more.


    I stared at him to see the way his fist gripped the ss of water firmly.


    I feared the ss might break, but the next thing I know, he got up swiftly.


    ¡± And where do you think you¡¯re going young man?¡± Mr Martins asked, his voice still as calm as ever.


    ¡± Work. I¡¯ve lost my appetite¡± he replied razzingly and started walking away.


    ¡± Be on time. Your secretary will let you in on the rest of the details when you get to work¡± Mr Martins voice stopped him.


    He turned to look at his Dad with a look of disbelief on his face, and with a scoff, he walked off finally.


    Phew!! That was something.


    Now I know the Nathan I saw yesterday¡­ the one that did all those things for me doesn¡¯t exist.


    It probably was just a dream that I need to wake up from because there¡¯s no changing this guy.


    I had lost my appetite also but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to stop eating.


    I had to manage and get a little something into my stomach.


    When I was done, the driver drove me to school.


    *


    *


    The crowd I saw as soon as I got to school made my head spun.


    What now?? I wasn¡¯t ready for another drama.. I¡¯ve had enough.


    I shut the door to the car before the driver took off.


    It must be something important they are gathered for, because they didn¡¯t even pay attention to me.


    I became curious to find out what it was.


    I hurried my footsteps and struggled my way through the crowd to the front.


    Right there and then, in front of the principal¡¯s office was someone I wasn¡¯t expecting to see.


    It felt like a dream. I cleaned my eyes to be sure they weren¡¯t deceiving me.


    ¡± Where have you been girl? ¡± Diane came up to me


    ¡± Can you believe this?¡± I asked, staring nkly at him.


    Diane followed my gaze and grinned.


    ¡± Of course I can.. I told you he wasing back¡± she said with a proud smile on her face.


    Of course she did, but I didn¡¯t believe her.


    I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s here¡­ right here¡­ in front of me.


    Goodness! I can¡¯t wait to see his face.


    He looked so gorgeous from behind already. I wonder what his face will look like now.


    I was so curious, excited and happy.


    Ipletely forgot all about the counselling ss whatever.


    ¡± Come on babe, let¡¯s go say hi¡± Diane tugged at my arm when he was finally leaving.


    Girls swarm after him like bees.


    Jeez!!.


    All the girls are surely gonna go crazy after him.


    This term is gonna be so hot.. I can¡¯t wait for things to get messy.


    The show had began but too bad I won¡¯t be a part of it.


    I¡¯m married now and irrespective of how my marriage life is like or how I got married, I can¡¯t deny the fact that I am, and I have to behave.


    I need no one to tell me this¡­ not mu dad, no one.


    Nathan is a public figure which makes me a public figure too.


    I can¡¯t be seen chasing after some guy with the rest of my mates.


    What if it gets to the media? It will piss the hell out of Nathan, no doubt.


    I know I shouldn¡¯t be acting this way because he asked me to sign a contract and all, and speaking of contract, I haven¡¯t realky taken a good look at it.


    I just took a look at the first line and that was it.


    The fact that he had asked me to sign a contract means he¡¯s up to no good hence, I decided not to take part in his madness.


    ¡± Gosh girl! What are you doing? Hurry up and let¡¯s go. The others are there already¡± Diane yelled at me.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ why don¡¯t you go? I¡¯ll be in ss. You can meet me there ¡± I told her calmly.


    she stared at me like I have grown two horns.


    She walked closer and ced her palm on my forehead.


    I rolled my eyes and removed it.


    ¡± I am perfectly fine. Thank you¡± I told her sarcastically.


    ¡± You sure?¡± she asked btedly and I nodded.


    ¡± Where¡¯s the Ruby that was willing to go out of her way to get him to notice her. You said you¡¯d do anything and I thought you were anticipating his return¡± she bemused.


    Yeah yeah.


    ¡± That was before I got married¡± I said and she startedughing.


    What¡¯s so funny?.


    I rolled my eyes at her.


    So annoying.


    ¡± You didn¡¯t just say that, did you?¡± she asked unsure that I actually did.


    I nodded.


    ¡± Yeah, I did. What¡¯s the problem?¡± I asked.


    ¡± Nothing. You just sounded really¡­ I dunno, you sounded mature and unlike the Ruby I once knew. Well, I get it right, I probably would be acting like you right now if I were in your shoes¡±


    ¡± I mean, Nathan is a lot more handsome, richer and a lot more everything. You already have your prince charming, so why go looking for¡­¡±


    ¡± I¡¯m d you got the point ¡± I cut her off with a smile.


    ¡± Well¡­¡± she started again with a cheeky smile stered on both side of her face.


    ¡± Your friend here hasn¡¯t found her prince charming, so if you¡¯ll please excuse me¡± she said in a funny manner while gesticting.


    And I watched as she walked off after waving at me.


    I smiled at her till she was consumed by the crowd and I had to go to ss.


    I doubt anyone would be willing to learn today.


    I got to ss and only few persons were there.


    I walked to my seat and sat, waiting for the morning ss to kick off.


    The bell rang shortly after and I was d it did.


    They all started trooping in one after the other just before the teacher came inst.


    ¡± Good morning students¡± she greeted.


    Mrs Bruce, our English teacher.


    ¡± This morning, a new student would be joining us. Do well to guide him. I don¡¯t think I even need to say this because am sure you all will¡± she said and paused.


    She took a look round the ss before gesturing for someone at the door to enter.


    The person did and I was dumbfounded to see Louis.


    Oh, my!! He¡¯s in my ss.


    What the¡­??!.


    The ss suddenly became noisy.


    The girls screamed, shouted and cheered.


    It took lots of efforts from the teacher and ss president to be able to keep them shut.


    ¡± Please introduce yourself¡± the teacher instructed.


    He nodded and came to the front of the ss.


    ¡± Hi. I¡¯m Louis¡­ Louis Ma. I look forward to being with you guys¡± he said and this was followed by a loud cheer and apuse.


    From goodness sake, can¡¯t they just keep shut and act normal. Or have they forgotten they are in school.


    I saw Diane turned to me and wink.


    Okay, what¡¯s up with her? Whats going through her head now?.


    ¡± Uhmm.. and for your seat¡± the teacher said, taking my eyes back to her and Louis.


    She looked round the ss for a ce to put him.


    I took my gaze down as I waited for her to finish with that and start teaching.


    I heard her told him where to sit and after a while, I saw him walked passed me and the next thing I know, he was at my back.


    I froze and wasn¡¯t sure.


    As if to confirm, I turned slowly only to get more frozen, because damn!! He was sitting right at my back.


    Sharing a seat with the guy at my back ¨C Ben; he happens to be the only one sitting alone.


    Gosh!! Why didn¡¯t I think she was gonna ce him there. That was the only empty seat in ss.


    Oh, my!!.


    Diane turned again and winked at me and I shot her a re which made herugh before focusing on the board.


    My eyes ran into that of Lily and Cindy.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Why were they staring at me? He¡¯s just sitting at my back, not even with me.


    I red at them and they looked away only for me to turn round and see the other girls staring at me too.


    Okay, what¡¯s going on?.


    I don¡¯t get why they are all looking at me as if I¡¯ve snatched him away from them already.


    They noticed I was looking at them and stopped.


    I shook my head and took my gaze to my note.


    I felt a cold hand on my back.


    I turned to look at the owner ad froze


    Louis!!!

 His eyes

    HIS EYES


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I turned slowly as if being controlled by a remote.


    I was now looking straight into his dazzling eyes.


    Goodness!!.


    He smiled at me and I almost lost it.


    For goodness sake! What does he want? He should just say it and let me return back to what I was doing.


    I didn¡¯t think I waspletely in control of myself right then.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ can I see the note?¡± he asked.


    His voice was soft and tender¡­ like a girl¡¯s voice.


    I was lost staring at him for a while but I had to quickly snap out of it.


    ¡± W¡­ we are just starting¡± I had to tell him, andpletely faced the board.


    Gosh!! That was something¡¯s.


    All eyes were on us.


    Why does he have to sit behind me of all ces?.


    I tried my best to concentrate and listen to all that the teacher was saying.


    *


    *


    ¡± Woah!! Isn¡¯t he so cute?¡± Diane asked, looking and gushing over Louis who sat three rows away from us.


    His table was packed full with girl giggling and trying to get a conversation with him.


    He left more than six years ago and now he¡¯s back when we are almost done with highschool, making him seem like a neer.


    Things havepletely changed around here but it¡¯s a good thing he¡¯s loved, hence, making friends won¡¯t be a big deal for him.


    I took up my head to stare at him and he choosed to look at our direction right at that minute, making our eyes run into eachother.


    I flinched and brought my head down again.


    ¡± He¡¯s still cute as ever¡± Diane went on.


    ¡± Tell me about it¡± I replied.


    I looked up again to see Lily and Ivy have joined the group of girls that were sitting with him.


    Good for them!!.


    At least now they wont see anyone to stop them from exhibiting their dirty traits.


    My eyes ran into theirs also and I gave them a deadly re to which Ivy hissed at and Lily gave me this ¡® do your worst¡¯ kinda look.


    It seems they are forgetting who I am so soon.


    The bell ran immediately making the whole students angry.


    They mumbled and grumbled.


    It was time for counselling ss. We usually hold it every Wednesday but am guessing there are some adjustments and they want to use it make the necessary announcement regarding how the term is gonna be like.


    I stood up and struggled to find my way out of the ce.


    Diane catwalked behind me in a funny manner.


    She dressed to kill and that wasn¡¯t badnews.


    There¡¯s no one in school that doesn¡¯t know or love her for her fashion sense.


    It¡¯s one of the reasons I became close to her in the first ce, and now, we are literally the best of friends.


    ¡± Gosh! All that boring talk again¡± she rolled her eyes, referring to the talk we are gonna be having fee minutes from then.


    I only giggled as we hastened our footsteps.


    We got to the hall and walked to the third room by the right.


    ¡± Just hope we won¡¯t sleep here as usual¡± Diane whined behind me again and I couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter this time around.


    ¡± Just chill¡± I told her smiling.


    She rolled her eyes again before rxing her back on the chair.


    It took a while before the rest of the students settled into the hall.


    Orderliness and quietness were maintained and then, the principal ¨C Mr Carmen, walked in.


    His usual smile on his face. His charisma and unique aura clouding him like a rainy day.


    ¡± Good morning students¡± he said and we all chorused our reply back to him.


    He grinned and continued.


    ¡± Wee back to get another wonderful time and term with us. For some of you, this is gonna be yourst term in this school¡± he said, referring to those in my ss and I.


    We smiled hard at this, finally d we would be done with high school in a couple of weeks.


    Can¡¯t wait to get this uniform off of me. This journey has been hectic so far and I couldn¡¯t wait to round up.


    ¡± We are looking forward to get another memorable and wonderful time with y¡¯all¡±


    ¡± The events that areyed out for this term would bemencing earlier than usual as a result of some issues which we would get to discuss about as I go on¡±.


    ¡± But just have it at the back of your mind that we are gonna have a st this term also¡± he said and the hall cheered, going mad with joy.


    The students of JENNERS HIGH sure love to party and this term was filled with lots of that.


    We have the prom, dinner party, social gathering, graduation ceremony, name it.


    It¡¯s definitely gonna be a st and I¡¯m not gonna miss any of it.


    Those will be myst moments in this school so am gonna treasure them and make lots of wonderful memories.


    ¡± And also, there¡¯s something that we would love to try out this term also and it depends on how the terms go ¨C if there will be time for it or no; a field trip¡± he announced and every started mumbling and whisperings.


    It has been long we went on one and we thought it was aborted from the school.


    Why the sudden suggestion?.


    ¡± I know. I know what you all are talking but like I said earlier¡­¡± he was cut off my the assistant principal who came to whisper something in his ear.


    He left when he was done and Mr Carmen turned back to us


    ¡± Uhm¡­ Ruby Staffers¡± he called suddenly making me flinch.


    What the..? What now? What did I do?.


    I sluggishly stood up as I thought I was in big trouble.


    What¡¯s going on? I was so scared and prayed fervently in my heart.


    ¡± Your attention is needed¡± he said to me and I saw one of the teachers beckoned on me.


    I left my seat and followed her out.


    What the hell is going on?.


    She didn¡¯t say a word to me and just continued walking till we got outside and I saw a car parked outside.


    Hold on!! This¡­ this looks like the car thates to drop me off every morning.


    Well¡­ I could practically call it mine because Mr Martins told me it belongs to me and a driver was only assigned to drive me anywhere I want because I don¡¯t know how to drive yet.


    My bad.


    He told me to consider it his wedding gift to me.


    And to be honest.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Phew!! Enough about the car.


    ¡± Good day ma¡¯am¡± the driver greeted warmly as I approached him.


    I was just about to ask him what he was doing in my school when he replied.


    ¡± I was asked toe pick you up and drop you at the venue¡± he said.


    Venue? What venue?.


    ¡± What?¡± I asked lookingpletely lost.


    ¡± Fro the marriage counseling ss¡± he said refreshing my memory.


    Oohhh!! That!! I hadpletely forgotten all about it.


    But why isn¡¯t Nathan here?. I thought he was the one picking me up.


    Goodness? What have I been thinking? Was I really expecting him to pick me up?.


    I smiled and nodded before going back into the school to get my back.


    I came out momentster and we were on our way in no time.


    *


    *


    The car stopped in front of a magnificent building.


    It has the build of apany but it was hard to tell what it actually was.


    ¡± So¡­¡±


    ¡± Uhm yeah. Juts walk in and tell the receptionist why you¡¯re here. She¡¯ll direct you on where to go¡± he instructed me.


    ¡± What about Nathan?¡± I had to ask.


    I can¡¯t go in there looking all alone like a deranged divorce woman.


    Walking in there all alone? What would that even make me?.


    I nodded in understanding and  he bowed before taking his leave.


    I walked in and did everything exactly as he had said.


    The receptionist directed me to the ce the ss was taking ce but I didn¡¯t go.


    ording to her, I was early.


    Anyway, I would gone inside to at least wait for Nathan but I decided to wait outside so we go in together when the ss starts.


    I sat on a chair at the hall, waiting patiently for him.


    I used that time to reminisce on all that has transpired in school.


    The pains from yesterday was gone but I was still feeling weak and drowsy from the menstrual stuff.


    I can¡¯t wait for it to finish already. My life is already hard as it is. Why did it have toe now?.


    I suddenly started hearing screams, shouts and some other noise that made me feel like I was gonna pass out anytime soon.


    What the hell is going on? And why are they screaming this way?.


    I was annoyed but it was shortlived when my eyes came in contact with his.


    Nathan!!.


    He is here.

 First class

    FIRST CLASS


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Holy Moly!!


    There he was. Nathan! He was walking majestically towards me, ignoring the stares, screams and shouts from people.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Goodness!! I didn¡¯t think he would be able toe alone. I mean without guards, but he¡¯s here.


    He walked so elegantly till he got close to me.


    Not sparing me a nce, he walked past me, going to the ss.


    The mini crowd that had formed began to disperse slowly, some satisfied they were able to get a glimpse of the almighty Nathan Martins, while others were extraordinarily happy because they were able to get a picture of him.


    I just blushed and ran after him.


    We met other people in the ss and finally settled down on a seat at the back.


    I was by far the youngest there. Technically speaking, I¡¯m not even supposed to be there.


    ¡± Good day couples¡± a very youngdy came before us and said.


    I figured she was the marriage counselor. She was practically grinning from ear to ear, showing her perfect detention.


    I started wondering what was funny?. Do our faces look funny to her or what?.


    ¡± I¡¯m Miss Josephine Langford, and I¡¯ll be your marriage counsellor for as long as you¡¯ll be taking this ss¡± she introduced.


    ¡± I look forward to¡­¡±


    ¡± Did I just hear you say Miss?¡± Nathan¡¯s voice trailed off in a bash.


    What¡¯s his problem now?.


    ¡± Yeah,¡± Miss Josephine replied, failing to see what the problem is.


    She was absolutely taken aback by his rude interruption and tone.


    Nathan fumed in anger for reasons best known to him, but kept quiet still, not talking further.


    ¡± Is there¡­ uhm¡­ is there a problem?¡± Miss Josephine decided to ask after his sudden silence.


    ¡± Nope. Just wondering why an unmarrieddy would be counselling those that are married¡± he groaned sarcastically under his breath but everyone heard him anyway.


    I looked at her and saw how hurt she was by his statement.


    She scoffed and immediately lost her self confidence.


    ¡± What??¡± This word managed to escape from her lips and there was silence in the room.


    What the hell?? Goodness!.


    I can¡¯t believe he can be this rude. What¡¯s up with him?.


    The other couples soon started taking turns in turning back to look at us.


    ¡± Are we having this ss or not?¡± Nathan suddenly barked, ncing at his watch.


    ¡± It¡¯s taking forever¡± he bemused further.


    Oh, my!!.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ yeah, sure. We are having the ss¡± Miss Josephine stuttered, going to the white marker board.


    I felt so bad and down. I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m married to a guy like him.


    He¡¯s got a serious problem and I wonder if he knows that.


    The ss soon kicked off and I was d it did because it seems that would help shift their minds away.


    *


    *


    Nathan got up immediately the ss ended and left.


    The others took turns in greeting the teacher before leaving.


    I waited for them to finish before approaching her.


    ¡± Good Day ma¡¯am¡± I greeted with a smile on my face.


    ¡± Hey, how are you doing dear?¡± she asked with a smile also, after letting out an exasperated sigh.


    ¡± Uhmm¡­ I wanted to apologize for earlier.. about uhmm.. Nathan¡± I shuddered, taking the words slow.


    The words seem to be stuck in my throat while I was just doing my best to get them out.


    I saw the sad look in her eyes before she quickly covered it up with a fake smile.


    ¡± You don¡¯t have to worry about that.. I get that alot¡± she said btedly.


    I was still feeling bad about it but didn¡¯t know what to say anymore because she already said she¡¯s okay.


    ¡± Alright then, I¡¯ll be on my way. Take care¡± I waved at her before leaving.


    I got outside to find Nathan still in the car, at the backseat, with the driver at the front.


    I hurriedly got in to avoid getting him angry.


    ¡± Do you think you¡¯re so special to be keeping me waiting¡± he grumbled as soon as I got into the car.


    I shivered and looked down, fiddling with my fingers.


    ¡± I¡­ I was just. I didn¡¯t mean to¡± I said instead.


    There was no need to give any excuse.


    The driver was already on the road, and I was d he didn¡¯t bring up the issue again.


    I nced at my watch to see it was 2:55pm.


    Gosh!! It¡¯s still very early. They would still be in school by now.


    There was nothing to do hence I ended up looking out the windows.


    I was still staring outside when I noticed the driver had taken another route.


    A different one from the one we were supposed to take home.


    Don¡¯t tell me he¡¯s going to drop Nathan off at the office first before going to drop me off?.


    I frowned when I thought of this but could say nothing.


    I¡¯m exhausted. The ss was so confusing and I kept asking questions in my head that I never let out.


    I¡¯m still too young for these things and I can¡¯tprehend them yet.


    Also, there¡¯s no one for me to ask.


    If only I still had my mom, then maybe¡­.


    ¡± We are here sir¡± the driver announced, pulling over at a french restaurant.


    What the hell are we doing here now??.. Is this another meeting?.


    Nobody told me this part about getting married to someone powerful and wealthy.


    I can¡¯t believe the stress I have to go through at this tender age.


    He came down and started walking in, almost immediately and I decided to take that time to ask the driver the things I wanted to.


    ¡± Aren¡¯t you going in?¡± he asked before I could say anything.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ am I supposed to go with him? Thought he was here to see someone? Or for a business meeting?¡± I said with an arched brow.


    ¡± He came here with you,¡± the driver said simply, minding his business afterwards.


    I figured he didn¡¯t want to say anything after that.


    Holy shit!! I just hope Nathan doesn¡¯t get mad at me again.


    I didn¡¯t know about all this.


    I walked as fast as my legs could carry me into the restaurant.


    I looked around but didn¡¯t see him anywhere.


    The whole ce was kinda empty.. I don¡¯t even understand what is going on.


    I decided to take the stairs, and when I did, I came across another hall which led me to a table set in the middle of arge room and there was Nathan sitting princely on it.


    There were various dishes on it, desserts and other things also.


    What the¡­??!.


    What¡¯s the asion?. I was curious to know.


    I quickly walked in and took my seat opposite him.


    A waiter came forward and poured wine into our sses before leaving.


    It wasn¡¯t anything grand or special but there were sure alot  of meals and the ce was beautiful also.


    We started eating in silence. He never said a word to me and I never did also.


    ¡± When are you going to turn it in?¡± he decided to break the icy silence, making me stare up at him.


    ¡± What?¡± I asked but it came out as a whisper instead.


    He gave me this cold stare before going back to his meal.


    I could tell he was hungry from the way he was eating.


    Why won¡¯t he be when he barely eats at home and I¡¯m pretty sure he also doesn¡¯t eat when he gets to work.


    All he does is work, work and work?.


    Phew!! Such a workaholic.


    ¡± I won¡¯t repeat myself,¡± he said sternly.


    I gulped down hard.


    ¡± But I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about¡± I gave my reply, shuffling my breath.


    He¡¯s gonna make me suffocate.


    ¡± The contract I asked you to sign?¡± he asked icily.


    I did a mental check. I still haven¡¯t seen the contents yet.


    ¡± I don¡¯t think I can go through with it¡± I told him truthfully, clutching onto my fork.


    ¡± With what?¡± he asked, cing a piece of meat in his mouth.


    ¡± I brought you here to discuss it. In case you¡¯re wondering why we are here, that¡¯s the reason¡± he said.


    A short silence stepped in as I searched for what to say next.


    ¡± I won¡¯t repeat myself¡± he groaned slightly.


    ¡± I already said what I said¡± I huffed at him.


    He paused immediately, his hand in his fork which was still on the te.


    The fork was deep in the piece of meat he was cutting, but he stopped cutting immediately I said those words.


    He slowly brought up his head to stare at me.


    ¡± You don¡¯t have a choice, girl¡± he said coldly, a small smile appearing at the corner of his lip.


    Is he threatening me right now??.


    ¡± I do¡­ of course I do¡± I said persistently, trying to be brave.


    ¡± Why do you look like you¡¯re about to fight me? Just chill¡± he grinned, making me rx a bit.


    Another silence stepped in.


    ¡± We will have to do it,¡± he let out another statement.


    I could sense the seriousness in his tone, and with a low, swift tone, I asked.


    ¡± Do what??¡±.

 A review of the contract

    A Review of the contract


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Of course I heard him loud and clear, but I still couldn¡¯t understand what his statement meant.


    I dropped my fork, my gazepletely focused on his face.


    ¡± You haven¡¯t gone through it, have you?¡± he asked, munching noisily.


    Each time he took his eyes to mine, they were always cold and stern.


    ¡± What do you want from me?¡± I muttered under my breath.


    I had lost my appetite and just wanted to get out of there¡­ out of his sight.


    ¡± Sign the contract¡± he said again.


    ¡± Why? Why should I do that? Yes, I agree, we were both forced into this¡­ we both never wanted this but the deal has been done already and there¡¯s no going back. Why then do you want me to do whatever now, when it¡¯s all over?¡± I asked raucously, taking myself and him by surprise.


    He smirked, taking the handkerchief on the table to wipe his mouth.


    My breath heaved up and down my chest as I awaited the worst.


    Why?? Is it wrong to say the truth?. I need to be clear on things . I need to know what I¡¯m getting into.


    He doesn¡¯t hate this as much as I do.


    ¡± Just take a look at the contract first¡± he told me, this time more calmly.


    ¡± And then, maybe we can talk after that?¡± he grinned, getting up from his seat.


    I got up also and went after him.


    What do I do about this now??.


    The driver dropped me off first before going to God knows where with Nathan.


    I could tell from their conversation that he wasn¡¯t going straight to the office.


    I walked tiredly and sluggishly into the house, to meet the least person I wanted to talk to at that moment.


    E!!.


    I rolled my eyes and proceeded to just ignore her and walk up stairs but no, she wouldn¡¯t let me be.


    She came to stand in front of me, blocking my path and preventing me from moving an inch further.


    ¡± What the hell is this rubbish??!!¡± I yelled at the top of my voice, not giving a fuck who was around or not.


    She arched her brows moving closer to me and that made me scoff.


    ¡± You bitch. You really have some nerves. Do you think I will let you be after all you have done to me?¡± she asked, leaving me in a truce.


    ¡± Done to you? What the fuck did I do to you?¡±. I asked irritatedly, not even failing to let it show in my voice.


    ¡± You did a lot more to me than you can ever imagine. You have taken a lot more from me also. A thief and a naughty whore, that¡¯s what you are??¡± she said bitterly.


    ¡± What?!¡± I asked, then let out a light chuckle.


    I can¡¯t believe this madness. Does madness run in this family¡¯s blood or what?.


    I can¡¯t believe I just finished dealing with Nathan and now am here also to deal with his sister.


    Are they for real?.


    ¡± In as much as you sounded like a demented premature lunatic, I still want to know what the fuck you¡¯re talking about, because I know have done nothing to you¡±


    ¡± Oh, hold on; have you been smoking?¡± I asked sarcastically,ying a smirk on my face.


    This enraged her as she paced to and fro beforeing to stand in front of me again.


    ¡± You stole my brother away from me, that¡¯s what you did, and I will make sure you pay for that¡± she screamed and whined.


    For a moment there, I thought she was losing it.


    ¡± I don¡¯t understand a thing you are saying because honestly, to me, you are just busting off bullshit. It¡¯s just like¡­¡± I went on to gesticte it.


    ¡± He¡¯s your brother for screaming out loud¡±.


    ¡± Step brother. We only share the same Dad¡± she said and I couldn¡¯t believe how stupid she sounded.


    Gosh?! Can she even hear herself speak right now.


    ¡± It would be more better if you both don¡¯t share any parents at all, but girl, I don¡¯t know what to say to you right now, because honestly, you¡¯ve lost it¡±


    ¡± Do you think that beloved brother of yours would be happy to see you like this¡±.


    ¡± He knows I love him more than anything in this world¡± she defended.


    ¡± No dear, he knows you¡¯re getting crazier by the seconds. He just doesn¡¯t want to let you know yet¡± I blurted out.


    ¡± How dare you!!¡± she barked and attempted to p me but I was faster and quickly held her hand in mid air.


    ¡± Don¡¯t¡­ you¡­ even dare¡± I stretched, making sure she read my lips.


    ¡± Who the fuck do you think you¡¯re dealing with, huh??¡± she ranted on.


    ¡± That was exactly the same thing you asked back at the mall, and good thing now I know who you are. So girl, I would advise you get yourself something better to do instead of obsessing over your own brother. Gosh!! I can¡¯t even exin how it¡¯s making me feel.. I can feel my whole body literally cringing¡±


    ¡± You¡¯re a bitch¡± she cussed, her voice filled with anger and bitterness.


    ¡± I know¡± I replied rather saucily and this made her more angry and she stormed off in anger.


    I stood at the spot for few minutes before going to my room.


    She¡¯s a mad girl. I had to admit.


    How did her mom bring her up?. I don¡¯t have a mom but I know I¡¯m way better than her.


    Goodness!!?.


    *


    *


    Nathan arrived at the conference hall. It wasrge and filled with people from all walks of life.


    It wasn¡¯t his first time attending such, hence, there was nothing like nervousness or anxiousness in him.


    He walked to them and started exchanging pleasantries with some of his business colleagues and associates.


    They usually attend tons of business conferences and seminars like this yearly.


    He didn¡¯t want toe but he knows what his Dad is like.


    The man is like an old version of him.


    ¡± Good Day Mr Hill¡± he saw one of his very close friends in the business world and decided to day hello.


    ¡± Oh, my, Nathan. It¡¯s been so long. How have you been?¡± Mr Hill quickly greeted, smiling broadly.


    They went on to discuss lots of things before Nathan decided to go talk to others also.


    He must have spoken to about five or six of them when his secretary came to deliver a message to him.


    He excused himself and went outside with him.


    ¡± What did you just say?¡± he asked again to be sure.


    ¡± Your Dad called and insisted to know why you declined his request to bring Ruby to the conference¡± he repeated what he had said earlier on.


    Nathan grunted as the old man started calling immediately.


    ¡± He threatened to get her driver to drive her to this ce if you don¡¯t do something about this immediately, ¡± the secretary added.


    Nathan thought it best to ignore the calls.


    He didn¡¯t understand why he would have to bring her along with him to such a ce.


    Does he really have to make it obvious that he¡¯s now a married man?


    Not many of them bring their wives. It¡¯s not even an official or celebration setting.


    He wonders what was going on in the old man¡¯s head, and knowing his Dad so well, he wouldn¡¯t fail to carry out his threat.


    ¡± Let¡¯s go,¡± Nathan turned to his secretary immediately and said.


    The look on the secretary¡¯s face was rming.


    ¡± But¡­ but we just got¡­¡± he stopped talking when he realised he better not argue with Nathan.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Nathan left him there and walked angrily to the car.


    ¡± To the mansion¡± he instructed the driver just before his secretary rushed in.


    They were on their way soon.


    *


    *


    They arrived at the mansion soonest, and Nathan got out of the car still angry.


    He was trying to hold it all in but couldn¡¯t.


    He stormed into the sitting room and started yelling at the top of his voice.


    His secretary was dropped off at a junction where he took a cab to the office.


    ¡± Do you n on bringing this house down? Do you think I would take yours aspensation?¡± Mr Martins asked subtly, gently climbing down the stairs, ignoring the murderous stares from his son.


    He walked gantly till he got to the couch and took a seat.


    ¡± What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Nathan asked, a little calmer now.


    ¡± Speak in a way I can understand,¡± Mr Martins said to his son.


    ¡± What the fuck did you say earlier??¡± he yelled, unable to hold it in any longer.


    He was mad¡­ so mad it angered him.. He hated being controlled and told what to do.


    His Dad knows this more than anyone and that¡¯s why he¡¯s trying to do just what he hated with hopes that he can tame him.


    ¡± You wouldn¡¯t dare raise your voice at me in that manner¡± he told him off.


    ¡± I¡¯ve made my decision¡± he said next, making Nathan arched up his brows.


    What decision??!.

 Sport鈥檚 time

    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I walked to ss that morning feeling tired and moody.


    ¡± You okay?¡± Diane asked, noticing my mood.


    I forced out a smile before nodding.


    We hadn¡¯t settled down for long when the bell rang and a teacher came in.


    *


    *


    ¡± Is that all he said afterwards?¡± I asked, pressing her to tell me all that Mr Carmen said when I left yesterday.


    ¡± We would be having a parents and a teachers meeting soon¡± she informed, sipping out from her juice.


    ¡± For what?¡± I asked arching my brows.


    It sounded childish to me.


    She shrugged her shoulders making me roll my eyes


    I guess he didn¡¯t say anything meaningful after all.


    ¡± Hey, have you heard?¡± she lowered her voice and asked, her neck stretching over from the other side of the table to mine.


    ¡± Hear what?¡± I asked in return my voice was equally low too.


    ¡± Louis is gonna release a single soon¡± she said and squealed happily.


    I rolled my eyes again. Gosh!! I can¡¯t believe I used to be part of the girls acting this way.


    Now, it just seems nothing about him attracts me anymore.


    ¡± And guess what again?¡± she asked.


    I munched away not giving her a listening ear.


    ¡± He¡¯s on the same team as us. Basketball team¡± she informed, making me lower down my burger.


    ¡± Whaaat?¡± I shrieked.


    ¡± I know right. Hmph!¡± she grinned so widely that I feared for her cheeks.


    But hold on; What does she mean by that? Hope she¡¯s joking? Hope this is just another one of her jokes?.


    But thinking about it, Diane never makes any jokes about things like this¡­ most especially about Louis.


    *


    *


    I was more than shocked to really find Louis in the basketball teamter on.


    My lips were literally hanging when he walked in.


    The girls that saw him came in started screaming and wailing, but too bad, most of them weren¡¯t in the team.


    The Basketball team in my school doesn¡¯t usually have a lot of girlspared to other teams.


    We weren¡¯t up to five girls in the team and I was the only serious one.


    Diane would have left long ago but I was the one holding her back and now, she can¡¯t seem to stop thanking me.


    ¡± He¡¯s got to be kidding me¡± I whispered in disbelief.


    ¡± Get used to it¡± Diane grinned and walked off.


    She walked to him and they started discussing.


    I was so nervous. I couldn¡¯t believe he was here¡­ with us.


    I walked sluggishly to them and he averted his gaze to me as soon as I approached them.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I cooed, my head to the ground.


    ¡± Hey¡± he waved back.


    ¡± Ruby right?¡± he asked and I could find my jaws dropping.


    How¡­ how did he¡­


    ¡± Nice to meet you¡± hepleted before I could make sense of all that was happening.


    He brought out his hand for a handshake and I looked at Diane who hasn¡¯t stopped smiling since, then his face and back to the outstretched palm.


    ¡± Nice to meet you too¡± I managed out a smile and I saw Diane give me a thumbs up.


    Goodness!!.


    He went on to ask questions which I took the pleasure of answering because Diane doesn¡¯t know that much.


    She¡¯s in two teams and this was just like the passing team to her.


    She doesn¡¯t reallypete much in this team.


    I know it¡¯s weird and funny for me to be in such a team but honestly, it¡¯s what I like.


    I don¡¯t know why but I¡¯ve always loved basketball.


    I¡¯ve been amongst the people representing the team in events and asions for years.


    ¡± It won¡¯t hurt if I try this on right?¡± he suddenly asked, taking a good look at the hand protective gear.


    I smiled and helped him put it on his arm.


    He smiled and moved his arm around.


    ¡± A lot has really changed around here¡± he said, looking round.


    ¡± Yeah¡± I muttered, wondering where Diane had suddenly taken off to.


    The door to the team has already been closed as a result of the noiseing from outside due to the other team¡¯s girls¡¯ shouts, screams and the like.


    The rest of the basketball team members were yet to arrive so I decided to start practicing till they came.


    ¡± You¡¯re really good at this, you know. Do you n on pursuing a career in sports?¡± Louis asked from his sitting position.


    His eyes haven¡¯t left my body since and it kinda made me feelfortable and uneasy.


    ¡± I just really love sports,¡± I replied.


    ¡± Really? That¡¯s lovely. A lot of girls don¡¯t really like sport sport. They prefer to go for those that aren¡¯t the main deal¡­ like you know, gymnastics and the likes¡± he said btedly.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    He has a point but not fully.


    ¡± All sports count and are strenuous. They all need the same level and amount ofmitment and hard work poured into them. Without these, nothing can be achieved¡± I said,ying emphasis on the important parts.


    ¡± Woah!! You seem to know a lot. Do you mind me asking what you wanna be in future?¡± he asked, putting it simply, in a rosy and fair manner.


    I paused when he asked this. I¡¯ve never really thought of that.


    I mean, I¡¯m from a rich home, beautiful, smart and intelligent.


    Technically speaking, when people are saying I wanna be a doctor,wyer or anything else, I don¡¯t really say anything because the only things I am good at are sports, mathematics and the likes.


    I¡¯m good at a lot of things so I am sure and convinced I¡¯ll seed with whatever I decide to do.


    ¡± I¡­ I haven¡¯t really given it much thought yet¡± I let out slowly, drawing in a deep breath.


    A short silence ensued between us.


    ¡± But in any case, you won¡¯t be one of those girls adding marriage to the list. Heard you¡¯re married?¡± he threw, leaving me dumbfounded.


    How the hell did he know that already? He just came a few days ago.


    I wondered as I stared at this guy in front of me who was acting weird and unbelievable beyond any reason doubts.

 Family get-together

    Family get-together


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I ran all the way from the balcony to the garage, gently engulfing Michael in a warm, tight embrace.


    He giggled, wrapping his smallish, soft tender arms around my neck.


    We stayed this way for a while, with me trailing kisses all over him.


    ¡± So no hugs for me¡± I heard Dad said behind us.


    Just then, Mr Martins walked out with his wife, Tracy.


    ¡± Nice to see you again Mr Staffers¡± Tracy greeted as they all exchanged pleasantries before going inside.


    I held Michael¡¯s palm as we walked in.


    The table was set already and the maids were doing finishing touches to whatever that was on the table.


    E was seated on the couch but got up immediately she saw us.


    She greeted Dad and soon, we were on the dinning.


    ¡± Nathan will be here soon. Please pardon his rudeness¡± Mr Martins apologized on behalf of his son to Dad.


    ¡± Uh, no; it¡¯s okay¡± Dad beamed and the silence resumed.


    We were halfway into the meal when Nathan arrived.


    He only greeted Dad before he took his seat and his meal was served.


    As usual, he barely ate anything.


    ¡± So¡­ I was thinking, how about we all go for the yearly party of De Martinspany. It¡¯s going to be bigger this year and I was hoping we could use that to step out together as a family for our first family business outing¡± Mr Martins said casually.


    ¡± What do you say Nathan, Ruby?¡± he turned to us both and asked.


    ¡± I¡¯m fine with¡­¡±


    ¡± Did you have to bring business to  dinner? That¡¯s rudeing from someone who always talks about rudeness¡± Nathan growled, a displeased look on his face.


    ¡± Nathan!¡± Tracy yelled in an attempt to caution him, but Mr Martins held up his hand telling her to hold it.


    That didn¡¯t stop Nathan from shotting her a hard re.


    He suddenly dropped his fork and was about to get up when his Dad spoke.


    ¡± You won¡¯t do that when we have guests¡± he growled in anger.


    I had to admit it was the first time I was seeing him get angry.


    ¡± I¡¯m done eating¡±


    ¡± It¡¯s rude to leave when you have guests¡±


    ¡± They are yours, not mine¡±


    ¡± They are your wife¡¯s family¡± Mr Martins dragged, the smile not leaving his face.


    I could tell this was pissing Nathan off already.


    ¡± You invited them over, not me,¡± Nathan said nastily.


    ¡± I dare you to take a step out of this table¡± Mr Martins challenged.


    ¡± Come on Martins, it hasn¡¯t gotten to that yet¡±.


    ¡± Oh, yeah, it has. I can tolerate it when he does this when we are alone, but not when you are here. That goes to show how he doesn¡¯t have any regard for me whatsoever¡± Mr Martins said truthfully, his mood dimming.


    I like the way he was able to keep the smile still on his face.


    The tension was building up and I could feel my adrenaline build up.


    E decided to re at me at that time.


    I ignored her but she wouldn¡¯t stop doing things I don¡¯t know to me with her eyes.


    I wondered how it was going to end, but it turns out Mr Martins won, as usual.


    *


    *


    The maids took care of taking the tes to the kitchen and maintaining the table.


    Nathan went to his room, E went to the sitting room to watch movies, Mr Martins and Dad went somewhere to discuss, while I went to my room with Michael. I had missed him so much.


    I think Tracy was in the kitchen with the maids, instructing and directing them on the things to do.


    ¡± I miss you!¡± Michael whined out as soon as we got to my room.


    I beamed with smiles, cing him on my bed.


    ¡± Is this your room?¡± he asked, looking round.


    I simply nodded, staring at his face. I missed him so much.


    Gosh! I never knew I could live without him. He¡¯s annoying and all that, but I miss that also.


    I suddenly felt bad and wished I could go back to how my life was before¡­ before everything.


    ¡± You okay?¡± I felt his tiny palm on mine and snapped out of my thoughts.


    ¡± How¡¯s school been?¡± I asked and his smile boomed up.


    He blushed hard.


    ¡± Hmph!. Someone is being cheeky¡± I  teased, tickling him.


    Heughed so hard, begging me to stop but I never did.


    I decided he¡¯s had enough and stopped before he would die of shortage of breath.


    ¡± So, tell me, what¡¯s it?¡± I asked,ying close to him.


    He blushed hard again and it made me wonder what it was.


    ¡± There¡¯s this really pretty girl in our ss ¨C Jennie¡± he said childishly and I couldn¡¯t believe what I just heard.


    My jaws dropped in shock.


    It sounded both funny and shocking to me.


    ¡± What the fuck?! Michael!!¡± I screamed, not minding the words I was using.


    He covered his face with his palm and turned to the other side.


    ¡± Seriously?¡± I asked, unable to hold myughter.


    Goodness!! I didn¡¯t see thating.


    Omg!!. I guess there aren¡¯t kids out there anymore.


    ¡± Stop being shy and look at me¡± I told him, but he didn¡¯t bulge.


    ¡± Have you told her you like her?¡± I asked and he shook his head.


    ¡± Why?¡± I asked but I never got a response.


    ¡± Probably because you¡¯re shy right?¡± I asked and he nodded.


    I allowed a small silence linger between us, before speaking up again.


    ¡± If you would stop being shy, I will dly tell you how to win her over¡± I said and the next thing I know, he was up, staring at me with intensed eyes.


    ¡± How??¡± he asked.


    For a minute there, I paused to think.


    Was this really my brother??.


    Goodness!! I couldnt believe how big he has grown since Ist saw him.


    I know he miss me alot more than I miss him.


    How hard it must have been for him to cope without me.


    He must have wanted to tell me about it so badly.


    I smiled and ced his small palm in mine.


    ¡± Do you want me to tell you something?¡± I asked, and he nodded.


    ¡± Okay¡± I replied, getting up from the bed.


    I walked to the wardrobe and brought out a photo album.


    *


    *


    Meanwhile, Mr Martins and Mr Staffers were discussing about their children


    ¡± How has Ruby being? Is Nathan being nice to her?¡± Mr Staffers couldn¡¯t help but ask after his daughter.


    He was so worried about her and not a day passes by that he doesn¡¯t think of her.


    ¡± Ruby¡¯s fine. I hope you know she¡¯s in good hands. Nathan¡¯s not the only one living here. Being married also includes getting married to the guys family, so whatever happens, I don¡¯t think it will be now, but I do know Nathan will warm up to her soon¡±


    ¡± I don¡¯t need to tell you about his personality because you¡¯ve seen enough for yourself but one thing I can promise you is that, he won¡¯t hurt her. Never. I will never allow that to happen; and besides, Ruby is a good Kid, it would be hard not to like someone like her¡±


    ¡± But still, I think it¡¯s best if we give them time and allow them to get to know themselves. I personally think it¡¯s too early to interfere¡±


    ¡± So the overall view of what you¡¯ve said is that she¡¯s good?¡± Mr Staffers asked again.


    ¡± Yeah, except maybe for the simple fact that she missed her family¡± Mr Martins said to which Mr Staffers acknowledge.


    ¡± I know. We miss her too¡± Mr Staffers said and they went on to discuss about business.


    Apparently, Mr Staffers¡¯ business was bouncing back and it was only a matter of time before he goes back and even supercede how he was before.


    It was all thanks to his good friend. One good deed deserves another.


    *


    *


    Nathan busily looked through the files on his table.


    A cup of coffee by his side.


    He always brought work home and that was part of the reasons he fought with his Dad not to stay in the same room with Ruby.


    He doesn¡¯t want to have anything to do with her, that¡¯s a fact, but there was nothing he hates more than having someone interrupt him while he¡¯s working.


    And with that , E chosed toe in at that time.


    He had forgotten to lock the door and was so engrossed in his work to notice anyonee in.


    Before he knew it, a tight hug came around him, preventing him from doing anything further.


    His anger vented up as he turned to look at her.


    His eyes spit fire and his face was cold and hard.


    ¡± What the hell E??¡± he yelled at the top of his voice, making her flinch.


    She adjusted backwards and almost started whimpering.


    ¡± Get out!!¡± he wasted no time in saying that.


    ¡± What do you mean? I¡¯m your sister but I don¡¯t even get to see you that much. I¡¯m your sister, you know. I miss you¡± she enthused, trying to get close to him again, but the looks in his eyes made her stay away immediately.


    ¡± Get the fuck out and I don¡¯t ever want to see you here again!!¡± he yelled again but that didn¡¯t seem to get to her.


    Maybe she was already used to him or she was just being stubborn.


    But she should have listened because he had never shouted at her like that before.


    ¡± Why?? Why are you telling me to leave? Why are you pushing me away? Is it because I¡¯m not her? Is it because I¡¯m not your so called wife?¡± she asked, almost sobbing


    That was thest straw on the Carmel¡¯s back.


    Nathan decided he¡¯s had enough. He got up and walked to her, gripping her by the arm firmly, he started dragging her to God knows where, ignoring her pleas and cries.


    ¡± Stop! Stop it! You¡¯re hurting me¡± she cried but he never listened.


    He dragged her to the sitting room and when he saw no one there, he dragged her to the Kitchen where he saw her mother.


    He threw her to her and heaved, his hands on his waist.


    E turned to her mom with clouded eyes, showing her her bruised wrist.


    ¡± What?¡± Tracy yelled, taking her eyes to Nathan who didn¡¯t bulge or move an inch.


    ¡± What did you do to my daughter? Huh, I¡¯m asking you¡± she screamed at him.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± Just what I was about to ask you. What was your daughter doing in my room?¡±.


    ¡± To meet her brother of course¡± she answered and Nathan scoffed.


    ¡± You should know better than to train your daughter poorly¡± Nathan said through gritted teeth.


    ¡± What?¡± Tracy scoffed in disbelief.


    He was aplete piece of work. She was just confirming it.


    ¡± You won¡¯t speak to me in that manner.. I can tolerate all your nonsense but there¡¯s no way I will tolerate you leaving marks on my daughter¡± she told him straight up.


    ¡± Then you should¡­¡±


    ¡± There¡¯s nothing for you to say. She¡¯s your sister. What¡¯s wrong with hering to see you?¡±.


    ¡± She should never have and I don¡¯t think you¡¯re in a position to be speaking right now. Do I look like I give a damn about her being my sister. Yeah, I used to adore her but she¡¯s grown now and should behave mature, but I guess that¡¯s too hard because you raised her¡­¡± she almostnded a p on his cheek, but he quickly caught her and held her arm midway in the air.


    He red at her and she did same. It was hard to believe she would actually think of pping him.


    How does she see him?. Does she think he would just let her be simply because she¡¯s his stepmom?.


    She had better think again.


    E was already shaking in fear, not believing what she had caused.


    ¡± What the hell is going on here?!!¡± they heard a voice yell behind them.


    Nathan quickly put her hand down and they both stared at the person and it was no other than¡­

 Penthouse

    Penthouse


    Nathan held his gaze up as the kitchen became as quiet as a graveyard.


    The maids bowed their heads in respect and stood still in obeisance.


    ¡± What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± he yelled again and his voice echoed through the walls of the house.


    Goodness!! That look in his eyes.


    Phew!!


    ¡± Honey¡­¡± Tracy was going to say but he made her keep shut.


    ¡± I want to hear from you,¡± Mr Martins turned to his son and said.


    ¡± I don¡¯t think I have anything I want to say to you¡± Nathan said spitefully.


    ¡± You think so?¡± Mr Martins asked.


    ¡± You dare to disrespect your mom and you think you don¡¯t have¡­¡±


    ¡± Seems you¡¯re forgetting something; she¡¯s not my mother¡± Nathan grunted.


    Mr Martin¡¯s eyes sparked with emotions which he quickly hid.


    ¡± How dare you?¡± he asked.


    A scene was about to unfold and it wasn¡¯t gonna look pleasant.


    ¡± I should be asking you that. How dare you question me instead of reprimanding your wife and daughter ¡± Nathan fired back, and a hot pnded on his cheek.


    ¡± You won¡¯t dare speak to me in that manner¡± he snapped.


    The whole ce became silent as everyone gasped at what had happened.


    It was a nightmare they didn¡¯t seeing.


    Nathan grinned before storming out of the kitchen, going straight to his room.


    He changed into something more casual, picked up his car keys and was on his way out.


    Meanwhile, Ruby had heard the noise and was going towards the kitchen where she met her Dad.


    ¡± Dad!!¡± she called.


    ¡± How are you doing darling?¡± Mr Staffers asked and  finally got the chance to hug his daughter.


    He hugged her so tight, squeezing her in.


    ¡± I¡¯m fine Dad. What¡¯s going on?¡± Ruby asked raucously, disengaging from the hug.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± her Dad asked.


    ¡± I thought I heard noiseing from this direction,¡± she said, pointing towards the kitchen.


    ¡± I thought so too. Mr Martins went in there earlier¡± Mr Staffers said.


    Ruby looked at him and that instant, they both saw Nathan walking down the stairs, furious.


    ¡± And where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Mr Martins walked out to the kitchen with Tracy and E behind him.


    Nathanpletely ignored him and would have walked away if not for the intervention of Mr Staffers who held him back.


    ¡± You shouldn¡¯t be like this. Your Dad is talking to you¡± Mr Staffers said, hoping he would listen and he did listen, only because it was Mr Staffers and he didn¡¯t want to disrespect him either.


    ¡± Well then, help me tell my Dad I¡¯m leaving his house. I think he acted this way because I live with him. From now on, he would only see me at thepany, maybe then, he would learn to appreciate me more than he does now¡± Nathan rasped in anger.


    ¡± What? You¡¯re leaving?¡± E gasped.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± You can leave but don¡¯t forget to take your wife along with you¡± Mr Martins said and with that he walked away.


    ¡± Mom, please do something!¡± E begged and whined but her Mom did nothing too and simply walked away also.


    She was almost crying and shooting a hard re at Ruby, she ran after her mom, pleading and begging for her to do something to stop Nathan from leaving.


    Nathan started walking away again towards the door but Ruby ran after him and stood before him, blocking his path.


    ¡± I¡¯ming with you¡± she revealed and it sounded like a joke to Nathan who scoffed.


    He gently pushed her aside and walked away.


    ¡± Are you sure about this? You can clearly see the mood he¡¯s in. It¡¯s obvious he doesn¡¯t want you or anyone around him. What if he hurts you?¡± her Dad tried to talk her out of it, but there was no going back.


    Her mind was already made up and it¡¯s not just because Mr Martins asked him to take her with him.


    ¡± No Dad! I have to go¡­ I need to go. The mood he¡¯s in is exactly the reason I should go with him, to stop him from doing something crazy¡± Ruby tried to reason with her Dad.


    Her heart heaved up and down as she spoke.


    ¡± Ruby!!¡± Michael¡¯s tiny voice called.


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry Michael, but I promise toe see you another time.. Okay?¡± she said and he nodded, a smile on his face.


    ¡± I have to go dad¡± she faced her Dad again and said and Mr Staffers sighed in defeat.


    He watched as she ran up the stairs in haste.


    ¡± We would be leaving now also¡± he shouted after her.


    She halted, turned to him, smiled and left.


    Mr Staffers held Michael¡¯s hand and together, they walked away to the parking lot.


    The whole situation was something to him.


    Like!! It was his first time visiting and they didn¡¯t even have the courtesy to respect his presence.


    He wondered what kind of family that was and how his daughter would be able to survive in a family like that?.


    Don¡¯t get it wrong!. He might have given out his daughter to marry into a wealthy family as a business means of survival but he would never be like other men who practically use their daughters as business tools.


    They don¡¯t care what it will look like or how she will cope. They don¡¯t wanna know what she¡¯s passing through, and even if she doese toin, they will tell her to go back and bear it, because to them, wealth is the greatest thing in the world.


    Wealth is power and as long as you have it, you can do anything.


    Mr Staffers swore never to be like those business fathers.


    He was still gonna protect his daughter and look after her, especially now that he has seen things for himself.


    And it¡¯s a good thing his business is already doing well again. So, if she as much asin about anything, he wouldn¡¯t think twice before doing something.


    He can¡¯t risk having his only daughter suffer and she¡¯s too young for that.


    These and many more were the thoughts in his mind as he drove himself and Michael home.


    Michael whined when they passed an eatery and he stopped by to get him some ice cream.


    Meanwhile, Ruby quickly packed up some clothes into her bag and ran down to the garage, but Nathan was far gone.


    Woah!! She can¡¯t believe how coldhearted he could be.


    Why didn¡¯t he wait for her?.


    She sighed sadly, and was walking back into the house when her driver approached her.


    ¡± Are you going somewhere ma¡¯am?¡± he asked her.


    Ruby turned to look at him with a tired and disappointed face.


    She knew he¡¯s like that but she dared to hope he would at least have the heart to wait for her.


    Maybe he really doesn¡¯t want her toe with him. He doesn¡¯t want to have anything to do with her.


    And that¡¯s sad!!.


    ¡± Hmmm, yeah, but nevermind¡±


    ¡± Why?. I can take you wherever you want to. I mean, that¡¯s what I¡¯m being paid to do¡± the driver said.


    ¡± Yeah, I know but I don¡¯t even know where the ce is,¡± she said frustratedly, running her fingers into her hair.


    ¡± Where?¡± the driver persisted and it took alot for Ruby not to yell at him.


    For goodness sake , why won¡¯t he leave her alone?.


    ¡± Nathan¡¯s penthouse. I don¡¯t know where it is and he left already¡± she said sadly, almost at the brink of tears.


    ¡± Oh!! I know where it is ma¡¯am and I could take you there if you want me to¡± the driver said and Ruby¡¯s eyes ignited with excitement.


    A big smile formed on her lips. She suddenly became d she didn¡¯t yell at him.


    ¡± Really? You do? Oh, thank goodness. What are we waiting for then? Lets go¡± she told him in a hurry, practically running to the car.


    E looked down from her window and the anger in her tripled.


    She med Ruby for all that happened. To her, Nathan changed as soon as he got married to her.


    He had never acted that way before. It was the first.


    She swore to make Ruby pay and only the skys is gonna save her from what she has in mind.


    *


    *


    The driver halted in front of a ck gate.


    The fence of the building was almost the same height as the building so it was impossible to see what the building looked like.


    The driver honked and a man answered them from a small opening in the gate.


    ¡± Yes. Who are you and how do I help you?¡± the man asked with his deep baritone voice.


    The driver answered his question and the gatekeeper told him to give him a few seconds, after which he let them in.


    Ruby was dropped off in thepound and the driver left right away.


    She couldn¡¯t believe the beauty that was in front of her.


    It was woah and¡­. and heavenly.


    She ran inside as she couldn¡¯t wait to see what it looked like, only for her toe face to face with Nathan¡¯s zing eyes.


    She halted immediately as her heart skipped a beat.

 A cook

    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    His cold gaze pierced deep into my skin and made me shiver.


    Goodness!! Could he lower his gaze down a little bit? I could literally feel my skin burning hot.


    I halted at the door and he walked closer to him, a bottle of wine in his right hand .


    I could tell he was nning on getting drunk.


    What the..?.


    ¡± Nathan¡± I called slowly as he approached me, whimpering.


    I managed to look straight at him in the eyes and I could see they were bloodshot and red.


    Has he been crying?.


    Oh, no!! What happened? What could have transpired back there? It must have hurt him alot.


    ¡± Nathan!!¡± I called again, this time louder.


    I looked around but there seemed to be no one around.


    Apart from the workers I saw outside, I don¡¯t think there were any indoor staffs or workers.


    How then does he cope in this huge house? Alone?.


    ¡± Nathan! ¡± I called for thest time before hended on my body.


    He copsed on me and I had to use the whole of my strength or drag him to the couch.


    I can¡¯t believe this is actually happening? It¡¯s a good thing I had insisted oning. What if I hadn¡¯t?


    He would have suffered alot.


    I left him to go call the gatekeeper to help me.


    He dide and helped me take Nathan to his room.


    I ced the little clothes I brought in his wardrobe, before heading to the kitchen to get water and a piece of cloth.


    He was burning hot, and that was the only thing I could think of.


    I did this for a while till his temperature went down.


    The room was well ventted and since there were windows, I decided to open them to allow in fresh air.


    I watched over him for some minutes before leaving.


    It was night already by the time I came out of his room, and I was damn hungry.


    I went to the kitchen to fix myself something to eat only to meet an empty kitchen.


    Goodness gracious!! He¡¯s got to be kidding me.


    So this is how I¡¯m gonna starve? I can¡¯t believe this.


    There was nothing. When I say nothing, I mean nothing.


    The cupboards, and all were all empty.


    I almost broke down in tears and my grumbling stomach was making matters worse.


    What do I do now? I doubt I would be able to go out to get something to eat.


    Not having much of a choice, I decided to sleep like that.


    I managed to take my bathe and went to bed, but the hunger was dealing with me, and therefore kept me turning from one side of the bed to the other.


    Sleep did came, but I doubt how.


    *


    *


    I woke up the next morning with a slight migraine.


    The sun was already high up in the sky and was shining brightly into the room through the window.


    Speaking of that, I¡¯m very sure it was closed yesterday, so howe¡­


    I didn¡¯tplete my statement when he walked in.


    He stood by the door and stared at me, making me ufortable.


    I don¡¯t know how he does it, but he does have a way of making my heat skip a beat.


    ¡± G¡­ good morning¡± I struggled to say, gently getting out of bed.


    He said nothing.


    Phew!! Won¡¯t he ask what I am doing at his house and why I followed him?.


    Won¡¯t he thank me for taking good care of himst night?.


    Is he  just gonna stand there and look at me?.


    ¡± Come down for breakfast¡± he said and left, leaving me stunned.


    I had a puzzled look on my face which made me wonder and imagine alot of things.


    Hold on; Did I hear him correctly? Did he seriously cook? Like he prepared breakfast?.


    I can¡¯t believe this! This has got to be the best news in history?.


    I ran into the bathroom as fast as I could, do all I have to do and was out in no time.


    I dressed up in a simple gown and was out of the room in no time.


    I got downstairs to the dinning to meet it filled up with different meals and dessert.


    Oh, my!! I doubt he did this? Did he hire someone to do this or he ordered?.


    As if to confirm my suspicious and answer my questions, a youngdy stepped out from the kitchen side.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    She was so damn pretty and had curves in the right ces.


    She was dded in a t-shirt and jeans trousers, and then a sandals.


    She was dressed simply, yet smartly.


    I could tell she wasn¡¯t someone ordinary ormon.


    ¡± That would be all¡± she turned to Nathan with a smile and said.


    ¡± Good morning. You must be Ruby¡± she turned to me with that same smile and said.


    I didn¡¯t know how to force out a smile at her so I just nodded instead.


    ¡± d to finally meet you. I¡¯m Stacy ¨C Mr Nathan¡¯s personal cook¡± she revealed and my eyes quickly went to Nathan¡¯s face


    He didn¡¯t give a damn about any of us as he was busy savouring the delicious meal in front of him like a starved criminal.


    Don¡¯t tell me this is why he always refused to eat at home?.


    I dont know what it is, but I could feel this emotional building inside of me, and it wasn¡¯t a good one.


    Part of me wanted to smash Stacy¡¯s head on the wall, and the other wanted to run up to my room and cry my eyes out.


    ¡± Arent you gonna eat?¡± she interrupted my thoughts.


    Nathan said nothing still, but this time, he brought his head up to look at me.


    I had to take a seat as she served me.


    I forced myself to take the first spoon and goodness!!¡­ I just had to admit that she was so good.


    Her meal is heavenly which made me even more jealous.


    Nathan was almost done and all I did was sit there and force myself to eat.


    Can¡¯t believe this is what I was rushing down excitedly for.


    Nathan was done in no time and she packed up his te and took them to the kitchen.


    Nathan got up and left and I did also.


    I went to meet her in the kitchen, only to find her preparing another meal.


    ¡± Oh!! Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re done already?¡± she asked with her usual cheerful smile.


    What exactly is making her smile so much? Do I look happy or excited to her?.


    I took out time to study her dress.


    Woah!! I can¡¯t believe a cook would dress like this.


    Does she think she¡¯s going to a party or what?.


    Doesn¡¯t she know she¡¯sing to cook for a married man?.


    And why would Nathan bring his cook over when I was there? What does that make me? What does he see me as? How does he want her to see me?.


    She would probably be thinking now that I can¡¯t do anything.


    ¡± What you doing?¡± I asked trying to be friendly.


    ¡± I¡­ uhm¡­ I¡¯m just making¡­¡±


    ¡± Is it ready?¡± I heard Nathan¡¯s voice behind us.


    I looked back to see him appeaching us.


    He got to where we were and walked to her side.


    He picked up a piece of meat from the ones she had fried and threw it into his mouth, chewing it noisily and tastily.


    He nodded his head along as he did.


    ¡± Good! I love this. I like the way you seasoned it¡± heplimented, making me scoff.


    He¡¯s kidding me right? If only I could rip his throats out.


    This is so unbelievable!!.


    I scoffed and angrily walked out of the kitchen.


    I didn¡¯t care to think how they would see that or how he would react to it?.


    I was damn mad and wished I hadn¡¯te. It¡¯s obvious he¡¯s more than capable of taking care of himself, and from the look of things, it wasn¡¯t her first, second or even third time there.


    She¡¯s even had the kitchen stocked up with foodstuffs.


    Woah!! What a nice show?.


    Does he enjoys humiliating me or what? And howe he always acts like I dont exist?.


    He¡¯s really pissing me off and it wasn¡¯t funny one bit.


    I went to the fridge and brought out fruits from it after which I walked to the couch to start eating it.


    I had abandoned my meal as I refused to eat it out of anger.


    What I didn¡¯t seem to understand was the reason I was angry.


    It¡¯s not like he has done anything wrong. This is obviously how he has been living his life, even before I came into the picture.


    But that girl¡­ nah! Her dressing and everything about her just make me feel so¡­


    ¡± Are you supposed to be here?¡± I heard that sweet voice of his behind me.


    I smiled sweetly as I thought he finally seemed to notice I existed in that house, but his next words made the smile vanish as soon as it came.


    ¡± Doing what?¡± he asked, his voice cold and stern and his facial expressions not helping issues either.


    OMG!!.

 Once upon a time

    Once upon a time


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I stood up on my feet, shaking visibly.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± I asked him, taking my gaze to the ground.


    I couldn¡¯t afford to look at him, or even his eyes.


    ¡± What do you mean what do I mean? What¡¯s the time? Won¡¯t you go to school?¡±he thundered.


    I finally got what he meant and let it sink in.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ I¡¯m not¡­ I¡¯m not going¡± I stuttered, summoning up the courage to look at him.


    His gaze was still fixed on my face as he ceased his brows.


    ¡± Why?¡± his voice came out gentle and nice.


    ¡± I¡­ I just don¡¯t want to¡± I replied truthfully.


    I n on staying with him. I want to be with him.


    I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong but that¡¯s how I feel.


    And from the look of things, I don¡¯t think he¡¯s going to the office today.


    He was about to say something when the cook ¨C Stacy walked in.


    She was carrying her bag and I figured she was set to go.


    Thank goodness!!.


    ¡± I¡¯m ready to leave, sir¡± she said, making Nathan turn his gaze to her.


    ¡± Good¡± he said, nodding.


    He beckoned on her to follow him out and she did.


    I sat down on the couch exhaustedly, and then he came in few minutester.


    He walked pass me going to the stairs.


    Gosh!!.


    I was beginning to think I made a mistake not going to school.


    This guy is as cold as ice. Gosh!!.


    I picked up the remote and decided to search through the channels for something reasonable to watch.


    I finally settled for an interesting soap opera.


    *


    *


    I don¡¯t know what happened, but I woke up in my room feeling tired and weak.


    What the..?


    I look out the window to see the sun still high up in the sky.


    I could tell it would be scorchingly hot.


    How did I end up here? I¡¯m sure I was watching movies and I probably would have fallen asleep there.


    Why did Nathan bring me here?.


    I sluggishly got out of bed and out of the room.


    I walked to the sitting room but there was no one there.


    I went to his room but he wasn¡¯t there either, so I ended up looking for him in other ces of the house; from the garden to the pool side and back to thewn.


    Where could he be?.


    The workers that were around working all greeted as soon as they saw me.


    It kinda made me feel somehow. They were all way older than me.


    It got to a point that I didn¡¯t want to answer but I know that would even be ruder.


    ¡± Uhm¡­have you seen Nathan?¡± I stopped the gardener and asked.


    ¡± You mean Sir Nathan?¡± he asked to be sure.


    Oh , my! Do I have to call him Sir?. He¡¯s my husband for crying out loud.


    ¡± Yeah. Whatever¡± I rolled my eyes.


    He nodded and directed me to where Nathan was.


    He was at the back of the house and there was also a pool there


    Woah!! I never realized the house was that huge.


    I even preferred the pool here to the one I saw earlier.


    I watched him from afar where I stood.


    He flipped through the pages of whatever he was working on.


    He was dressed casually and busily did what he was doing.


    I contemted on either or not I should approach him.


    He seemed busy. What if he gets mad?.


    After much thinking, I turned around and left.


    I walked back into the house and decided to get busy with my phone.


    Heaven knows I¡¯ve never been that bored in my entire life.


    Why the hell didn¡¯t I go to school?.


    I heard the door creak opened, turned only to find out he¡¯s the one.


    He walked in with the files with him.


    I watched him go up the stairs in haste.


    I continued what I was doing on my phone and about thirty minutester, he walked out againpletely dressed in a ck suit.


    I was mesmerized by his handsomeness and gasped as soon as my eyesnded on his face.


    Holy Moly!!


    He did his buttons as he walked down the stairs and that made him look even more hot.


    He finally got down and walked to where I was.


    He ced his both hands in his pockets and was about to say something when he got interrupted by his phone.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± Yeah.. I¡¯m on my way¡± he spoke calmly into the phone.


    ¡± What? Are you leaving? Where are you going?¡± I asked hurriedly as soon as he hung up.


    ¡± I have a business meeting to attend to¡± he replied, staring into his phone


    ¡± What kind of business meeting?¡± I asked.


    ¡± A meeting and then a little get together for all the members of the business club, but not to worry, I won¡¯t be staying for the mini party¡± he enthused.


    ¡± I¡¯ming with you. I want toe with you¡± I shrieked, sping my palms together in hopes that he would agree.


    He stared at me in disbelief.


    ¡± Sure.. Do whatever you want¡± he said, going to sit on the couch.


    I smiled happily and ran quickly to my room.


    It was still hard to believe he was actually downstairs waiting for me.


    I changed into something more sophisticated and sexy ¨C a short, curvy stylish gown with heels and purse to go.


    I did a little makeup on my face and packed my hair in a messy bun.


    I ced my jewelries on, and with a satisfied look on my face after staring at the mirror, I smiled and walked out of the room.


    I got down to see him still waiting for me.


    That made the worms in my stomach dance for joy.


    He saw me walking towards him and stood up.


    He started walking to the door immediately.


    Jeez!! Doesn¡¯t he know he¡¯s supposed to givepliments in a situation like this?.


    Well, what was I expecting?.


    I scoff and ran after him.


    I opened the door myself and got in, with him right by my side and the driver at the front.


    We were soon on our way.


    *


    *


    We stopped in front of an exquisite building, the shimmering lightsing from it was splendid and alluring.


    I didn¡¯t know when a ¡® Woah¡¯ escaped my mouth.


    I stood still for a while,pletely mesmerized by the beauty of the ce.


    I had to snap out of my thoughts only to see Nathan far gone and almost inside.


    I ran in a funny manner, my heels not helping matters.


    I caught up with him and we walked in together.


    We got to the halls and it was filled with tons of people.


    They all looked wealthy and stinkingly rich, and they all spell ss.


    I was d I dressed very well if not I would have died of humiliation.


    I made sure to walk very close to Nathan, almost like I was holding him but I dare not to.


    He walked to a group of men and exchanged pleasantries with them, after which he started moving round leaving me to sort myself out.


    He hasn¡¯t even turned to look at me or talk to me since we got in.


    I guess he¡¯s forgotten someone came with him.


    I walked to a chair when I got tired of standing with a ss of wine in my hand that I got from a tray earlier.


    ¡± Hey!!!¡± I heard a feminine voice behind me.


    I turned to see Chelsea.


    ¡± Hey!!¡± I waved back, stunned to see her there.


    ¡± I didn¡¯t know youe to things like this¡± she said and I didn¡¯t know if it was a question or a statement.


    ¡± You look beautiful by the way¡± sheplimented and I blushed badly.


    ¡± You too¡± I said and weughed.


    ¡± Oh!! Just look at him!¡± she said.


    I traced her gaze and theynded on Nathan.


    ¡± Isn¡¯t he so adorable?¡± she asked, smiling so hard.


    ¡± I guess he is¡± I replied, smiling also.


    ¡°How are you holding up? Hope he¡¯s not being much of a jerk?¡± she asked.


    ¡± Well, I¡¯ll say he¡¯s more of an asshole¡± I replied, making her burst intoughter, which Iter joined.


    Oh, man! I love her vibes.


    Goodness!! I didn¡¯t know she was also in the business world.


    ¡± Howe you¡¯re here?¡± I decided to ask, when I couldn¡¯t hide my curiosity any longer.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ I work in De Martins also¡± she revealed, making my eyes bulge out of their sockets.


    ¡± What? You didn¡¯t know?¡± she asked and I shook my head.


    ¡± I figured, but it¡¯s been for a while now. Shortly after I moved back from the states, but hopefully I would return soon¡­ when I get married¡± she said and sipped from her ss.


    I couldn¡¯t help but stare at her.


    I was happy I saw her here. I would have felt so left out and all.


    Just then, a brown haired girl saw her, waved and started approaching us.


    ¡± Watch out! That¡¯s She. She has this super huge crush on Nathan and could try to hurt you with her words¡± Chelsea warned in harness in a whisper, before waving back at the girl.


    Okay!!. Let¡¯s see how this goes.

 An Argument

    An Argument


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Oh, girl! You look ravishing¡± the She girl said.


    ¡± I can say the same about you¡± Chelsea said equally smiling.


    I stood there and watched as they both exchanged pleasantries,ughed and went on to talk about other things.


    ¡± And you¡¯re¡­?¡± she finally turned to me and said.


    ¡± She¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡± Oh, yeah! I know who she is¡± she interrupted Chelsea.


    ¡± She¡¯s Nathan¡¯s wife¡± she said and it was followed by a brief silence as she did justice to me with her eyes.


    She scrutinized me from my head to my toes, before looking back at my face.


    ¡± Nice to meet you¡± she stretched out her palm to me which I dly took.


    ¡± Nice to meet you too¡± I replied, smiling.


    Chelsea grinned as she watched the mini drama in front of her.


    ¡± So¡­ you came with Nathan, yeah?¡±  she asked with her strong British ent.


    I nodded.


    ¡± You are so young. I thought those rumour mongers were exaggerating, but now I can see for myself¡± she said, looking all over me once again.


    ¡± And beautiful¡± Chelsea added.


    ¡± Yeahhh¡± she said, stretching it.


    ¡± Oh!! I can¡¯t believe he left you here all alone¡± she turned to look at the direction Nathan was and said.


    ¡± He didn¡¯t. She¡¯s here with me¡± Chelsea defended.


    She turned to look at Chelsea and gave a sly smile.


    Sheter took Chelsea to a corner and they started discussing God knows what.


    I was left alone again, but not for long, because the exchange of pleasantries soon came to an end and it was time for the main reason everyone was there.


    I saw Nathan walking back to where I was, and when he got to the ce I was, he took a seat close to me.


    I was a bit stunned but didn¡¯t show it. I thought he was gonna act as if I didn¡¯t exist again.


    Chelsea and She joined us also.


    ¡± Oh, Nathan!!¡± She shrieked in excitement trying to hug him, but he gently pushed her off him.


    Her face flushed with embarrassment but she quickly hid it with a smile, while taking her seat.


    ¡± It¡¯s been a while¡± she said, acting all coy and touching his hand.


    ¡± What do you mean? We see at the office everyday¡± Nathan grunted.


    ¡± Yeah, I know, but what I meant was that¡­¡± she wasn¡¯t able toplete her statement as a result of the loud apuse that emerged.


    I turned to see an elderly man on stage and it turned out to be Mr Martins ¨C Nathan¡¯s father.


    He greeted everyone and went on to open the event before giving his speech.


    All through this time, She never kept her hands to herself , she kept touching Nathan here and there.


    Despite Nathan casually and stylishly removing it, she still wouldn¡¯t bulge.


    I was boiling in anger and felt like smashing her head on the wall.


    I didn¡¯t even hear any of what Mr Martins said.. I only got to know he was done when I started hearing another round of apuse.


    I turned to look again and he was existing the stage.


    ¡± Are you staying for the get together?¡± Chelsea asked Nathan just before he left the table.


    He looked at me.


    ¡± I don¡¯t think so. We need to leave¡± Nathan said coldly.


    ¡± Come on; don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s because of Ruby. For goodness sake, don¡¯t you think she¡¯s also dying to have fun here?¡± Chelsea whined, making puppy eyes at him.


    ¡± Well¡­ it¡¯s up to her¡± he said.


    ¡± Oh, please! Is she a kid? She wouldn¡¯t havee here in the first ce if she didn¡¯t want this¡± She interfered.


    ¡± Chill babe! Have you forgotten she¡¯s still in high school. That¡¯s obviously the reason he¡¯s asking¡± Chelsea cautioned.


    ¡± Well¡­ I¡¯m staying, and you¡¯re right¡± I turned to She.


    ¡± This is the reason I came here ¡± Ipleted, a smirk on my face.


    We turned to see Nathan was far gone.


    Not only him, alot of persons were gone too.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ what¡¯s going on?¡± I had to ask because I was looking so confused.


    ¡°The party is gonna take ce outside ¡± Chelsea informed, practically jumping up for joy.


    I could tell she¡¯s a party freak. So much excitement.


    She got up and I quickly did too. I make sure to follow behind her closely.


    She¡¯s the only one I know here apart from Nathan.


    She went to meet a group of persons whom I assumed to be her friends.


    They wouldn¡¯t stop shooting me murderous res, but trust me not to give a damn.


    I went with Chelsea and we got to a table with only two girls.


    ¡± Hey girls!!¡± she beamed at them cheerfully.


    ¡± Whatsup Chelsea¡± they waved back.


    I quickly sat down and a waiter stepped forward and filled a ss for me with wine.


    I sipped from the wine as Chelsea conversed with the two girls.


    I wasn¡¯t interested in what they were saying, so I didn¡¯t care to listen.


    I saw She approaching our table with the people she went to meet earlier.


    They were about three boys and two girls, herself inclusive, making it six.


    They approached our table and took their various seats, now making us ten in number.


    ¡± Hey!¡± one of the guys waved at me.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I said back.


    ¡± You¡¯re¡­?¡±.


    ¡± She¡¯s Ruby ¨C Nathan¡¯s wife¡± Chelsea replied him.


    ¡± Woah!! I can¡¯t believe this. I can¡¯t believe I finally got to meet Nathan¡¯s wife¡­ and in a ce like this. Woah!! What a night!!¡± The guy rasped and it took alot for me not tough.


    He was acting so funny and I had to admit that he has a likeable personality.


    ¡± Hey, I¡¯m Jim ¡± he said, bringing out his hand for a handshake.


    ¡± I¡¯m Ruby ¡± I replied.


    The rest of them went on to greet me and tell me their names.


    They were all very friendly unlike She who was just pretending to be. I could see through her, so I know.


    The were amazed that I was Nathan¡¯s wife, and most of them couldn¡¯t believe how young I was.


    They kept asking for my age but Chelsea quickly shut them up and made them give up.


    I was finally having a nice time and I loved it.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    The table was filled up in no time with drinks, desserts, food and appetizers of different kinds and types.


    ¡± Speaking of Nathan, where¡¯s he?¡± the guy that introduces himself as Peter asked.


    ¡± Where¡¯s your husband?¡± one of the girls that came with them ¨C Cami asked me directly.


    ¡± Are you seriously asking her that?¡± Chelsea intervened on my behalf.


    ¡± It¡¯s just a simple question. Why won¡¯t you let her answer?¡± that was She.


    ¡± No, I won¡¯t. How the hell do you expect her to know exactly where her husband is right now? Don¡¯t you know he¡¯s a busy man?¡± Chelsea fired back at her.


    ¡± The question wasn¡¯t directed at you. You should let her speak for herself, not acting as her mouthpiece ¡± She snapped back.


    ¡± She¡¯s my sister inw, and Nathan is my cousin¡± Chelsea said through gritted teeth.


    I couldn¡¯t tell if she was angry or not, because the smile on her face was still there, but her tone was mean and stern.


    I would have said she got it from Mr Martins, but she isn¡¯t rted to him directly, she¡¯s rted to Nathan¡¯s mother instead.


    ¡± Just say you¡¯re jealous¡± She asked and that made Chelsea burst into a horrendous round ofughter.


    ¡± Jealous? Jealous of what?¡± she asked with an arched brow.


    ¡± Of the fact that someone else is here to take your ce in Nathan¡¯s life. We all know you used to be the closest person to him, but now he¡¯s married and I cant wait to see how that is gonna y out for you¡± She said spitefully, trying to hit a nerve, but Chelsea was smart enough to dodge it.


    ¡± I would say you¡¯re the jealous and pained one. You finally didn¡¯t seed atst, despite acting like you would die if he didn¡¯t date you. I guess it¡¯s so hard to take it in and relieve yourself of that super huge crush you have on him¡± Chelsea fired back.


    ¡± Oopss!!¡± Christy said, one of the girls too.


    The othersughed silently at this and She was really embarrassed.


    ¡± How dare you? Yeah, I have a crush on him but that¡¯s it, and I¡¯m not like you that can¡¯t get my eyes off my own brother¡±


    ¡± That¡¯s because he¡¯s my brother, and I¡¯m d you agreed he¡¯s adorable ¡±


    ¡± I never said that ¡± they both attacked eachother with harsh words and other things.


    I hadn¡¯t realized how crazy Chelsea is until now.


    I better not take her for granted. She has their blood after all, even if she¡¯s not a real De Martins, I guess their blood also runs in her vein.


    I couldn¡¯t believe it was someone¡¯s husband they were arguing about in such manner.


    Do they even realize his wife was right in their midst?.


    Now I believe what Chelsea had told me about killing to get with Nathan if they weren¡¯t rted.


    I had taken it as childish talk, but now I know better.


    Phew!!.

 A game

    A game


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    The tension was getting higher and could be sliced through by a knife.


    I just sat back and watched and listened as they blickered like kids.


    The others tried to put them to order but neither of them yielded.


    These were the same people acting like besties some moments ago. You never can tell with girls.


    It suddenly made me remember Lily and Ivy.


    ¡± Cheap whore!¡± Chelsea threw st She angrily.


    The smile on her face quickly vanished and was now reced with a frown, while She on the other hand made to attack her but was quickly stopped by the guys there.


    ¡± For fuck sake guys, what¡¯s this?¡± Jim said irritatedly, stepping in between them.


    The second guy and a girl held She while he did his best to keep Chelsea in check.


    ¡± Seriously! Are you girls really trying to fight over Nathan? Come on girls, that¡¯s insane¡± Christy said,pletely annoyed.


    I posed on the chair I was on, as I watched the ongoing drama and I was enjoying every bit of it.


    ¡± Arent you gonna say something?¡± another of the girls ¨C Annabel asked me.


    ¡± Say what?¡± I asked back, looking confused.


    Does she expect me to stop them or what?. I don¡¯t understand her.


    Did I ask them to fight?.


    ¡± It¡¯s Nathan we are talking about here?¡± she said btedly, making me look even more confused.


    ¡± I still don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re trying to say¡± I said, looking from one person to the other.


    ¡± Why are you trying to drag her into this?¡± Chelseashed at her.


    ¡± This is exactly the same thing you did just now¡­ standing up for her¡± She said through rugged breathe.


    Chelsea burst into a chaoticughter which seemed to irritate She alot.


    ¡± Look at you, acting like you actually care about her. Who knows if you aren¡¯t pretending?¡± She fired.


    ¡± I can say that¡¯s how you are, and I like the way you¡¯re not even trying to hide it. You personality stinks, you know that right, and that¡¯s why Nathan didn¡¯t want to have anything to do with you¡± Chelsea said spitefully, hitting a nerve.


    ¡± You think you¡¯re so good¡­ like you¡¯re the best¡­¡± She said, her voice breaking.


    What Chelsea said really touched her, she must have liked Nathan alot.


    ¡± For goodness sake guys, why don¡¯t you all try to keep it down. You aren¡¯t the only ones here for crying out loud¡± a girl from our midst said.


    She had been silent all this while and finally decided to speak up now. She didn¡¯t even get up or try to separate them when they were about to get into a fight.


    ¡± Is this what you¡¯re supposed to be saying Sasha?¡± Christy asked her.


    She shrugged, taking her eyes elsewhere as she let out a deep sigh.


    She must be exhausted from all the quarrels and all. I mean, it¡¯s suffocating.


    ¡± Please, you girls should stop this. It¡¯s not getting funny any longer.. You¡¯re adults for God¡¯s sake, why are you acting like kids?¡± Jim cautioned, looking from Chelsea to She.


    He was about to say something else again when we started hearing screams and shouts.


    We all turned to see girls hovering all over Nathan, screaming, giggling andughing at the same time.


    It was so disgusting to watch. I mean, the way they were literally throwing themselves at him.


    What the¡­??. He¡¯s married for fuck sake. I wanted to scream it out loud, but I couldn¡¯t even move a limb.


    Chelsea sat down after shooting She a murderous re.


    The iing fight was finally interrupted by Nathan and his fan girls.


    I watched him stop and take a look around, like he was searching for something or someone .


    Jim waved at him and he started walking towards us ¨C elegantly.


    A proud smile was on my face as he approached us.


    Can¡¯t still believe I¡¯m married to him, but not sure if he¡¯s mine¡­and mine alone.


    He finally got to where we were.


    ¡± What¡¯s up dude. It¡¯s been a while¡± Jim said, exchanging a manly handshake with him.


    The rest exchanged pleasantries with him also before he finally took his seat, close to me.


    I blushed as he did, but tried to hide it.


    He turned to look at Chelsea and arched his brows when he saw the state she was in, but he never said anything.


    ¡± So¡­ how¡¯s life been?¡± Jim asked further to which he nodded to.


    ¡± It¡¯s been long Nathan. You hardlye to this things anymore.. I wonder what made you change your mind today¡± Sasha said, smiling seductively at him.


    Bitch!!.


    I guess they are all the same after all. They all just want him.


    She tried to touch him as she spoke but he threw her hands off her, not minding if there were people around.


    Iughed silently, while she shamefully kept her hands to herself.


    ¡± What are we doing here?¡± Nathan asked with a rugged breath, taking a ss of wine.


    ¡± What else? We are enjoying the party man?¡± Jim replied, smiling as he clicked his ss with Nathan¡¯s.


    ¡± Then there should be more buzz¡± Nathan groaned like a party freak.


    Hold on; Don¡¯t tell me he is?.


    ¡± That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about¡± the other guy ¨C peter said excitedly.


    The atmosphere was better now and more cheerful.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    The guys started drinking immediately while the girls looked on, each with a different kind of smile on their faces.


    ¡± Your wife is beautiful by the way¡± Peter said amidstughters.


    Nathan only nodded and a short silence stepped in.


    ¡± You guys have been enjoying yourselves, leaving us left out¡± Cami said, readjusting on her chair.


    ¡± You girls decided to leave yourselves out of it, so what do y¡¯all expect us to do?¡± Jim asked her.


    ¡± You know evey well it¡¯ste. We can¡¯t afford to get drunk¡± Christy told him.


    ¡± Suit yourselves ¡± Peter replied.


    Cami sighed, meditating.


    ¡± How about we do something we¡¯ll all enjoy?¡± she asked after a moment of silence from her part.


    ¡± And what could that be?¡± Jim asked her.


    ¡± A game. Truth or dare to be precised ¡± she let out and I noticed the air turned cold around them.


    Hold on; What¡¯s going on?.

 Still on it

    Still on it.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    The looks on their faces was telling me something else.


    ¡± Alright. Let¡¯s get started¡± Jim said excitedly, getting ready.


    ¡± Aren¡¯t you supposed to like get the approval of everyone here, except of course, not everyone is ying¡± Nathan said staring directly at Jim.


    He seem to be the only one he talks to, thereby acting like the rest of us are nonexistent.


    ¡± Everyone has agreed already. Or¡­.¡± Jim said looking around us.


    ¡± You think so, because I¡¯m not ying¡± Nathan let out exasperatedly.


    ¡± And why¡¯s that?¡± Cami asked sharply.


    He shoot her a re which made her retreat immediately.


    ¡± You¡¯re here which automatically makes you one of us. So, you¡¯re ying ¡± Chelsea said after all this while with a note of finality.


    The seriousness in her tone caught Nathan off guard.


    He kept a straight face and rxed back on the chair.


    ¡± So¡­ who¡¯s starting?¡± Christy, who was sitting close to Sasha and the other girls asked.


    ¡± I¡¯ll start and then it¡¯s gonna go this way¡±she said, making a left gesture.


    The way she exined it means it was going to the left side which I was in.


    ¡± So.. truth of dare?¡± she faced Sasha who was close to her and asked.


    Sasha had been a little moody since what happened between her Nathan and I saw her trying to cheer herself up.


    ¡± Truth¡± she revealed.


    ¡± Oh, before I forget, I hope we all know the rules of the game?¡± she asked rhetorically.


    ¡± Well, this is not the first time we are ying it, hence, I would like to ask the only new person in our midst who also happens to be a teenager¡­ Ruby!!!¡± she called, making me take my eyes to her.


    ¡± Exactly what I was gonna ask.. Don¡¯t you get the fact she¡¯s a kid¡± Nathan snapped.


    ¡± Chill bro! No one here is gonna make her do anything weird or bad¡± Chelsea tried to calm him down as he red up, leaving me to wonder the weird or bad part she was referring to.


    What exactly does she mean? Do they get really naughty¡­ like naughty? The ones I¡¯ve yed are always very mild and simple.


    ¡± So, Ruby¡± Cami called again.


    ¡± Here are some of the rules to this¡­¡±


    ¡± I know the rules¡± I cut her off gently, making most of them bat an eyelid.


    She smiled and moving back to Sasha, she continued, while I picked up my ss of wine.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± So Sasha, is it true you sucked up Leon¡¯s sperm at the beach party?¡± she asked, making me choke on my ss.


    What the¡­?.


    I spilled some wine on my dress and my reaction made them all turned to look at me.


    ¡± You okay?¡± Jim was the first to ask.


    I felt a hot lump build up in my throat.


    Are they kidding me right now?. It took alot for me not to roll my eyes at him. I didn¡¯t want to seem disrespectful, so I just simply nodded calmly.


    I tried getting the stains of my dress with the tissues on the table, but they weren¡¯ting off.


    ¡± Have you forgotten there¡¯s a kid here?¡± Nathan turned to Cami and yelled.


    ¡± And who exactly are you calling a kid?¡± She fired back at him, finally speaking up since forever.


    ¡± Are you saying she doesn¡¯t know this things yet? When she¡¯s already married? Haven¡¯t you f**ked her or what?¡± She asked annoyingly, which pissed the hell out of Nathan.


    He angrily stood up, and not just that, he grabbed me by the wrist and pulled me up with him.


    I was shocked to my bone marrows, but obediently followed him out.


    We started walking to a direction I don¡¯t even know, until we came to the restrooms.


    ¡± Go in and do your thing¡± he said to me, before taking a step back.


    I smiled happily and walked into one of the female restrooms to try and get the stains off me.


    It was small but very clear.


    I cant believe he was there with me. Like he was outside¡­ waiting for him and he came here with me.


    Woah!! I think I need toe to things like this more often.


    I grinned, taking a look at myself in the mirror.


    *


    *


    ¡± What the hell is your problem?¡± Chelsea fired at She as soon as Nathan was gone with Ruby.


    ¡± I should be the one asking you that? I think you need to be treated because you¡¯re not normal¡± She fired at her.


    ¡± You girls shouldn¡¯t start. We are finally getting some peace¡± Christy tried to calm them down, but it seemed she has said the wrong thing, because of the look they gave her.


    She quickly swallowed whatever was left of what she wanted to say.


    ¡± Let¡¯s just wait for them to get back and continue with the game¡± Sasha said simply.


    ¡± Do you really think Nathan is gonna go on with it? Not after what just happened. He seem a little annoyed by it¡± Peter spoke up.


    ¡± Well, I guess his cousin here would know the answer to that question¡± She said, giving Chelsea a sly smile.


    ¡± He seem to like her¡± another of the girls ¨C Grace, said.


    ¡± Do you expect him to hate his wife?¡± Chelsea asked her.


    ¡± No, I don¡¯t and I didn¡¯t mean it that way actually.. I was just trying to say¡­¡±


    ¡± You know what she¡¯s trying to say, so why are you attacking her with your questions?¡± She attacked Chelsea, making thetter smirk.


    ¡± Just the same thing I was about to ask. Why are you attacking me when the question isn¡¯t directed at you?¡± Chelsea asked.


    ¡± Because you¡¯re a snake¡±


    ¡± And I could say the same for you. I mean, with all pleasure¡± Chelsea said amidstughters.


    ¡°What¡¯s taking them so long?¡± Sasha said worriedly.


    ¡± Keep your eyes off of someone else¡¯s husband¡±  Chelsea faced her.


    ¡± I don¡¯t get why you¡¯re attacking everyone over him.. That¡¯s his wife¡¯s job¡± Sasha said back.


    ¡± Help me ry it to her¡± She concurred, leaving a big smile on Chelsea¡¯s face.

 The game

    The game


    Author¡¯s Pov;


    Chelsea grinned, while staring at them.


    ¡± I¡¯m his sister¡±


    ¡± Cousin¡± She corrected.


    ¡± It doesn¡¯t matter, we are rted, that¡¯s all I know¡± Chelsea said, making sure to sink it into her brain.


    They both red at themselves.


    ¡± What¡¯s taking them so long?¡± Christy asked, looking pale.


    ¡± Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re waiting for them toe back so you¡¯ll continue.¡± Peter asked her and she nodded.


    ¡± Do you seriously think Nathan would have¡­.¡±


    ¡± Here they are,¡± Cami said when she saw Ruby and Nathan approaching them.


    They got back to the chair and took their seats.


    ¡± So¡­ where were we?¡± Cami asked excitedly, looking at everyone.


    No one said nothing. They were all expecting Nathan to say something but he didn¡¯t.


    ¡± I stopped at Sasha right?¡± she asked, turning to her.


    ¡± So¡­ your reply¡±


    ¡± Why are we still ying this dumb game?¡± Nathan grumbled inaudibly, bringing silence to the table.


    ¡± What do you mean dumb? We used to y it all the time, and I don¡¯t think it¡¯s that boring. What do you say Ruby? Should we stop it?¡± Cami turned to Ruby and asked, making her the focus of everybody there.


    ¡± What do you want me to say?¡± Ruby said lowly.


    ¡± Just answer the damn¡­.¡± She was going to say but stopped when she saw the looks in Nathan¡¯s eyes.


    ¡± Well¡­ the party is just starting and far from over, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a good idea to stop, ¡± Ruby said btedly.


    ¡± You should have just answered with a simple yes, not all this one you were just beating around the bush. High school kid indeed¡± Sasha said with an eye roll.


    ¡± It¡¯s  student, dummy,¡± Chelsea groaned.


    ¡± I wasn¡¯t talking to you¡± Sasha fired back.


    ¡± It¡¯s the way you¡¯re just attacking everybody for her sake for me. I really do hope you can keep this up. Can¡¯t wait to see how long you¡¯llst¡± She said with a smirk.


    ¡± Are we doing this or not? What¡¯s all this batter for?¡± Nathan yelled at the top of his voice, making other people from other tables turn to look at them.


    They all have a despondent look on their faces.


    ¡± I think we should do something else. The party is getting boring to me already¡± Jim said.


    ¡± That¡¯s because it¡¯s just starting,¡± Grace said.


    She and the other girls had chosen to remain silent and just watch.


    ¡± Truth or dare?¡± Cami turned to Grace who was close to Sasha.


    ¡± It¡¯s my turn to ask,¡± Sasha interrupted.


    ¡± Well, you refused to answer,¡± Cami said, throwing her hair to her back.


    A brief silence stepped in.


    ¡± It¡¯s true, but I am curious to know how you found out about it,¡± Sasha said, staring intensely at Cami who had a huge smile stered on her face.


    ¡± Well, a little birdie told me¡± she whispered back audibly, making everyone present at the table, excluding Nathan tough.


    ¡± Now, Grace¡­ truth or¡­¡±


    ¡± Dare!!¡± Grace cut her off.


    ¡± Now, we are finally making some progress,¡± Cami said.


    ¡± I dare you to uhm¡­ give that guy over there ap dance¡± Sasha dared, pointing at a blonde dude three tables away from theirs.


    Grace stood up majestically and walked over to the table. She stood close to the boy and whispered something to his ears which made his eyes glinted up excitedly in happiness.


    Soon, she set to work.


    Ruby couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing. It utter herpletely speechless and watching as everyone started screaming and cheering her on almost made her puke.


    What the heck¡­?.


    ¡± That¡¯s my girl!!!¡± Sasha hailed, making high five with Grace as soon as she was back.


    Grace sat just as her name is ¨C gracefully, fanning herself with her fingers.


    ¡± Next. Peter¡± she called.


    ¡± I dare you to¡­¡±


    ¡± You haven¡¯t asked yet?¡± She interrupted.


    ¡± It¡¯s okay. I was gonna choose  dare anyways¡± Peter said.


    ¡± Yeah, yeah, truths are for babies¡± Cami cooed and they allughed.


    ¡± I dare you to kiss Agnes¡± Grace dared, turning to look at the girl called Agnes.


    She had been on her phone since they got there and was still on it, but hearing this now, she couldn¡¯t help but put her phone away and look up.


    Her brows were arched as she red at Grace who smiled at her in return.


    ¡± I never said I was ying,¡± she grunted.


    ¡± Sorry darling¡­ you¡¯re in this table which automatically makes you part of the game¡± Christy said.


    She rolled her eyes as Peter stood up.


    ¡± How many seconds?¡± he asked before getting down to do his thing.


    ¡± 30 seconds,¡± Grace said.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    He smiled and immediately locked lips with her.


    Grace counted and he moved back once he was done.


    People from other tables who had been watching the show started cheering.


    ¡± And herees the part I like most,¡± Cami said, referring to the cheers and all.


    Peter walked back to his chair, a big pleasant smile on his face.


    Agnes wasn¡¯t looking angry or anything rted to it. Guess she was also cool with it.


    ¡± Up next¡­ She!¡±


    ¡± I dare you to uhm¡­.¡± Agnes was saying but paused, obviously looking for something bad to say to her.


    She tried tomunicate with her with her eyes but Agnes wouldn¡¯t bulge.


    She understood she was trying to tell her to make her do things with Nathan, but she wouldn¡¯t.


    ¡± I dare you to go have a swim for a minute¡± Agnes said, pissing She off.


    ¡± Why kinda dare is this?¡± She asked angrily.


    ¡± A dare is a dare, so just do it¡± Christy told her.


    She angrily got up and went to do it. She wouldn¡¯t have paid the fine, but that was against the rules of their games.


    One wasn¡¯t allowed to reject a dare, no matter what it is.


    They went on with this, and after She was Christy, Christy in turn dared Cami when it came to her turn.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ I dare you to kiss Nathan¡± she dared and everybody heard a loud bang in their heads.


    What the¡­?.

 Cindy

    Cindy!!


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I heard a loud bang in my head.


    Whaaat?!!.


    I didn¡¯t say anything and I said nothing. I  knew I couldn¡¯t say anything.


    I just sat there as I allowed the words to resonate in my head.


    They are so shameless. I had to admit.


    ¡± You must be sick!!¡± Chelseashed out at her.


    Christy eyed her and turned to Nathan and Cami.


    Cami got up immediately and started walking to where Nathan was seated.


    ¡± Come on!¡± she said seductively at him.


    ¡± You better get your slutty self out of my sight!¡± Nathan warned in anger.


    Cami flinched and stopped right on her track.


    ¡± You better stop this Nathan. This isn¡¯t the first time you¡¯re breaking the rules of our game. You always refuse to do things¡± Christy said in anger.


    Chelsea scoffed.


    ¡± I can¡¯t believe what¡¯s going on here. Are you guys being serious right now?¡± she said in anger.


    ¡± You stay out of this. A game is a game¡± Cami enthused.


    Nathan smirked.


    ¡± And what makes you think I¡¯ll kiss those lips you take in sperm with?¡± Nathan rasped, putting a smile on my face.


    I heard the loud ¡®Oops¡¯ from the others.


    They silentlyughed, although they tried not to make it obvious, it still was.


    Cami, not being able to handle the shame stormed out angrily, with Christy and Sasha running after her.


    ¡± Good riddance¡± Chelsea said excitedly after them.


    I looked at Nathan, a big smile on my face.


    She red at Chelsea and she reciprocated.


    Sheter stood up and walked away, going to God knows where.


    ¡± I like that cous¡± Chelsea said, giving him a thumbs up.


    She turned to me also and smiled.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ excuse me guys, I would like to use the restroom¡± I told them and walked away.


    I walked into the crowd and then into the house, searching for the restroom.


    I came across the hallway of the house and walked in, only to meet several doors which got me confused.


    I stood there looking lost, not knowing where to turn to when I sighted someoneing from the opposite direction.


    ¡± Uhmm¡­ excuse me. Please, can you show me to the restroom?¡± I asked the pretty blonde girl who was holding a ss of wine with her.


    She was sweating so much, which made me wonder what she had been up to.


    ¡± Down the hall to your right?¡± she gave her swift reply and walked away almost immediately.


    I turned to look at her once more before she left, and then I was on my way.


    I took the directions she told me and finally saw the restroom.


    Not only that, I saw a lot of people there¡­ close to it, doing all sorts of immoral things.


    I guess it¡¯s really a party after all


    As I walked into the toilet, I could hear moans, I had to quickly do my thing and leave right away.


    What kinda hell hole is this?. Howe Nathanes to things like this? I thought he didn¡¯t want to ever get married.


    I was walking back to go meet the others when I came across a room, the door was slightly opened and I could hear voices.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I would have walked away, but halted when I heard my name.


    ¡± Ruby or whatever her name is, I know I¡¯ve only met her tonight, but I hate her so much,¡± I heard the person say.


    I would have still been on my way, because I obviously can¡¯t be the only Ruby in a party filled with lots of people, but the voice seemed familiar and hence, I decided to take a peep into the room.


    I did and was stunned to see Cami and the other girls that had angrily walked out of our midst.


    I ced my ear on the door, and started listening in on their conversation.


    What I heard shocked me to my bone marrow.


    ¡± I can¡¯t believe he brought her here. I¡¯m still in shocked¡± I heard another voice and I could tell it was Sasha.


    Her voice was filled with pain and anger.


    ¡± Did you see the way he threw your hands off of him, like they were dirt or something* Cami said.


    ¡± Well, that¡¯s not a new thing. We all know how Nathan can get sometimes. He can be really nasty and annoying, and this isn¡¯t the first time he¡¯s doing something like this¡± Christy tried to reason with them.


    ¡± You think we don¡¯t know that. Ahh!! I seriously wish that girl can just disappear from his sight. I was so happy when he was refusing to get married. Why did he have to get married now?. I thought he was gonna stay single forever, was seriously waiting for that to happen¡± Christy said painfully, pacing to and fro.


    ¡± And from the look of things, I think he likes her,¡± Sasha said, and this time, I ced my ear closer to the door.


    I didn¡¯t want to miss any part of what they were saying.


    ¡± Can¡¯t you see. It¡¯s very obvious.. Why else would he bring her here?¡± she asked them.


    ¡± She obviously wanted to apany him as his wife and he couldn¡¯t say no¡± Cami answered.


    ¡± Oh, girl!! When has Nathan ever been so considerate, and okay, let¡¯s say that¡¯s the case, what do you say about the way he yelled when she spilled that wine on her dress? How do you exin how he¡¯s behaving?¡± Christy asked with a rugged breath.


    ¡± I think you¡¯ve got a point,¡± Cami concurred.


    ¡± Yeah, and not only that¡­¡±


    ¡± What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± I heard a voice behind me which I turned to immediately.


    I stood face to face with a very beautiful girl. It¡¯s the first time as a girl that I was admiring the beauty of another girl.


    She was so beautiful and I got mesmerized for a bit. Her gorgeousness and elegance were out of this world.


    ¡± What are you doing there?¡± she rephrased.


    ¡± Hi!!¡± I said nervously, chuckling in between.


    Her cold gaze and curious eyes never left my side.


    She stared at me all over like I was a thief or something.


    I got ufortable with the way she was staring and suddenly wished she would say something.


    ¡± Where are you going this way?¡± I asked,  trying to bring something up.


    It was getting awkward already.


    ¡± You haven¡¯t answered my question,¡± she said blearily.


    Goodness!! What kind of a girl is this?.


    I know she was way older than me, so I didn¡¯t want to disrespect her in any way.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ some of my friends are in there¡± I stuttered a bit, the word friending out like a sour pill.


    I hated the way it sounded and felt in my mouth.


    ¡± Really? Cami and Sasha are your friends?¡± she asked, making my jaws drop in shocked.


    Ooopsss!! I guess I shouldn¡¯t have said that.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ yeah¡­ yeah¡­ Actually, they are my husband¡¯s friend¡± I told her.


    She ceased her brows, staring at me with utmost confusion.


    ¡± Husband??. You¡¯re so young, howe you¡¯re already married. I can tell you¡¯re still a teenager, so what in God¡¯s name¡­¡± she suddenly stopped and gasped like she remembered something.


    ¡°Nathan!!¡­ Nathan!¡­. You¡¯re Nathan¡¯s wife. Goodness!! I can¡¯t believe this.. You¡¯ve got to be kidding me¡± she said, fanning herself with her fingers, not able to contain her shock.


    I smiled at the way she was reacting. It was so amusing.


    ¡± Yeah, yeah, I am¡± I replied, taking my gaze to the floor shyly.


    I suddenly felt proud to be his wife.


    Gosh!! How I used to hate being called that.. I used to hate it so much.


    I used to even hate thinking about it, but now, I don¡¯t anymore¡­ It¡¯s now the other way around.


    While I was still lost in my thoughts, the next thing I saw was her engulfing me in a warm embrace.


    I hadn¡¯t seen thating, hence, it was hard for me to react.


    She pulled away before I could reciprocate.


    ¡± Goodness!! This is so unbelievable!! I can¡¯t believe I finally got to see Nathan¡¯s wife, and in such a way. OMG!!¡± she chanted, acting like a drama queen.


    ¡± Nice to meet you!¡±I said excitedly.


    ¡± It¡¯s way more nice to finally meet you,¡± she said.


    ¡± I¡¯m Cindy¡± she said, stretching her hand out for a handshake, after tucking in her hair to the back of her ear.


    I dly took it.


    ¡± Ruby¡±.


    ¡± Woah!! Such a fine name. You¡¯re so beautiful. I can only imagine¡± sheplimented.


    ¡± I can say the same for you. You look gorgeous¡± I said honestly, finally getting the chance to tell her about it.


    She went on and on about how she had been longing to see Nathan¡¯s wife after she heard he was married.


    I got to know she was friendly and she also knew Cami, Sasha, She and the rest.


    They all work for the samepany and are acquainted, but ording to her, she doesn¡¯t roll with them that much, because of how they are.


    ¡± So¡­ how do you know Nathan?¡± I asked her, as we slowly walked back to the table I was.


    We were taking forever as a result of our conversation on the way.


    ¡± Well.. I first got to meet him at one of our numerous business dinner parties, and after that, we attended several meetings together and sealed lots of contracts together too. So, you can say we used to be business associates¡± she exined, taking a sip from her ss.


    ¡± And now?¡± I asked.


    ¡± Uhmm.. well, my sister graduated and I decided it was time for me to chase my dreams and leave thepany in her care, and it¡¯s a good thing he¡¯s more than capable of running it, if not, it would have been such a  hassle for me¡± she said and sighed.


    ¡± What about the others?¡±.


    ¡± You can just call us friends in the business world. We know how the business world works and roll with it together. We all grew up together in this part of the world and have been through alot also¡± she said.


    I love her vibes and I didn¡¯t want the conversation to end anytime soon.


    I don¡¯t even rte with Diane this much. She¡¯s such an interesting person¡­ and easygoing also


    ¡± I was so hurt when no one of us was invited to his wedding. I mean, I wondered why it was an enclosed wedding, but now I know better¡± she said, leaving me to wonder what herst statement meant.


    ¡± So you don¡¯t know him personally?¡± I asked.


    ¡± We all don¡¯t. The most we know is how far we have rted to him and how much he has shown us. I don¡¯t personally know him, like a friend or anything of that sort, but we were kinda close because mehn!! We did a lot of business together back in the day. Gosh!! I miss those days¡± she recalled.


    ¡± You know you can always go back right?¡± I said.


    ¡± I do, but now, I¡¯m more focused on building my modelling career¡±


    ¡± Oh!! You¡¯re a model?¡±


    ¡± Yeah, and I¡¯ve been out of the country for a while now.. I recently just got back because of this party¡± she said and I could finally tell why she has a strange ent.


    ¡± It must be very important andpulsory?¡±


    ¡± You can say that,¡± she bemoaned.


    She waved at some guys at a table and I realised we were already close to mine.


    ¡± So¡­ hope I will be seeing you again?¡± she asked.


    ¡± Of course, but I thought you were gonna say hi?¡± I asked, looking at her intensely.


    ¡± Nah, maybe some other time¡± she said and my face dropped.


    ¡± Don¡¯t think about it so much. We can always see each other anytime, so it¡¯s not a big deal. The business world isn¡¯t that big as you see it, especially for us the owners¡± she said and chuckled.


    ¡± Alright, run along now¡± she said, waving gently at me.


    I smiled at her and left, going back to the table.


    I got there to meet Nathan¡¯s murderous res.


    ¡± I didn¡¯t know peeing couldst for more than a decade?!¡± he grunted in anger, and stood up immediately, walking out.


    I stared at the others and the looks on their faces told me there was fire on the mountain.


    I waved at them and quickly ran after Nathan.


    Oh, my!! I¡¯m so dead!!.

 Just as much

    Just as much.


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I was fast enough to get into the car before he drove off.


    I don¡¯t really get why he¡¯s so angry. It¡¯s not like I knew we were gonna be leaving soon, and it¡¯s not like I dyed on purpose.


    If only Cindy had gone with me to say hi, then none of this would have happened.


    I couldn¡¯t even afford to stare at him. I thought the party was just starting and that we still had a lot of time to spend there.


    Phew!!.


    I just hope he doesn¡¯t get angrier than he is now.


    He was driving at a crazy speed and all this while, my head was down, a remorseful look on my face.


    We finally got home and he stormed into the house, while I followed behind him like a mouse.


    He ran up the stairs to his room, leaving me to wander with my thoughts.


    I sluggishly climbed up the stairs also, heading to my room.


    It was a few hours away from midnight and I was still wide awake.


    I wasn¡¯t tired or anything.


    I got to my room and changed into my nightwear after showering.


    I tried to go to bed right away but it was impossible.


    I decided to go through my phone to see if I could find something to keep me busy when all of a sudden, I started hearing banging on the door¡­ my door.


    I jumped up in fright as the thought of who it might be came to mind.


    Is it Nathan? Why was he banging the door like that?.


    Is he trying to bring it down?.


    I quickly walked there and opened it,ing face to face with his scary gaze.


    ¡± What the hell are you doing?!!¡± he yelled to my face, making me flinch.


    I started fiddling with my fingers.


    What have I done again?.


    ¡± What¡­ what do you mean?¡±. I  shuddered, not daring to look him in the eyes.


    ¡± You¡¯re asking me? What is gonna happen to the food in the kitchen?¡± he yelled to my face.


    Ohh!! I pped myself mentally.


    Why did that skip my mind?. Perhaps, I didn¡¯t remember because I wasn¡¯t the one that prepared it.


    ¡± Why didn¡¯t the person that prepared the foode to heat it up?¡± I summoned up the courage and asked, finally looking at him.


    I saw his brows cease, and this dark hollow look was in his eyes.


    I was so scared but needed to look and sound brave.


    ¡± What??¡± he asked slowly, all the emotions disappearing from his face.


    ¡± I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡± I stuttered.


    I saw him fight within himself but I wasn¡¯t sure why.


    If it was to leave my sight peacefully or to do the right thing.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± Did you just talk back at me? Like, did you just ask me that?¡± he rasped in disbelief.


    ¡± I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t intend to, ¡± I said, trying to be as calm and as honest as I could be.


    ¡± Woah!! I can¡¯t believe this. I finally decided to do the old man¡¯s binding and this is what I get. You couldn¡¯t even make me a meal, and now, to do the needful is a problem?¡±


    ¡± Is that how you were brought up?¡± he asked callously, making me lose it.


    ¡± What has my upbringing got to do with this?¡± I asked angrily.


    I get the fact that he was mad at me, but hey, it¡¯s getting too much. He has no right whatsoever to talk to meet in such a manner.


    ¡± Everything kid¡­ everything¡±


    ¡± Like what?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Do I have to spell it out for you?. Don¡¯t you know what you¡¯re supposed to do as a woman and as a wife¡± he fired.


    I sighed deeply, trying to hold my anger.


    ¡± Firstly, you never gave me the chance to do that. You called your cook over immediately we got here, which isn¡¯t my fault. Secondly, I thought you never wanted this marriage, so what are these expectation for. ording to the contract youid up, we are supposed to live like strangers till we finally find a way out of this¡± I challenged.


    ¡± I thought you never went through it, but I guess you did. So, what do you think? What¡¯s your reply?¡± he asked lowly this time around.


    ¡± Mr Nathan, you should apologize first for speaking to me in the way you did. Questioning my upbringing is such an unfair thing to say and an insult¡­.¡± I paused suddenly remembering I was talking to someone way older than I am, and he¡¯s not just anyone, he¡¯s my husband, and not just my husband, he¡¯s¡­


    Goddamnit! I wouldn¡¯t want to get into trouble.


    I raised my head to stare at him to see a smirk ced on his face, his face pale and his gaze cold and stern.


    ¡± You¡¯re really tryna get on my nerves, huh?¡± he said, gently cing his hands into his pockets.


    ¡± I never intended to do that,¡± I replied.


    ¡± I don¡¯t get if you¡¯re really trying to do that or you¡¯re trying to pull my legs, because I don¡¯t get you, but I do know I don¡¯t want to ever talk about something like this with you again¡±


    ¡± You have to go through everything in that contract, because from the look of things, you haven¡¯t¡­ and then you have to sign it and return it to me ¡± he said, smiling.


    I just stood there like a zombie, staring nkly at him.


    I couldn¡¯t tell if I was mesmerized or just dumbfounded.


    He¡¯s such a jerk..


    He paused and starteding closer to me.


    I shifted back as he did until my back was on the wall, and I stopped.


    He got closer and ced his left hand on the wall, above my head, and then he used the right to raise my chin to look at him directly in the eyes.


    ¡± Hope I¡¯ve made myself clear, because you know , you don¡¯t wanna see me get angry¡± he cooed.


    I suddenly remembered what Chelsea had told me that day.


    ¡± Don¡¯t ever get him angry. He¡¯s like a monster when he is¡±. she had said.


    But then, it got me thinking, does that mean he wasn¡¯t angry just now¡­. when he left the party? If he wasn¡¯t, then what was all that? What do I call that behavior?.


    ¡± And I know you wouldn¡¯t want that¡± he whispered thest part into my ear and pulled back immediately, walking away.


    I let out the breath I had been holding, breathing in and out deeply.


    He¡¯s got to be kidding me? Does he n on ending my life?.


    What the fuck?!.


    I watched him as he walked away and suddenly, he paused and I saw him turn around and started walking to me again.


    ¡± What was with that outfit earlier?¡± he asked with a cold face.


    ¡± What¡­ what outfit?¡± I asked.


    What again this time?.


    ¡± The gown you were putting on. Don¡¯t you think it was way too short?¡± he said, making me gasp.


    ¡°I ¡­ I didn¡¯t know that¡± I stammered.


    ¡± And what took you so long when you went to the restroom?¡± he asked and I couldn¡¯t tell if what I sensed in his voice was concern or worry.


    Hold on; Is that worry? Was he worried? Is that why he acted that way?


    Oh, goodness!! He keeps confusing me each time.


    I don¡¯t know what to think anymore. This isn¡¯t what I signed up for when I agreed to this marriage and it isn¡¯t what I signed up for when I made the decision to follow him here.


    He said nothing again and just walked away, leaving me with my thoughts.


    I think his bad boy looks and handsomeness are the only charms he has, because his personality is such a huge turn off¡­ for me especially.


    I don¡¯t like guys that are rough, rude or cold.


    I¡¯m always scared of them and think of them as the worst devil ever.


    I¡¯ve never dated anyone, but I do know what I want when ites to these things.


    ¡± Get it together Ruby!¡± I told myself before walking back into my room.


    I rushed out again when I remembered the food he had mentioned earlier¡­ the main reason for hising.


    I quickly rushed to warm it up before it would go bad.


    After that, I went to bed. This time, I didn¡¯t even need to try to fall asleep because it came immediately after Inded on the bed.


    NEXT MORNING.


    I was d I woke up quite early. It¡¯s usually rare for me to do so when I am in an unfamiliar ce.


    But I guess the thoughts of doing the house chores and also making breakfast for Nathan before I go to school was what made me wake up early.


    I had this thought in mind before I went to bed yesterday.


    I rushed out and went straight up to the kitchen.


    I didn¡¯t know what he would like, but he seemed to like fried meals, so I decided to make spaghetti, fried chicken and veggies.


    It won¡¯t eat up alot of my time, so it was a good choice.


    I didn¡¯t want him to have what Stacy made yesterday.


    Maybe some other time, but right now, I wanted him to taste my cooking.


    I only don¡¯t want him to know how good of a cook I am, I also want to prove him wrong. I want him to know his opinions about me are all wrong, and therefore, have a change of mind.


    ¡± Good morning!¡± I greeted when I saw him walk in.


    He hummed a response as he stopped to stare at me.


    ¡± Could you heat up those for me when you¡¯re done with that?¡± he said, referring to the food Stacy prepared.


    ¡± Uhm¡­. actually, I¡¯m making something for breakfast already¡± I said nervously.


    He ran his eyes all over my face and I figured he was waiting for me to exin myself.


    ¡± Why happened to the food she prepared yesterday?¡± he asked subtly.


    ¡± Uhmm¡­ I just wanted to make you something, but I¡¯m sorry if you feel offended by it¡± I said.


    ¡± Suit yourself¡± he said and walked out.


    I could feel the worms dancing around in joy in my stomach.


    I quickly rounded up the meal and went to take my bath and dress up for school.


    I started setting up the table after that, before going to call him.


    I served his meal to him, before sitting down.


    He started eating and I was disappointed when I didn¡¯t see those emotions I had seen yesterday when he was eating Stacy¡¯s food.


    Is it that the food is not sweet or¡­?.


    I quickly took a spoon, and oh!! It was splendid. So, why¡¯s he acting like a jerk?.


    He evenplimented her.


    And as if to make matters worse, she walked right in.


    Speak of the devil!.


    Her dressing today was a lot better than the previous day.


    She was dded in a jean trouser and t-shirt, but was looking more decent rather than sophisticated as she was the previous day.


    ¡± Good morning Sir, morning Ruby¡± she greeted, making me wonder how she knew my name because I couldn¡¯t recall introducing myself.


    ¡± Hey!¡± Nathan cooed, not taking his eyes off the meal.


    He didn¡¯t even turn to look at her.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ I can see you¡¯re already having breakfast. Guess I arrivedte¡± she said and chuckled.


    ¡± No, you didn¡¯t. I just thought it was best to get up early and make something before going to school¡± I told her, smiling.


    ¡± Oh!! You made that?¡± she said, referring to the meal.


    ¡± Yeah, I did¡± I replied and I saw the smile on her face disappear.


    She looked at Nathan and then back at me and faked a smile before walking back into the kitchen.


    ¡± Are you done?¡± Nathan suddenly asked me.


    ¡± No, why do you ask?¡± I asked him, also noticing Stacy had stopped walking.


    ¡± I wanted to give you a ride to school. Your driver isn¡¯t here and I¡¯m not sure when my secretary will arrive here if I tell him toe pick you up¡± he exined, drinking from his ss.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ sure, I would like to go with you¡­ I mean, I would like to get that ride. I¡¯m full already, so¡­¡± I said excitedly, turning to look at Stacy who finally walked into the kitchen.


    Nathan stared at me like I was crazy because of the way I was talking, but I cared less and went after him immediately he got up.


    Oh, my!! My school is gonna go crazy if they see Nathan there.


    Gosh!!.

 Alot happened

    Alot happened


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Just like I imagined, a crowd formed in my school immediately Nathan drove in.


    I don¡¯t know how they got to know he is the one


    Anyways, they wouldn¡¯t stop shouting and screaming, almost rendering me deaf.


    It was also hard for me to get down from the car, but I did eventually and the first person that attacked me was Diane.


    Nathan drove away immediately, but some crazy girls still went after him, running after the car.


    They came back looking disappointed as they kept shooting me murderous res.


    Do they realize this guy is way older than them?. I asked myself and chuckled silently when I realised I¡¯m also agemates with them.


    ¡± Is there something funny or are you just really happy to show off your husband?¡± Diane attacked, letting go of my arm and cing it above her chest.


    ¡± Neither,¡± I replied.


    ¡± By the way, how did y¡¯all know he¡¯s the one?¡± I had to ask.


    She scoffed.


    ¡± It¡¯s funny how you are the only one that doesn¡¯t know stuff about your husband ¨C Nathan is the only one in New York that has that Bugatti¡± she said, smiling sheepishly.


    I gasped.


    ¡± You don¡¯t mean it?¡± I shrieked.


    ¡± Yeah girl, you¡¯re married to a billionaire, yo. I think I have to start respecting your name. I mean you¡¯re now a De Martins. That¡¯s huge, you know¡± Diane shrugged.


    ¡± Oh, my! Someone¡¯s blushing¡± she teased, making me blush even harder.


    ¡± So¡­ whatsup? You weren¡¯t in school for two days?¡± she asked, now looking serious.


    ¡± Oh, please! Let¡¯s just go to ss already?¡± I said with an eye roll.


    ¡± And we are doing just that. Why don¡¯t you tell me the gist on our way there?¡± she winked.


    ¡± What gist?¡± I said, feigning ignorance.


    She heaved.


    ¡± Gosh!! Don¡¯t make me punch you. You know exactly what the fuck am talking about¡± she shrieked.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t¡± I told her truthfully.


    She stopped walking for a while to look at me.


    ¡± So, you¡¯re saying your not being  in school for two days, and Nathaning to drop you off instead of your driver is nothing?¡± she asked, trying to draw the picture she had in mind.


    I already knew where she was going.


    ¡± Well, nothing happened in the way you¡¯re thinking, but something did happen¡± I said with a huge smile on my face, as I remembered thest two days.


    ¡± Yeah, yeah, tell me girl. I¡¯m dying to know all about it, and who was the girl you said you met at the party?¡± she asked, not giving me space to breathe.


    ¡± Oh, Cindy!¡± I replied.


    ¡± And who¡¯s she?¡± she asked further.


    ¡± Well, she¡¯s a friend of Nathan¡¯s friends¡¯ ¡® I told her and she looked at me with a confused look on her face.


    I took my time to exin things to her, including all that happened during the game.


    ¡± Jeez girl, that¡¯s messed up. I can¡¯t believe you went through all that¡±


    ¡± Yeah, I did, but it wasn¡¯t as bad as you think¡±.


    ¡± I know right, and I didn¡¯t know Nathan was so responsible¡± she said and it got me thinking if he really is.


    ¡± How do you see him?¡± she asked.


    I arched my brows in confusion, while staring at her.


    ¡± What?¡±.


    ¡± I mean, what do you think about him? Do you feel he¡¯s a good person?¡± she asked.


    Hphm!! That¡¯s a tough one. Do I really know him well enough?. The only things I still know about him are the things Chelsea told me, plus, those are the things I have been seeing.


    ¡± I don¡¯t really know Diane, but I do know I would like to get to know him. I want to know what he looks like underneath¡± I told her truthfully.


    She nodded.


    ¡± That is bound to happen anyways¡± she said.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± I asked her, but she quickly smiled at me.


    ¡± Nothing. Just make sure to be careful, especially his friends and¡­ have you met the rest of his family?¡±


    ¡± Nope. I don¡¯t even know if he has other  family members¡± I said.


    ¡± You¡¯re joking right?¡± she asked in disbelief to which I nodded to.


    ¡± No, I¡¯m not¡±


    She scoffed.


    ¡± It seems I know a lot more about the family you¡¯re married into than you¡± she said with a serious look on her face.


    ¡± That¡¯s all thanks to your super huge crush on him¡± I teased.


    ¡± Yeah, yeah, but hey girl, you need to know these things. De Martins is a huge family and just like other wealthy and influential families, they also have their own share of betrayals, sheeps in wolves clothing and secrets¡± she said, the serious look still on her face.


    ¡± Okay! What¡¯s going on? Why¡¯s she scaring me? Did something happen while I was away or¡­?.


    ¡± Whatsup girl?¡± I asked with a chuckle.


    ¡± Listen to me Ruby, you have to be careful, you really have to, and you have to win Nathan¡¯s heart, if not for anything, so he can protect you. He¡¯s the only one that truly can in that family.. I don¡¯t think you know the family you¡¯re married into¡±.


    ¡± These conglomerate families are filled with monsters lurking around looking for whom to devour, and in most cases, it¡¯s always within the family¡± she said as a matter of factly.


    I started having goosebumps.


    Howe Dad never told me all these things?.


    I wanted so much to know what happened but I know no matter how many times I ask, she¡¯s never gonna tell me.


    ¡± Please, can we change the topic. You¡¯re scaring me¡± I told her, taking my gaze off her face.


    ¡± Yeah, we can, but take all I¡¯ve said to heart. You¡¯re my best friend and that¡¯s why I am telling you all these¡± she said and smiled.


    ¡± So, tell me, how was the party?¡± she asked, squealing.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Goodness!! I can¡¯t believe her.. What suddenly happened to her? Where did all that seriousness vanish to?.


    ¡± I¡¯ve told you all about it already¡± I told her, trying to wriggle myself out of her hold, but she held on tighter.


    ¡± No, you haven¡¯t. What about when you got back home? Didn¡¯t Nathan do anything?¡± she asked, hitting the nail on the head.


    ¡± Jesus!! Diane!! What the hell are you thinking?¡± I screamed.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ nothing. I was just thinking something might have happened between you two, and you know I¡¯m supposed to be the first person to get the whole gist. So, shoot!¡± she said, looking at me all over with expectant eyes.


    ¡± Well, unfortunately for you, there¡¯s nothing to shoot. So, can you please let go of my arm now?¡± I asked her, but she refused and pouted instead, making meugh out so hard.


    ¡± I can¡¯t understand you. Don¡¯t you want to go to ss or what??¡± I asked.


    ¡± Oh, you caught me. We are having mathematics this morning and you know how much I love that subject¡± she said ironically and Iughed.


    ¡± You better start hating it. We will be having our finals soon¡± I replied ironically too,ughing out more.


    She red at me and let go of my arm, walking away faster in anger.


    I ran after her, stillughing.


    Oh, Diane!! Such a drama queen. I soon caught up with her and we both walked into the ss together.


    *


    *


    ¡± So, like I said yesterday, the mathematicspetition will be conducted a few weeks from now and two students from this ss will be the ones representing us.. The two best students in the subject¡± she said and my heart skipped a beat.


    I was the second best in mathematics and Chris, a nerdy guy, was the best.


    That means!! Oh, jeez.


    ¡± After that is the school trip you guys are gonna be embarking on. Yes Sandra¡± she said.


    ¡± Ma¡¯am, are we seriously embarking on a  trip, I thought it was a matter of probability?¡± Sandra, the Queen of asking questions said.


    It seems like she said what was in alot of peoples mind, because they started murmuring and some nodding in ordance and agreement to what she had said.


    ¡± The principal finalized it yesterday. It was revealed to us during the meeting we had. The announcement will be given out soon, but for now, only the staffs knows about it and I would urge you all not to act like you already know¡± she said.


    ¡± Yes, Diane,¡± she called.


    ¡± Where is the trip?¡± Diane asked.


    ¡± That¡¯s still unknown for now¡± she said and the murmuring returned and this time, it took longer to cool down.


    ¡± That¡¯s enough students, and like I said, it¡¯s still unknown, but I believe you guys would be asked to chose any¡± she said


    ¡± They better do¡± a guy yelled from the back and we all nodded in agreement.


    ¡± Anyways, you all don¡¯t have to get yourselves worked up over that. The only thing we should be focusing on now is the mathematicspetition, because from the look of things, this will be thestpetition before your exams¡±


    ¡± But we all aren¡¯t going for thepetition, so why are you referring to all of us?¡± another girl asked from the back.


    ¡± Because the persons going are gonna be representing not just this School but this ss also. You need to cheer them up, support and encourage them. They can¡¯t do this alone. They cant can¡¯t do it without y¡¯all ¡±


    ¡± But I still don¡¯t see how we are gonna be of help?¡± another guy said.


    ¡± You will know when the timees, for now, let¡¯s bring out our mathematics notes and start the lessons for the day ¡± she said exasperatedly, letting out a tired sigh.


    My note was already on the table, so I just waited for her to go on with the ss.


    *


    *


    We had a few more sses before the bell for recess rang and I was more than d it did.


    I was really famished. I wasn¡¯t able to eat properly earlier on because I was excited to go with Nathan.


    It was worth it though.


    I carried my tray to a table at the far end of the cafeteria, alongside Diane.


    ¡± Easy girl!¡± Diane warned with a teasing voice.


    ¡± No one would believe you¡¯re a billionaire¡¯s wife if they see you eating like this¡± she said, munching on her hamburgers.


    ¡± You wont believe I barely ate anything all because I wanted Nathan to give me a ride to school¡± I told her and she gasped.


    ¡± Really? What happened?¡± she asked and I took my time to exin to her, after gulping down enough juice to help push down all I have been eating.


    ¡± Well, that¡¯s understandable and totally worth it,¡± she said.


    A brief silence stepped in between us.


    ¡± Uhm.. you were telling me something about his cook?¡± she suddenly brought up, making my stomach cringe.


    I immediately lost my appetite.


    ¡± What?¡± she asked, noticing my change in mood.


    ¡± You won¡¯t believe what this girl wore toe cook for Nathan¡± I said, the mere thought of it making my blood boil.


    ¡± Are you serious??¡± Diane bemoaned.


    ¡± You needed to see the way she was there, acting like she¡¯s his wife or something¡±


    ¡± But why would Nathan let anotherdye cook for him when you¡¯re there?¡± she asked exactly the same question I had asked myself.


    ¡± He obviously thought I didn¡¯t know how to cook,¡± I replied.


    ¡± What? Are you being serious?¡±


    ¡± I damn am! He thought I am one of those spoiled brats that doesn¡¯t know how to do anything, but guess what, I proved him wrong¡± I said thest part with overexcitement in my voice.


    ¡± Really? How?¡± Diane asked, equally excited too.


    ¡± I woke up very early this morning and prepared his meal, ¡± I told her.


    ¡± Oh, my! What a bold move girl!¡± she eximed.


    ¡± You can say that again.. I totally beat her at her own game¡± I said proudly


    ¡± So, what was his reaction? What did he say about it?? Did he like it?¡± she asked and my face fell.


    ¡± What??¡± she asked again.


    ¡± I dont know. He didn¡¯t say anything¡± I said sadly.


    ¡± Oh my God!!¡± she gasped, her eyes bulging out of their sockets.


    ¡± What? It sucks right?¡± I asked her.


    ¡± No, not that. Behind you¡± she said.


    I furrowed my brows in confusion and slowly turned back to meet a shocker.


    My heart almost ran out of my body.


    What the¡­?


    Louis!!.

 Private Tutor

    Private Tutor


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    Our eyes interlocked and he smiled.


    My heart skipped a beat as I quickly took my eyes away from him.


    Why the hell is he behind me? He was so close. Howe I didn¡¯t notice him standing so close to me?.


    ¡± Can I sit?¡± he came in front of me and asked, making me choke on the snacks still in my mouth.


    He didn¡¯t wait for a reply and quickly drew out a chair before taking his seat.


    His eyes never left me and it made me even more ufortable, more than the eyes of the other students that were staring at us.


    I wondered if I would be able to sleep tonight. The piercing and ring eyes of the other girls was enough to kill anyone.


    I had to stop eating as I had suddenly lost my appetite.


    ¡± Hey?!¡± Diane waved at him. He smiled at her which got her blushing and then took his gaze back to me.


    From where I sat, I could see Lily and Ivy staring at me dangerously.


    I red at them and they looked away.


    Sighing, I took my gaze to Louis.


    ¡± What do you want?¡± I had to ask because I was no longer finding it funny.


    He should say what he has to and leave right away.


    The whole drama is so uncalled for.


    ¡± Well, nothing much. Just a little favour¡± he said, with a smile still on his face.


    I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s how he is or maybe I haven¡¯t really noticed until now, but he does smile a lot.


    ¡± With what?¡± I asked.


    ¡± Well, you know I haven¡¯t been around and I don¡¯t really know how the school system¡­¡±


    ¡± But you used to be in this school?¡± I cut him off.


    He nodded and sighed.


    ¡± I want you to tutor me on some areas I¡¯m having difficulty in¡± he stated, making me scoff.


    ¡± What do you mean tutor? We just started this session¡± I asked in disbelief.


    Is he being serious right now? What? Tutor?.


    He bettere up with something more reasonable to say.


    ¡± I believe it¡¯s gonna be hard for me, because I haven¡¯t really gone to school for a while now,¡± he exined.


    ¡± Are you saying you didn¡¯t go to school where you came from?¡± Diane asked and he nodded.


    Phew!! Joker!.


    ¡± I still don¡¯t see how that trantes to me being your tutor. I mean, I¡¯m not a teacher and I know you are more than capable of employing any teacher you want¡± I enthused in bewilderment.


    I can just seem to understand the guy, but hey, if it were under different circumstances, I would have jumped on him and even done worse, but right now¡­ Nahh!.


    ¡± I believe I will catch on quick from my fellow student¡±


    ¡± No. I believe what you need to do is listen to the teachers teach in ss, study at home and then you¡¯ll be fine¡± I rasped.


    He said nothing and stared at me for a few minutes.


    ¡± How could you just reject me just like that?¡± he asked, his face cold and sullen.


    ¡± I didn¡¯t. I¡¯m just advising you on what to do¡±


    ¡± Does your rejecting me has


    anything to do with you being married?¡± he asked the question that threw me off bnce.


    I rolled my eyes before taking them back to him.


    ¡± If you¡¯re gonna be like this, then I think you should leave¡± I told him, obviously annoyed.


    ¡± Come on babe, it hasn¡¯t gotten to that¡± Diane tried to calm me down but I wasn¡¯t having it.


    ¡± If that¡¯s the case, then you don¡¯t have to worry, I can talk it out with Nathan¡± he said, taking me by surprise.


    Nathan? Did he just call him by his first name? Does he realise he¡¯s way older than he is?.


    I don¡¯t think this is the Louis I used to know.


    ¡± What the fuck did you just say?¡± I went mad with anger.


    ¡± Chill. You don¡¯t have to react so aggressively¡± he told me, a smile stered on his face.


    ¡± Hey, I think that¡¯s enough. She¡¯s clearly told you she doesn¡¯t want to be your tutor¡± Duane stepped in.


    ¡°I know, but I¡¯m sorry, okay. I didn¡¯t mean to get on your nerves. I was just trying to ¡­ you know¡± he emphasized.


    Diane did her best to call me down. I just didn¡¯t know why I had red up like that.


    ¡± Are we cool?¡± he asked after some time.


    ¡± Can you pleasee back some other time. I don¡¯t think now¡¯s the right time to talk about this¡± Diane told him.


    ¡± Well, I think it is.. This is the only time I have to talk to her¡±


    ¡± What happens to the end of school?¡± Diane asked.


    ¡± She will be in too much haste trying to go meet her driver so as not to keep him waiting, and I would be in a hurry also, because I need to head to the studio right away¡± he exined to her.


    ¡± Oh, really! Then I guess the rumours were true¡± Diane shrieked in excitement.


    ¡± What rumor?¡± he furrowed his brows.


    ¡± That you would be releasing a single anytime soon.. Youreback single¡± she told him.


    He smiled and nodded.


    ¡± I guess the world knows about it already, but it¡¯s true I guess¡± he stated.


    ¡± Oh, my! I can¡¯t wait for it. I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re now a real musician¡­ a superstar.. Goodness!! How time flies!¡± Diane cooed, staring at him with her palm underneath her chin.


    I just sat there and watched both of them as they talked and gist.


    I was d he was now talking to her and no longer focused on me.


    His gaze is just too intense and his eyes so deep.


    It took alot for me to say those things I said to him.


    The bell rang and I walked out immediately, not even waiting for them.


    I could hear Diane calling me but I ignored her and just went straight to ss


    I hope she doesn¡¯t take it the wrong way and think I¡¯m jealous or angry.


    ¡± Whatsup? How was your talk with him?¡± I asked her when they both walked in and she took her seat in front of me.


    ¡± Get ready to get beaten after this ss?¡± She said in a stern voice, making me chuckle.


    We both brought out our notes as the teacher walked into the ss.


    *


    *


    ¡± Oh, my! I¡¯m so tired!¡± I eximed, walking out of the ss with Diane.


    ¡± At least your driver is always on time¡± she told me.


    ¡± Tell me about it. He will be waiting now¡± I told her.


    ¡± About you and Louis earlier¡­¡±


    ¡± Ruby!¡± I stopped talking when I heard someone call my name¡­ scream actually.


    The whole ce was noisy and crowded, but I still heard it anyway.


    I stood, as I began searching for the owner of the voice amidst the crowd.


    It didn¡¯t sound familiar so I wondered who it might be.


    We were pushed and dragged as we stood there in the crowd, while everyone was struggling to get out.


    ¡± Ruby!!¡± I heard the name again, this time louder.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    I used my eyes to search for the person in the crowd and then, I saw him, the nerdy guy and best in mathematics in my ss, what was his name again, ch¡­ Chris.


    Yeah, Chris.


    He was hurrying towards me, leaving me totally confused and flustered.


    ¡± What¡¯s up with this one now?¡± Diane asked, an irritated look on her face.


    She hates nerds. She hated them alot and I don¡¯t fucking know why.


    I¡¯ve tried to ask her countless times her reasons for that but she always ends up dodging the question, leaving me on an edge and making me surrender in the end.


    ¡± Hey?¡± I waved at Chris when he finally caught up with us.


    ¡± Is everything okay?¡± I asked.


    It was so unexpected.


    We haven¡¯t only been ssmates for as long as I can remember, but also rivals.


    Wepete in everything that has to do with grades.


    Well, technically speaking, we don¡¯t¡­ he¡¯s the only one that sees me as apetition and always takes everything so seriously as if his life depends on it.


    As for me, I¡¯m okay with being second. I don¡¯t just know why he always acts like he would die if he doesn¡¯t take first.


    The thing is really frustrating and I feel bad for him sometimes.


    The stress and all is a lot.


    ¡± The mathematics teacher asked to see us,¡± he said, breathing deeply.


    ¡± What? Why?¡± I asked with a perplexed look on my face.


    ¡± Just go with him.. I think it has something to do with the uing mathematicspetition. I¡¯ll just help you tell your driver you¡¯re gonna take a while¡± Diane said and walked away even before I could say anything.


    I turned to Chris who led the way immediately.


    We went to meet the teacher who exined to us that we would be staying behind some days to prepare for thepetition.


    ¡± What days ma¡¯am?¡± I asked.


    ¡± Wednesday and Friday, if that¡¯s alright with you both¡± she said.


    ¡± Oh, my!! Of course it¡¯s not.


    Wednesday¡¯s the day I have my marriage counseling ss with Nathan.


    Oh, no!!..

 Weekend

    Weekend


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    We ate silently, with only the sound from our cutleries being heard.


    I was surprised when Nathan came back from work on time.


    It got me thinking if he was purposelyingte all those times we were at the mansion.


    I was d when I got back to school and when to the kitchen to find it as I had left it.


    It seems Stacy got the message. She didn¡¯t touch anything. The food I prepared was still there when I got back and hers was there also.


    ¡± Get ready. We are going to the Mansion for the weekend¡± Nathan said amidst mouthfuls.


    I have never seen this side of him. He looked so carefree, normal and easygoing.


    Someone might mistake us for the perfect couple.


    I simply nodded, not wanting to ask the reason for it.


    Maybe he¡¯s decided to go back.


    EARLIER IN THE DAY


    Author¡¯s Pov;


    Mr Martins walked into his son¡¯s office and started staring round.


    ¡± Can you please cut to the chase. Stop staring at my office like this is the first time you¡¯ve been in it¡± Nathan snapped at him.


    ¡± But this is the first time¡± Mr Martins replied jokingly.


    ¡± Your presence is making me feel ufortable¡± Nathan said with an eyeroll.


    Mr Martins sat down on the chair across from him.


    He let a while of silence passed by before breaking it.


    ¡± When are youing back son?¡± he asked with a sullen face and subtle tone.


    Nathan scoffed.


    ¡± Do you think I was bluffing when I told you I¡¯m no longer stepping foot in that house again?¡± Nathan rasped.


    ¡± Your mot¡­ Tracy¡± he corrected.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡± She¡¯s sorry, and she personally wants to apologize to you. E misses you too¡± he said, trying to appeal to Nathan who was as hard as steel.


    ¡± If that¡¯s what you came here to say, then leave, I have things to do¡± Nathan said coldly, his gaze fixed on the files he was working on.


    ¡± Well, that leaves me with no choice¡± Mr Martins said and that made Nathan look up from the file.


    He furrowed his brows narrowly at his father.


    ¡± The business trip you¡¯re gonna be attendings in Thand next month¡±


    ¡± What about it?¡± Nathan groaned.


    ¡± Come over for the weekend, and we¡¯ll talk about it, and by the way, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s rude to keep my daughter inw away from me.. I was just getting to know her¡± Mr Martins said with a light chuckle and walked out of the office.


    Nathan stared after him in disbelief.


    He sure does have a way of pissing him off. That¡¯s like his greatest talent.. No one does it better than him


    FRIDAY EVENING


    I stared at my reflection in the mirror once more.


    There was no way to tell if I was now slimmer, still the way I was or fatter.


    Gosh!! Why am I even thinking about these things. Why am I bothering myself over things like this?.


    Satisfied with my look, I picked up my purse and walked out.


    I got to the sitting room to find Nathan sitting on the couch.


    He wasn¡¯t with anything also. Well, it¡¯s just few days and I have my things there also.


    He got up and started walking out as soon as he saw me, and I went after him.


    *


    *


    ¡± Oh, dear! It¡¯s been a while. How have you been?¡± Tracy cooed, pulling me into a warm embrace.


    E just stood there with her arms crossed above her chest, while Nathan walked in with his Dad.


    I guess she ¨C E, was still angry at all that happened.


    Tracy intertwined her hands with mine and we walked in together, with E behind us, her face all squeezed up.


    Nathan haspletely ignored her.


    ¡± You guys are just on time. Dinner is served¡± Tracy said, rushing to the dinning side.


    ¡± Oh, you didn¡¯t have to¡± I blickered.


    We already had dinner beforeing. Nathan insisted I make him something as soon as I came back from school.


    I still don¡¯t know what he thinks of my cooking. He always eats silently and had never pass out apliment.


    ¡± But I have already¡± Tracy replied.


    ¡± We had dinner already¡± Nathan butted in, and started taking the stairs.


    ¡± Aren¡¯t you eating?¡± Mr Martins yelled after him.


    He paused on the stairs and then turned slowly.


    ¡± Didn¡¯t you hear what I just said?¡± he asked and was on his way immediately.


    The atmosphere turned cold for a minute, but it was quickly restored with Tracy¡¯s melodious voice and cheerful attitude.


    She did her best to get me to eat with them and it worked.


    She¡¯s very nice. I don¡¯t really know what she¡¯s like, but from the little I¡¯ve seen, I think she¡¯s okay.


    The meal was a quick one, all thanks to the family being great fans of table etiquette.


    I went to my room when we were done.


    Oh, my!! I looked round it. I wasn¡¯t even used to the room yet and now I was in another.


    Is this how my life is gonna be?.


    Phew!! It¡¯s so exhausting.


    I fell on the bed immediately, so tired and weak.


    Not that I¡¯ve really done anything in the past few days.


    *********


    Louis sat across his manager and some directors of the recordbel he has signed with.


    He didn¡¯t know what it¡¯s about, but it sure looks serious.


    He had thought he was just there to record the song he has been writing for sometime now.


    All that was going on was still confusing to him and he didn¡¯t have time for that.


    ¡± So you¡¯re saying I can¡¯t record now, till whatever has been finalized?¡± he asked one of the producers there.


    ¡± Yes, the¡­¡± he didn¡¯t let the man finish his statement and just got up, then stormed out of the room.


    His manager, Mr Frank, quickly ran after him.


    ¡± Louis!¡± he yelled as he struggled to catch up with the teenager who had gone mad with rage.


    ¡± What the fuck?!!!¡± Louis faced him and yelled.


    ¡± I can¡¯t believe this. I can¡¯t believe they would treat me like this. Not after I¡¯ve rejected so many other offers and choose to stay here¡± he screamed, tears etching at the corners of his eyes.


    ¡± I understand. I know how you feel, but you have to understand them. This is how recordbels works. You¡¯re not the only artist they have, so I would advice you to be patient¡±


    ¡± What? Patient?¡± he grunted and Frank nodded.


    ¡± Do you think I have any space for patience in my life right now. I don¡¯t. I seriously don¡¯t. I can¡¯t deal with this shit¡± Louis ranted and stormed out, leaving his manager down the hill.


    He was furious and nothing could calm him down


    How dare they try to tame him? How dare they do that to him?.


    That wasn¡¯t the only record deal he had gotten, but his manager had told him to ept that because it seemed to be the best out of all the options.


    The fact that he had signed the contract with them doesn¡¯t give them the right to treat him that way?.


    He wont be enved to anyone, most especially, not to a recordbel.


    ¡± Hello, son¡±dy Dora said happily to her son as he walked in, but was met with a cold shoulder which made her expression fall down immediately.


    ¡± What¡¯s wrong with him?¡± she asked herself, dropped her bowls of cereals and went up the stairs.


    She got to his door and hesitated for few seconds before finally letting herself in.


    She looked round but he was no where to be seen, and then, she started hearing the sound of running water.


    ¡± Baby, baby are you in there?¡± she asked affectionately, but doubted that the sound would make him hear her, and even if it would, he still won¡¯t answer.


    ¡± Are you okay?¡± she asked again.


    She was really worried. He looked so upset. She knows he hardly gets angry, except it¡¯s at her.


    She got tired of knocking and asking and finally left the room, heading to the kitchen.


    ¡± I want you to prepare some soup¡­ for cold¡± she told the maid she saw in the kitchen.


    She left and walked to her room, wondering what the problem could be.


    Meanwhile, Louis wouldn¡¯t stop sulking.


    To him, his existence was a joke, but he never expected anyone to treat him as such.


    He was gonna stay under the shower for as long as he deem fit.


    Yeah!! That was his n.


    *


    *


    ¡± Look at you all drain up. What are you? A kitten?¡± Andorrashed out at him.


    He ignored and carefully eat the soup, as she dried his hair with a towel.


    He had stopped her before but she wouldn¡¯t bulge, so knowing how she is, he decided to just let her be.


    ¡± So¡­ did you go see him like I asked you to?¡± she suddenly brought up, making Louis halt.


    The spoon dropped slowly from his hand into the te, but that still didn¡¯t stop her.


    ¡± Who?!!!¡± he asked slowly, with a teary voice, although he already knew who she was referring to.


    ¡± Your father¡± she said.

 A little something

    A little something


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I was sad that morning. Don¡¯t ask me why.


    It¡¯s obviously because Nathan isn¡¯t gonna drop me off in school that morning.


    I still didn¡¯t know why we are still here¡­ in the mansion.


    Did he change his mind and decided to stay?.


    Anyways, I got dressed for school, had breakfast and my driver drove me off.


    Things went back to normal. The distance between us got even wider as I now struggled to even see him on a daily basis.


    ¡± I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re still waiting for him?¡± I heard E scoff behind me.


    I turned and red at her.


    ¡± Looks like you¡¯ve fallen head over heels for him. Well, I can¡¯t me you, who wouldn¡¯t?¡± she said with an eye roll


    ¡± So, what¡¯s your point?. Are you saying it¡¯s wrong for me to wait up for my husband, or what?¡± I red up.


    She shrugged and walked back into the house.


    I finally saw his car driving in, beamed and ran back to my room.


    While in my room, I looked out through my window. From there, I was able to see everything perfectly well.


    I could see his charisma and bold aura, but the only thing I couldn¡¯t see clearly was his face.


    I missed seeing it from up close.


    He hasn¡¯t beening to the dinning  to have breakfast.


    I guess that¡¯s how busy he is. Is he trying to make up for the times he cked off while he was at the penthouse?.


    I doubt that.


    *


    *


    ¡± So, the coefficient of x would be what?¡± Chris asked me, trying to go over the question again.


    ¡± Hmmm, I think that would be three¡± I replied and the look on his face was neutral.


    ¡± Oh, my! Please tell me I got it right this time?¡± I sped my palms together and pouted.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ yeah, sure .. That¡¯s correct ¡± he replied and I heaved the breath I had been holding.


    Thank goodness!! I can¡¯t believe I finally got the answer.


    Such a damn hard question.


    ¡± Alright, moving on. Let¡¯s also try to solve question number 47¡å he said.


    ¡± Uhm, please hold on. Excuse me ¡± I told him when my phone started ringing suddenly.


    It was an unsaved unknown number.


    Who could it be?.


    ¡± Hello?¡± I said into the phone.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I heard his voice after seconds of silence had passed.


    The phone almost slipped out of my palm.


    What the heck?!.


    How¡­ how did he get my number?. My heart skipped a beat, my adrenaline increased and my jaws came dropping in shock.


    ¡± Hey, are you there?!¡± He called again, snapping me back to reality.


    ¡± Yes, yes, I am¡± I stuttered repeatedly, not believing my eyes.


    ¡± Good. You¡¯re still in school right?¡± he asked and I nodded slowly, until I realized he can¡¯t see me.


    But it was just very hard for me to speak at that moment.


    ¡± Yes,¡± I said.


    ¡± Oh!! I see. Alright!¡± he said and ended the call.


    I slowly removed the phone from my ear and stared at it.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Did that just happen? I can¡¯t believe this.


    Did Nathan just call me? Goodness!! This has got to be a dream.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ can we continue?¡± Chris asked, bringing me back to consciousness.


    ¡± Uhm¡­, sure, yeah yeah¡± I said effortlessly, a huge smile at the corners of my lips.


    *


    *


    I don¡¯t know for how long we have studied but I heard a car drove into the schoolpound.


    We were the only students still in school, that I am sure of, and just very few teachers.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ Ruby!!¡± Chris called, looking at a  direction.


    I turned to the direction he was staring at and what I saw almost made me fall down from the chair I was sitting on.


    Goodness gracious!! Nathan!!.


    What¡¯s he doing there?!


    He was standing by the door, his both hands in his pockets and a cold look on his face.


    His face was as hard as steel and very serious.


    Before I knew it, he started approaching me majestically, making my heart skip with every step he took.


    I could feel my heart leaving my body.


    Oh, my!!.


    He got to where I was and without saying a word, he dragged me up by my wrist, taking my bag along.


    He dragged me out of the ssroom all the way to the ce he had parked his car, and then he let go of my wrist which was already hurting by now.


    I rubbed the spot to try to make it better while he backed me.


    ¡± What the fuck was that? What were you doing with that guy?¡± he turned and yelled to my face, making me flinch.


    Gosh!!.


    ¡± He¡¯s¡­ he¡¯s my ssmate and we¡­ we uhm¡­ we were studying¡­¡±


    ¡± Is this why you never wanted me toe?¡± he cut me off angrily.


    His gaze was cold and mean and I  couldn¡¯t afford to look into his eyes.


    What¡¯s he bbing about now?.


    ¡± He¡¯s just a friend,¡± I said, lowering my gaze.


    ¡± Oh, he¡¯s suddenly changed to a friend, no longer a ssmate?¡±.


    ¡± What¡¯s your point?¡±.


    I asked, but he said nothing to me.


    He suddenly threw my school bag to me and was about to leave, but I quickly ran to him and held his wrist.


    ¡± I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to upset you?¡± I told him sincerely.


    It took a while but he turned and smiled.


    He reced my hands with his and held my wrist instead.


    ¡± Let¡¯s go,¡± he said with a smile.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ wait, lemme go get my textbook¡± I told him and he nodded.


    ¡± Or, forget it. I¡¯ll get you another. Just get into the car¡± he stopped me and said.


    I nodded and walked to the other side of the car.


    He got in also and he drove off.


    I wandered in my thoughts while we were on our way.


    What was that?? Was it jealousy?.


    Chelsea had warned me about getting him jealous but I didn¡¯t know he was such a jealous person.


    How could he get jealous over such a thing?.


    Jeez!!.


    He¡¯s so unpredictable.

 A surprise visit

    A surprise visit


    Author¡¯s Pov;


    What Mr Martins had


    told his son ¨C Nathan that morning, kept bothering him.


    They had quite a heart to heart talk and that¡¯s one of the reasons he was still at the mansion.


    ¡± Do I really have to do that?¡± he asked his father.


    ¡± He¡¯s my son too Nathan and your brother. You might not ept it now, but you¡¯lltere to¡±


    ¡± He can¡¯t be away from the family forever. He¡¯s a part of this family and has rights here too. It¡¯s only sooner orter that he¡¯lle seeking for what is his¡± Mr Martins had exined, while Nathan looked on with a nk expression on his face.


    That didn¡¯t bother him.


    A brother!. One he had never meant. He still wasn¡¯t sure how that was going to y out for him, but he hoped not to be swayed.


    He¡¯s ready to move out at any time.. He¡¯s ready to leave thepany at any time.


    The least thing he wanted in his life right now was to fight over inheritance, he¡¯d better just leave it for whomever, not that he wasn¡¯t already sessful.


    ¡± Oh, my!! That looks delicious!¡± Ruby¡¯s thin voice snapped him back to reality.


    He turned to the direction she was staring at to see some highschoolers holding cones of ice cream and she salivated as she saw them.


    Her expression was bright and cheerful and it made him smile ¨C inwardly.


    He liked being with her. He doesn¡¯t know why or how he got drawn but he does know he finds sce andfort in her.


    It can¡¯t be different from the way he feels about Chelsea or E.


    ¡± Ahh!!¡± she gasped once more


    ¡± Do¡­ do you want one?¡± he asked her grumpily.


    ¡± Uhm¡­. no, nevermind. I just thought it looks delicious, that¡¯s all¡± she told him and took her head back into the car.


    Nathan nodded and drove past there.


    They soon came in front of the building of their marriage counseling ss.


    *


    *


    A gentle knock was heard on the door of Mr Martin¡¯s study room.


    The maid pushed it open and went in, her head to the ground as she did.


    ¡± Sir, a woman is downstairs waiting for you. She said she won¡¯t leave until she sees you¡± the maid gave out the information, her gaze to the ground.


    ¡± I¡¯ll be there shortly¡± Mr Martins responded, his gaze fixed on the newspaper in his hands.


    He left his study some minutes after the maid left.


    He walked with his now very frail and fragile body down the stairs, and came face to face with the least person he had wanted to see.


    How long has it been? 20 years?


    His eyes dted in shock and his brain did a marathon race trying to install things that aren¡¯t there.


    His wife ¨C Tracy was also out, taking in the details of the overly gorgeous woman in front of her.


    She has never seen her before. She knows all her husband¡¯s family members but this woman right here was strange to her.


    Andorra stood there, her sunshades now in her left hands and leather purse on the right.


    She was just as beautiful as anyone could imagine her to be.


    ¡± Andorra!¡± Mr Martins shrieked out in disbelief.


    He can¡¯t believe she finally decided to show up in front of him after all these years.


    That sure took a while and it tore his heart into bits as he remembered that painful experience which he has been keeping bottled up inside him.


    ¡± What are you doing here?¡± he groaned, the hurt, guilt and regret in his eyes.


    ¡± Long time no see, Martins,¡± Andorra said cheerfully.


    ¡± And oh, you must be his new wife. Nice to meet you!¡± she said, stretching out her palm for a handshake, but Tracy just stared nkly at it.


    Andorra gave out a cranky, nervousughter and started pacing around the sitting room.


    ¡± What nice decor we¡¯ve got here. You still got some expensive taste, huh?¡± she beguiled.


    The radiant smile on her face was undaunted and not even the res and mean stares from Mr Martins could sway her.


    ¡± Oh, my!! Look at you! Don¡¯t tell me you missed me?¡± she said andughed out hysterically.


    ¡± Honey!!¡± Mr Martins called Tracy.


    ¡± Can you give us a moment?¡± he asked her.


    Tracy nodded, turned to look at Andorra and then left.


    Andorra scoffed as she left, and then took her seat back on the couch.


    ¡± Seems you¡¯ve got a lot to say. Shoot!!¡± she said, taking a sip of the ss of wine she was served earlier.


    ¡± What are you doing here, Andorra!¡± Mr Martins asked through gritted teeth.


    ¡± Won¡¯t you like to take a seat first?¡±


    ¡± I¡¯m not in the mood for your silly jokes right now. It¡¯s either you say why you¡¯re here or I called the security guards to throw you out?¡± he threatened, unleashing his terror on her.


    He can¡¯t believe she had the nerve to show up at his house after all she¡¯s done to him?.


    She¡¯s got some guts! He had to admit.


    ¡± I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re asking me that question right now¡± she trailed back at him, getting up from the couch.


    Her face had a serious look on it as she approached him.


    ¡± Have you forgotten we have a son together?¡± she asked raucously.


    ¡± I doubt that¡¯s the reason you¡¯re here,¡± Mr Martins said, taking his seat.


    ¡± Then why else would I be here?¡± she asked.


    ¡± I don¡¯t know, you tell me, and don¡¯t forget that I know you Andorra. I know you¡± he rasped.


    Andorra rolled her eyes, taking her arms above her breasts.


    ¡± He¡¯s back¡± she let out slowly and inaudibly.


    ¡± What??¡± Mr Martins asked, almost jumping out of his seat.


    ¡± Your son, our son¡­ he¡¯s back¡± she dropped the bombshell before going back to take her seat.


    Mr Martin¡¯s hands shook and it made his whole system vibrate.


    He did expect this to happen. He had been patiently waiting for the day she would finally bring his son to him, and now that that day has finallye , he couldn¡¯t just believe it.


    *


    *


    ¡± Yes. Okay¡± Nathan said and ended the call.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ I¡¯m sorry Ruby but I think I¡¯ll have to drop you here. I¡¯ll call your driver toe pick you up, so you don¡¯t have to worry about how you are gonna get home¡± Nathan exined to her hurriedly.


    ¡± Hphm!!.. are you going somewhere?¡± she asked him, seeing his uneasiness.


    ¡± Yeah.. I need to head back to the office right away. Something urgent came up¡±he told her.


    ¡± That¡¯s fine. I can tag along. If you don¡¯t mind, by the way¡± she rephrased lowering her gaze.


    ¡± Suit yourself¡± Nathan said, getting into the car hurriedly.


    Ruby quickly went in also to avoid being left out.


    He drove at a crazy speed and they were in thepany in no time.


    She was so happy and excited. She had always wanted to know what the De Martinspany looked like and she couldn¡¯t believe it was the exquisite building standing in front of her.


    It was magnificent. So huge and so beautiful.


    She ran after Nathan who was walking at a crazy speed.


    Everyone bowed and greeted him as he walked in, while a lot of them gasped as they saw her.


    Some frowned upon realizing who she is and others had this stunned look on their faces.


    There were alot of them that started gossiping immediately and those that whispered to themselves and murmured.


    She has no time to take note of everyone, because she had to quickly go after Nathan who seemed like he had forgotten someone was right behind him.


    ¡± Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± he turned back abruptly and snapped, making her almost pee her pants.


    Why does he suddenly look so angry?. She asked herself.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ uhm¡­ I thought¡­¡±


    ¡± Don¡¯t you know you¡¯re supposed to wait in the reception. Are you following me to the meeting hall?¡± he raged, walking out on her as soon as he was done.


    She stood there with an unexinable disbelief look on her face.


    He must have a personality disorder, that she was sure of.


    If not, how does one exin his sudden change in behavior and attitudes?


    No matter how she looks at it, she¡¯s convinced her first opinion about him is the right one. He¡¯s down right cold and rude¡­ that¡¯s it.


    Having not much of a choice, she turned slowly and walked back to the reception in the hallway.


    She was still d she still got to spend time with him like this.


    He hasn¡¯t been cold or rude to her since and he had behaved well during the ss also.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    He wasn¡¯t much of an asshole that day, and she wished he would just be like that everyday.


    ¡± Ahhh¡­ I¡¯m so thirsty!¡± Ruby yawned and decided to go get herself something to drink from the store outside.


    She stood up and was walking out when she saw someone that looked familiar.


    ¡± Isnt¡­ isn¡¯t that Louis?¡± she asked herself and decided to call out his name.


    He turned and they stood staring at each other.


    What is he doing there??.

 Welcome back, son.

    Wee back, son.


    Author¡¯s Pov;


    Seeing Louis in thepany was still a big blow to Ruby.


    She knew he had told her he came to see someone but she was still feeling uneasy. She still felt like something was wrong somewhere.


    She nced over at Nathan¡¯s side. He was still busy¡­ taking calls here and there.


    It was night already and they were just going home. She was so tired and didn¡¯t know when she fell asleep.


    Nathan parked for a while to adjust her sleeping position. They still had quite a distance to cover and sleeping like that would hurt her neck.


    He pushed her hair to the back of her ear and gazed into her eyes, a smile formed at the corners of his lips.


    He doesn¡¯t know what¡¯s funny or why he was acting like that but he quickly got back to his senses and hit the road immediately.


    He stole nces at her at intervals.


    They soon got home and he carried her all the way to her room, careful not to wake her up.


    ¡± You¡¯re back son!¡± Tracy greeted with a warm smile on her face, but he ignored her and just walked upstairs.


    The day had been strenuous and tiring and the only thing on Nathan¡¯s mind was to take his bath and retire to bed peacefully, but it seems that won¡¯t be possible because his Dad has asked a maid to call him downstairs.


    He groaned, wondering what it is the old man wants.


    ¡± When do you think I can get some rest in this house?¡± he grunted, standing close to his Dad.


    Mr Martins only nced at him before getting up and walking out.


    Nathan heaved and walked after him and they ended up at the garden.


    He realised then that whatever the old man had to say got to be serious. He only talks in the garden if it¡¯s about something really important and serious.


    ¡± What is it again this time?¡± an impatient Nathan asked.


    ¡± Your brother is back¡± Mr Martins dropped, carefully sitting on the only bench in there.


    Nathan scoffed.


    It was supposed to be a surprise to him¡­ the biggest one ever, but it wasn¡¯t anymore because he already knows of it.


    EARLIER


    ¡± Who?¡± he asked his secretary as soon as he was out of the meeting.


    ¡± He said his name is Louis¡± the secretary said and Nathan nced at his watch to check if he could spare a few minutes.


    ¡± Who¡¯s he and what does he want?¡± he snorted coldly.


    ¡± He didn¡¯t say but he did say it¡¯s important and you would want to know¡± the secretary let out, leaving Nathan in a pickle.


    ¡± Ahh!! Alright then, let him in¡± he told her and went to his office.


    The door office after a few minutes, revealing a young man in his teenage years.


    He was handsome and had the same eyes as him.


    ¡± Yes?¡± Nathan went straight to the point, not giving the boy breathing space.


    Louis smiled at him.


    ¡± Hey, brother!!¡± he waved, a smile spreading across his face.


    Nathan furrowed his brows, wondering who the guy was.


    ¡± What??¡± he eximed.


    ¡± I can sit right, you don¡¯t mind?¡± Louis asked.


    He was being more cheerful than usual.


    Nathan just stared dumbfoundedly at him as he did whatever he wanted.


    The word brother was still ringing a bell in his head.


    He has silently prayed for it not to be what he¡¯s thinking, but no, it¡¯s just exactly as he¡¯s thinking.


    ¡± Who are you??¡± he asked rashly, losing his temper once again.


    The smile on Louis¡¯ face disappeared also.


    ¡± I need your help¡± Louis said instead, his time and voice changing.


    Nathan found this amusing and smirked.


    ¡± With what?¡± he asked.


    ¡± And who are you?¡± he added.


    ¡± I would tell you thatter, but first, give me your word to help me?¡± Louis said with a serious look on his face.


    Nathan stared at the kid and couldn¡¯t be more stunned.


    He had just the same boldness as Ruby and he suddenly reminded him of her.


    ¡± I promise!!¡± he gave out his word slowly, staring deep down into the eyes of this young determined man.


    PRESENT


    ¡± His mom was here earlier today and she wants him in the family¡± Mr Martins informed.


    ¡± I still don¡¯t see the reason you¡¯re telling me all these?¡± Nathan said calmly.


    ¡± It¡¯s simple. I just called you here to talk to you about it and let you know he would being to live with us in the mansion¡± Mr Martins let out.


    ¡± Do you think I¡¯m the one you¡¯re  supposed to be discussing this with?¡± Nathan asked him.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡±


    ¡± You have a wife, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s only right if you exin things to her beforehand. I mean, I don¡¯t have an issue even if you bring hundred kids to this mansion saying they are all yours, I don¡¯t, but do you think that would sit down well with Tracy?¡± Nathan asked him.


    ¡± There¡¯s no need for you to meddle in that¡­¡±


    ¡± I wasn¡¯t meddling, I was just trying to give a point¡±


    ¡± Which is?¡±


    ¡± I don¡¯t care. You can do whatever you want and bring whoever you want. Just know I¡¯m still here because of the Thand business trip, after that I¡¯m out of here¡± Nathan said raucously and got up.


    ¡± We are having dinner with them this Saturday¡± Mr Martins said after him, making him halt.


    He turned with a scoff.


    ¡± You already have everything nned out, huh?¡± he enthused, a mean look in his eyes.


    ¡± You should get ready to wee them, and noingte too¡± Mr Martins told his son, patted him on the shoulder and then left.


    Nathan went in after some seconds also, and was unable to sleep after that conversation.


    He kept thinking about things, and about why Louis wanted him to do those things for him when he could get them once he got into the mansion.


    He couldn¡¯t tell if it was a trap or not and was still contemting on what to do?.


    He thought long and hard into the night and when sleep finally came knocking, there was nothing he could do than to sumb to its will.


    SATURDAY


    It was a weekend and everywhere was buzzing with life.


    The De Martins mansion wasn¡¯t an exception.


    Ruby was in the kitchen, helping Tracy and the maids out.


    It was supposed to be just dinner, but Tracy has sessfully turned it into a feast.


    Alot was to be done and they had prepared a lot also.


    They all seemed busy in the kitchen and were hurrying toplete the tasks.


    Ruby has no idea what the feast was all about and there was no one she could ask about it.


    All she knows is that they had important visitorsing that day.


    Tracy on the other hand still wore her usual warm and cheerful smile, refusing to allow anything to put her down or sway her.


    She knew she was supposed to feel hurt and some women in her shoes wouldn¡¯t even dare do what she¡¯s doing, but then, she knew what she signed up for when she decided to get married to the business mogul¡­to the biggest business tycoon in New York, into of the most influential and popr families.


    Certain thingse with a price and this was the price of hers.


    ¡°I want the chicken to be spicier than usual,¡± she told the maid in charge of that.


    ¡± Ruby, how about going to change? We can finish up with the rest, we are almost done¡± Tracy told her, smiling.


    ¡± But¡­¡±


    ¡± No buts, we¡¯ll be done soon. Hurry now¡± she insisted and Tracy had no choice but to leave.


    She passed the sitting room where she saw E watching TV.


    They red at each other before she was on her way.


    She contemted on what to wear for a while.


    It was different from the dinner they had at her house.


    This was like a little gathering of some sort. She wasn¡¯t sure but she still needed to look good.


    She had seen E earlier and she seemed to be all ready.


    She first freshened up and then started working on her outfit.


    *Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    *


    The table was packed full with different delicacies, desserts, appetizers, wines and drinks of all kinds.


    Goodness!! It was so grand and the table was long andrge to begin with.


    It was appealing to look at. Tracy really outdid herself.


    ¡± What do you think?¡± Ruby heard har voice behind her.


    ¡± Lovely right?¡± She stood beside her and Ruby noticed she was already dressed as well.


    ¡± What?? I told you I would be done in no time¡± she said, noticing the way Ruby was staring at her outfit.


    ¡± You sure did¡±


    ¡± Believe me next time. I¡¯m a pro at things like this¡± Tracy said.


    ¡± I will, but it seems like you have a knack for these things¡± Ruby said with a chuckle.


    ¡± Tell me about it. I mean, it¡¯s the only thing I can really do around here, not that I¡¯m working, and it¡¯s such a shame I didn¡¯t get to know about you until veryte. I would havee over to help with the dinner preparations that day¡± Tracy said affectionately, but Ruby found herselfughing instead.


    ¡± I know right,¡± Tracy said.


    ¡± Oh, my!! Sorry about that. It  just sounded weird¡± Ruby said, not knowing how to put her words together.


    The words she wanted to say weren¡¯ting out.


    She had totally had the wrong idea about Tracy, but now she knows¡­she¡¯s a nice person.


    ¡± But I can say you did have it under control. You did good for a girl your age. My own daughter can¡¯t even light a fire¡± Tracy whispered and they both burst outughing, but it was such a bad timing,  because the reason for theughter soon showed up, looking all angry and ready to pounce on anyone.


    ¡± What¡¯s funny mom? What¡¯s so funny that you¡¯reughing with her?¡± she shrieked.


    ¡± Calm down honey, if you would just give me a hand¡± Tracy called out.


    E rolled her eyes, snorted and stormed out.


    The table was set and everything was good to go.


    It was splendid and exceptional.


    ¡± They are here¡± a maid came to inform Tracy.


    Mr Martins was already heading down the stairs.


    ¡± They are here¡± Tracy transferred the message to him.


    He nodded and they all walked outside to receive the guests.


    The car was parked in the parking lot and a young woman who was just as young and beautiful as Tracy came down with a young boy behind her, just about the age of E and Ruby.


    Both Ruby and E had a despondent look on their faces as they tried to figure out who they were.


    For E, she knew almost all her parents rtives and family members and these people were far strange to her and unfamiliar.


    She gave up on trying to know who they were and just waited for them toe in.


    While for Ruby, she stood therepletely dumbfounded, a perplexed look on her face.


    Her jaws dropped in shock when she saw Louis. She couldn¡¯t believe her eyes.


    The only question in her mind was what he was doing here?.


    She knew it had something to do with why he had showed up at thepany the other day, and she knew he was lying when she had asked.


    ¡± Wee back, son¡± Mr Martins pulled him into a guy as he got to them.


    This made Ruby even more stunned. She thought she was hearing things.


    How¡­ howe??!.


    E scoffed in disbelief, not practically weing of the situation. It was still like a joke to her.


    ¡± What¡¯s going on here? So, I practically have another brother and no one thought it was important for me to know¡± Sheshed out her anger.


    ¡± E!! Watch what you say¡± Tracy cautioned.


    ¡± And why should I do that? Aren¡¯t I telling the truth? Why should I keep quiet then?¡± she challenged her mom


    Tracy walked to her, trying to calm her down. The smiles and side eyes weren¡¯t doing anything to help.


    ¡± Stop telling me to keep calm, Mom!!. You guys have to stop treating me like an outsider. For fuck sake am a part of this family. I deserve to know things too¡± E said, really pissed and almost on the verge of tears.


    ¡± Watch your tone in front of your Dad¡±  Tracy reprimanded and it was almost turning into a fight between mother and daughter.


    ¡± Is this what we are gonna do all day?¡± a voice broke in.


    They all turned to the person who had said it.


    Andorra!!.


    She flicked her eyelids and mouth like she had said nothing.


    Phew!! It was gonna be a long day.

 Total disaster

    Total disaster.


    Author¡¯s Pov;


    Emotions brushed through the skins and graven silence perched on the walls of the dinning, engulfing the graceful and delightful dinner put in ce.


    Candle lights were the centre of attraction as they lighted and ignited a different aura and me.


    A poet wouldn¡¯t describe this scene as just a dinner. A dinner with people harbouring various thoughts in mind¡­different questions.


    At a time like this is when silence is most golden, but it just so happens that at a time like this is when words would be most appreciated.


    Alot needed to be exined and alot needed to be sorted out also.


    E could feel her anger increasing as the seconds went by. She felt like aughingstock in a family she holds so dear and in high esteem.


    She feared for her next outburst and did all she could to stay quiet.


    Only the sound from their cutleries could be heard.


    ¡± What¡¯s taking Nathan so long? Do you think he¡¯s still at the office?¡± Tracy, who was sitting just beside her husband, whispered to him.


    ¡± I doubt he would want to disobey me,¡± Mr Martins said loud enough for everyone to hear.


    ¡± Or maybe he sees us as a joke. From all indications, he surelycks respect and doesn¡¯t have consideration for anyone¡± Andorra said.


    ¡± You have no right to speak that way about my brother¡± Eshed out at her, taking her by surprise.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡± E!!!¡± Tracy yelled, sending warning res her way, all to which E ignored.


    Andorra scoffed.


    ¡± Woah!! I must say all the kids in this house aren¡¯t properly brought up. They are all ill-mannered¡±


    ¡± Darling, do you think you can live here?¡± she turned to Louis and asked.


    Louis rolled his eyes in wonder.


    ¡± Coming from someone who didn¡¯t even raise her own child¡± Louis muttered under his breath in rage.


    Andorra quickly covered it up with a cheapugh.


    ¡± He jokes around alot¡± sheughed out more loudly.


    E stared at her in disgust and just shook her head, while Ruby had been silent and just watching all that was going on.


    ¡± Really?¡± Louis attacked.


    ¡± You asked if I could stay here as if you weren¡¯t the same person that wanted me here¡± he grunted, his eyes cold and mean.


    It was the first time Ruby was seeing him like that. It was the first time she was seeing that look in his eyes and he looked so much like Nathan right then.


    They sure are brothers.


    ¡± Oh, my!! When is that son of yoursing?¡± Andorra said, changing the topic.


    She looked so pathetic and shameless, not even the thousands res and snares from them could get to her.


    ¡± Why don¡¯t you try calling him? Maybe something came up¡± Tracy told her husband again.


    ¡± You can if you¡¯re so worried,¡± he told her bluntly.


    ¡± Can we please just eat in peace and get this over with?. As if bringing another person into this family and house is a thing to celebrate and make merry for¡± E bursted out angrily.


    ¡± You will watch your tongue right now, young¡­¡± the door swung open and Nathan would in majestically, his left hand in his trouser pockets.


    He was casually dressed and had diamonds all over his neck and wrist.


    He looked like the perfect billionaire prince.


    E got up immediately and ran to him. She held him by the arm and started wiggling it.


    ¡± See brother,e see for yourself. I don¡¯t understand what¡¯s going on¡± she whined to him.


    He stared at her nkly for a while, before carefully removing her hands from his.


    He walked to the dinning and took his seat, and she  ¨C E, walked back with a disappointed look on her face.


    She red at Ruby before sitting down.


    A maid stepped forward and dished out Nathan¡¯s meal.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ aren¡¯t you gonna apologize or anything foringte?¡± Andorra drew close to him and asked.


    He ignored her and just started digging into his meal, while the rest of the family members shot her a re.


    She readjusted herself and mind her business.


    The silence returned.


    ¡± Louis!!¡± Mr Martins suddenly called, taking not only Louis but everyone else by surprise.


    ¡± Yes sir¡± he answered.


    ¡± Would you like to start working in thepany?¡± he dropped the bombshell which shook everyone by surprise, excluding his mom.


    It seems it was part of the agreement she had with him. It was part of the things she had requested for in order for her to bring his son to him.


    To her, Louis was her ticket to a luxurious and wealthy life. He¡¯s the only way she can get ess into the family, be a part of it and benefit from it and to be honest, she was ying her game so well.


    Mr Martins seems to be abiding to every of her instructions and following her every whim and this didn¡¯t sit well with the rest of them.


    ¡± Why don¡¯t you ask him that in private?¡± Nathan cornered, his gaze not leaving his meal.


    He seemed to have only picked the appetizer Ruby had made.


    This made her wonder if he knew she was the one that made it and how he knew if he really does know?.


    ¡± I want to save myself the stress of announcing it againter on,¡± Mr Martins replied.


    It somehow seems they were gonna get into a wordfight and the argument was gonna be heated.


    ¡± I¡¯m not asking you this because you¡¯re my father, but really, do you really have to do this?¡± Nathan finally looked up, and when he did, his eyes were bloodshot and cold.


    The look in it could melt a person¡¯s soul and unfreeze one also.


    The emotions in them were unclear and unscathed.


    ¡± You know me son, I like to be clear on things¡±


    ¡± Are we done here?¡±


    ¡± You aren¡¯t stepping a foot out of this table until everyone is done¡± Mr Martins roared really angry.


    ¡± Woah!!¡± Andorra eximed.


    ¡± I¡¯m done here, Mom¡± E said and got up.


    ¡± What!! E!! Come back here. Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Tracy yelled after her daughter who was already halfway in the stairs.


    ¡± Just let her be,¡± Mr Martins told her in a calm tone.


    Almost immediately, Nathan stood up and also left, leaving his Dad unfazed.


    He already knew how his son is, and knew he would still go against him.


    He hated being controlled, but not as much as he hates being on that dining with them.


    ¡± I really don¡¯t know what to say about everything that just¡­¡±


    ¡± Will you just shut up??¡± Tracy yelled to her face, leaving a shock expression there.


    ¡± What??!¡± she asked in amazement.


    ¡± You heard me right.. This dinning is a ruin because of you. Can¡¯t you just let your son have this happy moment with his family before he finally settles down here¡± Tracyshed out.


    ¡± And who says I don¡¯t want that. If I don¡¯t, would I be here?¡±


    ¡± You¡¯re just so¡­ ahh!!¡± she hooked on her words , realising Louis was still there.


    Mr Martins picked up a napkin from the table and wiped his mouth with it, then stood up afterwards and left.


    Louis left also, and it was just E with the two women who wouldn¡¯t stop ring at themselves.


    *


    *


    ¡± Here. Your room¡± a maid showed Louis to his room.


    ¡± Please call me if you need anything¡± she told him and left.


    He nodded and went inside.


    His mom had left with the promise that she woulde visiting often, but he told her not to worry.


    He¡¯s better off without her, and he knows she would only cause trouble if shees.


    Not like she was actuallying to see him or because she cares and wanted to know how he¡¯s doing, she¡¯s only gonna use that as a way to starting into the mansion as she pleases and that won¡¯t be good, knowing the kind of person his Mom is.


    He looked around his room which was big and magnificent just as it should be.


    It was painted in gray and milk. The color would sound weird to anyone, but it looked so good in the room painting and everything.


    He fell on the bed and exhrated, hoping that would help get a few things off his chest.


    It was a start of a new world and he hopes to make the best out of it.


    *


    *


    E was still sulking in her room. She felt hurt and betrayed.


    She at least expected her mother of all people to tell her about it, but no, she was too busy trying to impress the very same people that don¡¯t give a damn about her.


    She wonders why her Mom was so hell bent on making Nathan regard her as his mom. She has been on this for years and she still wouldn¡¯t stop it.


    She loves Nathan too and wouldn¡¯t mind sharing her Mom with him, but it¡¯s obvious he doesn¡¯t want it and she doesn¡¯t either, because she just doesn¡¯t love him as a brother, but as.


    The door to her room swung open, revealing her mom.


    She quickly hid herself under the duvet, as a way of letting her mom know she was mad and didn¡¯t want to talk to her.


    ¡± Come on girl! You know you don¡¯t have to be like this¡±


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry, okay, it won¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡± Sorry to interrupt you ma¡¯am, but Mr Martins asked you and your daughter to go downstairs right this minute¡± a maid suddenly appeared and informed.

 The studio

    The studio


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I woke up to a sudden feeling of tiredness.


    It was a Saturday and there was nothing to do.


    The bright light from the sunlight shining through my window had woke me up.


    I got up immediately and went out.


    It was already very bright and I started wondering why I wasn¡¯t called for breakfast.


    I walked to the garden and sat down, feeling tired for no reason.


    ¡± Hey!¡± a voice cooed behind me.


    I turned to see Louis.


    He smiled and started walking closer.


    ¡± Hey!¡± I said back, taking my gaze to the floor.


    ¡± You woke upte, huh?¡± he said, taking a seat close to me.


    ¡± How are you? Hope you¡¯ve adjusted well?¡± I asked, trying to be friendly.


    ¡± Yeah!¡± he said.


    ¡± I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re Nathan¡¯s brother¡± I enthused, looking at him.


    ¡± Tell me about it. I am now starting to think you¡¯re meant to be close to me¡± he said, smiling and looking at me also.


    ¡± What?¡±


    ¡± Nothing. Just kidding¡± he said andughed loudly.


    I smiled and we both stared into space.


    ¡± Did you guys have a fight?¡± he suddenly asked, making me furrow my brows.


    ¡± What?¡± I asked, looking perplexed.


    ¡± Nathan, I mean¡±


    ¡± No. Why did you ask?¡±


    ¡± Well, I thought you would be eager to see him off, but judging by the time you woke up¡­¡±


    ¡± What do you mean see him off?¡± I cut him off, heaving deeply.


    ¡± Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t know he travelled this morning¡± he asked, looking at me despondently.


    ¡± What??. No, no. Of course I didn¡¯t know!¡± I blurted out.


    I was so out of it. Howe I didn¡¯t know about it?.


    ¡± Ohh!!. That¡¯s sad¡± Louis said.


    ¡± Where did he go, and when is heing back?¡± I asked in awe.


    ¡± I think it¡¯s Thand for a business trip. He¡¯s spending at least a week there¡± he informed, making me scoff.


    I can¡¯t believe this¡­ I can¡¯t believe this guy.


    ¡± It¡¯s okay if you didn¡¯t know. It happens sometimes. These things can¡¯t be helped¡± he said with a smile, trying to cheer me up, but I was still down.


    I was missing him already.


    Imagine hearing from another person that my husband is on a business trip. Imagine not even knowing my husband¡¯s whereabouts. Imagine not even knowing what¡¯s going on in his life.


    He was just here yesterday. Howe he never said a word to me?.


    Does he hate me that much?.


    I felt really sad, and Louis did all he could to get me to smile but I couldn¡¯t.


    Phew!!.


    ¡± What are you doing here by the way?¡± I decided to ask him.


    ¡± Seriously? You¡¯re asking me what I¡¯m doing in a garden?¡± he asked and scoffed.


    He stood up and walked a certain distance, then turned and smiled at me.


    ¡± Wanna see something?¡± he asked, stretching out his palm to me.


    ¡°What would that be?¡± I asked, getting up but I refused to take his hand.


    I walked ahead of him like I knew where he was taking me.


    He led the wayter and we got to another part of the garden.


    I haven¡¯t even been to the whole of the garden, so this part was like another ce to me entirely.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    I gazed in amazement and a smile suddenly creeped into my lips.


    It¡¯s beautiful.


    ¡± You like it?¡± he asked and I nodded.


    ¡± It¡¯s beautiful¡± I said, smiling.


    ¡± I¡¯m d you like it and I¡¯m d you¡¯re now smiling¡± he said, his eyes showing affection.


    I got lost staring at them for a second, and then quickly snapped myself back to reality.


    ¡± Get it together Ruby¡± I told myself.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ how did you find out about this ce by the way?¡± I asked instead, trying to dissolve the tension between us.


    He chuckled and walked around for a while.


    ¡± Well, I¡¯m pretty good at finding things out,¡± he said.


    I nodded and looked around a bit more.


    ¡± We should head back now. I haven¡¯t had my bath, and I have homework ¡± I told him.


    ¡± Oh, that reminds me,¡± he said.


    ¡± What?¡±


    ¡± I¡¯m so d we get to live together like this,¡± he said.


    ¡± I¡¯m leaving if you¡¯re gonna spew nonsense ¡± I said and started heading out.


    ¡± Come on, I was only trying to say we can do school stuff together. Like this homework for example¡± he tried to exin, walking very close to me, but I ignored him.


    We came out at the other side of the garden and I walked out also, and started heading inside.


    ¡± Have you had breakfast?¡± he asked.


    I shook my head.


    ¡± I wanna take my bath first,¡± I told him and waved.


    ¡± See you around ¡± he said and I nodded, before leaving.


    *


    *


    ¡± So, the coefficient of x would be what?¡± I asked Louis, and raised my head to look at him when I didn¡¯t get an answer after a few minutes.


    I found him staring at me.


    ¡± Are you okay?¡± I red.


    ¡± What?¡± he asked with a smirk.


    I shook my head in disbelief.


    ¡± Were you even listening to all I have been saying?¡± I asked him in anger.


    ¡± Chill. I heard all you said¡± he replied.


    ¡± Really? Then answer the question¡± I growled.


    ¡± Hmmm. It seems you miss him¡± he said instead.


    ¡± Miss who?¡±


    ¡± Nathan¡±


    I rolled my eyes , picked my books and textbooks and got up.


    ¡± What? Where are you going?¡± he asked, holding my wrist.


    ¡± I can see you¡¯re not ready to learn. This is such a waste of my time¡± I said angrily.


    ¡± Goodness!! Can you please be calm? I was only kidding¡± he tried to exin himself.


    ¡± You obviously don¡¯t want to learn. You can go look for someone else to tutor you. As for me, I don¡¯t have a lot of time to spare¡± I told him off.


    He sighed.


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry okay.. I didn¡¯t mean to. Just let it slide. It won¡¯t happen again¡± he apologized sincerely, and I had no choice but to sit.


    ¡± Thanks,¡± he said.


    ¡± You better behave,¡± I warned.


    ¡± Yes ma¡¯am¡± he shouted, giving a salute.


    This brought smiles to my face, and we continued.


    *


    *


    ¡± And that would be all¡± I said in conclusion.


    ¡± Woah!! I never knew I could understand mathematics like this¡± he eximed.


    ¡± That happens if you concentrate and put your mind to it,¡± I told him, arranging my books.


    We walked back into the mansion together and I went to my room.


    I knew without being told that the rest of the day was gonna be boring for me.


    A knock came to my door.


    ¡± Come in!¡± I yelled and the door creaked open, revealing Louis.


    I sat upright on the bed, staring at him with an arched brow.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ would you like to uhm¡­ go somewhere with me?¡± he asked nervously.


    *


    *


    I¡¯ve never been to a recording studio before, but I knew I would love the experience there because I love music.


    There were instruments of all kinds, and a lot of them were unknown to me.


    I looked round like a novice, my mouth wide apart in a gasp, and my jaws dropping.


    ¡± This is beautiful¡± the words escaped from my lips even before I could get a hang of them.


    ¡± I know right¡± Nathan said walking into the recording section.


    It was just him and I.


    I couldn¡¯t tell if it was a private recording studio or not.


    ¡± Uhmmm¡­ aren¡¯t there supposed to be like uhm, producers and beat makers here?¡± I asked, looking around me once more.


    He smiled and brought down his earphone.


    ¡± I haven¡¯t them hired yet,¡± he said, leaving me more confused.


    ¡± I own it¡± he said again, and I got even more confused.


    ¡± I own this¡­ all this¡± he said, gesticting.


    The realisation dawn on me just as quickly as the shock registered on my face


    Oh, my world!! Goodness!.


    Is it because he¡¯s a De Martins or does he just have his own money??.


    ¡± This is freaking cool!!¡± I eximed in excitement, touching the keyboard and other equipment.


    He just smiled and watched me.


    ¡± I¡¯m d you like them¡± he said.


    ¡± What?? I fucking love them¡± I said excitedly.


    ¡± If you do that much, then how about youe with me whenever I¡¯ming over¡±


    ¡°That would be so great!¡± I squealed.


    I held the microphone there.


    It was blue and very beautiful. Alot of things were there and I wanted to ask him all about them.


    He suddenly went silent. I didn¡¯t hear him say a word again.


    ¡± Louis!!¡± I turned to see what he was doing, only to find him standing at my back¡­ very close.


    I could swear I didn¡¯t notice him standing so close.


    Maybe I was too engrossed in my thoughts and the things there.


    ¡°What??¡± he asked, closing the little space between us.


    He was now very close and our breaths were colliding.


    I could feel his breath fanning my forehead.


    My heart beat elerated. I didn¡¯t like the position we were in, but still, I couldn¡¯t mutter up the courage and strength to push him off.


    What the hell..??.

 Way more than that

    Way more than that


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Louis¡± I called calmly, my heart pounding hard against my chest.


    I took a few steps backwards, but he held me by the wrist and pulled me back to him.


    I gasped and watched as he smirked.


    ¡± What¡­ what are you doing?¡± I asked in astonishment.


    Is he trying to kid me right now? What the hell is happening?.


    ¡± Will you get off of me? What the fuck do you think you¡¯re trying to do right now?¡± I yelled to his face, summoning up enough strength and courage to pull away from him, but his hold on me was way too strong.


    ¡± Get the fuck away from me!!¡± I yelled to his face but he was unyielding.


    ¡± A minute¡­ just a minute. Let¡¯s stay like this for a minute¡± he cooed, touching my face.


    I felt disgusted by it and pped his hands off.


    ¡± Get away from me!!¡± I yelled and finally got out of his hold, after much wrestling.


    I was breathing heavily.


    ¡± What was that? Are you insane?¡± I rasped in anger and disbelief.


    I can¡¯t believe this!!.


    ¡± I¡¯m sorry Ruby.. I didn¡¯t mean to¡­¡± I didn¡¯t let him finish his statement before I stormed out of the studio.


    What the hell??!.


    What does he take me for? Has he forgotten I¡¯m a married woman? His brother¡¯s wife?.


    I think he¡¯s sick.


    I got outside and became stuck.


    I ran my fingers into my hair, making it disravelled.


    I could hardly exin how I was feeling right now.


    The only thing with me was my phone. I had absolutely nothing with me.. No money, no nothing.


    I wondered how I was gonna get home.


    Goodness!! This is so messed up.


    I held up my phone and dialled Diane¡¯s number.


    She picked up at the first ring


    ¡± Hey, girl!!¡± she shrieked into the phone, like she¡¯s been waiting for my call.


    Her cheerful voice instantly brought smiles to my face.


    *


    *


    ¡± You still haven¡¯t told me what happened¡± Diane asked for the hundredth time, not wanting to take no for an answer.


    She knew something was definitely up and wouldn¡¯t take my silence for an answer.


    ¡± The only thing that happened was my forgetfulness. Like, how the hell did I forget to take cash with me?¡± I lied,ughing along.


    ¡± I know right. A billionaire¡¯s wife. You should be ashamed of yourself, yunno¡± she said andughed and I did the same.


    ¡± What were you doing in that neighborhood by the way?¡± she asked again, staring deeply at me this time around.


    ¡± Do you have ns of boring holes into my skin with your eyes?¡± I asked her, feeling ufortable.


    ¡± I¡¯m just waiting for my answer,¡± she said adamantly, making me roll my eyes.


    ¡± No, no, don¡¯t do that¡± she warned, pointing her index finger at me.


    ¡± Do what?¡± I asked, rolling my eyes again.


    ¡± You just did it again,¡± she said sternly.


    ¡± Or are you trying to avoid the question?¡±


    ¡± You¡¯re the oneing up with various things. I don¡¯t even know what you¡¯re on about anymore¡± I said raucously.


    ¡± Woah!! I came to believe you¡¯re saying these things to me. Is it because you¡¯re married?¡± she asked with a serious look on her face.


    ¡± Go get married if you¡¯re that curious¡± I told her and she burst outughing.


    ¡± Goodness!! I can¡¯t believe this.. Well, I might consider it if I see another Nathan, or maybe if Louis decides to look my way¡± she said dreamily, sping her palms together in a happy manner


    Hearing the name ¡® Louis¡¯ instantly made me sad and I got lost in thoughts.


    ¡± Hello! You still here?¡± Diane snapped her fingers to my eyes, bringing me back to consciousness.


    ¡± Uhm!! Yeah, yeah¡±


    ¡± You okay?¡± she asked


    ¡± Of course, I am,¡± I said nervously, adjusting on my seat.


    She gave me this cranky look like she knew I was lying.


    But, I couldn¡¯t bring myself to tell her all that happened back there.


    Where exactly do I start from? And where¡­ Goodness!!.


    I haven¡¯t even told her yet that he¡¯s Nathan¡¯s brother.


    She¡¯s gonna be so shocked. I actually have ns of telling her myself before she sees it on the news and get mad at me for not telling her sooner.


    ¡± We are here¡± she beamed.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    I looked up to see we were in front of the mansion.


    ¡± Thanks a lot diane. I owe you one¡± I thanked her profusely, before getting down.


    ¡± Nah, you owe me a lot.. Even Nathan can¡¯t do the things I¡¯ve done for you¡± she said with a naughty smile on her face.


    I just shook my head and waved her off, while sheughed.


    Naughty girl!.


    *


    *


    ¡± You gat to be fucking kidding me right now!!¡± Diane eximed into the phone, almost rendering me deaf.


    Goodness!! I just knew she was gonna react like this.


    ¡± Oh, Ruby? I think we were meant to cross paths in this life¡± she went on


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± I asked, shuffling myughter.


    She was being so funny right now.


    ¡± We are just a few years behind from being inws. Oh, goodness!  The mere thought of it is just making me go¡­ ahhh?!!¡± she trailed off and screamed in excitement.


    I had to take the phone a little further away from my ear, before I go deaf.


    ¡± How is it that you¡¯re never serious with anything?¡± I asked in surprise.


    ¡± What do you mean girl? Of course I¡¯m being serious right now¡±


    ¡± You call this being serious? Aren¡¯t you supposed to be asking questions like ¡® Howe?¡¯ ¡® How¡¯s that possible? You know¡± I told her honestly.


    ¡± Cut that crap girl. His Dad fucked anotherdy obviously and she borne him, what¡¯s there to ask again?¡± she said nonchntly, making meugh so hard.


    My ribs almost cracked


    ¡± You¡¯re crazy,¡± I told her.


    ¡± I know,¡± she replied.


    ¡± But seriously, I can¡¯t believe this. You¡¯re such a lucky girl. You get to leave with two cute guys. You get to see their faces everyday. You get to live with them, talk to them, eat with them. Oh, my!! Your Dad is the best in the whole wide world. I want to be born as his daughter in my next life¡± she squealed and giddy all up, acting coy and all.


    Oh, Diane!  Such a drama queen.


    As if everything she¡¯s saying is such a good thing. If only she knows.


    ¡± I know now Nathan will sit up,¡± she added.


    I arched my brows at this statement.


    ¡± What do you mean?¡± I asked, sitting up properly.


    ¡± Isn¡¯t it obvious? He¡¯s not the only cute guy in the house anymore, and I¡¯m pretty sure if this gets out to the public, alot of his fans would shift their attention to Louis¡± she exined.


    ¡± He traveled,¡± I said slowly, trying to get this thought out of my head.


    The thought of Louis. She has been going on and on and I wish she would just stop already.


    She keeps taking my mind back to him.


    Speaking of Louis, he still wasn¡¯t back.


    It was evening already.


    ¡± What? Who travelled?¡± Diane asked.


    I guess she didn¡¯t catch that.


    ¡± Nathan¡± I breathed out.


    ¡± What? Why?¡± she asked.


    ¡± Business trip¡± I replied.


    ¡± Oh!!! But it¡¯s all good right. I mean, between you both¡± she asked and I zoned out for a few seconds.


    ¡± Yeah, yeah, we are¡± except I¡¯m not good in general, I said to myself.


    A brief silence stepped in.


    ¡± Ruby!¡± she suddenly called, taking my mind back to her.


    ¡± Yes¡± I answered absentmindedly.


    ¡± Are you sure you¡¯re okay? You¡¯ve been acting weird¡± she asked, this time I could sense the seriousness in her tone.


    I suddenly heard a car horn outside and rushed to the window to see who it was.


    It was him. Louis! He was back.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ lemme call you back Diane¡± I told her and ended the call before she could even reply.


    I watched as he got out of the car and started walking into the mansion.


    Heavens!! What exactly was that back there? Was he trying to pull some kind of prank on me?.


    What do I call this? That look¡­. that look in his eyes, it didn¡¯t seem like he was ying or anything.


    I so much wish it wasn¡¯t anything serious¡­ that he was just ying around


    I seriously hope so.


    I guess he was in his room already because I heard the loud bang of the door.


    MONDAY MORNING


    The stares I¡¯ve been getting since I got to school were rming.


    Like, it was different from the ones I¡¯ve been receiving and this one kinda got me scared.


    I started thinking if I did anything wrong or¡­


    Jeez!! The thought of what happened that day at the studio came rushing through my mind.


    Could it be¡­ no way! There¡¯s no way anyone could have seen that.


    No one was there that day¡­ just the both of us. I¡¯m pretty sure of that.


    ¡± What¡¯s going on?¡± I tapped Diane at her back and asked.


    She heaved and folded her arms.


    ¡± You¡¯ve got to see this,¡± she said to me.


    My heart beat elerated and I could feel the world spinning around me slowly.


    It can¡¯t be!!¡­

 About time

    About time


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I stared at the school notice board and what I saw made my heart skip, but in a good way though.


    Pictures of Nathan were all over it, and there was an announcement at the top of it.


    I quickly read through it and heaved a sigh of relief when I was done.


    Thank goodness!! I thought something bad had happened.


    ¡°Your husband is the best in the world. Imagine funding his wife¡¯s school trip. Awnn!! How sweet!!¡± Diane whirled and danced around romantically, making me shake my head for her.


    She was acting like a drama queen right now and it was making me sick.


    ¡± Can you snap out of it and let¡¯s go to ss?¡± I told her and started walking away.


    ¡± Hey, wait up!¡± she yelled after me, running.


    She finally caught up and we walked in together.


    I paused at the door in shock, staring face to face into those deep blue eyes¡­ just like his brother¡¯s.


    I was taken aback for a while and quickly had to snap out of it and walk behind Diane quickly before she would notice.


    I took my seat and never dared not to turn back.


    The rest of the weekend has been about us avoiding each other.


    Good thing he wasn¡¯t around much. I could say the only time we got to see was at the dinning.


    Well¡­ he better don¡¯te close to me because he¡¯s not gonna like what I¡¯m gonna do to him.


    *


    *


    Recess actually came faster than I expected and I walked out of the ss hand in hand with Diane.


    ¡± Ruby!!¡± I heard my name.


    The voice was so unfamiliar and there was nothing I could do because I knew he saw me already.


    I had to stop right on my track.


    ¡± Let¡¯s talk¡± he came to my front and said, his both hands in his pockets.


    Diane looked at him and then at me and quickly excused herself.


    I know she would be wondering what the tension is all about and to be honest, I still don¡¯t understand.


    I can¡¯t wrap my head around how things gotplicated like this.


    ¡± What do you want to talk about?¡± I asked immediately we were somewhere out of eat short.


    I was so pissed and didn¡¯t even feel like seeing him talk less of talking to him.


    ¡± Be fast. They don¡¯t give all day for lunch¡± I said nastily, making sure my anger was evident.


    He sighed and started.


    ¡± I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry Ruby. I really am. I was just going through alot at that period. I know this isn¡¯t right and I¡¯m not even supposed to be saying this, but¡­ I don¡¯t want things to be distant between us. I don¡¯t want any issues, okay¡±


    ¡± So¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I really am sorry.. I was just going through alot that day and not that it¡¯s your business, but I just felt I should at least exin myself to you¡± he said apologetically, feeling really remorseful, but all that was bullshit to me.


    I scoffed, taking my eyes off of him for a while.


    ¡± Are you kidding me? What¡¯s this? A movie? What do you take me for?¡± I snapped at him.


    I was trying really hard to suppress my anger, but it wasn¡¯t working.


    ¡± You must think I¡¯m stupid to believe all this bullshit you¡¯re saying. You better don¡¯te close to me again, or you would regret knowing me or even getting close to me¡± I rasped in anger, and after warning him sternly, I stormed out on him.


    I was furious and didn¡¯t bother to go back to the cafeteria.


    I obviously couldn¡¯t face Diane like that and had to go to the back of the school.


    ****


    Author¡¯s Pov;


    Louis walked into the meeting room majestically andpletely dded in a well tailored suit.


    He looked dashingly handsome.


    Mr Martins took his seat and Louis did after him.


    The youngd was staring at all the elderly people before him, including his father with a mixed expression on his face.


    He still didn¡¯t know what he was doing there.


    His Dad has suddenly told him to dress up and that they were going somewhere.


    He never imagined it would be thepany.


    He sat down in panic and the meeting began.


    *


    *


    Louis stormed out of the room as soon as they were done.


    He knew that was disrespectful but he couldn¡¯t help it.


    He was so enraged and undid his tie as he came out, because that was suffocating him.


    His breath was heavy and they humped hard against his chest in rhythm.


    That obviously wasn¡¯t happening.


    What happened back there wasn¡¯t supposed to happen. Not after the deal he had with Nathan.


    The deal aside, he didn¡¯t want to have anything to do with thepany, shares, benefits and everything thates with it.


    He knew this was all his mother doing and vowed never to give her the satisfaction she wants.


    She would never seed. He¡¯s gonna make sure of that.


    He felt a tap at his back and turned to see Mr Martins.


    ¡± Sir!!¡± he called, looking away.


    He didn¡¯t want him to see the look in his eyes.


    ¡± How did you see that?¡± Mr Martins asked him.


    He didn¡¯t mind Louis calling him Sir. He didn¡¯t expect him to start calling him Dad anyways.


    He¡¯s never got the chance to meet him because his Mom took him away all because of her selfish gain and interest.


    It¡¯s gonna take a while but he was sure to adjust.


    Mr Martins knew the young man wasn¡¯t ready, but he¡¯s had a deal with the mother and he was a man that never goes back on his word.


    Now, it was up to Louis. He¡¯s either gonna stay or leave and that won¡¯t be his business anymore.


    ¡± Why did you do that?¡± he asked, clenching his fist.


    ¡± Do what?¡± Mr Martins asked, feigning ignorance.


    ¡± I don¡¯t know what kind of deal you made with my mom, but you both shouldn¡¯t drag me in the middle of whatever you have going on. You think she brought me to you, but you¡¯re wrong, I came because I wanted to¡±


    ¡± And¡­ and no matter how long it would have taken, I still would have looked for my father one day. I still would havee to you because I know who you are, so please¡± Louis said painfully and tearfully, his eyes shot in pain he was trying to control.


    He was trying so much not to burst it out.


    ¡± Please, don¡¯t do things like this anymore.. I totally hate it¡± he said thest words with an emotion filled voice and hurried out of his Dad¡¯s sight, leaving Mr Martins with a sour expression on his face.


    Those words weren¡¯t what he was expecting.


    It seems he was a lot more like his brother. They are both strong willed and hot headed.


    ¡± The car is ready sir¡± the chauffeur came to inform.


    ¡± Alright, let¡¯s go¡± Mr Martins said with a smile and they left.


    *N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    *


    It was just a few days left before Nathan would be back and Ruby was looking further to it.


    She already confirmed and knew he was staying for one week.


    She sincerely hoped he wouldn¡¯t exceed that.


    ¡± You really miss him, huh!¡± Diane teased.


    Ruby smiled and faced her book.


    She was actually studying for the mathematicspetition and Diane was helping her out¡­ more like distracting her.


    ¡± Get out if you aren¡¯t gonna help¡± she snapped at Diane when she couldn¡¯t condule her naughty attitude any longer.


    The bell rang and they left the cafe for ss.


    ONE WEEK LATER.


    It has already been two weeks and Nathan still wasn¡¯t back.


    Ruby still couldn¡¯t exin how she was able to hold on.


    She missed him.. so much. They don¡¯t talk much and have no rtionship but she does.


    She missed his cold eyes, res and everything¡­ his aura and the mean manner in which he speaks to her.


    The mathematicspetition was fast approaching and she was d she had that to at least distract her and keep her mind away from thinking about Nathan.


    She and Louis practically lived like strangers in the house.


    The only person still giving her problems was E.


    The girl just knows how to piss her off so well.


    ¡± I wonder if you think you own this house!¡± she had said the previous night, while Ruby was watching a show, her legs on the table.


    Ruby ignored her and concentrated on what she was doing.


    Feeling irritated by it, she maliciously picked up the remote and changed the channel.


    Ruby was supposed to get angry but she didn¡¯t and instead just walked away.


    She was already tired anyways and it was about time she retired to bed.


    She saw that as the perfect chance but that didn¡¯t go well with E who became furious.


    *


    *


    ¡± You¡¯re staying behind right?¡± Diane asked the obvious question.


    It was Wednesday, one of the days for the mathematics extra ss.


    It was also her counselling ss with Nathan but they have missed it twice in a row now and she feels so sad about that.


    She felt weird going alone and so, she didn¡¯t.


    *


    *


    ¡± Why does that car keep following us??¡± Ruby asked her driver, looking at the car from the rearview mirror.


    They had finished upte and she was just going home but this weird car kept following them, and suddenly¡­

 Kidnapped

    Author¡¯s Pov;


    ¡± Take me to Ruby¡¯s School¡± Nathan told his driver who nodded and reversed immediately.


    He was justing back from the airport and wanted to surprise her in school.


    It¡¯s bene two freaking weeks and he has missed her.


    He wasn¡¯t sure he would, but he did.


    *


    *


    Ruby¡¯s face had panic and fear in them as they car overtook and showed up in front of them, blocking their path.


    Her heart beat elerated as she shook in fear.


    She started praying fervently in her heart, but it was all just in vain.


    Within a twinkle of an eye, she was dragged away from her car to the other car by hefty men.


    She could neither scream nor struggled. They were so strong and huge.


    She wondered if that¡¯s how her life is gonna end.


    Her driver shivered in panic, looking lost and confused.


    The highway was empty and quiet and there were few passerbys and therefore, few witnesses.


    ¡± We are here¡± Nathan¡¯s driver announced.


    Nathan brought up his heart from his phone to see it was true.


    ¡± Go in and call her out¡± he instructed his driver who left the car right away.


    Meanwhile, Ruby¡¯s driver has drive to the nearest police station close to him and reported, but as usual they told him to wait for 24 hours before they can do anything, stating it might not even be serious as he was making it seem.


    This infuriated the driver who almost caused a scene there.


    The severity of the matter was being overlooked and taken for granted.


    ¡°She left already¡± Nathan¡¯s driver came back to inform him.


    He nodded.  He should have known but he has hoped otherwise.


    ¡± Alright then¡± he the driver who was just getting into the car.


    *


    *


    ¡± What do you mean she hasn¡¯t gotten home? What about her driver?¡± Nathan screamed at E who he was questioning.


    Howe she wasn¡¯t home yet when he was just returning form her school? It didn¡¯t make any sense to him.


    She has absolutely no where to go, so¡­


    ¡± I think her driver is here¡± E told her paranoid brother.


    He left her and hurried outside to meet the driver.


    ¡± Help sir. I¡­ I don¡¯t know what happened. I don¡¯t even know who they are, please¡± the driver said shakily, getting in his knees.


    ¡± What are you talking about? Pull yourself together and talk properly¡± Nathan snapped, his heartbeat elerating.


    ¡± I¡­ I think shes being abducted sir¡± the driver informed, bis gaze on the floor.


    ¡± What?!¡± the gasp escape from E¡¯s mouth before she could stop it.


    Nathan asked the driver to exin everything as it has halo and he did.


    The tension was high right now and the whole sitting room was as quiet as a graveyard.


    He has just returned from his business trip. ans couldn¡¯t believe this is what he¡¯sing to see.


    He hated himself for not being to protect her.


    He has a lot of enemies and should know better.


    He¡¯s pretty sure it was the handiwork of one of them.


    ¡± Hello¡­ I need your help¡± Nathan said into the phone, walking up the stairs.


    *


    *


    The mansion was put in a state of emergency as a result of this incident.


    Nothing like that has ever happened before and the thought that it could be somewhere from within the family scared everyone.


    Everyone was warned to be at alert and not let their guard down.


    It has been exactly 24 hours and the police were already working on it.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    The school has been informed also about this incident and it took a great tool on Diane who still found it hard to believe.


    She med the damn mathematicspetition because she felt that was the reason her friend was going home by that time.


    ¡± Still no progress?¡± Nathan asked the man he was working with directly on the case.


    He has asked them to keep him posted but still, he always called every minute.


    He was worried and that was the only thing he could do at that time.


    There has been few progress so far and  he wasn¡¯t happy with the way things are moving.


    He was able to block any article from leaking out and reaching out to the wars for outsiders.


    He also failed to tell her Dad because he felt that would make matters worse.


    It was better to deal with this on his won and.


    He would find her by all means and he won¡¯t drop there, he¡¯s gonna go after those trying to hurt and make them pay for not just the things they did to her, but the things the didn¡¯t so as well.


    He¡¯s going to make them pay and worse still or they darey a finger on her.


    *


    *


    * We have the girl, ma¡¯am ¡± the boss of the gang said into the phone.


    They just arrived at the upleted building they normally use for their operations.


    Ruby was still sedated so he thought it was best to let the person that sent them know they have her with them.


    ¡± Good. Just make sure you do as you¡¯re told. I¡¯ll send the rest paymentster¡± thedy¡¯s voice said into the voice and this brought smiles to boss face.


    He ended the call and instructed his boys to take Ruby to another empty room.


    They did and dumped her on the dirty floor.


    She was still unconscious so they nned on dealing with herter.


    ****


    ¡± It seems thest ce her phone was spotted was the ce she was abducted. Can you tell us a bit more about these guys?¡± one of the police officers asked Ruby¡¯s driver.


    He has gone to the station with Nathan.


    He exined everything just as he has seen that day.


    ¡± Dis you see anything.. like the te number of the car or any other thing?¡± the man asked him and he shook his head.


    ¡± There was no te number and it was a mini bus. I think it was rented if I¡¯m to guess correctly¡± the driver exined.


    The man doing the questioning heaved deeply.


    ¡± Then¡­ I think we have to wait for further hint. Maybe they would call for ransom¡± he let our slowly, and this didn¡¯t sit well with Nathan.

 Rescued

    Rescued


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I stood there in fear watching as he approached me eagerly.


    He immediately pulled me into his arms in a warm embrace as soon as he got close.


    The police officers were taking the criminals away and he was with me¡­ stroking my hair slowly as I inhaled his sweet scent.


    I was a bit taken aback by his actions, but with time, I shut my eyes and hugged him back.


    We stayed this way for a while before he pulled away and cupped my face in his palm.


    His face was cold and damn serious which got me confused as to how worried he could have been.


    ¡± Let¡¯s go home!¡± he said softly and led me to the car, holding my wrist.


    He opened the car door and I got in.


    FEW HOURS AGO


    ¡± What do you mean you still haven¡¯t found her? What did I pay you that huge amount of money for?¡± Nathan growled into the phone.


    ¡± Boss¡­ boss!!¡± he heard someone call from the other end.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ excuse me¡± the guy told him and the call was ced on hold.


    ¡± Good timing. We have found her¡± he resumed the call and said.


    A smirk creeps into Nathan¡¯s face.


    ¡± Good. You know what to do.. Take care of the rest¡± he told them and ended the call.


    *


    *


    Nathan made sure Ruby was restingfortably and peacefully before he left to finish what he had started.


    The room wasn¡¯t that dark and all the weapons he had requested were on the table. This brought smiles to his face.


    They were tied up after being beaten severely.


    His eyes were bloodshot and cold.


    He walked to the chair in the middle, facing them.


    ¡± I¡¯m only gonna ask once¡± he started slowly, a hammer in his right hand.


    As he was swinging it in the air and staring downright at the floor.


    ¡± Who sent you?¡± he let out the question slowly.


    He stood up and walked to the table in front of them that was filled with different harmful objects. There was alcohol and a ss there so he poured himself some.


    He took a sip and before anyone could say jack, the restnded on their skins.


    They wailed and cried out in pain, the agony speaking of untold hardship and pain.


    They felt like dying. It was just too painful.


    The alcohol opened up all the injuries they have and made it even worse.


    ¡± I told you I hate repeating myself¡± Nathan groaned, filling the ss again.


    He left the ss on the table and beckoned on one of his boys toe help him out.


    They held one of the goons¡¯ fingers on the table and Nathan brought out the hammer.


    ¡± No, sir. Please, leave it to us¡± the boy pleaded with him but was ignored.


    ¡± Ahhh! No, no! Please. We are sorry. Ahhhhh!!¡± the goon who already knew what Nathan was about to do started pleading in fear and terror.


    Nathan¡¯s eyes were cold.


    ¡± I¡¯ll tell you. Please, don¡¯t just do these ¡± the guy pleaded again, shaking visibly and pleading for his life.


    ¡± Then hurry up and do that. Do you want to die here?¡± the boy asked him.


    Nathan hesitated for a while and walked back to the table.


    He brought out a napkin and cleaned his hands with it.


    ¡± It¡­ it was Cindy¡± the goon said and Nathan scoffed.


    Who the hell is Cindy? He asked himself.


    He poured another drink into another ss and took a sip from it.


    ¡± We are telling the truth sir. It was ma¡¯am Cindy. She made us do it. We have no reason to lie. Please spare us¡± another said, in fear.


    ¡± Who the hell is that?!!¡± Nathan yelled, shattering the ss across the wall in anger.


    This made them flinch.


    His chest heaved as he spoke and the anger made him turn away because looking at them only brought memories of Ruby to his head.


    He still remembered how she was looking¡­ looking so scared, tired and exhausted.


    She was frightened and that ripped his heart apart.


    Now¡­ who the fuck is this Cindy? Who¡¯s she and why¡¯s she messing with him this way?.


    He knew anyone would only attempt to hurt her because of him, but he doesn¡¯t even know her.


    ¡± She¡¯s your friend sir,¡± another said.


    ¡± My friend?¡± he asked with a snare and turned to look at them again.


    One of the guys he hired walked closer to him, holding an ipad.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    A girl¡¯s picture and details were on it.


    He stared at her hard and long but couldn¡¯t remember her still.


    Where the hell does he know her?. He couldn¡¯t remember or ce his head around it.


    ¡± Apparently, she and your wife met at the party you both went to thest time¡± the guy started, making sure to exin to him in detail.


    ¡± You both used to be very close and worked together severally while she was still running her Dad¡¯s business. Some people thought you guys were dating, while others thought you guys would end up together eventually¡± he went further and Nathan scoffed again at the ridiculous tale.


    But then, suddenly, he paused as it clicked.


    Yeah¡­ now he does remember her. How could he forget that bitch.


    ¡± Cindy?¡± he muttered, taking the iPad from him.


    He couldn¡¯t believe his eyes.


    He thought she had gone to the US never toe back.


    What the fuck was she doing here? And why was she causing so much trouble for him? Howe she was at that party and he didn¡¯t know? Howe she met Ruby and he didn¡¯t know?.


    Ruby never said anything.


    Oh, goodness! It seems she has targeted Ruby just to do this.


    Now, it all makes sense to him.


    She came back for this¡­ she came back to have revenge on him.


    She still hasn¡¯t let go of what happened between them in the past.


    She still hasn¡¯t let go of her obsession over him.


    She was here for revenge, but too bad she picked the wrong person to mess.


    ¡± Get the car ready, we are going somewhere interesting¡± he said into the phone, a cheesy smile on his face.

 First kiss

    First kiss


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    I woke up with a heavy migraine, which hit me hard as soon as I opened my eyes.


    I struggled to open my eyes and sit up straight and suddenly, my eyes ran into his.


    Those blue dazzling eyes were setting my skin aze.


    His face was cold as ice and his gaze didn¡¯t leave my body. It traced and followed every movement I made.


    He suddenly stretched out his hand to mine and pulled me up gently.


    He came closer and ced a pillow at my back in support.


    ¡± Hey!¡± he sat back and said.


    I fiddled with my fingers, staring down at them.


    He used his fingers to lift up my chin and stared into my eyes.


    ¡± How are you feeling?¡± he asked calmly.


    I couldn¡¯t tell what time of the day it was.


    To be honest, I was still feeling weak and dizzy¡­ maybe I didn¡¯t sleep enough.


    The door creaked open and a maid walked in.


    I looked around to see I was in my room at the mansion.


    A disappointed look appeared on my face as I was expecting him to take me to the penthouse.


    She dropped a tray on the bed and left immediately.


    Nathan uncovered it, revealing fries and noodles.


    ¡± Here, have a bite,¡± he said, bringing the fork closer to my mouth.


    I opened up and took it in, then started chewing.


    It was delicious but I had no appetite.


    I knew he wouldn¡¯t bulge if I told him I wasn¡¯t hungry, so I had no choice but to eat.


    ¡± What took you so long in the restroom during that party?¡± he asked out of the blues, making me bat my eyelids.


    ¡± Uhm¡­ it was difficult locating the restroom at first, I had to ask for directions¡± I said simply, not looking at him.


    I saw him nod and drop the te.


    ¡± Know any Cindy?¡± he asked, making me almost choke on the water I was drinking.


    What does he know?!!.


    ¡± I met one who happens to be your friend,¡± I replied, unsure of why he was asking.


    It was making me so uneasy and I had to rx a bit, not to look nervous or ufortable.


    He looked at me and I looked away.


    The atmosphere around us was very cold, despite the hot sun outside. The AC was on but it wasn¡¯t usually this cold.


    ¡± Hey!¡± he cooed and I took my eyes to him.


    ¡± Are you sure you¡¯re okay? Don¡¯t you feel any pain?¡± he asked with a worried look on his face.


    ¡± I should be asking you that? Are you okay? What about the kidnappers? What happened to them?¡± I asked him. I had been curious for a while now.


    ¡± That¡¯s nothing for you to worry about¡± he told me off curtly.


    ¡± What about my Dad and¡­¡±


    ¡± You don¡¯t have to worry about them also.. I made sure no words will get to them, so put your mind to rest¡± he told me.


    I nodded and attempted toy down again.


    He helped me do thatfortably.


    ¡± Are you sure you¡¯re okay? Won¡¯t you see the doctor?¡± he asked and I shook my head.


    He sighed.


    ¡± I should have taken you there first,¡± he told me.


    I smiled and shut my eyes for a while.


    He held my palm in his and started squeezing it gently.


    I could feel the warmthing from his body.


    I can¡¯t even stare at him properly now after waiting for him all this says to return.


    He¡¯s finally here but I¡¯m not in the right frame of mind.


    I was weak but I knew I wanted to be with him at that moment.


    I didn¡¯t want him to leave me. I feared that.


    ¡± Don¡¯t!¡± I eximed, opening my eyes.


    I held his hand instead, preventing him from leaving.


    ¡± Okay!¡± he said with a light chuckle and my face flushed.


    He squeezed my palm even more in an attempt to send me back to sleep.


    ¡± I¡¯m here okay. I won¡¯t leave, ¡± he said calmly.


    I smiled and closed my eyes.


    I was almost drifting off to sleep when I felt a soft lip on mine.


    My eyes flickered open immediately, and I paused, staring dreamingly into his eyes.


    He smiled at me and I felt my heart leap up for joy.


    The emotions I was suddenly feeling were strange to me.


    ¡± Do I have permission?¡± I heard him whisper into my ear.


    His breath fanned my neck as a result of how close he was.


    It sent a cold wave through my body and the sleep vanished from my eyes.


    I wasn¡¯t exactly sure what he was referring to, but before I could wrap my head around it or ask him what he meant, he imed my lips in a soft kiss.


    A wave of emotions surged through me.


    He sucked the lower part at first, making me short of breath.


    I struggled to breath and while I was still struggling to, he started devouring and savouring the vour of my lips.


    Oh, goodness!! My first kiss!!.


    I can¡¯t believe this. I can¡¯t even imagine it. The cells in my brains were doing all kinds of amazing and superb dancing.


    It felt so unreal.


    The kiss turned passionate and I wanted to return it¡­ to kiss him with the same vigour, but hell, it¡¯s my first kiss and I¡¯m a novice.


    He ced his hand on my waist and used the other to hold my head in support.


    I wrapped my hands around his neck and he slowly climbed into the bed and came on top.


    The kiss turned more passionate by the second and I was finding it hard to breathe as the second went by.


    He suddenly took his left hand to my thigh and the tingling sensation I felt was heavenly.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    He broke off the kiss then and looking at me straight in the eyes, he asked.


    ¡± Should I continue?¡± he asked almost breathlessly.


    I nodded, a hot burning sensation was in my throat and my head was clouded with thoughts of him and his sudden touch.

 First night

    First night


    Ruby¡¯s Pov;


    The dim immacte light gave a tender touch to the atmosphere as his soft andrge arms grazed my skin¡­ softly.


    I stared deeply into his eyes, my heart thumping hard against my chest.


    My chest became heavy and I let him take over my body.


    His scent filled my nose and his hands were all over him.Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    He soon stopped kissing me and took his left hand in between my thighs, stroking it slowly.


    I let out a soft moan as he used his index finger to trail up and down my thigh.


    It was heavenly and I bit my tongue in pleasure.


    I shut my eyes tight, my hands still wrapped around his neck.


    He gently let go of my hand and took his head down. He brought it to my thighs and ced it there.


    I shivered at the hot air that escaped from his mouth to my thigh.


    I grabbed the bed sheet immediately and he started using his tongue to graze my skin.


    It was torture. He was torturing me, so much, but I loved every bit of it.


    Why? Why do I love it?.


    I felt this hot air in my throat that suddenly made it hard for me to breathe.


    He stopped using his tongue and knelt beneath it, he stared at me for a while and I stared back. I became lost staring at him that I didn¡¯t know when he dipped his finger into me.


    ¡± Ahh!!¡± I let out in pain and ecstasy.


    The feeling was undeniably sweet¡­ a mixture of pain and pleasure.


    I grabbed the sheet tighter , moaning like crazy.


    ¡± Ahh! Oh, my!¡± I groaned as he increased his pace.


    He finger fucked me and he was so good at it, that I started morning badly.


    Hw stopped for a while and licked his finger, then dipped it in again and started thrusting gently¡­ he added another finger and I screamed.


    Tears gathered at the corners of my eyes because now, the pains were now more than the pleasure.


    ¡± Please!¡± I heard myself begging but it seems to do the opposite of what I had intended.


    He did stop and adjusted. He took off my pants and tossed it to a corner.


    I watched as he climbed down the bed and started taking off his clothes. It was now his underwear and singlet.


    He climbed again and went back to his position¡­ in between my legs.


    He undressed me in a twinkle of an eye and swiftly imed my lips again.


    He smooched on it for a while, using his finger to tease my v region.


    He used the left to squeeze my breast which made me start moaning in his mouth.


    I felt his hand leave my breast and he took it to my butts, squeezing it as hard as he could.


    And without warning, I felt his hard rod slide into me.


    ¡± Ahh!! No!!¡± I screamed, disengaging from the kiss and trying to pull him off me, but it was impossible.


    He started thrusting in slowly at first, which made the pain bearable, but he soon increased his pace, making the pains unbearable, that I started crying and pleading with him to stop.


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