《Drawn to You: The Billionaire鈥檚 Second Wife》


 Chapter 1

    It was the morning already, at exactly 4:30 am the rm on Vannessa¡¯s wall rang out as her whole life depended on that sound. Vanessa¡¯s constant turning, groaning, and covering of ears only confirmed her consciousness.


    ¡°Arrrrgh, good Heavens. Who gets woken rudely by a clock they bought with their money and amodates at their home?¡± Vanessa said she kicked hard the duvet out of her body, her legs on the floor, and staggered into the bathroom.


    It was Vanessa¡¯s second week at her bakery store and wasn¡¯t going to let any bad energy in, she struggled all her life because was able to set up that bakery store in the heart of town where most rich men lived.


    Although on her first week there, she didn¡¯t make enough sales she was hopeful for the new week.


    Vanessa¡¯s fair skin and thick ocean blue eyes were the most appreciated qualities of her, she was undeniably beautiful and well-created. When it was 6:30 am Vanessa¡¯s superbike made its nose into the city and echoed.


    She had bought this bike for her special delivery services and she was d about how effective it has been for her. She cast her mind back to how much she usually spent on transportation for a month, she felt grateful over again.


    When Vanessa had gotten to the shop and baked some pastries, she disyed them in the transparent ss outside and said a silent prayer within her.


    From seconds to minutes to hours, the clock kept ticking and Vanessa¡¯s eyes couldn¡¯t be taken off them. Just when she was about to breathe and ¡®I give up kind of,¡¯ Little cute hands from outside tried to reach the counter then she heard the sound like the white whispers of birds.


    ¡°Hello ma¡¯am, can I have some chocte cakes please. Three cups please.¡± Vanessa walked out to see who this sweet Angel was.


    A young girl stood in front of her with bright beautiful eyes and puffy cheeks, at the sight of her pink irresistible lips and dazzling hair, one would stop to say her beauty is strange.


    Vanessa knelt slowly before the girl as she held her hands and looked into her eyes. ¡°Oh, dear, you want cakes?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please.¡± The young girl replied with a cute smile.


    ¡°And what¡¯s your name dear, where are your parents? Why are you alone on the streets?¡±


    ¡°My name is Chloe¡­.. Chloe Brown. I¡¯m not alone, my dad is right over there trying to get his car parked properly, he has asked me toe to make my choice of cake.¡±


    ¡°Wow honey, you¡¯re smart. Alright, I¡¯ll get you your chocte cupcake.¡±


    ¡°Nooooooo,¡± Chloe said in between teeth and tongue.


    ¡°Alright, Alright honey, what do you want dear? Is there something else you want?¡± Vanessa asked with a concerned look.


    ¡°Not exactly, I just like you and would love to keep staring at you. You are so beautiful, ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Wow, Chloe no one has ever said those sweet words to me in a long while. Thanks for making me smile and I think you are the most beautiful. You¡¯re a gorgeous girl.¡±


    ¡°Really ma¡¯am?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my darling, I mean every word I say. Now let me quickly get your cupcake before your Dad arrives.¡±


    Vanessa stands up, touches Chloe¡¯s hair, and moves back inside to get the cupcake, especially still hot from the oven.


    Upon arrival back to where Chloe was standing, she couldn¡¯t see the girl anymore, she moved closer and walked out. idently she bumped into a man and spilled the hot cake all over his Jacket.


    ¡°Oh no!¡± Vanessa opened her mouth wide and went nk for minutes.


    She stood immobile, she lifted her face while her eyes narrowed to get the human standing before her.


    Damnit! He¡¯s tall and huge with attractive muscles that no woman can ever resist setting her eyes on.


    His blue eyes were so charming and his jet-ck hair shifted her off her feet. ¡®This is a human from a separate world.¡¯ she thought within her.


    While she kept staring at him, she swirled her neck sideways to get the little girl smiling at her. Her white crystal teeth led her to return the smiles too.


    Now she can feel her heart at the ce. Her heartbeat has returned to its normal state again.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, he¡¯s my dad. You¡¯re d to meet him right ?¡± Little Chloe stated, referring to Vanessa who was lost in thought at the moment.


    She nodded slightly, ¡°l got it. You both have the same looks.¡± She stepped backward.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for spilling the cakes on you sir, it wasn¡¯t intentional. I was just rushing to get back the little girl that demanded it.¡± Vanessa exined while quivering.


    He doesn¡¯t have a sad look on but isn¡¯t saying a word to express that he isn¡¯t feeling bad about her action.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She inputted her palm into her side pocket but couldn¡¯t get her little towel in there.


    Gosh! This is a mess indeed.


    ¡°If you wouldn¡¯t mind, Sir, I¡¯ll go get a towel to clean up the dirt on your shirt. Please.¡± she pleaded.


    The young man couldn¡¯t utter a single word, he only stretched his lips like the one about to speak out.


    ¡°My dad wants to purchase stuff from your bakery, we¡¯ll follow you along okay. It¡¯s just an ident.¡± little Chloemented grinning.


    Her dad nced at her and sniffed, while Vanessa turned her back to step into her bakery.


    Within her, she wondered what the young man was up to. ¡®He might be an aggressive type, I just wish he wouldn¡¯t take action towards my silly step of searching for his daughter.¡±


    She pouted her lips in a haunted manner, ¡°Buh ! He¡¯s irresistible. Damn handsome too.¡±


    ¡®Uh-huh! I¡¯m acting differently this time. Vanessa has never thought of falling for a man for once, and here I am thinking of a married man. Shit! I¡¯m gonna kick him off my mind¡¯ she pulled the towel forcefully from the string and soaked it in a bowl of water.


    She stepped to get Chloe and her father standing beside the door.


    ¡®I will have to shut my eyes while doing this, in order not to present myself as a whore that I¡¯m not¡¯ she thought and began cleaning up the spills of cake on his shirt.


    He licked his lips and tapped her shoulder, ¡°Let go of me, I want to purchase fruit bread.¡±


    Vanessa stood upwards staring at him. ¡®He just made a sentence now. Yes, he uttered some words.¡¯


    His voice isn¡¯t hoarse. It¡¯s cold, and damn sexy. That voice shifted her off her feet.

 Chapter 2

    ¡°You need a fruit bread, huh?¡± Vanessa referred to him.


    He nodded, ¡°Yeah! Make it three and tell me the amount including the cupcake.¡±


    She giggled, ¡°You don¡¯t need to pay for the cupcake, it¡¯s a waste.¡±


    ¡°And it¡¯s your loss. Get Chloe one of the cupcakes, and tell me the total amount of the two cupcakes and three breadfruits.¡± he stated vividly to her hearing.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She nodded and left to get it all. Within seconds, she was back with the items well packaged. She handed it over to Chloe who had already stretched her hand to have it.


    ¡°Thank you so much, ma¡¯am Vanessa. I love your cupcakes.¡± little Chloemented cheerfully.


    She smiled at her, ¡°Thank you too sweetheart, I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too.¡± she replied.


    For the time since he met Vanessa, he smiled while staring at the two. He loved themunication going on between them.


    ¡°She¡¯s myst daughter, and I¡¯m her father. Nice meeting you dear, I¡¯m Mr Xavier Brown.¡± he dered while getting on his feet.


    Vanessa chuckled, ¡°Nice meeting you too, Sir Xavier. Uhmmm! I¡¯m Miss Vanessa and this is my bakery shop. Thank you for patronizing me¡±.


    He shuddered, ¡± Thank you for being nice to my little daughter too. I can see she loves you so much already.¡±


    She nodded and waved them a goodbye while watching them leave her bakery. Lots of smiles filled her face.


    She wouldn¡¯t believe a role model like him would step into her bakery for order. That¡¯s rare in New York.


    Famous people like him are found far away from the lower ss, they¡¯re kind of rude too. Meanwhile, that¡¯s what she had expected from him when the cakes spilled on his shirt.


    She had waited for thunderous and aggressive words from him, or rather, his guards treating her like a mess.


    But that¡¯s all opposite. He¡¯s walking alone without guards and is cheerful.


    It might be to her alone, but she doesn¡¯t feel like thinking about it now.


    A wide smile affixed on her face as she thought of all these, that he couldn¡¯t notice the presence of a man opposite her.


    ¡°It¡¯s enough Nessa, get back to reality and get me my order,¡± themanding voice of a masculine drew her out of her thoughts.


    She quivered and blinked several times. He¡¯s here again, her childhood friend who doesn¡¯t stop making jest of her.


    This dude is good at uttering gibberish words to her, she doesn¡¯t have time for it this time anyways.


    ¡°Now tell me what you want, I¡¯ll get it for you, you¡¯ll pay me and leave my bakery instantly.¡± she spoke out of annoyance.


    Sounds ofughter echoed in her ears. She noticed he¡¯s the one turning her sentences to an act of joke.


    ¡°Must you always invent something that will nevere into reality, Vanessa. The young man you¡¯re staring at and smiling is married with kids.¡± he narrated.


    She pinched his cheek, ¡± I see, a psychologist that quotes everything wrong. How sure are you that I¡¯m thinking about him ? What do I have to do with his marital status?¡±


    ¡°You know what, he will never get attracted to a low ss citizen like you, so get him off your mind.¡± he concluded.


    ¡°So what do you want now?¡± Nessa questioned him.


    He knitted his eyebrows, ¡°Uhmmm! Get me cookies, and be fast about it¡±.


    ¡°Jerk¡­¡± she referred to him and left to get him his order.


    ¡°Soon, I¡¯ll be done for today.¡± shemented.


    He snapped at her face after he was about to leave, ¡°Because of the married man you entangled yourself with huh?¡±


    ¡°No! I have some other things to do. Besides, you have nothing to do with my matters.¡± Nessa remarked.


    She watched him leave without taking a nce backwards. This dude can stress someone a lot.


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


    ¡°Now tell me, Dad. Why were you staring at Ma¡¯am Vanessa like you met a stranger?¡± Chloe questioned her father.


    Xavier cuddled her while busy with his cellphone. He didn¡¯t mind giving an answer to that question.


    She lifted her face to look at her father who was lost in thought despite him scrolling through his cellphone.


    She tapped his cheek, ¡°You aren¡¯t answering my question, hope everything is okay with you. Dad, you seem to be haunted.¡±


    He smiled at her, ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry dear, I¡¯m okay. Just busy with my manager, we have a lot to discuss.¡±


    ¡°Do you love the fruit bread?¡± She referred and got seated on her own.


    Her eyes couldn¡¯t get off her father as she relished the taste of her cupcake.


    ¡°I love it. It tastes nice.¡± hemented.


    ¡°Really? I¡¯ll love to get mine too, dad. You didn¡¯t bother to get us ours.¡± a female voice sounded from behind.


    Chloe turned her neck to see that it¡¯s her elder sister, Tracy. She jumped from the sofa and headed towards the direction she stood.


    ¡°Come take yours.¡± she dered and moved ahead with her.


    ¡°Dad¡­¡± Tracy called him out again.


    He raised his eyebrows, ¡°Take the fruit bread and give the other to your brother.¡± he ordered her and left upstairs to his room.


    At this point, he doesn¡¯t need a distraction, he needs to take a big rest before setting up for work the next day.


    He twitched into his room andid on the bed recalling the incident that urred some minutes ago.


    The cakes that spilled on his shirt, he couldn¡¯t believe a word wasn¡¯t out of his lips for minutes.


    Ouch! That¡¯s unusual of him though. He is that CEO who acts curtly to his workers. He doesn¡¯t take trash from a soul no matter the level you are.


    Not even the beauty of a woman can pull him down. He is Xavier Brown, the CEO of Brown¡¯s cooperation.


    One thing he doesn¡¯t do is to owe his workers, or treat the lower ss citizens like a bin. But you must work ording to his order.


    He rumbled the bed cover still in thought. He wouldn¡¯t believe a woman will stain his shirt and he¡¯ll keep calm to it, not even his girlfriend will step on his feet and go Scot free.


    But thedy he just met is a weakness to his soul. She¡¯s absolutely his weak point.


    Her beauty can turn the president of a country to a ve. Her loyalty can suppress the strength and anger of a warrior.


    She has that spell that binds every human to a changed person when with her.


    Damnit! Vanessa can never take a ce in his heart.


    He has a girlfriend already, and will never be entangled with anyone else. The loss of his wife has done more harm to him than good.


    But he bets that Nessa is far better than her girlfriend. Even at that, he will get his mind off her and move ahead with his recent girlfriend.

 Chapter 3

    The intense wind blew Chloe¡¯s hair, she loved how it smoothed on her skin and how the decorated flowers danced to its movement.


    She has been sitting on the veranda of her room for more than five minutes now, yet didn¡¯t feel lonely.


    At this time, she had a lot of thoughts roaming in her head. It¡¯s all about ma¡¯am Vanessa. Thisdy is creating in her mind all day long.


    From the first day she set her eyes on her, she loved everything about thedy. She wanted to see Vanessa again.


    ¡°Why¡¯s my little sister sitting here all alone? She must be hungry right?¡± A familiar voice came from her side.


    It¡¯s her brother. It is Ben.


    She adjusted by letting him get seated, ¡°I want to go see ma¡¯am Vanessa¡±, she stated.


    His brows furrowed. That sounds funny though.


    ¡°And who¡¯s that you¡¯re talking about?¡± He questioned her.


    She turned to face him, ¡°A beautifuldy that owns a bakery some miles away from here. She¡¯s gorgeous and you won¡¯t believe it. I loved her from the first day I set foot in her bakery shop to get a cupcake. She¡¯s so nice and cheerful and I¡¯m already missing her¡±.


    Chloe was filled with excitement at the moment, the smiles that surrounded her face were so pure.


    ¡°And now you want to go see her or get cupcakes again?¡± Ben tried to ask her.


    She loved that question so much, ¡°I want to stay with her for a while. And you know, I¡¯ll get cupcakes too.¡±


    Heughed out loud. That¡¯s so gibberish. Chloe will never stop putting smiles on his face.


    ¡°You must be insane for saying that, and you think Dad will watch you leave this house to a local ssdy just because of her cupcakes.¡± Ben spluttered.


    Chloe ced her arm on his thigh, ¡°You telling lies. Dad loves her so much, the fruit bread you ate yesterday was gotten in her bakery by dad, so don¡¯t ever think dad will be mad at me if I go meet her.¡±


    She got on her feet, ¡°I¡¯m leaving to see her, when dades back, tell him that I¡¯m with ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡±


    Ben watched her stride out of her room, he stood and followed her immediately but couldn¡¯t get her on the stairs either.


    He wondered how fast she was that not even her shadow was seen.


    ¡°Chloe, I¡¯m not letting you out of this house okay.¡± he screamed out so she could hear him from her room.


    Footsteps approaching him paused the next sentence he was about to make.


    ¡°And where is she going?¡± Tracy got seated while waiting for his reply.


    He chuckled and got seated too, ¡°To see a beautifuldy that owns a bakery, she got a cupcake from her yesterday and had loved her. That¡¯s so silly of her¡±.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Not just silly but childish.¡± Tracy added and picked the television remote.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you two when I¡¯m back, she¡¯s my friend and I¡¯m missing her dearly¡±, Chloe uttered from the stairs.


    Tracy stood up and moved towards her, ¡°I¡¯ll tell her toe to visit you herself okay. You aren¡¯t stepping out of this house.¡±


    She shuddered, ¡°Dad knows that I love her so much and he loves her too.¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth. Dad isn¡¯t in love with any woman, talk more of a baker like her.¡± Ben spluttered.


    Chloe ignore them and moved towards the door, before they could get her she twitched out while screaming.


    ¡°Gosh! Dad is back already.¡± Tracy uttered and bit her lips.


    They two watched Chloe as she ran towards their father.


    ¡°Wee Dad.¡± she greeted and embraced him.


    He red at the two standing before him, very sure that something is going on between them.


    ¡°Wee Mr and Mrs.¡± he greeted them out of anger.


    ¡°Wee Dad, so sorry for that.¡± They both apologized.


    He nced at Chloe and shook his head, ¡°Now what¡¯s going on between you three? Hope I¡¯ll get peace of mind now that I¡¯m back from work?¡±


    ¡°No! I¡¯m sorry but you won¡¯t, only if you tell them never to stop me from visiting ma¡¯am Vanessa. I love her cupcakes¡±, Chloe narrated almost about to break out in tears.


    He smiled and leaned on the car, ¡°Nessa¡¯s bakery isn¡¯t your home, Chloe. This is your home, let your siblings know whatever you want and they¡¯ll get it for you.¡±


    She shook her head, ¡°I¡¯ll always get it myself, and with that opportunity, I¡¯ll stay with her for a while.¡±


    ¡°Dad, stop speaking like you don¡¯t love how she treated me and approached you. You love her right?¡± Chloe spoke out audibly to his hearing.


    Tracy twisted her face, ¡°Miss psychologist, dad isn¡¯t in love with the baker and won¡¯t be. Let¡¯s get into the house and I¡¯ll go get you the cupcake.¡±


    ¡°Stop hating me. I¡¯ll get it myself, but you can follow me.¡± Chloe remarked.


    Mr. Xavier couldn¡¯t say a word anymore, the fact that his daughter just mentioned that name drew him back to the past.


    He wouldn¡¯t want to have thatdy in his mind, but here is Chloe getting her into his imagination again.


    ¡°Get back here, Chloe¡± the loud voice of Ben dawned in his ear.


    He blinked several times, his eyes caught the little girl running towards the gate, and before Ben could approach her, she dashed out already.


    *********


    Vanessa was so busy with the customers she was attending to, that she felt a warm touch on her arm.


    She nced aside but couldn¡¯t get anyone standing beside her, and then she began her interaction again.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t notice me right? I¡¯m too small.¡± Chloemented on her hearing.


    She gasped and embraced her, ¡°Aww! I never expected you to be here by this time. You came to get yourself cupcakes huh?¡±


    Chloe nodded, ¡°Not only that, I¡¯ll love to stay with you for some time.¡±


    Nessa grinned, she offered her a seat after which she joined her when she was through with her patronizers.


    ¡°So, sweetheart, how have you been? What of your Dad?¡± Nessa inquired.


    She smiled, ¡°I¡¯m good and he¡¯s good too. Dad is pretending not to love you by trying to stop me froming here.¡±


    ¡°He might be ying pranks.¡± she replied and they giggled.


    Vanessa thought of what they meant by uttering such a thing about her dad, she wondered if she noticed her expressions the past day.


    ¡°Get me cupcakes, I¡¯ll pay for it afterward,¡± she referred to Vanessa.


    She got on her feet tapping her back, ¡°You don¡¯t need to pay for today. It¡¯s my pleasure seeing you again.¡±


    Chloe chuckled, she watched Nessa move to the oven and get a cupcake for her. She loved how hot it was.


    ¡°Cuddle me, ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± Chloe referred to her.


    She lifted her and made her seat on her thighs, her eyes affixed on her as she gobbled on the cupcake.


    ¡°Can you do me a favor, ma¡¯am Vanessa?¡± Chloe uttered, licking her lips.


    Nessa wondered what the favor was all about, ¡°Anything for my sweetheart.¡±


    Chloe nced at her face and grinned, ¡®I¡¯ll tell dad about this first¡¯ she thought within her.

 Chapter 4

    Vanessa was still all ears to what Chloe was about to say, she kept wondering what was running in the mind of such a little girl.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get back to you, ma¡¯am Vanessa. I need to speak to my dad about it first before making decisions, that¡¯s because he will help me sort it out.¡±Chloe stated.


    Nessa watched the little girl climb down from her thigh, she headed out of her bakery without taking a nce backward.


    ¡°My little angel will always trigger me. I wonder who the mother is and how she will always feel when staring at her daughter,¡± Vanessa muttered silently while moving towards the oven.


    Chloe took to her heels and left back home in a haste, she met her siblings sitting at the veranda discussing a particr issue she doesn¡¯t care to know.


    Their eyes met and they two moved towards her Instantly.


    ¡°Why would you always be disobedient? I ordered you not to leave that I¡¯ll get you the cupcake, but you turned deaf ears to my order,¡± Tracy scolded her.


    She contorted her face while taking a nce at her elder brother, ¡°But you didn¡¯t run after me to show how concerned you were, you only watched me dash out of thepound, and then you got seated waiting for my return.¡±


    Ben held her ear, he squeezed it so that she threw the cupcake at him.¡±You¡¯ll get me another one, my ear hurts so bad.¡±


    He tried lifting her into his arms but she twitched away from their presence in the sitting room.


    Her eyes met with that of her dad who was so busy with theptop ced on the sofa.


    ¡°You¡¯re back from your trip to the bakery? Don¡¯t ever take such action again or I¡¯ll stop you from taking cupcakes.¡± he scolded her.


    She twisted her lips and got seated beside him not minding his mood. Her eyes studied his fingers as he began typing in some documents.


    ¡°Dad, I want to tell you something so important,¡± Chloe uttered, distracting her father¡¯s attention from theptop.


    He rxed on the sofa while staring at her expecting her to go ahead with all she had to say.


    ¡°What¡¯s the discussion all about? Hope it isn¡¯t gonna spoil my mood now?¡± Xavier questioned his little daughter.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She smiled and grabbed his palm,¡± Since you decided not to let me visit ma¡¯am Vanessa when I wish to, I¡¯ll suggest you employ her to be my babysitter. To be honest dad, I don¡¯t ever want to be missing her that much.¡±


    Sir Xavier stared at his daughterpletely, he wondered if she was okay upstairs.


    ¡°Why do you need a babysitter? It shouldn¡¯t be okay now,¡± he remarked to her.


    Chloe burst into tears, she shut the system down and persisted he will give a positive response to her request.


    Xavier didn¡¯t find it funny this time, he noticed the little girl isn¡¯t taking it easy with him towards the request.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you be until you meet ma¡¯am Vanessa and discuss with her about the job,¡± Chloe uttered amidst tears.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to employ a babysitter in my home. For crying out loud, your siblings are here to take good care of you.¡± Xavier yelled at her.


    She shook her head gripping his shirt, ¡°I don¡¯t want my siblings to babysit me, they won¡¯t cuddle me like a baby just the way ma¡¯am Vanessa would do. I love her so much.¡±


    ¡°You love her too, dad, or don¡¯t you don¡¯t love her again? I want a babysitter and it must be her.¡± She added.


    Ben and Tracy overheard the loud voice of tears from the sitting room and decided to know what was going on. They¡¯re so sure that Chloe is shedding tears but the fact that their father is there watching her is so weird.


    They bumped in to get Chloe gripping her father¡¯s shirt, her eyes were watery just like her cheeks.


    ¡°Chloe, you shouldn¡¯t be doing that to dad, what¡¯s going on with you?¡± Ben inquired while taking off her palms from the shirt.


    Xavier wasn¡¯t saying a word, the action of his little daughter kept reminding him of the past.


    He reminisced on the memory shared with histe wife, and the memories she created with the children too.


    If she hasn¡¯t left them, the little girl will never demand a babysitter since the mother¡¯s love and care would be enough for her.


    For her to meet ady that cuddles and treats her the way she hasn¡¯t been treated for once, she needs a mother beside her. Ady that will understand her mentality and be ready to tolerate her childish behavior.


    ¡°I want a babysitter, but dad wouldn¡¯t grant my request. I won¡¯t let him rest until he does that,¡± Chloe uttered to the hearing of her siblings.


    They two nced at each other and burst out intoughter.


    ¡°We are here to babysit you, little angel, you don¡¯t need a babysitter when we¡¯re around,¡± Tracy announced.


    She climbed to the sofa and gripped her dad again, ¡°You two aren¡¯t treating me like a mother, I want a babysitter,¡± she cried out.


    ¡°Shu¡­ Shut your mouth please and stop distracting dad,¡± Tracy scolded her.


    She red at her and twisted her face, the expression on her face was full of anger at the moment.


    ¡°And you think you can escape from my distraction, none of you will have a rest of mind under this roof until my request is granted,¡± Chloe spluttered.


    Ben got seated beside her, ¡°Now tell me who the babysitter is, or dad will get you one? What if she¡¯s that strict type and doesn¡¯t treat you well?¡±


    ¡°Then she will be sacked, I can¡¯t watch a stranger treat my sister so badly and I¡¯ll keep mute.¡± Tracy replied instantly.


    Xavier tried kicking her to attract her attention, ¡°Mind you Tracy, don¡¯t dare takews into your hands.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do that if you aren¡¯t around dad.¡± she persisted.


    Chloe nced at them serially and let out a loud hiss, ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa will be my babysitter.¡±


    ¡°But she owns a bakery!¡± The two screamed out in shock.


    She nodded, ¡°I know, but she can do it for me.¡±


    ¡°How sure are you that she will leave her business toe to babysit you here?¡± Xavier referred to Chloe who was staring at the movement of his lips.


    She lifted her eyelids and smiled widely, ¡°You¡¯ll discuss it with herter.¡±


    Xavier adjusted on his seat facing them, he read their faces serially.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need a babysitter in this home, because I¡¯ll be getting married to a woman that will care of the three of you,¡± he announced to their hearing.


    Tracy stood forcefully on her feet, she believed it was just a prank.


    ¡°Just tell me you¡¯re kidding dad because I can¡¯t watch another woman step into this home in rece of myte mother. Never. I won¡¯t let it happen.¡± She screeched out in anger.


    Chloe nced at her dad and then her siblings, ¡°Even if you¡¯ll get married dad, she¡¯s your wife, not my babysitter. Ma¡¯am Vanessa will be my babysitter and you get married too, they¡¯re two different things.¡±


    ¡°Yours is kind of the worst, Chloe. What¡¯s wrong with you upstairs? You need a babysitter and dad needs a wife, which means two women will have to be here. To be honest dad, I can¡¯t take it. We can do everything in this home ourselves, I can take good care of myself and my siblings too.¡± Ben added.


    Tracy sat beside her father, ¡°You have children already, so getting a wife is of no use.¡±


    ¡°Guess who thedy is?¡± Xavier asked his children.


    ¡°We aren¡¯t guessing dad, just promise us that you aren¡¯t getting neither a babysitter nor a wife.¡±Ben spluttered.


    He stared at them, the look on Chloe¡¯s face might eat him up. But then he¡¯s damn confused about the decision to take.


    Chloe needs a babysitter. He needs a wife. But Tracy and Ben need none.


    The decision to take that will be in their favor and he too is what he doesn¡¯t know.

 Chapter 5

    Xavier was deep asleep when a heavy and continuous knock began hitting his ears. He wondered who the soul waking him up was.


    His eyes darted at the wall clock instantly, it was 11 pm.


    He gasped and turned to the door as it was ripped open. Chloe dashed in and shut it again.


    To be precise, a single smile wasn¡¯t on her face, she frowned like never before. He couldn¡¯t invent thest time she was in such a mood.


    He watched her as she moved closer to the bed and sat on it. The promise she made in the daytime sounded in his ear again.


    She wouldn¡¯t let him rest until her request is granted.


    ¡°My angel, what¡¯s wrong with you? You aren¡¯t sleeping?¡± He asked his daughter who bent her head in sorrow.


    She nced at him and bent her head again, ¡°I can¡¯t sleep dad, the only person in my mind is ma¡¯am Vanessa and I want her beside me.¡±


    ¡°Do you even know that thedy is already asleep at herfort home, while you¡¯re here thinking about her.¡± Xavier uttered.


    She hissed, throwing the pillow away from her, ¡°That¡¯s a big lie, I know she¡¯s also thinking about me right away. If she had been here as my babysitter, I wouldn¡¯t be awake by this time.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯ve been falling asleep alone all this while, why act differently now? It¡¯s a matter of time darling, you will get used to it and will have nothing to do with a babysitter.¡± Xavier tried exining to her.


    She shook her head, ¡°No, a babysitter means a lot to me and that¡¯s why I need it.¡±


    Xavier sat up on the bed, he watched as his daughter kept rumbling his bed cover out of anger.


    ¡°If you won¡¯t employ ma¡¯am Vanessa to be my babysitter, then get me back my mother. I need her back or someone that will treat me just like she does.¡± Chloe broke out in tears.


    That sentence alone struck Xavier¡¯s heart, he felt it begin bleeding at that moment. With the sentence she made, he noticed how the little girl iscking a mother¡¯s care and love.


    He affixed himself to her shoe and understood how she felt, it wasn¡¯t easy for her at all just like him.


    The action of taking away all the images of herte wife around the building is just for his sake and that of his children.


    Setting their eyes each time on the images of her gathers tears in their eyes every minute.


    It made himck concentration in his work even when busy in his office. The image of his wife kept reflecting in his mind continuously.


    Here is his little daughterining bitterly and indirectly about the loss of her mother.


    Precisely, she isn¡¯t supposed to be far from her mother at this stage.


    His eyesnded on her, she had rested her head on her chest weeping bitterly. The cloth he had on was already soaked in tears.


    ¡°Dad please, employ ma¡¯am Vanessa to be my babysitter, I promise, you won¡¯t regret it.¡± Chloe uttered while on his chest.


    At this point, he would do anything to make her happy. If getting a babysitter will stop her from thinking about her mum, then he would do that.


    He understood how she felt. Deciding to get a wife for himself is all because he wouldn¡¯t want to think about histe wife again.


    Getting a babysitter for Chloe won¡¯t stop him from getting himself a wife. He believes Tracy and Ben will get familiar with it and start loving the two women.


    ¡°You need to sleep okay. My head hurts.¡± Xavier muttered to the hearing of his little daughter.


    She shook her head and began weeping again, ¡°I¡¯ll sleep only if you grant my request.¡±


    He bit his lips in dismay, ¡°It¡¯s okay darling, but I think it¡¯s better to talk about it in the daytime. I¡¯ll see what to do about it.¡±


    Chloe hit his shoulder, ¡°We¡¯ve talked about it in the daytime already.¡±


    He twitched his lips apart, ¡°If I employ the baker as your babysitter, will you be happy and will you stop talking about your mother right?¡±


    She nodded while staring into his eyes, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be the happiest person on earth.¡±


    He smiled at her, ¡°But you know one thing, it depends on the baker this time. I¡¯ve promised to employ her as your babysitter, but that is if she would ept the work.¡±


    ¡°She will. I¡¯ll make sure she epts it.¡± Chloe assured. Her fingers began dipping into her father¡¯s hair, he watched her smile at her and she didn¡¯t hesitate to return the smile.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Now my angel will go to bed right?¡± Xavier referred to her.


    She nodded and jumped into the bed, persisting in staying with him for the night.


    He had no other choice than to let her spend the night with him together if that alone will make her happier than she is now.


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


    THE NEXT DAY


    After Chloe had taken her breakfast, she ran upstairs to go meet her father. It ddens her that it was the weekend, and so her father will be with them at home.


    Tracy and Ben noticed the happy expression on Chloe since daybreak, they two wondered what was behind her happiness, not until it struck their mind about her past request of having a babysitter.


    They were assured that their father must have granted her request just for peace to reign.


    Chloe dashed into her father¡¯s room after knocking twice, she found him busy going through some files on his table which was positioned beside the bed.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t ready dad? We need to go see the baker about our discussionst night.¡± Chloe uttered while moving towards her father.


    Xavier swirled his neck and faced her, ¡°Exercise patience, I need to get these files together and arranged before we leave.¡±


    She eded to it and sat on the sofa opposite the bed.


    Minutes psed and her father was already dressed up. He ordered her to get on her feet and they left his room.


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


    Vanessa was so busy cleaning up the veranda of her bakery that she noticed a foot some steps away from her.


    She lifted her face to see that it was him again. The young man whom Chloe referred to as her father.


    Her eyes narrowed when she caught him dressed up in his sweat pants and vest. He looks much sexier than before.


    ¡°Good morning Mr. Xavier,¡± Vanessa greeted while swallowing deeply. She felt haunted at the moment because she had never had such a man visit her this early.


    Xavier studied her bodypletely and gasped inwardly. Chloe has done it again, after all his efforts to kick the youngdy off his mind, here he is standing before her.


    ¡°Good morning Vanessa. I want to discuss something with you, hope I¡¯m weed?¡± Xavier announced her hearing.


    She nodded and let them into her bakery. ¡°Have a seat sir.¡±


    He got seated. Before Vanessa could take a seat too, Chloe dashed in smiling.


    She drew her closer between her thighs, ¡°How are you doing sweetheart?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, and you?¡± Chloe referred to her stretching her lips into a wide smile.


    She nodded, ¡°I¡¯m pretty good.¡±


    Xavier studied every one of their actions, then he realized the reason for such love Chloe developed towards thedy at first sight.


    ¡°Chloe, go and stay in the car while I talk to her.¡±


    Chloe did as told.


    She will take good care of her dearly, and would make a good mother too.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t been myself since the first day we purchased from your bakery. Chloe has been eating me up for not granting her request, so I decided toe to speak to you about it.¡± Xavier stated vividly.


    She smiled. ¡°What¡¯s the discussion all about?¡±


    ¡°She insists that I should employ a babysitter for her, and it must be you,¡± he announced.


    Her facial expression changed instantly, she wondered if it was a daydream.


    Gosh! It must not be true. She can¡¯t babysit a little girl that loves her father already.


    She has a mother, and she must be capable of babysitting her daughter. Getting another woman would be good too.


    This isplicated. She doesn¡¯t know the reply to give them in order not to hurt their feelings towards her.

 Chapter 6

    The wall clock ticked to her hearing, it wasn¡¯t that loud in sound, but because she was deep in thought, it sounded noisy to her.


    She kept ring at the clock but was unable to take action towards it. There is nothing she can do to it other than to stop it from ticking which she doesn¡¯t want to do.


    Her eyes found her well-arranged bed, and her lips pulled into a slight smile. She needs to go to bed now rather than sticking herself into a thought that seems like forever.


    She climbed onto the bed and enveloped herself with the nket, trying so much to fall asleep but she couldn¡¯t.


    What the hell is truly wrong with her? Is she truly okay or just trying tofort herself when she can¡¯t? Those questions continuously rang in her ear but she couldn¡¯t get an answer to them.


    It¡¯s vivid that she can¡¯t sleep, she can¡¯t shut her eyes down for some minutes again. The only image that keeps appearing on her face is little Chloe and her father.


    The only discussion running in her head is that which sir Xavier has brought up this past evening.


    But, she can¡¯t give in to the job. She can¡¯t abandon the bakery she used her whole savings to open. This bakery means her whole life to her, it¡¯s her only means of survival, and that¡¯s why she can¡¯t stop the business just within a moment.


    There¡¯s no need to affix herself deep into the discussion again when she has already taken her decision. She can¡¯t give in to the Job and abandon the business that meant life to her.


    What if Chloe feels bad? The little girl might begin hating her for taking such a decision right? She doesn¡¯t need Xavier to develop hatred toward her. The fact that she¡¯s in love with him but doesn¡¯t want him to be aware because he¡¯s married won¡¯t be an opportunity for him to hate her with so much passion.


    Sheid down gripping the pillow to her head so tight.


    It¡¯s high time she ced her head on a man¡¯s chest. She can¡¯t imagine thest time a man stared into her eyes, promised to love her, and then ced a kiss on her lips or forehead.


    She wants to be treated this way after a very long time, that¡¯s exactly what her body wants instantly. And that¡¯s one reason she doesn¡¯t want to be employed as a babysitter. She might not ovee the temptation of loving a married man.


    Vanessa heaved a big sigh of relief while staring at the white ceilings. She nced at the wall clock again and it was 10 pm already.


    She needs to stop affixing herself to this messy thought and doze off. A lot of work is waiting patiently for tomorrow, she needs to rest her tongue from tomorrow.


    Her eyes shut so tight, and within minutes, she was already in a deep sleep.


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


    Chloe nced at her father¡¯s face again, she wouldn¡¯t let this man rest so long as she lives under the same roof as him.


    She has been between his thighs all these minutes after she woke him up from sleep.


    His face wasn¡¯t expressing happiness at all, but she didn¡¯t mind how he felt at the moment.


    ¡°But dad, you would have convinced her the most. That¡¯s one reason I pleaded with you for me to talk, but you wouldn¡¯t let me.¡± Chloe referred to her father who was busy staring at the cotton linen on the window.


    She gripped his palm and ced a kiss on it. ¡°Chloe isn¡¯t gonna let her father rest if the request isn¡¯t granted. That alone will make her happy.¡±


    Xavier stared at her and bit his tongue. ¡°You need to go to bed Chloe, tomorrow is still a day to discuss this. My eyes are paining me damn much, I need to sleep and relieve myself of the pain.¡±


    She pouted her lips in a less concerning manner. ¡°How did you tell her about my request, dad? Or you just told her you want to employ her as my babysitter?¡±


    ¡°No, I told her that you¡¯ve been disturbing me all this while from the first day you set your eyes on her. And since then, you persisted. I should employ a babysitter for you and she must be the one. That¡¯s all I said, but she wasn¡¯t able to give me a reply until I left.¡± Xavier narrated the hearing of her daughter.


    He did this to spare himself the pain and many questions from her, but that wasn¡¯t the end.


    ¡°So, why then is she still refusing to give in. Okay, dad. I¡¯m gonna do it this way, let¡¯s go visit her bakery tomorrow, I need to speak to her myself so she will realize how serious I am about it. I believe she will give in once she sees how serious I am.¡± Chloe exined.


    Xavier nodded, eding to all she uttered. ¡°Tomorrow you¡¯ll go see her while I leave for my business.¡±


    Chloe watched her father as heid down and slept off within minutes, she climbed down from the bed and left the room to hers.


    She doesn¡¯t need to stay with her dad tonight.


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


    VERY EARLY IN THE MORNING


    Xavier sat on the sofa opposite his bed trying to reflect on the discussion he had with Chloe thest night about her babysitter.


    It hit his mind of all she said about visiting Nessa in her bakery today to let her know how serious she is about the request being granted.


    ¡°That might be the best to save me from the stress, she had already sworn not to let me have a rest of mind.¡± Xavier muttered to himself.


    He crossed his leg on the other and grabbed his cellphone. One thing is bothering him but she doesn¡¯t know how to go with it.


    Employing Vanessa to work for him as a babysitter is one temptation no man can ovee. Well, he has a girlfriend already, and so he will try so well to get his eyes off her.


    If being rude to her will wipe away the silly feelings he had for her, then that might be the best.


    He circled her lips and began scrolling through his contact. He needs to check on his girlfriend and as well remind her of their deal for today.


    On the second Ring, after he dialed her contact, she picked up the receiver.


    ¡°Hi darling, good morning, how are you doing?¡± A feminine voice spoke out through a phone.


    He smiled on hearing that sweet and tiny voice echo to his hearing.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m so good. I decided to check on you and as well remind you of our deal for today. Hope you haven¡¯t forgotten?¡± Xavier uttered.


    She smiled at his words. ¡°Oh yes! I haven¡¯t forgotten a dime on ourst discussion. Well, I¡¯ll being over before an hour now. And you know what, I can¡¯t wait to set my eyes on you after a week.¡±


    Xavier chuckled within himself. He loved the fact that she was missing him already.


    After a while, the call ended and he left to meet his children. Tracy was busy in the kitchen while Ben was cleaning up the whole building.


    ¡°Good morning dad, I¡¯ll soon leave to meet ma¡¯am Vanessa,¡± Chloe uttered while ying with his fingers.


    He turned deaf ears to what she said and was busy staring around the sitting room.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing a great job, Ben. Call Tracy, I need to announce something to you two.¡± Xavier referred to his son.


    He left the kitchen and dropped the message to Tracy after which he went ahead with his cleaning.


    Xavier waited for almost thirty minutes in the sitting room for her daughter, but she kept assuring him of being with him soon.


    ¡°Did you hear me at all dad, I¡¯ll leave to see ma¡¯am Vanessa soon,¡± Chloe stated again this time to his hearing.


    He shook his head. ¡°You¡¯ll do that after my visitor arrives, I might follow you there too.¡±


    ¡°No dad, I don¡¯t need you to go with me.¡± Chloe persisted.


    Ben nced at his dad on hearing about having a visitor. He wondered who the visitor might be, that it¡¯s so special to his dad.


    ¡°Here I am dad, sorry for keeping you waiting. I did that because I¡¯m sure you aren¡¯t going anywhere, and I need to be done with the meal before stepping out of the kitchen.¡± Tracy narrated to her father.


    He shuddered and ordered them to have a seat.


    ¡°We¡¯re expecting a visitor some minutester, so I need you to organize yourself so well and put things together before she arrives.¡± Xavier narrated to them.


    ¡°She¡­ You just said  ¡®she¡­¡¯ who is she?¡± Ben asked his father.


    His eyes widened as he stared at him. Heaven knows how scared he was already.


    ¡°She is Miss Lilian Smith¡­¡±


    ¡°And what do we have to do with her here?¡± Tracy questioned while rolling her eyes.


    The doorbell rang twice and Chloe ran towards it wishing it would be her babysitter. They all affixed their eyes to the door curious to know who the person is.


    She stepped in, having a slight smile on her face.

 Chapter 7

    Chloe stared at thedy standing before her, she wasn¡¯t able to smile nor was she able to break out in tears.


    But the truth be told, she wasn¡¯t expecting thedy she met. She had thought of setting her eyes on Vanessa once she let the door open, only for her toe in contact with a stranger.


    She stepped towards her dad and gripped his palm, like it wasn¡¯t much for her, she wrapped her palm around his waist.


    Lilian stepped closer to Xavier, she embraced her while he ced a kiss on her lips.


    ¡°I forbid this to ever happen. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re so serious about getting a wife dad, we don¡¯t need any woman in this home, or you think we¡¯re joking about it?¡± Tracy yelled at him.


    Lilian was so shocked, she couldn¡¯t believe the children would screech at their father just because of her presence.


    ¡°She¡¯s my wife to be, you got it right.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need anyone to rece mum in this house, not as a wife or a mother. Dad, we love being without any, just tell her to leave please.¡± Ben shrieked.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Xavier was speechless, he never knew his children were so serious that all they wanted was to be alone.


    ¡°Do you realize that she will never treat us like our mother? What if we pass through hell staying with her? You need to take action before it¡¯s toote dad.¡± Tracy started trying to hold her anger this time.


    Chloe hit her dad¡¯s thigh to draw his attention. ¡°Dad, why did you kiss her when you are not sure if she washed her mouth beforeing?¡±


    Their eyes widened. Xavier tried shutting her up but she kicked off his palm.


    Lilian couldn¡¯t stop ring at the little girl that was less haunted by the sentence she made, all she needed at the moment was to visit her babysitter.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry dad, you will contact bacteria soon.¡± Tracy dered, looking off.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t scared of mum, that¡¯s why you had to kiss her in our presence. You should rewash your mouth or I won¡¯t let you peck me again.¡± Ben added expressing deep hatred towards thedy.


    Lilian shook her head, she clutched her palms together while ncing at the children with chiseled faces.


    ¡°Shut your sticky mouth before I help you do that. You aren¡¯t the ones to tell me the decision to take, I have the right to do whatever I want in this home. For crying out loud, you all are my children and should give me a listening ear.¡± Xavier scolded his children.


    Chloe lifted her face and snapped his face. ¡°I am not your child until you employ ma¡¯am Vanessa to be my babysitter.¡±


    She turned to face Lilian. ¡°You cannot babysit me. I can see that boldly written on your face.¡±


    Xavier tried to shut her mouth which made Chloe leave the sitting room so angrily. Before Ben could dash out after her, she had left thepound.


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


    Vanessa was so busy with her baked items that when she had a footstep in her bakery, she stood erect to know who was there only to see Chloe seated on one of the seats.


    She smiled within her pretending not to see her.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, little Chloe is here,¡± Chloe announced to her.


    She had already snapped her face to see how twisted it was. She already knew the reason behind hering.


    ¡°How are you doing, sweetheart?¡± Vanessa referred to the little girl.


    She smiled and jumped into her arms. Vanessa got seated while she feltfortable seating on her thighs.


    ¡°You look so sweet this morning. You brought a parcel for me?¡± She referred to the little girl on her thighs.


    She shook her head, ¡°I didn¡¯te with any parcel, rather I¡¯m here so you will grant me a request that means a lot more to me than a parcel.¡±


    Vanessa stretched her lips into a wide smile, she already knew what the request was all about.


    ¡°Now tell me about the request, I¡¯m all ears,¡± Nessa uttered to her.


    She stared into her eyes and frowned. ¡°Dad told me he discussed it with you, I believe he told you that I want a babysitter and it should be you.¡±


    ¡°Yes, he told me. But I concluded it was a joke.¡± She replied.


    Chloe shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s never a joke ma¡¯am Vanessa. I¡¯ve been thinking about you all day and night from the first day I came to your bakery. You wouldn¡¯t believe that I miss you every second, that¡¯s why I want you to be my babysitter so I¡¯ll always set my eyes on you.¡±


    ¡°Sweetheart, you¡¯re aware that this is my bakery. If I be your babysitter, who then will look after it? I started this bakery with my hard-earned savings and won¡¯t love to see it copse.¡±


    She swallowed deeply.


    ¡°There are many other options left, your dad to employ someone else for you. Or better still, you have a mother who¡¯s already taking good care of you.¡± Nessa added.


    Chloe broke out in tears, she couldn¡¯t hold it anymore when Vanessa spoke about her mother.


    ¡°My mother iste, and my siblings aren¡¯t taking care of me as a mother does. That¡¯s why I need someone who can treat me just like my mother would have done if she were alive. Ma¡¯am Vanessa you can do this for me, please don¡¯t let me down again.¡± Chloe uttered politely.


    Watching the little girl shed tears was one thing she couldn¡¯t bear. All through her life, she has loved little children so much that their tears hurt her deep down.


    She heaved a big sigh of relief and began cuddling her so she would stop shedding tears.


    ¡°But your father can get married to another woman, she will take care of you,¡± Vanessa stated.


    She shook her head. ¡°Dad doesn¡¯t want to get married, and we won¡¯t let him do so.¡±


    Vanessa thought of any other option to save the little girl the pain of living without a mother.


    She couldn¡¯t get one, not even an idea hit her head.


    She decided to give in to the job for the sake of the love binding them together, but that will be on one condition.


    Her eyes met with that of Chloe, and she smiled.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to see your father first to tell him my conditions. It will take me some time to get used to being your babysitter. But then, that means I¡¯lle around to your home when I¡¯m done with today¡¯s business.¡± Vanessa remarked.


    Chloe wiped off the tears on her cheek. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll wait patiently for you, but please don¡¯t make the conditions tough okay.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright sweetheart, you have to get going before dad gets worried about you.¡±


    She watched Chloe get off her thighs and left the bakery after waving her goodbye.


    ¡°********


    In the evening, Vanessa was done with her business. She locked up her bakery and decided to go meet Xavier about the discussion she had with Chloe.


    She left the building and unlocked the gate which was so easy to do. She stepped in to get Chloe seating on the veranda busy with her toy.


    Her eyes explored the building thoroughly, she admired how beautiful it looked.


    This is definite proof to her that Xavier is a billionaire he doesn¡¯t need to think about it the second time.


    Chloe sighted her presence and ran towards her, she embraced her and was lifted into her arms.


    ¡°Dad is busy in the sitting room with my siblings.¡± Chloe narrated.


    She stepped towards the door and rang the bell, Chloe ordered her to step in since they were both together.


    Then she let her down and let the door open herself.


    Xavier turned to get thedy standing some miles away from him, their eyes met as they exchanged pleasantries.


    While she studied the room, she caught Tracy and Ben seated opposite their father, and then thedy who was stepping down the stairs.


    Her eyes narrowed as she watched her walk down to Xavier and got seated beside him.


    She felt her heart sinking into her stomach when she rested her head on his shoulder. Trying toport herself in order not to drag thedy away from him.


    But who the hell is she trying to spoil her feelings at the moment? The question kept roaming in her mind but she couldn¡¯t answer it.

 Chapter 8

    There was silence in the room. Xavier nced at his children while Lilian couldn¡¯t stop ring at thedy standing some miles away from her fiance.


    ¡°Dad, ma¡¯am Vanessa is here and you¡¯re looking off. Let¡¯s discuss this so she can go.¡± Chloe referred to her father.


    He stood on his feet and headed towards the direction Vanessa stood. At a time, he turned to face his children.


    ¡°This is Miss Vanessa, why not offer her a seat?¡± Hemented.


    Tracy let out a loud hiss and got seated while Ben looked off them as he was already seated all this while.


    He pretended that nothing had happened. ¡°Thank you foring, Vanessa. You can have a seat first.¡±


    ¡°Do you have a seat? Who the hell is she by the way?¡± Lilian asked him.


    He smiled. ¡°She¡¯s Vanessa, I¡¯ll be employing her soon to babysit Chloe for peace to reign in this home.¡±


    Chloe smiled expressing how happy she was, she nced at her siblings to get how irritated they felt.


    ¡°Does it mean that I can¡¯t babysit Chloe? Employing someone else when I¡¯m here doesn¡¯t make sense. I¡¯ll do the babysitting myself.¡± Lilian uttered audibly.


    Chloe chiseled her face, this is one thing she doesn¡¯t want to hear for any reason.


    ¡°To hell with you babysitting me, I¡¯ll keep rejecting that offer till the end of life. Let me be Miss Lilian Smith, you are here for my dad, not for me okay.¡± Chloe dered to everyone¡¯s hearing.


    She bit her lips in dismay, this little girl will never stop messing her up.


    ¡°This is an example of extravagant spending of money. Chloe has grown up with siblings that can care for her so well, and I¡¯m here too for her. Why then should you employ a babysitter to keep the house crowded.¡± Lilianined bitterly.


    Precisely, she doesn¡¯t need ady that would be pestering around the house all in the name of being a worker.


    She wants to handle everything by herself. Lilian wants everyone under the roof to abide by her words. She doesn¡¯t need anyone that would step on her toe for any reason.


    She has assured herself of owning Xavier¡¯s heart and everything that belongs to him. And so, she needs nothing and no one to interrupt her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to babysit me for goodness sake, my father¡¯s wife doesn¡¯t need to take care of me. And you have to know this, only if dad employs her you will go ahead staying here as his wife. In addition, we aren¡¯t amodating you.¡± Chloe started referring to Lilian.


    Tracy adjusted on her seat while ring at the twodies in the sitting room.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need any of you here. Yes, we don¡¯t need you. Dad doesn¡¯t need a wife, and we don¡¯t need a stepmother. Chloe doesn¡¯t need a babysitter, we can take good care of her.¡± She remarked and rxed on the sofa again.


    Vanessa has been watching them all as they utter all sorts of words because of her presence.


    She had known it all this while, a man like Xavier can¡¯t be without a woman, even if he lost his wife a long time ago.


    She never wanted to be present in his house as a babysitter, even though she¡¯s loving him already.


    Watching another woman live with Xavier when she loves him is one burden she can never bear. And trying as much as she can to stop loving the young man is quite impossible for her.


    She loves this soul damn much, and the presence of a woman in his life already before her presence is killing the inside of her.


    Lilian got on her feet towards the point Xavier stood, she grabbed his palm and headed to the sofa.


    ¡°What are you still waiting to kick thisdy off here? You¡¯ve been staring at her for a while now without taking a blink. Xavier doesn¡¯t tell me you¡¯re developing strange feelings towards anotherdy in my presence because I can¡¯t stand and watch it happen. That¡¯s the major reason you don¡¯t need to employ any woman here, I¡¯ll do everything by myself.¡± Lilian narrated out of pain.


    He studied her so well and shook his head. ¡°You mean that I can¡¯t stare at a woman again? Staring at her means that I¡¯m beginning to fall in love with her huh?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s so lustful, or aren¡¯t you getting me? But¡­ ¡­ ¡±


    ¡°But what then? ¡°Ben shut her up. He decided to cut short her sentence out of anger.


    ¡°This drama is getting more interesting than ever, I mean watching you tell my dad how he will live his life isn¡¯t gonna work at all. Now I¡¯ll have to tell you this youngdy. You aren¡¯t wee in this house as well, get ready to leave us soonest.¡± Ben remarked vividly. He was so upset this time.


    Tracy circled her lips. ¡°You aren¡¯t supposed to refer to her alone. The both of you aren¡¯t weed, so take your leave before we help you do that.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this to me when you im to love and care for me. She¡¯s my babysitter and nothing can ever stop that, two options must be chosen against one, or rather take me to my mother so I won¡¯t be witnessing all this mess.¡± Chloe uttered amidst tears.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t bear it seeing his child shed tears while reflecting on her mother. This is one thing he doesn¡¯t ever want to take ce.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Gosh! Lilian couldn¡¯t bear staring at Vanessa. She admired her beauty and had sworn within her never to let thedy be employed.


    Within her, she has already thought of Vanessa stealing Xavier¡¯s heart because of her beauty.


    She can strangle thedy to death at this point. All she needs is Xavier¡¯s concentration on her without any distraction from different angles.


    She has studied how Nessa will take away the love and care she gets from her fiance, and that¡¯s what she had never dreamt to ur.


    All because of Xavier, she had refused all suitorsing on her way, and wouldn¡¯t watch anotherdy take away her position in his heart.


    ¡°Miss Vanessa, we don¡¯t need you in this home, so you should leave other than wasting your precious time here.¡± Lilian referred to Nessa who has been standing without saying a word.


    Chloe felt like grabbing her neck at the moment. She had hated thisdy for wanting Nessa out of the house.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure you leave before her, it¡¯s a promise. You don¡¯t deserve being sheltered here, I just hate everything about you. And you know one more thing, start leaving my father¡¯s life because we aren¡¯t in support of whatever you two are up to.¡± Chloemented while on his father¡¯s arm.


    Xavier tried several times to shut her up but she couldn¡¯t let it happen. She has to speak up her mind.


    Silence took over the room again, no one was able to say a word. They all stared at each other.


    Chloe was in pain already, because she can¡¯t bear to lose this special opportunity she has gained already.

 Chapter 9

    Vanessa began reading the faces of all the souls present in the room. Her eyes darted around the room.


    She nced at Tracy and swallowed deeply, this girl will give her a tough time if she¡¯s ever-present with them. With her actions and mode of speech to Lilian, she might skin her alive due to her aggressiveness.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Her eyes caught Ben who had been counting on the ceilings all this while, she smiled at him. The young boy will be that type who doesn¡¯t say many words but is ready to take action and go to all extent to get his deals done


    And then to Lilian, deep anger enveloped her. She noticed the raw hatred age had developed towards thedy just at her first sight.


    Precisely, she has been loving Xavier but has never wanted to fall a victim to being his concubine since she¡¯s so sure of not being the type and ss ofdy he desires.


    But despite all, even though she¡¯s trying her best to stop loving the young man, he noticed jealousy growing in her immediately after she set her eyes on Lilian.


    She doesn¡¯t want to see him loving someone else, but turning herself into a whore and behaving like never before because of Xavier is one mistake she doesn¡¯t want to make at all.


    She has convinced herself of Xavier turning her into a slut if she ever expresses her feelings toward him, but then losing him to another woman paints her the most.


    Her eyes caught that of Chloe. The little beauty that¡¯s driving her insane, the girl who has been the reason she¡¯s opposite the man she desires and never wants.


    If only Chloe wouldn¡¯t hate her till eternity, she would give up on the job. But her refusal will cause more harm to the little girl who doesn¡¯t deserve such a thing.


    She doesn¡¯t want to take a good look at Xavier just like she did to others. Yes, she doesn¡¯t want to fall victim to a life she hates so much to a man who will be getting married soon.


    The inner of her felt normal at this point. She has taken thest decision.


    She will gain nothing by exploring them all again, so other than wasting her precious time just like Lilian stated, it¡¯s far better to leave to herpatible house and take a long rest.


    She flicked her head aside, and finally, her eyes met that of Xavier. Her heart flipped twice and her heartbeat increased. Goose pimples fell on her skin making her shiver more.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry if I¡¯m gonna hurt you, Chloe. This is the only thing I can do to save myself the stress and you avoid being messed up¡­ ¡±


    Chloe couldn¡¯t stop staring at her, all she needed at that point was to get what she was about to say.


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in this job again, I need to focus on my business and believe you can make it higher on a certain day. I believe you will feel bad, and I understand. But you don¡¯t need to worry any longer, your siblings are here to care for you, and then your dad will be married soon and you¡¯ll have a stepmother that will take good care of you.¡± Vanessa stated.


    Chloe struggled down from his father¡¯s arms, she couldn¡¯t find it funny this time.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa please don¡¯t do this to me, no one can ever treat me the way you do. I can¡¯t bear the pain of losing you. You know what, I¡¯m pleading for your forgiveness on their behalf, but please don¡¯t turn down on me.¡± She pleaded politely.


    Vanessa found herself struggling not to let the tears roll down her cheek. She was dumbfounded.


    ¡°Dad, you aren¡¯t saying anything?¡± Chloe referred to her father.


    He squatted the holder¡¯s waist. ¡°I¡¯m so ready to employ her as your babysitter, but it¡¯s left for her to determine on going into the work.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t notice she¡¯s changing her mind because of their actions towards her? Would you feelfortable going into work if you were in her shoes?¡± Chloe questioned her father.


    It was indeed a difficult question to answer, he wasn¡¯t able to say a word again.


    ¡°I so much love the decision you just took, and I hope your partner will also recognize the mistake she¡¯s about to make. You don¡¯t and will never belong here, so you ought to leave before you start regretting it.¡± Tracy remarked.


    Lilian red at her for a while. ¡°Maybe you haven¡¯t seen the ring on my finger, I¡¯m getting married to him soon and will never amodate you here, Miss Vanessa.¡±


    Ben couldn¡¯t hold hisughter. He keptughing while everyone stared at him.


    ¡°Now tell me what¡¯smon between being a worker and being a wife. Or you think that getting married to my father will give you the guts to choose who will work for us. Don¡¯t be deceived or you¡¯ll regret it, just like she¡¯s giving up, you don¡¯t need to wait for that either.¡± Ben stated.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. The ring on her finger deres everything right.


    She grabbed her handbag and dashed out of the room instantly. She didn¡¯t mind turning back to know how little Chloe was fairing.


    At this point, she¡¯s fed up. She was filled with jealousy but couldn¡¯t tell why she felt that way.


    Xavier tried stopping Chloe from running after her, but couldn¡¯t. Chloe left the room in search of Vanessa while he left to get her.


    She ran out of thepound in search of Vanessa and sighted her to be some miles away from her.


    The voices she raised while calling Vanessa didn¡¯t reach her ears because she was so lost in thought.


    Nessa crossed the other side of the road to board a cab that would transport her home, while in a haste to meet the youngdy, Chloe diverted too without being cautious.


    From afar, Nessa sighted her as a vehicle was driving in her direction. She couldn¡¯t bear seeing the innocent girl being crushed to death because of her.


    Her eyes caught Xavier running towards them but a bit far from the point. She twitched towards Chloe and headed to get her off the road.


    Just as she stretched her hand and pulled Chloe away from the vehicle heading towards her, her foot skipped its position making hernd on the floor with her waist hitting so hard on the ground.


    She groaned in pain but tried putting herself together.


    Her waist hurt so bad and she felt her body shivering in deep pain. She wasn¡¯t getting herself then.


    While she pulled Chloe to her thighs and tried getting up, she noticed her waist bone had dislocated itself and she was unable to get on her feet.


    She wasn¡¯t able to scream out because the pains had already tightened her voice. All she could do was groan silently in deep pain.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­ I¡­ I¡­ ¡±


    She heard Chloe trying to say a word, but it came to a stop. Just she nced at her face, she noticed her eyes shut so tight and wasn¡¯t making a move.


    He lifted to get Xavier almost close to them.

 Chapter 10

    Xavier saw himself trembling in fear, he was scared the two must have passed out because he saw the vehicle approaching his daughter.


    He arrived at the point where he saw his daughter see her lying lifelessly on Vanessa¡¯s thighs. She wasn¡¯t making a move.


    Nessa nced at him and shook her head, she felt deep pains around her waist. She had protected the little girl and then fell on the floornding her waist forcefully first.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He noticed the way she groaned when trying to get on her feet. Tears gushed down her cheeks instantly.


    Goose pimples fell on his skin, he never knew what was going on. His daughter isn¡¯t saying a word, and thedy can¡¯t get on her feet.


    ¡°What exactly is wrong with you? Are you feeling hurt?¡± He asked her while staring into her eyeballs.


    She swallowed deeply, ¡°I can¡¯t stand on my feet, it hurts me so bad when I try to. I¡¯m feeling a dislocation in my waist bone.¡±


    Xavier shook his head, he stared at her daughter again and wiped his face.


    ¡°Get on your feet, Chloe. Why isn¡¯t she making a move? She isn¡¯t saying anything?¡± Xavier screamed out of fear.


    Vanessa stretched her lips, he must be joking right? Yes, he must be joking? Chloe can¡¯t just do this to her after taking the risk of saving her from the vehicle.


    She nced at her face just to be sure she wasn¡¯t dreaming. The little girl wasn¡¯t making a move anymore, she wasn¡¯t letting her eyes open talking more or saying a word to them.


    A hot ball of tears rushed down from her eyes. She noticed a scorching heat enveloping her at the moment, fear-filled her body as she began quivering.


    Her heart beat increased, she nced at the young man and felt the ground would swallow her up.


    Xavier might use her of murdering the child. How is she gonna defend herself from a multi-billionaire?


    Gosh! She just felt he won¡¯t ever think of doing that or she won¡¯t stand to answer the questions.


    ¡°She might have lost consciousness out of fear, we need to hurry to the hospital,¡± Xaviermented after noticing that she was still breathing.


    He got on his foot and immediately called a cab that would take them to a hospital.


    Nessa watched him carry Chloe into the car and then helped her up. The pains were damn much, but she had to bear it.


    Despite the pain she felt, she loved it seeing Xavier hold her waist while they got into the car. She never wished his arm would get off her waist for any reason.


    They all stepped in and shut the door and the driver kicked off to the hospital.


    Just as they arrived, the nurses raised rm as they rushed and took Chloe with them, while Xavier persisted in getting Vanessa into the building himself.


    They were given a ward where theyy down waiting for the doctor as the nurses began giving them the first treatment needed to live.


    His heart kept pounding so hard, that he wished his daughter would let her eyes open at a dime a minute.


    The buzzing of his cellphone drew his attention, he dipped his palm inside his pocket to get it out. He nced at the screen to get that iwasilian.


    He took a deep breath through his nostrils. At this point, he doesn¡¯t need to speak with anyone except the doctor. All he wishes is for the quick recovery of his daughter and that of Vanessa.


    Several times the phone kept ringing, but he ignored it and left the ward.


    Within some minutes, the orthopedic surgeon twitched into the ward with some other nurses. He ordered the nurses to get her into his office and get herid on the orthopedic bed.


    ¡°She will be fine, you just need to believe that and exercise patience.¡± The doctor assured him before leaving his office.


    He sat beside his daughter who was under treatment already, he believed there must be something different now because the rate of breathing is normal.


    The doctor dashed into the room to get him about to doze off, he tapped him.


    ¡°Mr. Xavier, hope you aren¡¯t thinking about her? She¡¯s gonna be okay.¡± The doctor assured him.


    He nodded while wiping his face.


    ¡°Uhmmm! Her immune is entirely down, which can lead to a series of sickness all the time, and then it¡¯s important we build her blood, or she might be feeling dizzy all the time, which can also result in losing consciousness. And you know, it can lead to death too.¡± The doctor exined further.


    He thought of being deaf at the moment. How on earth will her daughter becking all these?


    ¡°What could lead to improper functioning of the immune system andck of blood at the same time, and at this age. Doctor, I supply them with enough meals for different diets, so they don¡¯t starve. How would she be suffering from all these while under my care?¡± Xavier stated worriedly to the doctor.


    The doctor got seated on the chair beside the bed. ¡°Mr. Xavier, a lot of things could lead to such a thing. Probably yes, she might be eating the required food needed, but when there is a bacteria in her bloodstream, or rather she doesn¡¯t sleep well at night, it can pull down the immune system as well as bring shortage of blood¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to panic, okay, the infusion she¡¯s into contains an immune booster and multivitamins. She will be taking blood tests soon and will be fine before leaving.¡± The doctor stated.


    He gasped in relief. ¡°Okay then, I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±


    The doctor left the ward instantly after handling everything the nurse in charge of the little girl.


    ***********


    Xavier was fast asleep beside her daughter when Nessa was brought into the ward. He let his eyes open to see her in tears.


    He doesn¡¯t need to be told about the pains she must have passed through in the orthopedic ward. It hurts so much and he knows that.


    He grabbed his phone and nced at the screen to see a lot of calls he had missed from his family. No need of getting back to them since he¡¯ll soon leave to meet them.


    After he replied to the messages and emails from hispany, he stood and walked toward Nessa who had shut her eyes so tight.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you¡¯re passing through all these because of my daughter. Miss Vanessa, please forgive us for everything okay. I know you wouldn¡¯t have been in this condition if you weren¡¯t trying to save her life.¡± Xavier uttered politely to her hearing.


    She bit her lips grabbing the bed cover. ¡°It¡¯s okay Mr. Xavier, I believe I¡¯ll be fine soon, all I wish is for her recovery. Even though I¡¯m so sure she won¡¯t forgive me for leaving the house after she weed me warmly.¡±


    Xavier couldn¡¯t believe she was making such a statement, he had expected her to me him or his daughter.


    He gripped his palmforting her, he persisted that it was all her fault for not getting into the reason for hering. He believes it¡¯s all his fault for not getting that her visit meant that she¡¯s ready to work for him.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Vanessa.¡± The sentence almost popped out of his throat.


    He took a deep breath while staring at his daughter.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t keep her eyes off him, she wondered what was going on in his mind.


    Precisely, she was shocked to hear that he isn¡¯t annoyed that she dashed out of his home that way, and that¡¯s the reason behind all these.


    She couldn¡¯t believe the man would be ming himself than him to give her two options about his daughter¡¯s health.


    ¡°What did the doctor say about your daughter¡¯s state of health? Hope it isn¡¯t something bad?¡± Nessa inquired, showing concern.


    He nodded while staring at the little girl who was moving her body for the first time since they arrived at the hospital.


    ¡°He rmended that she will be okay, and her immune system needs to be boosted as well as her blood will be builded. And I¡¯m sure that¡¯s the reason she lost consciousness because none of the children has passed through this. Chloe doesn¡¯t sleep well at night, and I don¡¯t know what to do about it.¡± Xavier exined to her.


    She licked her lips constantly. Her eyes counted on the ceiling while she affixed herself in deep thought.


    She¡¯s the reason behind Chloe being awake at night. No one needs to tell her this is the reason her immune is down and then she¡¯scking blood.


    Even after the treatment, the only thing that will make the little girl feelfortable in her presence in that home is her babysitter. She¡¯s convinced about this.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be scared, Mr. Xavier. Your daughter will be fine.¡± She assured him.


    He nodded and let go of her palm which she never wanted to happen.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­ ¡­ ¡­ ¡°, the tiny voice of Chloe sounded to their hearing.

 Chapter 11

    Vanessa flicked her head on hearing her name being called out by Chloe. She had wanted to step out of the bed, but the doctor¡¯s instructions hit her ears again.


    She¡¯s still under treatment and doesn¡¯t need to overstress her waist for the day. The pains will increase and her waist bone will reposition itself again.


    Her eyes caught the little girl who has been staring at her all this while. She smiled at her trying to make feeleelinaace.


    ¡°You saved me from the vehicle, ma¡¯am Vanessa. Thank you so much, but you¡¯re hurting the inner part of me.¡± Chloe uttered to her hearing.


    She shook her head slightly. ¡°You don¡¯t need to talk about this now and at this state. We two are under medications and need tooeeneedtoot well first before anything else. So sweetheart, rx your nerves and let the medication work through your veins.¡± Nessa referred to the little girl.


    She nodded slightly and returned the smile atst.


    ¡°Dad, what happened to us? Hope we¡¯ll be better soon?¡± She caught her father¡¯s attention.


    Mr. Xavier moved towards her and sat down. He was so d to see his daughter speak out again.


    ¡°You lose consciousness, and the doctorins that your immune system is down and you arecking blood. I¡¯m trying my best to give you the best diet you need, yet you persist to stay awake at night and pull yourself down.¡± Xavier stated.


    She only stared at him not trying to tell him the reason behind her staying awake at night. But it isn¡¯t intentional, sgw can¡¯t just sleep peacefully at night.


    ¡°What of ma¡¯am Vanessa? What¡¯s wrong with her?¡± She questioned him.


    He nced at Nessa and sighed. ¡°While trying to save you from the vehicle, she hit her waist forcefully on the floor bringing dislocation. But she¡¯s getting better now, the orthopedic surgeon has given her some treatment, and I believe he¡¯ll be here again for her.¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re gonna spend lots of money because of our treatments huh?¡± She widened her eyes in question.


    He smiled. ¡°Your life matters a lot more than money, besides I didn¡¯t spend as much as you think.¡±


    ¡°No dad, I¡¯m saying that because of your fiancee who persisted you shouldn¡¯t employ a babysitter for me,ining that it¡¯s a waste of money,¡± Chloemented.


    He tapped her cheek. ¡°It¡¯s alright, Chloe. Just hang in there for me, we don¡¯t need to talk about this here and now. Don¡¯t even bear it in mind, because we¡¯ll only sit on this matter after you¡¯re better and back home.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t just want to go back there again. I hate thatdy you brought in. Look, dad, I¡¯m not gonna be at peace in that home if ma¡¯am Vanessa isn¡¯t with me.¡± Chloe remarked annoyingly.


    He swallowed deeply, this little girl is being serious about this matter.


    ¡°And if you aren¡¯tfortable in my house, I mean in your father¡¯s house¡­ then you will never feelfortable staying elsewhere,¡± Xavier added and she heard him well.


    Vanessa pretended to be deep asleep, she didn¡¯t need them to get that she was grabbing their conversation.


    **********


    After the orthopedic surgeon visited Vanessa the second time, he gave her the treatments required before leaving for the hospital.


    Xavier noticed how strong Chloe is and decided to go get them something to eat from home.


    To make things easier and faster for him, he decided to contact Tracy who would prepare him the meal immediately so he would leave with it as soon as he arrived.


    He dropped a kiss on peck¡¯s cheek and left the room.


    Vanessa was deep asleep already while Chloe kept ncing at the corners of the room. The only source of her happiness now is the presence of Vanessa in the ward.


    Even though she isn¡¯t staring at her or saying a word to her, the presence of Vanessa lying directly opposite her gives her a certain amount of joy.


    Xavier went home and luckily, Tracy was almost done with the meal, he left to his room to meet Liana who seemed so worried with the look on her face.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, darling. Words can¡¯t express how haunted I¡¯ve been all this while, since you left after Chloe we haven¡¯t seen you again. Not even my calls you picked up.¡± Lilian queried him.


    He got seated on the bed and bent his head low.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Chloe, is she fine at all?¡± Lilian inquired.


    He nodded, ¡°He¡¯s okay now. I just came to get a meal for her and Vanessa. They¡¯ll soon be discharged but not today.¡±


    Her face contorted. She had known such a thing would ur.


    ¡°Uhmmm! You mean Vanessa is with you in the hospital and admitted too?¡±


    Xavier lifted his face staring at her. He wondered what she was up to by asking such a disgusting question.


    ¡°I said it clearly to your hearing that Chloe and Vanessa are admitted to the hospital. You expect me to leave them, or rather disregard Vanessa who saved my child from death? ¡±


    She heaved a big sigh. ¡°I never meant to get you upset, but you know, I don¡¯t love thatdy and don¡¯t feel like seeing you with her.¡±


    ¡°So now what are you trying to say? Lilian talks to me, what do you expect me to do? Look off Vanessa while she¡¯s in that state huh?¡± Xavier got annoyed.


    Lilian folded her arms while pacing around the room. ¡°You never knew that I caught you. Yes, Xavier, I saw you helping her into the car and you held her waist. I gave you my first call at the moment but you ignored it, doesn¡¯t she have a hand that you can hold? Must it be her waist?¡±


    ¡°You shut your sticky mouth. How dare you screech at me that way Lilian? You¡¯re trying to tell me that I¡¯m not supposed to help a woman that had a dislocation on her waist because of my daughter? Mind the way you throw your words at me.¡± Xavier scolded her out of anger.


    He moved towards the table beside his bed and took his car key.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving back to the hospital so they will have their meal, take good care of yourself until I¡¯m back.¡± Xavier dered to her hearing.


    She obstructed his way. ¡°I¡¯m going with you to the hospital.¡±


    ¡°What for? Did I ever tell you that I can¡¯t take care of them? Lilian, get your feet out of my way now.¡± His hoarse voice echoed in her hearing.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She shivered and shifted. ¡°Xavier, between two things, one will surely take ce if I ever set my eyes on thatdy again. I don¡¯t ever want to see her here, and I don¡¯t want you to be with her for any reason.¡±


    ¡°I am Xavier Brown. No one questions my order. No one steps on my foot and goes Scot-free. I think I¡¯ve given you my love and care more than you deserve, and that¡¯s why you are going insane. Don¡¯t let me roast you hell, that I love and desire for you doesn¡¯t mean that you will give me conditions because of that.¡± He stated and dashed out of the room angrily.


    He stepped down the stairs to get the meal already packaged and kept it on the dining table.


    Tracy rushed towards him, handing it over to him.


    ¡°Dad, how¡¯s Chloe fairing? Was she hit by a vehicle?¡± Ben asked him.


    He nodded. ¡°Not at all, Vanessa saved her but had a waist dislocation.¡±


    ¡°Aww! I think she deserves more than that. At least that will be a lesson for her to learn, with that I don¡¯t think she will be present here again as a babysitter.¡± Tracy stated in a mocking tone.


    That statement choked Xavier¡¯s heart, he wondered if what she said might happen. But he won¡¯t let it, if Vanessa isn¡¯t here, then Chloe might not survive it.


    He is damn ready to do everything just to make sure Vanessa is employed as Chloe¡¯s babysitter.


    ¡°I told you of ady on the sick bed, and all you could utter is that she deserves it. You know that shows how inhuman the two of you are?¡± He referred to the two of them.


    They nced at each other and smiled.


    ¡°I overheard Lilian yelling at you because of thatdy. Yes, she did that because she doesn¡¯t love thatdy.¡±


    His face chiseled. ¡°Ben, you dared refer to her by her name?¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh! Isn¡¯t she Lilian by name? Well, she thinks we¡¯ve weed her here, and that¡¯s why she has the guts to order you not to employ the so-called Vanessa. Anyways, I just want you to extend this message to her¡­. ¡±


    She coughed slightly and gasped.


    ¡°Let her be aware that she isn¡¯t weed by us, and you know what dad? It¡¯s time for you to choose between two options, which is to kick them out and we¡¯ll stay with you alone, or you kick us out and stay with them alone¡­. .¡±


    Ben smiled. ¡°You got it right Tracy. This building can never amodate us. Never.¡±


    Xavier couldn¡¯t get what was going on any longer, he found his lips stretching an annoying smile.


    ¡°The three of you must be insane.¡± That was all he uttered and left the building to his car.


    The two stood motionless without saying a word, not until Lilian climbed down to the dining where they stood.


    They felt like slumping when their eyes noticed her presence in their midst.

 Chapter 12

    The next day, the doctor made sure that both Chloe and Vanessa are physically fit the next day.


    The orthopedic surgeon gave Nessa the next but thest treatment in the morning which made her able to stand on her feet without help and didn¡¯t feel any pain.


    She walked around the ward feeling so happy, while Chloe was infused at the moment.


    Xavier had left some minutes ago to go get their meal, and he wasn¡¯t back yet. Staying with Chloe all this while was kinda full of fun, she couldn¡¯t stop uttering gibberish words to her and she loved it.


    She wonders how a little girl like her would always say things bigger than she is, Chloe is just a little girl with bigger thoughts upstairs. And you know what? She loves how smart and intelligent she is.


    Nessa created certain scenes for her while walking around the room, she needs to strengthen her legs. It was uneasy for her to believe that she will walk this fast, she had thought of staying for weeks before doing that.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, when dades back, you¡¯ll be the one to feed me my meal, or I won¡¯t eat it,¡± Chloe stated remarkably.


    That statement sounded twice to her hearing, she nced at Chloe and smiled.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to bother yourself, sweetheart, I¡¯ll feed you with the meal myself.¡± She assured Chloe who was trying to control the happiness within her.


    Vanessa nced at her and chuckled, she believes this is one of the reasons her immune system is down and then she¡¯scking blood.


    She¡¯s very sure that Xavier will never starve his children, nor will he give them just a diet for a whole year.


    Xavier is damn rich, and so his children aren¡¯t alleged tock a dime¡­ That¡¯s what she believes about the young man.


    She got seated beside Chloe and gripped her palm, her eyes affixed on her face until she couldn¡¯t bear it but the two burst intoughter.


    ¡°Do you still remember my name, I am Chloe Brown and you are ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡± the little girl uttered as a joke.


    She nodded while staring into her eyeballs. ¡°I can still remember the name of the almighty daughter of Mr. Xavier Brown. She¡¯s so amusing and can¡¯t hold a word or sentence to herself. Keeping mute is one sickness in her that can never be cured, so cheerful and beautiful.¡±


    Chloe blushed, she rubbed her hair with her left palm.  ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, when will I be free from this infusion? I¡¯m so tired of seeing my hand stay still all this while.¡±


    Nessa caressed her cheek while her eyes lifted as she studied the infusion.


    ¡°You need to be on this to restore your health. Otherwise, you might lose consciousness all the time, and that¡¯s not good¡­¡± She widened her eyes on hearing the sounds made by her stomach. ¡°When you¡¯re done taking this medication, make sure to always eat and sleep properly, it helps a lot. Don¡¯t ever get into deep thought, for goodness sake you¡¯re still a child.¡¯


    Chloe swallowed the saliva in her mouth, she had to speak up her mind at this point.


    ¡°I¡¯ll only stop thinking if you ept to be my babysitter, that alone will make me the happiest on this earth. In exception of that, then note that I won¡¯t stop thinking about you all night.¡± She stated audibly not minding Vanessa¡¯s action.


    She thought of what she said for a while and decided to oppose it.


    ¡°I¡¯m a businesswoman and I can¡¯t leave my bakery toe to babysit you. Besides, your father is about to marry a second wife, so I don¡¯t think there¡¯s any reason to have me as your babysitter again when she¡¯s there.¡± She adjusted on the bed and then covered herself so well with the nket.


    Precisely, she won¡¯t like toe challenging someone¡¯s fiancee or rather a wife. The fact that Xavier is getting married soon is one reason she can¡¯t work there again.


    She¡¯s overwhelmed with jealousy on sighting Lilian with him, and so she wouldn¡¯t love to be running around in the same building with Lilian when she has a better business doing.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa you can¡¯t do this to me, to be honest, I don¡¯t love thatdy. Look, she¡¯s my father¡¯s wife and that¡¯s all about her that I know.¡± She turned her face to the wall trying to hide the tears that already gathered in her eyes. ¡°You aren¡¯ting there for her, but rather as my babysitter. I don¡¯t want her to take care of me. Never, I don¡¯t want it. My only happiness to keep staying in that home is if you¡¯re with me, I can¡¯t stay with her.¡±


    Vanessa watched as the girl spoke out in pain, she understood how she felt but the reason behind her declining the work is what no one can ever know.


    ¡°So now I¡¯m I gonna be coping with my business and then babysitting you?¡± She asked her expecting a reply.


    Chloe wiped her face, she so much loved that question and is ready to answer.


    ¡°This is my idea on how you¡¯ll do it to our favor. In the morning, you¡¯lle around and dress me up for school after which you¡¯ll leave to your bakery. When I¡¯m back from school, I¡¯lle and stay with you in your bakery and in the evening we¡¯ll leave for my home together. Then you¡¯ll leave after I take my bath, have my meal and you cuddle me to bed¡­¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, you can also feel free with me in my room, like having some of your clothes in my room so you will always take your bath and leave back home after the day,¡± Chloe suggested.


    She knitted her brows, the little girl¡¯s idea made more sense to her and seems to be abiding.


    The door was ripped open and Xavier walked in with their te of meals packaged carefully. He stared at Nessa and smiled.


    ¡°So you can walk with your legs and you aren¡¯t feeling pains huh?¡± He asked her.


    She nodded out of excitement. ¡°I¡¯m very fine now, and can¡¯t wait for Chloe to be on her feet again.¡±


    Chloe gripped the bed cover while staring at her dad. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna take that meal until she edes to grant my request.¡±


    She narrowed her eyes. ¡°But I promised to feed you with the meal myself.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but¡­¡± her eyes met with that of her dad who sighed at her.


    Xavier grabbed the seat and got seated. ¡°Just do this for me please, I promise to pay you in huge.¡±


    She stared into his eyes but couldn¡¯t tell anything about it. The young man is charming that it¡¯s spellbinding her.


    At that moment, she nodded to it. ¡°I¡¯ll grant her request, but will only be around in the morning and evening.¡±


    ¡°No problem, I love it that way,¡± Chloe added feeling so happy.


    Vanessa noticed that the infusion was done, and she left to call on the nurse who came over and took it off.


    ***********


    Vanessa was back with Xavier and Chloe in the morning after taking the meal, she decided to make some sales before leaving for Chloe¡¯s home in the evening.


    She began cleaning up the environment after which she prepared little cupcakes and brownies. Due to her certain change of work now, she doesn¡¯t need to bake much to avoid staying long.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Just like the customers knew that she won¡¯t hesitate to shut her shop for the day, they couldn¡¯t let her take a step. She ran around trying her best to serve all that were present in the bakery.


    After a while, Chloe arrived at the bakery, she loved the presence of the little girl and had missed interacting with her.


    She helped her get certain things for people waiting to be served, while Vanessa packaged them for them and got paid.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, you¡¯ll teach me how to bake a cupcake. I love that so much.¡± Chloe requested.


    She ran her fingers in her hair. ¡°You can¡¯t learn just about cupcakes when I prepare others too. The fruit bread, brownies, and the rest are good to be learned too.¡±


    The little girl giggled, she doesn¡¯t desire to be a baker though, all she wants is to learn about her best stuff. But she believes being with Vanessa will push her into learning how to bake lots of it, and she would appreciate it too.


    ¡°After spending some time with Nessa, she decided to leave back home and take her lunch after which she will be back again.


    When the crowd vanished from her bakery, she got seated trying to take some rest when a footstep approached her.


    Her eyes were a bit open to know who stepped in but she couldn¡¯t see anyone, rather she felt a tap on her shoulder.


    She widened her eyes in great shock at capturing the image that stood directly opposite her.

 Chapter 13

    She stood on her feet staring at the female opposite her, her face was chiseled and Nessa couldn¡¯t stand staring at such looks.


    What the heck is she doing in my bakery? How did she get to know that I was staying here? But, do I have any business with her that brought her here?.


    Those questions ran through her mind, but she wasn¡¯t able to give a single answer to any.


    She isn¡¯t scared of her father, but there¡¯s nothing binding them together. Truly, she has epted to start working for her fiance, but that shouldn¡¯t be the reason for hering because she isn¡¯t the one to pay her.


    ¡°You know that keeping mute will not let me know the reason for youring, you have to say a word and quit ring at me that way.¡± Nessa broke up the silence between them.


    She took a seat while watching Vanessa as she got seated too.


    ¡°I am not here to quarrel with you, rather I want you to do me just one favor. Just one.¡± Lilian narrated.


    Nessa stretched her lips trying to gaze at what the favor was all about. She was all ears to hear all she had to say if the favor is about Chloe or her Father.


    ¡°Vanessa, please stay away from my fiance and his family. I don¡¯t ever want to see you close to that building all in the name of being a babysitter. This is your bakery and you¡¯re doing well with it, so go ahead and manage it¡­¡± Lilian dered.


    Nessa couldn¡¯t stop staring at thedy, she thought of expressing how funny everything sounded to her but pushed it aside.


    She needs to know the exact person that brought her here. Is it about Xavier or Chloe? So she will need to know how her reply will be.


    But then, why is she worried about it when she is already getting married to the man soon. If only she knew that Chloe has been passing through because of her absence, and the amount of money Xavier had spent because of the little girl¡¯s health¡­ she won¡¯t have the guts to keep uttering such rubbish to her hearing.


    If possibly she is here because of her fiance, then that¡¯s fair to handle because she has nothing to do with Xavier when he¡¯s married.


    But talking about Chloe, she can¡¯t resist it or two things will take ce. She can¡¯t watch that girl pass through hell again when she¡¯s living and capable to care for her.


    Anyways, she¡¯s so sure that neither Chloe nor her father will tolerate it though.


    ¡°Lilian, you ought to tell me the exact reason behind your visit. Are you here to caution me to stay away from Xavier or Chloe herself? I can¡¯t get you.¡± She questioned her.


    She bit her lips in dismay, that question wasn¡¯t her expectation from Vanessa. She had wanted to see her ede to her order without question.


    As the fiancee to the mighty Xavier, she expects everyone to be scared of her just like Xavier. But to her greatest shock, Vanessa is seating beside her questioning her order.


    ¡°Don¡¯t make such a mistake again vases, I have given you the order and so I don¡¯t expect you to question me for any reason. If Xavier ever employs you, what you shouldn¡¯t try is questioning his order or he will lose it on you.¡± She narrated filled with anger.


    Nessa smiled inwardly, she has known that it would reach this extent.


    ¡°Now what are you trying to say? That I¡¯m gonna be scared of you huh? Do you realize that there¡¯s a big difference between you and Mr. Xavier Brown?¡± She licked her lips adjusting to her seat. ¡°Lilian you ought to tell me the reason you are here, I need to know if it¡¯s about your fiancee or his little daughter.¡±


    She snapped her face instantly. ¡°Okay, so what are you up to if it¡¯s about either of them?¡±


    ¡°If you are here because of Mr. Xavier Brown, then note that giving you a listening ear is under probability, that¡¯s because he will rather give me the order to stay away from him and focus on his daughter alone. But if it¡¯s about Chloe, then I¡¯m not giving you a listening ear to all you¡¯re uttering, because I know the repercussions and your fiancee will not even take that shit.¡± Vanessa narrated boldly.


    Lilian couldn¡¯t stop ring at her, she wondered the sort of authority thedy seating beside her has gotten from Xavier that she couldn¡¯t achieve.


    The looks on her face could order the ground to eat up Vanessa if it¡¯s so possible for her. But she only gritted her teeth as an expression of how angry she is at the moment.


    ¡± I believe he has employed you, but I don¡¯t care to know how you discussed it with him. But Vanessa, don¡¯t ever test my patience by approaching Xavier for any reason. If you want anything from him, you can get it through me or rather the girl you¡¯re babysitting. Don¡¯t ever stand opposite Xavier all in the name of discussion, because I can¡¯t take that trash from you.¡± Lilian yelled to her hearing.


    Nessa grimly mocked her way. ¡°I am onlying there to babysit Chloe, not to take your fiancee away from you. And lest I forget, don¡¯t expect me to approach you all because I need something from Xavier. I¡¯ll always tell him directly myself okay.¡±


    Lilian got on her feet, she red at Nessa for a while, and let out a loud but annoying hiss. It didn¡¯t move Nessa an inch, all she did was stare at her until she left her bakery.


    She couldn¡¯t believe Lilian would have the guts to pay her such an annoying visit. This is one of the reasons she never epted the work at first since she came to know that Xavier has a fiance.


    The presence of a customer distracted her thoughts, and she got on her feet to serve the young man what he wanted.


    After he left, she got seated again in thought. This is eating her up and she doesn¡¯t know how to go about it.


    Lilian has seeded in spoiling her good mood for the day, she couldn¡¯t find happiness within her again. Although she has nned to go babysit Chloe at night but didn¡¯t let the little girl know about it. She had changed her mind to start the next day.


    The anger in her is damn irritating, and she would want neither Chloe nor her father notices it. All she needs is to go home and take a big rest, after which she will start work the next day.


    She had waited for Chloe to return as she promised, but till the sunset, she didn¡¯t notice her presence. She was well convinced that she might have slept off, and the reason behind it being so easy is her presence beside her.


    Luckily for her, she sold out all the bakeries in her oven. That alone made her smile again after the long day filled with anger.


    She locked her bakery and left back home in a haste.


    **********


    After Xavier and his family had dinner at night, he satfortably on the sofa in the sitting room busy with the television.


    Chloe ran to him climbing on his thighs and resting her head on his chest. She felt so happy assuring herself that Vanessa will start work the next day.


    ¡°How was the day with Vanessa, hope you visited her at the bakery?¡± Xavier tried drawing the attention of the little girl who was about to doze off.


    She nodded while her eyes were shut closed. ¡°I¡¯m very sure she will start work tomorrow, I can¡¯t wait to see her again,¡± Chloe uttered, her voice feeling weak.


    Xavier noticed that she was about to doze off on his thighs, he made her feelfortable in his arms rather.


    He cuddled her and noticed she wasn¡¯t with him some minutester, it ddened her.


    It¡¯s high time Chloe slept off so easier as she just did, all these days before the ident urred, she hardly shut her eyes talking more of dozing off.


    He lifted her into his arms and left them upstairs to her room, heid her on the bed and covered her with a nket before exiting the room.


    Just as he stepped into his room, he caught Lilian seating on the bed with her face twisted.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He sat beside her trying to cuddle her but she resisted it, she didn¡¯t bother taking a nce at him rather.


    Her sudden behavior baffled him that he began questioning her just to know what was eating her up.


    Lilian got her question and stood on her feet.


    ¡°I¡¯ll like toe live with you here even though we aren¡¯t married yet. You either grant me this favor or forget everything about me in your life¡­¡± Lilian stated.


    His eyes widened out of shock, she wasn¡¯t expecting her to state such a thing after all this while.


    He felt a strange sensation in him, it isn¡¯t possible letting Lilian live with him when they aren¡¯t married yet, but then, he doesn¡¯t want to lose her.


    It baffled him.

 Chapter 14

    ¡°I¡¯m notying my hands on you, dad has employed a babysitter for you already. She will do her work whenever shees.¡± Tracy remarked to Chloe¡¯s hearing. ¡°Don¡¯t stare at me.¡± She yelled again.


    She had pleaded with Chloe to get her dressed up for school, but she turned down her request. Chloe couldn¡¯t stop dancing around the corner she can¡¯t wait to be dressed up for school by Vanessa.


    ¡°I¡¯m just sure that she will get your dirty clothes washed. Anyways, she has to do that because I won¡¯t.¡± Tracy added again while moving to her room.


    This is a certain life her father lives which she doesn¡¯t like, he will never give them a listening ear when he takes a decision.


    All that matters to him is just Chloe¡¯s welfare, he doesn¡¯t care about theirs. Meanwhile, he concludes that they are grown up enough to take care of themselves, but not to step on his order.


    Despite all, he¡¯s the nicest father. His children are his priority and their happiness is all he strives for. Chloe is the only one he gives all attention to at this point, but that doesn¡¯t mean the others are worthless to him.


    His love for them all is just equal, but the pain of watching Chloe pass through pains because of the death of his dear wife is what he can¡¯t bear.


    Chloe kept dancing around the corners of the corridor, she was so overwhelmed with joy at the moment.


    ¡°Your babysitter is here, Miss Chloe¡­ and dad sent for you. You need to be fast before he leaves.¡± Ben quenched her joyful movement.


    She smiled at him running into his arms. ¡°Are you d that I have a babysitter?¡±


    ¡°Sure, I am. At least, you won¡¯t disturb me again, all distractions will go to your babysitter. But then, I don¡¯t love thedy, in fact we don¡¯t want a woman in this home who isn¡¯t part of our family.¡± Ben narrated. He lifted his face in order not to witness her facial expression because he¡¯s sure the second statement won¡¯t do her good.


    Chloe pped his thighs several times, she felt like pushing him hard to the wall. Anyways, she tried it but Ben couldn¡¯t make a move.


    ¡°Let go of me and go see dad now,¡± Ben muttered to her hearing. He slightly took off her palms on his thigh. ¡°Get off me, Chloe.¡± He screamed this time.


    Chloe drew his shirt so hard that he almost hit her. The little girl was so annoyed, she wasn¡¯t expecting her brother to make such aggressivements about Vanessa.


    She left him atst and left downstairs only for her to meet Vanessa who sat on the sofa while her father was about to leave.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been keeping me waiting Miss, here¡¯s your babysitter. So you wee her, take her to your room and show her the necessary things to know about you and your way of living.¡± Xavier ordered Chloe who was some miles away from him.


    She nodded heading towards Vanessa, her palm clutched with that of Vanessa while she listened to all her father keptmenting.


    ¡°I¡¯ve grabbed everything you said, Dad. Just go while I leave to dress up for school.¡± She remarked.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t stop smiling, he loved it seeing his daughter in such a mood this morning.


    He was about to leave the room when Lilian was found standing on the stairs, he pped her face and dashed out of the house.


    It¡¯s so early to start thinking of how to cope with Lilian¡¯s request. Thatdy almost gave him a sleepless night.


    He affixed himself in deep and endless thought on how to go about with her request. It¡¯s so difficult to get.


    He doesn¡¯t want to lose Lilian for any reason to another man. But then let her into his home when they aren¡¯t married isn¡¯t part of his lifestyle.


    He shook his head and unlocked the car, instantly he stepped into it and turned on the engine.


    ¡°You¡¯re just leaving without saying anything to me, Xavier. Besides, I pleaded with you not to employ thatdy in there, but you went ahead with it. That¡¯s so unfair and you know that.¡± Lilian referred to Xavier who was ready to drive off.


    He licked his lips. The time is running too fast and he needs to meet up with it. After visiting thepany, he¡¯ll have to leave for the conference meeting, and he¡¯s almostte.


    Lilian tapped his cheek, he flicked his head sideways to stare at her.


    ¡°You need to have a rest, I¡¯ll give you a reply about it when I¡¯m back. I¡¯m almostte for the conference meeting.¡± He assured her.


    She nodded and left him, her feet stiffened at a corner watching the car as it vanished from thepound. She sniffed and stepped back into the sitting room hoping to see Vanessa still seated.


    But he thought bounced back on her, she failed it this time. Since she was so sure that Nessa is getting Chloe ready for school, she left to her room hoping to meet Vanessa when the kids are out.


    Vanessa did her possible best to make sure Chloe left with her siblings. She handed over to Vanessa everything about her room.


    Vanessa smiled at the brave little girl leaving for school with her siblings. She is aware that their driver is already waiting for them at thepound.


    She led Chloe outside and made her seat carefully on the car seat. She waved them goodbye and left back to the building again.


    ¡°After all my caution, you went ahead and epted to work here huh?¡± Lilian questioned Nessa who was almost stepping into Chloe¡¯s room.


    She shut the door closed again and faced Lilian fully.


    ¡°I have no other option than to embrace it with all my heart, besides it has nothing to do with you.¡± Nessa gave her a reply courageously.


    For a moment, they both stood ring at each other. Lilian couldn¡¯t tell the rate of anger that kept streaming in her.


    She wasn¡¯t herself any longer. If strangling Nessa to death isn¡¯t a crime, she wouldn¡¯t hesitate to do that. But then, Xavier won¡¯t take it easy with her before handing her over to the court ofw.


    Nessa watched her as she sighed heavily and twitched into her room. She didn¡¯t say a word to her anymore, and she didn¡¯t bother bringing up a topic to quarrel on.


    The fact that Lilian hates her presence in the home as a babysitter doesn¡¯t bother her, and nor is she shocked.


    She known the presence of thedy would result in this. As silly as she seems to be towards her, she won¡¯t want to set her eyes on anotherdy beside Xavier.


    Now the truth is that Xavier isn¡¯t concerned about her actions. He¡¯s damn unconcerned towards Lilian¡¯s behavior, or maybe she behaves well when with him.


    Mere looking at Xavier, she¡¯s well convinced that he won¡¯t please someone else and displease himself. Not to talk of losing Chloe because of his fiancee.


    Precisely, he would bind it in hell.


    Vanessa stepped into Chloe¡¯s room, her eyes began hovering around it. She caught her used-up dress packed beside her wardrobe.


    She smiled moving towards it. ¡°I know she must have told them not to wash for her again, believing I¡¯ll do that when Ie around. Sweetheart, your memory is something else.¡±


    While sorting it out serially, she found a strange cloth which she¡¯s so sure doesn¡¯t belong to Chloe.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She grabbed it and had it spread so wide to her sight.


    ¡°This is Xavier¡¯s clothing, what then is it doing here? She had it on and slept with it huh?¡± The questions kept running in her head.


    Her lips circled instantly as she packed the clothes separately, but kept them on the sofa. She needs to tidy up the room first before going into theundry.


    So she picked up the sweeper and turned it all, it had all the dirt wiped off within some minutes before she began mopping the floor.


    It took her almost thirty minutes to stalk the room well, and arrange Chloe¡¯s wears in the wardrobe. She didn¡¯t forget to dress up the bed too with a new cover and nket.


    ¡°Chloe must surely find this room so different when she¡¯s back from school.¡± She muttered and left the room with the first of clothes.


    Lilian sighed when she left with the clothes. She only watched her and was ready to go visit her when she was damn busy.


    Nessa was back to the room some minutester and grabbed the remaining clothes, she shut the door and left for theundry room.


    While busy turning the clothes, she grabbed that of Xavier and began staring at them.


    It looks so good and expensive too.


    ¡°You took Xavier¡¯s cloth with you? How did you get this?¡± Lilian questioned her from the back.


    She adjusted and nced at her. Her face twisted instantly.


    ¡°Well, I saw it together with that of Chloe, and since I¡¯m doing someundry I have to do it together.¡± She replied.


    Lilian nodded. ¡°I see, and that also pushed you to stare at his cloth that way? Ohh! Because you haven¡¯t seen an expensive cloth like that before, I guess.¡±


    She stretched her hand towards Nessa. ¡°Give it to me, you daughter of a bitch.¡± She cursed her.


    Vanessa pretended not to hear thest statement she made.


    She dipped her palm inside the pocket and pulled it out. It¡¯s a folded money she got.


    While Nessa was busy with the washing, she pped her back.


    ¡°Huh! You took Xavier¡¯s money, right? And that¡¯s the reason you didn¡¯t bother to give me the cloth when you sighted it.¡± Lilianmented in a grimly mocking manner.


    Her eyes widened, she was so shocked to hear her say such a thing. Besides, she didn¡¯t search the pocket.


    ¡°Xavier doesn¡¯t take it Easy with anyone that tampers with his wealth in the other way, and I promise that he won¡¯t spare you because I¡¯ll let him know of this.¡± She remarked and left her sight.


    Vanessa felt her heart sinking into her stomach at the moment, she doesn¡¯t know what to say at the moment.


    But then, she¡¯s scared of Xavier¡¯s action toward her when he hears of it, that¡¯s because she doesn¡¯t have any proof to know anything about the money.

 Chapter 15

    The world came to rest on Vanessa¡¯s shoulder, she could notice the change in the rate of her heartbeat.


    She has been breathing faster than before, and it skipped repeatedly when the name ¡®Xavier¡¯ hit her ears.


    This is a damn mess that she¡¯s into already. How on earth will she exin herself to Xavier and ever be believed? Who will ever be a witness that she knows nothing about the money?.


    It¡¯s time for Lilian to murder her entirely, she had always wanted to do that all this while.


    Thisdy will never give her a listening ear, she won¡¯t let her exin herself for goodness sake. And she¡¯s so sure that Xavier will believe her.


    She got on her feet and walked towards the dining where Lilian sat busy with her cellphone and meal too. She got seated opposite her trying to draw her attention.


    ¡°Lilian, you wouldn¡¯t let me exin anything. To be honest, I know nothing about that money, that¡¯s just the way I saw the cloth with that of Chloe¡­¡± Nessa uttered politely.


    Thedy sitting opposite her didn¡¯t make a move nor did she say a word. For over fifteen seconds, Lilian didn¡¯t take a nce at her.


    Vanessa tried touching her.


    ¡°Get your filthy hands off me. How can I help you by the way? Do I have any business with you?¡± Lilian yelled with her eyes widened.


    Nessa swallowed deeply, her voice was so high that anyone outside would hear her.


    ¡°We aren¡¯t quarreling Lilian. You have to believe me, I don¡¯t know anything about the money in Xavier¡¯s pocket. How do you expect me to give you his dirty wear that I found together with that of his daughter? It doesn¡¯t make sense, that¡¯s why I decided to wash them¡­¡±


    She shook her head slightly trying tofort herself. This is heading to where she isn¡¯t aware and doesn¡¯t care to know.


    ¡°I think I¡¯ve tried exining myself to you, go ahead with any decision you make.¡± Nessa got on her feet.


    ¡°I¡¯ll only keep this a secret on one condition, and that¡¯s if you will ede to leaving this house.¡± Lilian started when she was about to leave.


    The sentence rang like a bell in her ears twice, she knew that¡¯s the only option she could give because she has been wanting that to happen.


    She was seated again while her face chiseled. ¡°If that alone will be the reason for you to shut your mouth, then go to hell for all I care. Lilian, you can go ahead and tell Xavier anything you wish. I¡¯m not scared of any action he¡¯ll take. Neither is work the most precious thing in my life¡­¡±


    Lilian watched her leave the dining room and back to theundry room, but she didn¡¯t try stopping her this time.


    An aggressive smile appeared on her face rather, she is well convinced that Xavier won¡¯t take it likely with thedy if he hears this.


    Vanessa continued with herundry, she wasn¡¯t thinking about the incident this time. All she wishes is to be through with the work and leave for her bakery.


    When Xavier is back, she will hear from him directly.


    She focused on theundry and went through it, she left the house immediately to her bakery.


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


    In the evening time, Chloe and her siblings were back from school. She opened her room to how breathtaking it is.


    Everything is new to her sight. The bed cover and nket have been changed, and her dirty clothes have been washed too.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Happiness filled her heart as she inhaled the sweet scent flowing around the room.


    She pulled out her school uniform and climbed on the bed. It dawned on her that Vanessa isn¡¯t around by that time, but she believes the soonest she will arrive.


    At a time, she thought of leaving to meet her at the bakery, but she thought against it andid down. She feels so weak at the moment and needs some rest.


    Chloe dozed off she wasn¡¯t aware of when Vanessa came into her room. She tapped her leg, waking her up.


    ¡°Are you gonna sleep tonight after this time?¡± Nessa questioned her jokingly.


    She smiled, wrapping her arms around her. ¡°I missed you so much, ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± The words left her throat.


    Vanessa lifted her into her arms, she felt so sluggish.


    ¡°Sorry for disturbing your sleep, but you need to take your shower and then wait for dinner,¡± Nessa announced to her.


    She nodded. ¡°Okay, how about dad, is he back?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so, but you can check yourself.¡± She replied and let her down.


    Chloe left the room to the sitting room, her eyes studying every part of it in search of her dad. He wasn¡¯t back yet, the only people in the sitting room were Ben and Lilian. She believed Tracy will be busy in the kitchen.


    She left the room to the veranda but couldn¡¯t find her father¡¯s car parked in the garage, now she believed he wasn¡¯t back.


    While heading towards the stairs, she found Vanessa moving to the kitchen. She followed her instantly.


    ¡°Tracy, do you need help? I can support you.¡± Vanessa referred to Tracy who only spared her a nce.


    Tracy felt a fire burning in her. ¡°I don¡¯t need any help from either you or your colleague. But the assurance is that the meal isn¡¯t for everybody.¡±


    Vanessa smiled, she wondered why the children hated her presence including that of their father¡¯s fiancee.


    She didn¡¯t bother saying a word again.


    ¡°Sister, who bought the food and everything you used in preparing it? It¡¯s dad, right? You don¡¯t have the guts to stop anyone from tasting that food, not even ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± Chloe dered to her hearing.


    Tracy turned fully facing them, she found Chloe gripping Vanessa¡¯s palm so tight.


    ¡°And you didn¡¯t bother mentioning the other jerk, or she doesn¡¯t matter to you too? Okay, she isn¡¯t part of us right?¡± Tracy referred to her sister who kept contorting her face.


    ¡°She should be here with you as our stepmother is in time toe. But the truth is that I hate everything about her. I don¡¯t know anything about her and I don¡¯t care to know because my babysitter¡¯s here with me.¡± She concluded and drew Vanessa with her as they left the kitchen.


    Tracy wasn¡¯t able to say a word again, rather she kept thinking about what Chloe just uttered about Lilian.


    Anyways, she had already hated her and so her presence in the kitchen is a waste.


    **********


    Dinner was served in the dining room and everyone was expected to move to the dining room. Chloe has been lying on his father¡¯s thigh since he came into the sitting room.


    After Tracy had announced the food, she left for the stairs to go get her cellphone.


    Her movement quenched when she overheard a sentence that seemed awkward to her hearing.


    ¡°You heard me well, Xavier. I caught her myself with the cloth on her palm while she was about to do someundry for Chloe.¡± Lilian stated.


    Tracy climbed down the stairs and moved towards them. He found the strategic expression on her father¡¯s face.


    ¡°Go upstairs and call Vanessa, I want her here immediately.¡± He ordered Ben.


    Chloe got seated beside his father, she never believed all Lilian uttered to be true.


    She had observed that Lilian hated Vanessa, and didn¡¯t want her to be employed at first. So she believed thedy could frame up an usation so Vanessa would be sacked.


    ¡°Vanessa, is that true?¡± Xavier questioned her.


    Her eyes narrowed as she nced at Lilian who looked off. She doesn¡¯t need to be told what the question is all about.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t true.¡± She replied.


    Lilian turned towards her, ¡°You¡¯re trying to deny the offense youmitted huh? Vanessa, don¡¯t ever forget that I caught you. Aren¡¯t you the one I caught this cloth with?¡±


    She spread the cloth wide to everyone¡¯s sight. Chloe screamed and ran towards her, taking it off her palm.


    She hissed loudly while ring at Lilian, and then she noticed how shocked her father was.


    ¡°How dare youy your hands on my clothes? Don¡¯t try that again.¡± She ordered and moved to her dad.


    She dropped the cloth on his thigh and turned to Lilian again.


    ¡°Where is the money? Just get it for me.¡± She dered again.


    Xavier let his palm open and she took the money from him.


    ¡°I already know that you hate her, and so you¡¯ll be looking for something that will lead her to lose the job. But I promise you, she won¡¯t lose the job, rather you¡¯ll lose it.¡± Chloe assured her.


    Her father tapped her cheek. ¡°How did my clothes get into your room?¡±


    She smiled. ¡°You¡¯ve forgotten, right? The night before I had an ident with ma¡¯am Vanessa, you had this cloth on me and gave me the money for cupcakes. You said I should be saving it for future purposes.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure it isn¡¯t the night you gave both of us $10?¡± Ben started pointing at Tracy.


    He nodded.


    ¡°This is $10 too. I dropped the money in my pocket and slept off, then it slipped my mind taking it the next day.¡± Chloe exined further.


    Xavier nced at Vanessa who stiffened at a ce without saying a word. He knew thedy would feel bad.


    Chloe rushed toward Vanessa feeling sorry. ¡°Forgive me please, it¡¯s all my fault. I forgot to take the cloth back to dad, and then the money kept it in my bag. Don¡¯t be angry please.¡±


    She rubbed her hair assuring her of being fine. Just as Chloe left her, she took a nce at Lilian and then at Xavier.


    If only Chloe had slept off, she wouldn¡¯t have hesitated to leave. But then, she made her way to the stairs.


    Xavier noticed how hurt Vanessa felt, even before his fiancee, he didn¡¯t mind staring at Vanessa. That expression on her face is one thing he doesn¡¯t love.


    He didn¡¯t mind how Lilian felt, but he left them and headed upstairs to go meet Vanessa. Not even Lilian could stop him from her calls.

 Chapter 16

    Xavier stood opposite the mirror smiling at his image, he loved how breathtaking the suit looks on him.


    He stretched the tie and applied some quantity of cream on his hair after which hebed it to his desired style.


    His eyes nced at the bed to get his briefcase waiting for him, he walked to the bed and pulled it into his arm.


    ¡°About to leave, darling?¡± Lilian questioned him as she just walked into the room. She moved closer to him, taking the briefcase off his palm.


    Xavier caressed her cheek trying not to pull his lips into a wide smile, there isn¡¯t time for that anyway. His other palm dipped into her hair and she loved the feeling.


    ¡°I¡¯m good to go, take care of yourself and everyone in this home.¡± He announced clearly while staring into her eyes.


    Lilian snorted, she didn¡¯t like that statement though, but there¡¯s nothing she can do about it. ¡°Hope the concern that I¡¯m showing isn¡¯t to your employee too? Anyways, I don¡¯t have time for her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re saying this because I didn¡¯t get upset about your actionst night huh? Why would you raise such an issue while I¡¯m with my children, aren¡¯t you mature enough to know how to tackle matters if I¡¯m not around?¡± Xavier screeched at her.


    She pped his face and bent her head low. ¡°But I caught her with the cloth, that¡¯s why I was so convinced that she took the money.¡± She let her palm off his and sat on the bed. ¡°I never asked you why you left after her.¡±


    ¡°What do you have to do with that then? I mean, after using your fellow woman in the presence of my children, you don¡¯t feel remorse at all.¡± Xavier sighted his cellphone on the table, he would have left it behind and left. ¡°Do you even know the pain you caused thatdy? Just for you to exin everything to me privately and I¡¯ll call her, you decided to disgrace yourself and damage someone¡¯s identity.¡±


    She kept ring at Xavier, but he didn¡¯t mind. ¡°I think it¡¯s much better you sack thatdy, I told you earlier that I don¡¯t need anyone in this home. Xavier, I can do everything myself.¡± Her eyebrows knitted.


    He heaved a big sigh ring back at her. If not that she¡¯s his fiancee, he wouldn¡¯t mind throwing her out of his sight instantly.


    ¡°You think it¡¯s the best huh? Lilian, do you think it¡¯s gonna be easier for you to babysit Chloe just like Vanessa is doing when it¡¯s a big deal for you to prepare our meal¡­ you leave everything to Tracy, and here you¡¯re telling me to sack my new worker.¡± He hissed loudly and grabbed his suitcase again. ¡°My little daughter will roast you in hell if she searches for her babysitter, so you better mind the way you treat thatdy.¡±


    He took a few steps to the door, whined the handle but noticed that it was locked up.


    ¡°You locked the door, Lilian. I beg you in the name of God you serve to spare me this waste of time. Unlock the door so I¡¯ll leave, I¡¯m almostte.¡± Xavier stated.


    She nced at him and looked off heading to the wardrobe.


    ¡°This is the key.¡± She made it visible to Xavier and then inserted it into her pocket. ¡°I¡¯m not unlocking the door until we¡¯re done with our discussion Mr.¡±


    Xavier stepped back to the bed, he couldn¡¯t get it at all, and Lilian tells him when to leave. Meanwhile, she was still asleep when he got ready for work, Tracy prepared his breakfast even when his so-called fiancee was with him in the same building.


    ¡°What is it again Lilian, for goodness sake stop testing my patience.¡± He yelled at her.


    She bit her lips and caressed her hair, it felt really good seeing Xavier irritated. Besides, he left the babysitterst night, and she got sad. This is his punishment for making her feel bad.


    ¡°Xavier, you are not leaving here if only if you ede to sack thatdy, trust me to do that myself if you aren¡¯t showing concern towards my feelings.¡± Lilian narrated.


    He stepped backward grabbing the sentence she just made. ¡°No one told you?¡±Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She lifted her face staring at his fact, precisely, she was waiting so he wouldplete the statement.


    ¡°Uh-huh? I¡¯m listening¡­¡±


    He snorted and shook his head. ¡°No one told you thatws aren¡¯t to be taken by you? You aren¡¯t aware that the orders in this home and mypany are made by me?¡±


    Lilian couldn¡¯t get it, she wondered what he had in mind that was too tough for him to utter.


    ¡°Make it clear, so I¡¯ll get what you mean,¡± Lilian stated.


    He gasped and got seated on the sofa opposite the bed where Lilian sat.


    ¡°Lilian, you don¡¯t have the guts to treat my workers the way you want. I employed them and I¡¯m paying them too. They are under my control and work ording to my order.¡± He paused and swallowed deeply. ¡°One mistake you shouldn¡¯t make is to threaten any of my workers, whether your gender or the opposite. Don¡¯t even try scaring them away from their duty, talk more of sacking them with your power.¡±


    He got on his feet. ¡°Give me the key.¡± His voice sounded somanding that Lilian didn¡¯t hesitate to hand the key over to him.


    She watched him move closer to the door and unlocked it himself, without sparing her just a nce, he dashed out of the room and left downstairs.


    While he was busy unlocking the car, she caught Chloe standing at the gate staring at him. He wondered what the little girl had in mind that she was still yet to leave for school when her siblings had all left.


    He couldn¡¯t bear it anymore, so he moved towards the gate to see what was going on with her.


    ¡°Are you okay, Chloe? You don¡¯t seem to be alright.¡± He referred to the little girl.


    She embraced him and broke out in tears. ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa got angry and persisted in not taking me to school.¡±


    His eyes rolled. ¡°But it isn¡¯t her duty to take you to school, all she has to do is to dress you up and you leave with your siblings. What about the driver?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going with them, tell ma¡¯am Vanessa to take me to school or I¡¯ll leave for her bakery, where I¡¯ll stay throughout the day.¡± Chloe narrated in tears.


    He shook his head, this is getting more tough and interesting too. It¡¯s good news that she has begotten a child that doesn¡¯t want to let her go.


    ¡°Vanessa is back to her bakery, get into the car so I can drop you off myself.¡± He stated.


    Chloe dashed out from the gate, he moved towards her instantly and lifted her into his arms.


    ¡°Your filthy wife used ma¡¯am Vanessa yesterday, and now she¡¯s angry with me even though I know nothing about what happened. Trust me, Dad, I¡¯ll never forgive thatdy.¡± Chloe dered to her father¡¯s hearing.


    Xavier didn¡¯t care to listen to everything she uttered, he made her sitfortably in the car.


    ¡°When you¡¯re back from school, you can meet Vanessa at her bakery and get some cupcakes for yourself.¡± Heforted the little girl.


    She nodded while smiling. She can¡¯t wait to be back so she will meet Vanessa and spend lots of time with her.


    One thing she wouldn¡¯t miss is taking a nap in her bakery, she isn¡¯t gonna let her be once she¡¯s back from school.


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


    The building became so cool and quiet like a graveyard. No sounds were heard, not even a footstep.


    Lilian was the only one left at home and she loved it despite feeling lonely too. She left the bedroom and stepped down the stairs to the sitting room.


    She thinks it¡¯s better to stay there alone than in the bedroom, it¡¯s so quiet that she doesn¡¯t love it anymore.


    Her mind began inventing everything she discussed with Xavier before he left, she didn¡¯t find it funny.


    It¡¯s time she will take action against Vanessa¡¯s presence in the house. Watching Xavier leave Vanessa inside Chloe¡¯s bedroom broke her heart, she couldn¡¯t exin how she felt at that moment.


    There is a big change in Xavier. This is not the man she has been with these months, and she keeps mute towards this issue, it might result in something else.


    She ought to do something, watching anotherdy take Xavier away from her is one thing she had sworn to never happen.


    Therefore, something must be done about it. Two options left for Xavier to choose from, and one must take ce or something unimagined will ur.


    Once he¡¯s back, she will seat him down in the discussion. They need to sort things out now it isn¡¯t that deeper, before or gets out of hand.


    Staying alone at home when everyone is out isn¡¯t a great idea for her this time, she doesn¡¯t want to be thinking about the babysitter that¡¯s causing her lots of trouble.


    But then, she needs to engage herself in everything that has to do with Xavier, and one means of getting such an opportunity is to be the manager of hispany.


    That¡¯s so good. She can¡¯t wait to tell him this, and her expectation is for Xavier to ede to it so easily.

 Chapter 17

    Vanessa sat on a chair very close to the door, she had all her mind on her cellphone that she couldn¡¯t notice Chloe¡¯s presence.


    The little girl stood at a ce staring at her not until she coughed slightly, her familiar voice drew Nessa off her thought, she looked sideways to see Chloe standing.


    ¡°Oh my God! For how long have you been here sweetheart?¡± She asked her to draw her closer to herself. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry I didn¡¯t notice you were here.¡± She added not letting the little girl reply to her question.


    Chloe stood in between her legs staring at her cellphone. ¡°Good afternoon ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± She greeted her.


    Vanessa nced at her and smiled, ¡°Good afternoon dear, how were your studies today?¡±


    ¡°Not good at all, you spoiled my mood in the morning. After all my pleadings, you didn¡¯t consider that I¡¯m a sweetheart and you persisted in not taking me to school.¡± She sniffed covering her face with her two palms. ¡°If not dad, I wouldn¡¯t go to school today.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for that.¡± Vanessa pleaded. She had known that the little girl must be upset with her, but then she was still so sad about the incident that urred the past day.


    ¡°So, dad took you to school today huh?¡± She asked her. Chloe nodded slightly.


    ¡°After I exined everything to him, he persisted in taking me to school himself, and then I woulde to stay with you once I¡¯m back from school.¡± She narrated carefully.


    Vanessa affixed her eyes on the phone screen, ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve taken your lunch right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but I want a cupcake. Dad gave me some money to get one for myself.¡± She started and handed the money over to her.


    Vanessa stared at the money and smiled widely. ¡°This exact money is the reason your stepmother wants me punished by your father. She used me of what I know nothing about and I sank into despairst night.¡± She folded it and got on her feet.


    Chloe couldn¡¯t keep her eyes off her, she had known that she would pass through much painst night. But then, it¡¯s all her fault.


    She was toozy to get the money off her pocket¡­ or rather, she forgot. All this while, she had known that Lilian hates her babysitter and is ready to do anything just to make sure she¡¯s out of their home.


    Vanessa returned to her with the cupcake and got seated again. She grabbed the cake from her and began gobbling on it.


    ¡°The cupcake is with you here, you don¡¯t need to rush,¡± Nessamented. She smiled at her and offered the cake to her so she would take a bite.


    She shook her head. ¡°Have it all alone.¡± Chloe shook her head.


    ¡°I¡¯ll dispose of it if you don¡¯t want to have a bite, just a bite pleeeeease.¡± She pleaded.


    Vanessa noticed how serious she is and had a bit just like she wanted. That alone made her so happy.


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


    ¡°Get me all the files here and now,¡± Xavier ordered his secretary. The young-lookingdy left his office immediately to get the file as ordered.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Xavier had noticed how the gorgeousdy had been flirting with him all this while, but he overlooked everything.


    She is assiduous in terms of working, and so kicking her out of thepany might be his loss. All he had decided was never to give her a dime.


    Never will he go on a date with any of his female workers.


    The doorbell rang and thedy dashed in with the files on her palm. She handed them over to her and stood aside staring at him.


    Xavier began going through the files serially checking on the activities done within the month.


    ¡°Nice work. Any application from anyone?¡± He asked her while on his feet.


    She narrowed her eyes for a while and shook her head. ¡°Not at all Sir, but the manager said you don¡¯t need a worker for now.¡±


    ¡°That means lots of applications have beening but they¡¯ve been rejected huh?¡± His eyes widened. Sure, had made the order a long time ago, but had changed his mind because of a worker.


    The secretary shivered, she knows how irritated her boss always felt and he doesn¡¯t take it with anyone when he¡¯s annoyed.


    ¡°Yes sir. Sorry about that, I¡¯ll start epting work applications.¡± Thedy assured him.


    He shuddered while ring at her. ¡°Leave my office, and send me the manager.¡±


    Thedy dashed out of the office in great fear, she doesn¡¯t like it when her boss is annoyed to avoid yelling at her.


    She had loved Xavier from the first day she stepped her feet in thepany. Then, she wasn¡¯t aware that the man he was crushing on is her CEO, but she can¡¯t do otherwise.


    Several times, she had tried to kick him off her mind, but couldn¡¯t. Everything about him ddens her heart.


    Xavier is that CEO that doesn¡¯t take trash from any of his workers. He doesn¡¯t owe them, rather he adds more cash to their sry. And with this, his workers don¡¯t think of leaving hispany despite how rude he is.


    Precisely, they¡¯re aware that their boss isn¡¯t that way at first. His rudeness and arrogance began from the day he lost his wife. That day seemed like hell to him, he couldn¡¯t believe all that happened in reality.


    The doorbell rang again drawing him out of his deep thought, the familiar voice of his manager made him lift his face upwards.


    The young man got seated opposite him.


    ¡°You stopped the secretary from epting work applications huh?¡± He asked him.


    The manager wasn¡¯t ready to say a word, he had expected him to ask how he was doing and coping with work too.


    Gosh! That question has departed from his lips for a long time. He forgot to remind himself of that.


    Xavier is no longer that man who cares to ask about one¡¯s wellbeing, though that doesn¡¯t stop him from being caring.


    ¡°You ordered me not to some months ago, sir.¡± The manager replied.


    He red at him and hissed. ¡°After I gave you the order, I told you of a worker that I¡¯m about to sack, and so, you shouldn¡¯t stop epting work applications.¡±


    The manager furrowed his brows and then nodded. ¡°I can remember vividly Sir, sorry for that please.¡± He pleaded.


    Xavier took a deep breath through his nostrils, he sighed and lifted his shoulders then let them down again.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, but please don¡¯t reject any applications again.¡± He remarked to the hearing of his manager.


    The young man who had felt his heart beat increasing fell at ce instantly, he never knew his CEO would look off the issue so easily.


    That¡¯s so unusual of him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving now, take good care of the leftover works.¡± He said to the manager who was on his feet already.


    He nodded. ¡°Trust me to give you the best, sir.¡± He assured him and left afterward.


    Xavier nced at his ash jacket hung at a side in his office, he moved closer to it and had it on. He arranged the desk and got the files arranged too.


    He grabbed his cellphone and suitcase and then left the office.


    One of his workers sighted him and grabbed his suitcase from him, he nced at him and smiled.


    He left for the car and ced the suitcase on the seat. ¡°Have this.¡± He handed the worker a $5.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Sir, I appreciate it so much.¡± The young man greeted him, he stood watching his boss as he drove off from thepany.


    ***********


    Xavier arrived home to get Tracy and Ben seated at the veranda, they both had that rigid expression on their faces revealing that they aren¡¯t feeling okay.


    He walked towards them.


    ¡°Hi kids, why are you all seated here? Hope all is well, and where is Chloe?¡± He asked them.


    Tracy got on her feet and took the briefcase from him. ¡°We aren¡¯t fine Dad, and Chloe left her babysitter since she came back from school.¡±


    He nced at Ben who wasn¡¯t saying a single word, he only stared at the floor.


    ¡°Ben, you aren¡¯t gonna wee Dad today?¡± He referred to his son.


    He lifted his face to him, twisting it the more. ¡°Not until you kick thatdy out of this house.¡±


    ¡°Why? What happened? Did it offend you?¡± He threw multiple questions at them all at a time.


    Tracy got seated again. ¡°Yes dad, she offended us. Your so-called fiance ate the whole food but couldn¡¯t prepare any for our return.¡±


    ¡°You mean, you all have been starving since you returned from school including Chloe?¡± His eyes widened out of shock.


    Ben nodded. ¡°And she isn¡¯t showing any care at all. I believe Chloe must have taken lunch with her babysitter.¡±


    Xavier heaved a big sigh, he dashed into the sitting room and climbed the stairs. Starving his children is one thing he doesn¡¯t tolerate.


    He twitched into his bedroom to get Lilian arranging her belongings in the handbag she came with.


    That was damn shocking.


    He approached her, gripping her waist. ¡°What¡¯s going on Lilian? You¡¯re leaving?¡±


    She turned to him. ¡°Of course I am. And trust me, Xavier, I¡¯ll never set my foot here until you ede to employ me in yourpany as the manager. In addition to that, forget everything about me¡­¡±


    He let his lips agape, a scorching heat enveloped him instantly. This is getting the other way.


    Great confusion befell him, he doesn¡¯t know the action to take.


    Is it about his starving children? Or he should look off it and stop Lilian from leaving first?.


    But then, her request is so difficult to look into. Giving her the position of the manger huh?.


    His palms transfixed on his waist.

 Chapter 18

    Lilian was so busy with her clothes, that she wasn¡¯t after how Xavier felt at the moment. All she wants is this opportunity, she believes it¡¯s the only way to get him to herself alone.


    She picked up her cell phone and dialed a cab driver whom she pleaded with toe around and pick her up.


    With that call, Xavier felt irritated the most, he doesn¡¯t care how she would feel anymore.


    ¡°In my presence, Lilian. You had the guts to give another man a call.¡± He yelled at her, he felt a stream of fire burning his heart.


    Lilian pouted her lips. ¡°He¡¯s just a cab driver, and he will be here to pick me up.¡±


    ¡°We decided that you will be here for a week, and the week isn¡¯t over yet. Lilian, tell me what exactly is wrong with you.¡± He snapped her face and moved towards her.


    Lilian tried escaping his grip but he caught her into his full left palm. It¡¯s damn painful feeling his grip when he¡¯s annoyed.


    ¡°Xavier, I¡¯m tired of all this. First, it¡¯s all about thedy you employed as a babysitter, now it¡¯s all about staying at home but doing nothing¡­ I don¡¯t just like it at all.¡± Sheined.


    He pushed her to the bed, his sses made Lilian understand how irritated he felt at the moment.


    ¡°I¡¯m the one taking you in an aspect, besides you never wanted to work. And if you¡¯re ready to work now, must it be as my manager? Aren¡¯t there better jobs out there that you can choose except working in mypany?¡±


    Lilian hissed, she had never wanted to work, but the fact thatdies are flirting around her fiance¡­ she had to take that decision assuring herself of gaining his heart with that.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want any other work, I want to be the manager in yourpany. Besides Xavier, you aren¡¯t supposed to think about this¡­ we¡¯re getting married soon and everything you have will be ours.¡±


    He pulled away his jacket and shirt, unlocked his trousers, and had them off his body.


    He made his way to the wardrobe and grabbed his sweat pants and a free polo which he had on.


    ¡°You have yet to tell me who the cab driver is. I have a driver here that can take you home and you know that¡­¡±


    She stood on his feet and began pacing around the room. ¡°And then, I¡¯d like to know who the babysitter is too. I pleaded you shouldn¡¯t employ her but you persisted, and here you are asking me who the cab driver is to me.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just a cab driver as you know.¡± She dered to his hearing.


    Xavier took a deep breath, he grabbed his cellphone and began scrolling through his contact in the search for Vanessa¡¯s number.


    Ouch! It struck his head that he hasn¡¯t gotten her contact, he needs to set his eyes on Chloe.


    ¡°Can you ever babysit Chloe?¡± He asked her.


    She widened her eyes in great shock. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    He smiled widely and then chiseled his face again. ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal to thatdy who can take good care of kids. It¡¯s never a big deal to Vanessa¡­¡±


    She frowned while listening to all he had to say.


    ¡°But it¡¯s a big deal to Lilian. Yes, it¡¯s a big deal to you¡­¡±


    ¡°What sort of insult is that Xavier? Why speak ill of me?¡± She queried him.


    Xavier got seated on the bed. He studied her from the head to the feet.


    ¡°Lilian, you ate all the prepared meals but were unable to prepare another for my kids. You starved my children, and still had the guts to tell me how you will be able to babysit my little daughter¡­¡±


    She was seated beside him. ¡°You expect me to prepare the meal for your grown-up kids, aren¡¯t they big enough to prepare the meal themselves? Oh. Oh.. okay, that¡¯s why you don¡¯t want me to work right? So I can be your housewife¡­¡±


    ¡°Is Vanessa idle even as you employed her in your home?¡± She scolded him.


    ¡°Vanessa has been working all this while, but Lilian¡­ I met you idle. I pleaded to get a job for you but you declined the offer, and now you¡¯re interested in being a worker, but as my manager¡­ What the heck is that? Should I sack my manager because of you?¡­¡±


    He red at her with utmost anger that Lilian couldn¡¯t nce at him.


    ¡°Employing me as your manager is the only thing that will keep binding the two of us together till eternity. But if you persist in not granting my request, then forget everything about me in your life¡­¡± Lilian started aggressively.


    Xavier watched her utter the words, he only smiled inwardly.


    ¡°Sorry, but you must be insane, Miss. I don¡¯t think this is the Lilian I met earlier.¡± Hemented and left for the bathroom.


    Lilian couldn¡¯t say a word, she knew what was going on between them and she isn¡¯t insane. If only she can get this opportunity, then it will be the best.


    With this idea of hers, she believes that everything won¡¯t be lost if Xavier ever leaves her.


    He stepped out of the bathroom to hear Chloe calling him out from the corridor. Before he could respond to it, she banged the door open and moved in.


    She ran into his arms in an embrace and he held her to himself.


    Chloe nced at Lilian who sat on the bed and contorted her face. She pointed her fingers at Lilian tapping her father.


    ¡°She starved me, and I left to ma¡¯am Vanessa bakery,¡± Chloe stated.


    Xavier nced at Lilian and looked off, the little girl had made him remember the source of his anger, and he wouldn¡¯t like to speak of it in her presence.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Tracy will prepare dinner quickly. I believe Vanessa is here, go stay with her until Ie downstairs.¡± He referred to Chloe who climbed down from his body and left the room.


    He turned to Lilian again, this time more annoyed than earlier.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You just heard what the little girl said, right? Lilian, you starved her but still im that you can take good care of my children¡­¡± Xavier sputtered out of anger.


    She couldn¡¯t utter a word, her eyes only affixed to the wall while he retorted at her.


    ¡°You want to be employed as my manager, how can you handle the work there when you can¡¯t handle my home¡­?


    ¡°And now, you just called a cab driver toe to pick you up, when you¡¯re aware that I have a driver and can also drop you off¡­ yet you want me to sack Vanessa without a reason¡­¡±


    He dipped his palm into his pocket and leaned on the wall, thereby facing her entirely.


    ¡°Lilian, the door is open for you to go¡­¡± he dered.


    She lifted her face forcefully just to be sure who made the statement, and precisely, it was Xavier standing opposite her.


    No! She shook her head in regret. This time she¡¯s standing against the decision she took.


    ¡°My family means a lot to me, and my children are my priority. If you can¡¯t be able to take good care of them as your child, then I don¡¯t see any reason for your stay here¡­¡±


    ¡°There are so many jobs that I can get for you, and if you want to be on your own, then I¡¯ll help you with that since I haven¡¯t opened a secondpany¡­¡±


    He moved towards her and gripped her palm staring into her eyes. Truly, he had loved this soul so much, but he can¡¯t go against his will because of love.


    ¡°I love you so much, Lilian. But if you feel like you¡¯ve overstayed your wee, then feel free to go¡­ And if you think I¡¯m worthless in your life without granting you those favors, then there are other wealthy men out there you can run to¡­¡± He remarked and left the room.


    Lilian wasn¡¯t herself any longer, she noticed sweating profusely in an air-conditioned room.


    This isn¡¯t what she has expected from Xavier. Yes, she¡¯s aware that he loves her so much, but never believed he can¡¯t do without her.


    She dipped her finger into her hair and began rumbling it, her palm grabbed the pillow and she threw it aside.


    Shit! This is a fucking mess she¡¯s into. A hell that isn¡¯t easy to escape from.


    Now, Xavier had believed she was leaving, but she will never try that shit. The best is to let the cab driver be aware that she isn¡¯t leaving again.


    She believes that Xavier will spare neither her nor the driver if he ever sets his eyes on him.


    She picked up her cellphone and began dialing his contact but couldn¡¯t reach him, it frightened her the most.

 Chapter 19

    Xavier couldn¡¯t take a good rest, he was awake till sunrise. Thest night wasn¡¯t good for him, and Lilian wasn¡¯t after looking at him.


    The argument they had the past evening got her irritated, that she turned her back on him despite them sleeping in the same bed.


    She had decided not to leave the house, but will never give him a nice look until she apologizes.


    Xavier noticed how strange she¡¯s been acting all night, and decided to know what was going on with her. This is not thedy he knows.


    Lilian can never watch him shiver in pain, yet she won¡¯t feel sorry for his condition. And here she is sleeping when he¡¯s at the point of death.


    When he queried her about her sudden change, she spluttered at him iming to get an apology from him before she changed.


    Xavier isn¡¯t that man that can ever be controlled by a woman. He is tough and easygoing at the same time. So it¡¯s left for anyone to choose the side he wanted.


    He had made it known to her that the apology will be granted as soon as she does the same to his children first.


    She starved them and punched a knife in his heart indirectly.


    Lilian turned deaf ear to everything he said and left him to visit a friend very early in the morning. She didn¡¯t mind knowing how he was fairing either.


    The day wasn¡¯t good for him, so he decided to stay back at home. His health condition was bing critical and neither his family nurse was picking up his call.


    Chloe dashed into the room feeling haunted. She hasn¡¯t set her eyes on her father who is supposed to be leaving at that time.


    Tracy and Ben were so baffled too, but we were scared of moving into the room.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Chloe? You aren¡¯t leaving yet?¡± Vanessa asked the little girl who stepped out of her father¡¯s room.


    She wiped her face and embraced Nessa trying to hold back the tears that had gathered in her eyes.


    ¡°Dad is very sick, and no one is taking care of her. I don¡¯t think of going to school again, I¡¯ll take care of my father¡­¡± Chloe announced.


    Vanessa squatted consoling her. ¡°You need to leave for school, I¡¯m here okay.¡±


    She nced at her and smiled. ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, you will take care of my father?¡±


    Nessa nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll take good care of him. You guys need to leave now.¡± She referred to the three children.


    Tracy hissed throwing res at her, she nced at Ben who leaned on the wall watching them.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your help to care for my father, I¡¯m d the otherdy had left very early in the morning. You two should leave my father, he¡¯s married with three kids¡­¡± she remarked.


    Vanessa stood on her feet while staring at the girl. She understood how she felt, but couldn¡¯t help it.


    Thement Tracy made about Lilian made her shudder. She couldn¡¯t believe thedy would leave her fiance even in a critical condition that might lead to something else.


    ¡°Why did she leave? Are you guys having issues with her?¡± Nessa inquired from them.


    The two nced at each other.


    ¡°Why do you care to know? The next step you¡¯re to take now is to leave as well just like she did.¡± Ben added.


    She circled her lips in dismay. ¡°It¡¯s okay, if you two persist that I should go¡­ then I will.¡± That was all she stated and l Chloe¡¯s room.


    Chloe rushed after her into thhasnhasn¡¯t¡¯tfor once loved her sibling¡¯s actions toward thedy.


    ¡°Don¡¯t get annoyed towards them, ma¡¯am Vanessa. I beg of you please take care of dad.¡± The little girl pleaded about breaking out in tears.


    She grabbed her handbag and cellphone from the table.


    ¡°You heard everything they uttered, and I wouldn¡¯t like to cause issues between us.¡± She stated.


    Chloe shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll speak to dad about this.¡±


    She rushed out of the room instantly to her father¡¯s room, he was asleep already.


    ¡°Dad, you need to speak to Tracy and Ben. They¡¯re against ma¡¯am Vanessa taking care of you while we leave for school. They want to stay back while thedy has sacrificed her day to care for you¡­¡± she stated while caressing his shoulder.


    Xavier let his eyes open though they narrowed. He kept staring at her while giving a listening ear to all she stated.


    ¡°Call me Tracy and Ben immediately.¡± He ordered her.


    She left instantly to meet them moving downstairs. ¡°Dad is calling the both of you. You need to hurryThey¡±


    They both diverted back to the corridor leading to Xavier¡¯s room. Tracy rapped the door open and they stepped in.


    ¡°You sent it to us, dad.¡± Ben referred to him.


    He nodded while gripping the bed cover. ¡°I don¡¯t need you to stay back from school because of my help, you are almostte so leave now so the driver will drop you off. Vanessa will care for me.¡±


    ¡°What of your fiancee? Isn¡¯t she around to handle the issue?¡± Tracy queried him.


    He tried smiling because he knew his children would be monitoring his movement with Lilian since they haven¡¯t loved her for once.


    ¡°Lilian will be back when she¡¯s done with what she left for. As for now, Vanessa will take care of me.¡± Xavier uttered.


    Ben sniffed. ¡°Dad, why not choose between the twodies. Either Lilian or Vanessa.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t even want any of them, you have three kids already,¡± Tracy added.


    He chiseled his face. ¡°You two should shut your mouth and leave for school instantly.¡±


    They all left the room bidding him goodbye.


    *********


    Xavier enveloped himself with the nket and was fast asleep when Vanessa twitched into the room.


    She had left after Tracy and her brother ordered her to but sighted them when they left for school.


    Even at that point, she decided not to leave the house but turned against the thought.


    Since Lilian had left him where no one knows, she needs to go look after him. Even without being told, she knew the two must have had a shst night, majorly because she starved his children.


    Chloe had told her when she came to her bakery how his father will take action towards thedy once hees back and notices that they were without food.


    But absolutely, she had concluded that thedy was wrong. She must take care of the kids even if they aren¡¯t hers.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She rolled her eyeballs and stood on her feet ready to lock up her bakery since she hasn¡¯t baked anything yet.


    Within minutes, she arrived at the enormous building and had her way into it. Everywhere was as quiet as the graveyard, that you wouldn¡¯t believe a soul is in it.


    She climbed up the stairs to Xavier¡¯s room to get him asleep. Trying to leave the root, she noticed him adjusting on the bed.


    ¡°Mr. Xavier¡­¡± she called him out.


    Xavier let his eyes narrow trying to get where the voice came from.


    ¡°It¡¯s me Vanessa¡­¡± she added making her way back to the bed.


    She got seated on the bed cing her palm on his forehead. Gosh! It¡¯s damn hot like water set on a hundred degrees.


    ¡°When did this start? Aren¡¯t you going to visit the hospital?¡± She asked him.


    He nced at her and heaved a big sigh. ¡°I¡¯ve tried reaching either my nurse or doctor, but none of them are picking up my calls.¡±


    She furrowed her brows. ¡°Where is Lilian? She¡¯s supposed to be here?¡±


    ¡°Lilian had been holding grudges on me because I scolded her for starving my children, and then she wanted me to employ her as my manager¡­ I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with her.¡± He narrated.


    Vanessa was shocked. ¡°As the manager.¡± She muttered within herself.


    ¡°Must she take that position? Can¡¯t you get her another job in rece of that?¡± She inquired from him.


    Xavier sniffed. ¡°She persisted in being my manager.¡±


    Vanessa tried shutting her lips towards the issue, she believes they will sort themselves out.


    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯ll call my doctor toe over and have a look at you, or rather your driver should take you to your doctor,¡± she suggested.


    He shook his head. ¡°Call your doctor toe over.¡±


    She eded and grabbed her cellphone, he dialed the doctor¡¯s contact and he picked up on the first ring. She narrated everything to him and he promised toe over within minutes.


    ¡°Vanessa, please don¡¯t leave me here.¡± He pleaded.


    She smiled Inwardly, gripping his palm so tight, that he assured him of not leaving.


    The doctor arrived some minutes after Vanessa left the kitchen to get him something.


    She was ordered by Xavier to let him into his room where he conducted certain examinations on him and promised to get him medications immediately.


    Vanessa sat and helped him take the meal until the te was emptied. She pushed the te aside and decided to clean him up.


    ¡°I want to always feel the warmness of your palm.¡± He started and gripped her palm again.


    She was about to say a word when Lilian moved into the room, she felt goose pimples all over her skin.

 Chapter 20

    The anger in Lilian¡¯s eyes was burning like a me. She felt a deep sensation that indicates hatred running through her veins.


    Damnit! She had known a day like this woulde.


    She moved towards Vanessa and yanked her hair with the utmost vigor. Thisdy is dealing with her innermost part.


    Vanessa struggled to get off her palm but she gripped her with both palms. The innocent woman wasn¡¯t getting herself any longer.


    ¡°Let go of her, Lilian¡­¡± Xavier screamed at the top of his voice, but she was less concerned this time.


    She dragged Nessa to the wall and pushed her towards it, she hit her back on it, and then slumped on the floor.


    It hurts. It was damn painful. She was losing her patience this time.


    Lilian moved towards her again and was about to yank her hair when she kicked her out so hard, and then managed to get on her feet.


    ¡°You kicked me out¡­ bitch, you dared me.¡± She uttered moving towards Lilian.


    Vanessa moved towards the bed and held Xavier while in tears, Lilian brushed her face with a p pushing her out of the bed.


    Xavier noticed how tough it was moving and managed to get up from the bed since he has gotten himself a little.


    Just as Lilian grabbed the sweeping stick to hit Vanessa, Xavier got her palm so quick and held the stick.


    ¡°Let go of this stick, Xavier. Justy down on that bed and let me deal with this slut¡­¡± Lilian yelled.


    He gripped the stick more tight waiting for her action towards him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever make that mistake again, Lilian. She isn¡¯t neither a slut nor bitch, so mind the words you use on her¡­¡± he cautioned her.


    She moved closer to her and stared into his eyes. ¡°Now tell me why you¡¯re concerned towards the words I use on her¡­ because you¡¯re intimate with her huh?¡±


    ¡°Why are you killing yourself because of that? If I had intimacy with her then it¡¯s not my fault¡­¡± he responded with eyes widened.


    Vanessa quietly got on her feet and sneaked out of the room, she wouldn¡¯t want to cause much trouble again between them.


    ¡°Then who¡¯s fault is it?¡± Lilian referred to him.


    He smiled aggressively and got seated on the bed. ¡°Lilian, you don¡¯t need to be told that it¡¯s your fault. So don¡¯t query me any longer..¡±


    She felt the ground would swallow her up, this wasn¡¯t what she had expected from Xavier.


    Heaven knows how she wanted him to apologize dearly. Yes. She expected him to feel sorry for the action he took and plead for forgiveness.


    Now, she has easily forgotten the kind of man she has been with all this while. It has skipped her mind that she is in a rtionship with Mr. Xavier Brown.


    ¡°Meanwhile, you aren¡¯t feeling remorse for what you did to me, Xavier? I mean, you expect me to keep mute while watching the both of you huh?¡± Sheined.


    He nced at her. ¡°I never said so, Lilian. But you know, at times like this, you need to reason very well.¡±


    She bit her finger revealing how angry she felt within her. ¡°What the heck do you mean, Mr.¡±


    ¡°Lilian, you left me in pains to where I don¡¯t know or even care to know because I scoldedst night. You expect me to feel remorse for being with Vanessa whereas you starved my children yesterday and didn¡¯t care to know how they felt¡­¡±


    He got on his feet twitching towards her. ¡°You expect me to be happy with you huh? I should appreciate your efforts towards my children and yet you call yourself a fiancee¡­¡±


    ¡°Lilian, you can murder a soul. Yes, you can do that. Since you had the guts to leave me even in this condition, then I¡¯m quite sure you can kill me too¡­¡± he concluded and dashed out of the room in search of Vanessa.


    He searched for her at every corner of the house but couldn¡¯t get her, and then he left downstairs but she was nowhere to be found.


    Tears gushed down her cheeks. He was well convinced that she has left back to her bakery after passing through pains in the hand of Lilian for her benevolence.


    He left back to the room and caught Lilian on her knees, she held him so tight not letting him make a move.


    All she has been asking for is forgiveness, but you know¡­ that stuff is difficult for him to give out when in pain.


    ¡°Thatdy you caused pains because of me is the reason I can talk and walk now. I believe you would have been so happy if youe back to see me dead¡­¡± he stated annoyingly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that again Xavier. I can never wish you dead, I was just sad and left in the morning out of ignorance. Please, darling, forgive me okay¡­¡± she pleaded continuously.


    Xavier smashed her palm away from him and then ordered her not toy her palm on him again.


    He grabbed his cellphone together with his car key and dashed out of the house.


    Lilian tried to hold him back, but he pushed her aside with his left palm. She cried so loud wanting him back, but he turned deaf ear to her voice.


    She felt deserted that she began sweating profusely. Lots of pains flowing in her veins.


    ¡°I can¡¯t take it any longer, Vanessa can¡¯t escape my wrath. She started it, ass hole.¡± She barked inwardly.


    She left the room to meet Xavier, but she wouldn¡¯t believe the young man had left to where she isn¡¯t aware.


    Ouch! Why¡¯s all this happening to her now? Must she be the one to be facing all through hell?


    She left back to the room and took her cellphone with her, she locked the doors and left thepound.


    The inner of her is bittered, and she won¡¯t seat and watch fellow woman damage her enticing mood.


    She is a babysitter, not Xavier¡¯s caretaker. There¡¯s no reason to be given behind hering in to stay with Xavier when she isn¡¯t around.


    She trekked to Nessa¡¯s bakery some miles away from the house.


    ¡°After seeding in taking him away from me, you could remember of your bakery ande around here to make sales huh¡­¡± she referred to the innocent woman who kept staring at her.


    Vanessa won¡¯t take it likely with her this time. If she had looked at her the first time, then that¡¯s because she won¡¯t fight her at her own home.


    But then, the bakery is hers. Therefore, she won¡¯t stand hopelessly and watch Lilian a bit more than she can chew.


    ¡°If you loved him so dearly and wouldn¡¯t want another woman to take him away from you, why then did you leave him to be alone in such condition? Why Lilian? You are selfish, you know that Right?¡± Vanessa screeched at her.


    She dashed into the building. ¡°I can see. So you¡¯re nning to take him away from me huh?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have anything to do with your fiance okay. Xavier was in a critical condition, so I had to offer him some help through my doctor. That¡¯s all.¡± She exined.


    She smiled in a hostile manner. ¡°Vanessa you lie. Even before you were employed, you¡¯ve been looking for a way to take that young man away from me¡­ isn¡¯t it?¡±Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Please Lilian, go grab your towel on where you took a shower and end all this jabbering. Reconcile with your fiance and make peace with him¡­¡± shemented to her hearing.


    Lilian gasped in shock. ¡°You just said that I¡¯m jabbering?¡± She scolded but Vanessa looked off her.


    She yanked her on the hair drawing her backward. Vanessa swirled her neck to face her, and then shended on Lilian¡¯s cheek with a resounding p.


    Lilian staggered trying to bring herself together. She lifted her face and red at Vanessa.


    ¡°You raised your hand on me, bitch.¡± She referred to Vanessa who stood at a ce waiting for her retaliation.


    She nodded to that question while pulling her lips into a smile filled with anger.


    ¡°Yes, I did. And I¡¯ll do it again if you dare me. Lilian, I looked off you only because of Xavier, and then it¡¯s your home. But you see, this is my bakery and I promise to give you the best of what you want if you try my patience again¡­¡± Vanessa dered openly to her.


    Lilian tried stepping forward but found herself stiffened at a ce.


    ¡°I promise to deal with you with myst sweat, you can¡¯t just escape my wrath this way¡­¡± Lilian assured her and consoled herself too.


    She wouldn¡¯t believe a mere babysitter would raise her palm on her.


    Gosh! It¡¯s damn irritating.


    At this point, she must go to all extent just to deal with Vanessa.


    ¡°So who weed you in Nessa¡¯s bakery? The scene you created in my home isn¡¯t enough that you paid her a horrible visit¡­¡± a masculine but familiar voice sounded in her ears.


    Her neck turned backward to get Xavier standing beside his car but has not a bit of smile on his face.

 Chapter 21

    A deep silence fell between the three who stood staring at each other. Lilian couldn¡¯t believe that Xavier was still around, and at the moment¡­ she doesn¡¯t need to get him more upset.


    She turned her back instantly and left Nessa¡¯s bakery. Of all the voices Xavier raised calling back her attention, she ignored them and left them.


    Xavier thought of leaving. No! He can¡¯t just leave Vanessa in that annoying mood, thatdy needs to brighten up her face.


    He walked into the bakery and stood behind the seat but was unable to get his ass on it.


    ¡°Vanessa¡­¡± he called out her name.


    The innocentdy turned to face her, she had that look of i-want-to-be-alone vividly on her face.


    Xavier studied her facial expression, he wouldn¡¯t want to be told that thedy is pissed off already due to Lilian¡¯s action toward her.


    She helped her. Yes, she did. If it wasn¡¯t for her, he wouldn¡¯t be on her feet at the moment.


    ¡°Forgive Lilian and forgive me too, Vanessa. For the sake of my little daughter¡­¡±


    Nessa nced at him and circled her lips, the word ¡®forgiveness¡¯ doesn¡¯t flow in her at the moment.


    ¡°I know you might be thinking of quitting this job right now because of her rudeness. But please, even if you will disregard everyone including me, just don¡¯t forget that Chloe loves you so much and can¡¯t just be without you¡­ I¡¯m begging you, please Vanessa¡­¡± he pleaded politely.


    Nessa kept her gaze constantly on him, she wouldn¡¯t believe a wealthy man like Xavier will almost go on his knees just in pleas.


    She heaved a big sigh and got seated on the chair.


    ¡°You know what? I guess it¡¯s all my fault, if I had left without being back to know how you¡¯re faring, this wouldn¡¯t have taken ce. Lilian wouldn¡¯t have been thinking negatively of my hospitality¡­¡± she stated.


    Xavier understood how she felt at the moment, he wouldn¡¯t me the innocentdy to take care of him that way.


    Besides, if not for Vanessa¡­ he wouldn¡¯t have gotten the strength to speak or rather move.


    ¡°I¡¯m still pleading, Vanessa. Don¡¯t take this so seriously, and don¡¯t ever forget that I¡¯m the one who employed you¡­ not Lilian.¡±


    He got seated beside her.


    ¡°You just said it and it seems so easy for you, but in all¡­ I won¡¯t let thatdy you refer to as your fiance step on my feet for any reason¡­¡± she dered openly.


    Xavier nodded and got on his feet. ¡°She¡¯s your fellow woman, so I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll affix myself with this issue¡­ but please, take good care of Chloe.¡±


    He left the bakery and stepped into his car after going through his cell phone for a moment.


    Vanessa watched him drive off to the way leading to hispany.


    She went into deep thought, surely about Lilian and no one else. Thatdy isn¡¯t the reason she is working there, and so she won¡¯t let her treat her like an animal.


    Lilian is not yet his wife by the way, so there¡¯s every reason that she needs toport herself and focus on building a great home with her fiance. Not walking about roaring like a lion looking for who to devour.


    If she ever keeps mute towards her, then she might be her tool in no time.


    Just like Xavier stated¡­ Chloe is the reason she¡¯s found present in that home, or rather¡­ she will quit the job for good.


    But the health of the innocent girl matters to her a lot. She can¡¯t forsake her when she needs one that will treat her like a mother.


    If only Lilian isn¡¯t arrogant, it¡¯s her responsibility to handle every issue concerning Chloe. Therefore, she wouldn¡¯t want the girl you feel bad due for her absence.


    **********


    Lilian had dozed off while waiting for Xavier to return, she had thought the man wasing back home.


    Well, she¡¯s unaware that Xavier left thepany and didn¡¯t bother to let her know.


    Since she had decided to ignore her even in public, he had to let her be for good.


    She was awoken by the fullness of her dder that needed to be relieved, and instantly, she returned to the room after making use of the restroom.


    ¡°He isn¡¯t yet back, I¡¯m just sure he isn¡¯t with Vanessa or I¡¯ll skin thatdy alive.¡± She muttered to herself while moving towards the door.


    She climbed down the stairs to the sitting room, but couldn¡¯t find a single soul in the building. Every corner of the house was so quiet.


    A gasp escaped her throat. ¡°He left to work without letting me know huh? No! Xavier can¡¯t just do that..¡± she moved to the kitchen and disclosed the refrigerator.


    Her eyes caught a meal filled in an aluminum dip te, and she grabbed it out.


    Not again, but she will do it again.


    ¡°Tracy will prepare their lunch once they¡¯re back¡­¡± she assured herself while microwaving the meal.


    She moved to the dining and got seated, behind the te of food is a ss of fruit juice. She began gobbling on the meal proving how hungry she was.


    It took her minutes to empty the te and clean up the table before she left the sitting room and turned on the television.


    The doorbell rang and was wrapped open, she watched as Chloe strode in followed by her siblings as they all greeted and left upstairs.


    ¡°I¡¯m very hungry, sis,¡± Chloe announced just as she pulled out her clothes serially and left her room.


    Tracy alerts Ben to meet them in the dining room so they can take their meal as well.


    ¡°Hope you learned well today, Chloe?¡± Tracy referred to the little girl.


    She nodded. ¡°My teacher gave me a take-home assignment today again, you¡¯ll help me do it right?¡±Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sure. But after taking a nap, you need to rest your brain first.¡± Tracy uttered.


    Chloe smiled at that assurance and got seated on the dining chair, while Tracy left to get their meal in the kitchen.


    She noticed her sister out of the kitchen but with a grimace look on her face.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Tracy,¡± Ben asked, standing from the seat.


    She moved out of the dining room to the sitting room. Tears almost gathered in her eyes.


    ¡°You are our meal again. Why? Must you always empty the te without preparing another meal?¡± She yelled out of anger.


    The anger roaming in her was obvious, the bites and rumbling of her stomach out of hunger wasn¡¯t getting calm at all.


    ¡°And is it ever a big deal to prepare another huh?¡± Lilian retorted, getting on her feet.


    Ben sighted how intense the matter is getting and moved towards them.


    ¡°You did it the first time, and now you repeated it. What sort of human being are you? I bet you can never make a good mother¡­¡± Ben remarked annoyingly.


    She got seated ignoring them.


    ¡°I hate you even with thest blood running in my veins. If it isn¡¯t a big deal, why then didn¡¯t you pretend another? Of course, you know we must be hungry once we¡¯re back from school¡­¡± Tracy roared.


    Chloe twitched towards her and hit her thigh. ¡°You¡¯re so antagonistic. I will never watch my father bring you into this home as a wife, and besides, I¡¯ll let him know once he¡¯s back.¡±


    She drew the little girl¡¯s lips and then pushed her to the floor, she hit her left arm on the table beforending on the ground.


    Heaven knows she had hated this child from the first day Xavier announced his children to her.


    She won¡¯t love to see them around her for any reason. If it¡¯s easy for her to wipe them out of the house or rather the world, she won¡¯t hesitate to do that.


    But she¡¯s quite sure that the famous multi-billionaire does not spare her life if anything happens to them.


    ¡°Trust me, you¡¯ll ever regreting into this home. I just wish dad would hear us out, but he wouldn¡¯t..¡± she sniffed and wiped her face while helping Chloe get on her feet. ¡°I promise you, the spell you used on my father will soon vanish because my mother will never watch you treat us this way.¡±


    She smiled and rxed on the chair. ¡°When you are done, then you can go prepare lunch.¡±


    Probably, if it¡¯s easier for her to spellbound Xavier, she would do that. But it¡¯s never easy.


    Xavier is a human from another, but one thing is that the love and trust he had for her is enormous.


    Talking about the dead soul, she believes the woman has gone to rest for good so she would take control of her husband and everything that belongs to him.


    She picked up her cellphone and began scrolling through it.


    Few hours left for Xavier to arrive home, and between two things¡­ one must surely happen.

 Chapter 22

    Chloe sat with Nessa on the sofa just opposite her bed, she had been keeping herself with Vanessa¡¯s cell phone while she arranged and parked her hair to a different style.


    She kept feeling haunted about Xavier¡¯s return having it in mind that he¡¯s supposed to be at the time.


    Chloe cut short her thoughts by handing the cell phone over to her again.


    ¡°I¡¯m done ying games, would you sing for me?¡± The little girlmented.


    She nced at her and smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll sing for you, but not now. I¡¯ll do that when it¡¯s time to get to bed¡­¡±


    Chloe nodded. She got on her feet and stood between her thighs.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t eat again in the afternoon when I was back from school.¡± She stated.


    Vanessa shook her head concluding everything to be a joke. She had known this little girl to be a type that ys a lot.


    ¡°You are not saying anything, ma¡¯am Vanessa. Okay, I see now¡­ you like it when I¡¯m hungry right?¡± Chloe referred to her.


    She shook her head again, this time amusingly. ¡°Not at all sweetheart, but I¡¯m quite sure that my baby jokes a lot.¡±


    ¡°Not this time, I¡¯m being serious. I didn¡¯t take lunch today like the other day¡­¡± she announced.


    Nessa dropped the cell phone she had been scrolling just to hear her out. There must be something serious about her starving at noon.


    ¡°You just decided not to eat right? So you can prove to me how strong you are even when you¡¯re starved¡­¡± Vanessa contemted.


    Chloe jumped on her body while grinning. ¡°Ma¡¯am Lilian ate our lunch and didn¡¯t prepare another one. She insisted that Tracy would do that or we would rather starve¡­¡±


    ¡°And Tracy didn¡¯t prepare another huh?¡± Vanessa asked, running her fingers in her hair.


    She nodded and smiled. ¡°Yes, she didn¡¯t and we starved.¡±


    Vanessa kept mute over the issue, she doesn¡¯t want to say a word again about Lilian in order not to raise a quarrel again.


    But she wondered. She wondered how thedy would have the heart to starve children that upy her.


    Gosh! Maybe she forgets one thing, that a day wille when she will have hers and the child will be treated just like she¡¯s doing to the innocent children.


    And then, one thing she must have forgotten. That the children upied her in the building. If they want her to leave, she must vanish from their home even if Xavier wants her to stay.


    But it¡¯s kinda impossible to believe she¡¯s treating them that way because no man ys pranks with his children¡­ and therefore, if Xavier ever finds out that everything is true about her, then he won¡¯t let her go just that way.


    He will threaten her, and that¡¯s the fact about it.


    ¡°Chloe, you should havee to me so I can give you something to eat rather than starving. I don¡¯t want you to have issues with her, she¡¯s gonna be your stepmother soon¡­¡± Lilian announced to the hearing of the little girl.


    She lifted her face to stare at Vanessa so clearly. That sentence she made, atst, is wrong to her.


    ¡°That can never happen. Stepmother to hell. I can¡¯t watch her be my stepmother, she¡¯s so hostile, or don¡¯t you get what I mean?¡±


    She gripped Vanessa¡¯s palm so tight and all her gaze was on her.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t have the quality of a good mother, she can¡¯t even take care of my father. Ma¡¯am Vanessa, you forgot that she left my father alone and left when he was so down¡­ I don¡¯t love her, and if dad insists that he will get married to her, then I¡¯ll make this home ufortable for her¡­¡± she stated and rxed on her body again.


    Her lips circled out of anger. Vanessa continuously stared at her, this is the first day she¡¯s seeing the little girl so annoyed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell your father, I¡¯ll speak to her myself¡­¡± she assured but she shook her head disagreeing with that.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, but I must tell dad.¡± She got down from her thigh and folded the long sleeve she had on revealing her ankle.


    ¡°She pushed me down and I hit my ankle on the floor. Yet you expect me to keep calm when I¡¯m dying silently¡­¡± Chloe stated.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t believe her eyes, she wasn¡¯tfortable seeing the little girl¡¯s ankle swollen and reddish. She believes the pain might be much for her to bear.


    ¡°You must have done something before she pushed you down right?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Of course I let her know how wicked she is for starving us. But that¡¯s just the right thing to do¡­ I hate her so much.¡±


    Vanessa heaved a big sigh of relief, she was confused about what to say again. Probably, Lilian was wrong and that¡¯s exactly what prompted the little girl to utter such words to her.


    What she had hit neither her head nor chest on the ground?


    Gosh! Such a thing shouldn¡¯t happen again, she must talk sense to her.


    This is getting out of hand. If she would be arrogant towards her, not to the children also¡­ she must care for them.


    ¡°Chloe¡­¡± she called out.


    She nced at her and bent down again. ¡°Do you wanna give me a kiss on my cheek?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do that when you¡¯re asleep. Just want to tell you this, forgive Lilian okay. When you¡¯re back from school and there¡¯s no food¡­ juste over to the bakery and Gabe your lunch.¡± Vanessa announced her hearing.


    She nodded with a smile. ¡°Okay ma¡¯am Vanessa, thank you so much for everything you are doing for me.¡±


    Nessa lifted her into her arms and got on her feet. ¡°Your Dad must be back by now, you need to go wee him.


    She left the room to the sitting room, there sat Tracy and Ben busy with the television.


    ¡°Is your father back from work?¡± She asked them.


    Tracy nced at her and hissed very loud to Nessa¡¯s hearing. The youngdy stood watching and Ben didn¡¯t say a word.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking for me, Vanessa?¡± Xavier questioned from the stairs.


    She turned to get him toe to the sitting room. ¡°Yeah! I did. Good evening and how¡¯s your health?¡±


    He smiled and got seated. ¡°I¡¯m very strong now. Thank you so much for being a helper to me in my time of distress¡­ you don¡¯t get what you did for me.¡±


    Vanessa returned the smile and dropped Chloe on the floor, she moved to her dad instantly.


    ¡°Chloe said she will sleep at her own time, so I¡¯ll be leaving now¡­¡± she dered.


    He nodded, grinning. ¡°You¡¯ve made her change in a big way.¡±


    Chloe nced at Nessa and then her father. ¡°Goodnight ma¡¯am Vanessa. See you tomorrow.¡±


    She wished her a cool night and left the room.


    ¡°Now Tracy and Ben, tell me the reason behind you ignoring Vanessa when she asked about me,¡± Xavier asked his children.


    Tracy chiseled her face the more on hearing the question. ¡°I hate thatdy.¡±


    ¡°You hate her more than the one that does starve you right?¡± Chloe cut into her sentence.


    She red at the little girl just like the father had been staring at her.


    ¡°What do you mean Chloe? Who¡¯s the one that starves you?¡± Xavier asked.


    She left him and sat on the floor. ¡°Thedy you want to marry.¡±


    ¡°And I don¡¯t think that marriage will ever work, dad. Just let us be alone or you¡¯ll regret it.¡± Ben spoke out for the first time.


    He nced at the three of them. ¡°Is that the reason you ignored Vanessa? Do you know she¡¯s the reason I¡¯m sitting with you here?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care for any reason, she¡¯s just the same as the others. Dad, she¡¯s just pretending so you will love her, while the hell of a woman you kept here cannot y the role of a mother, talk more of a wife¡­¡± Tracy added annoyingly.


    Chloe affixed her gaze on her father¡¯s face, that look is so weird.


    ¡°She ate the whole meal again without preparing another for us, when we asked her she yelled at us¡­ and when I approached her, she pushed me down and I hit my ankle on the floor,¡± Chloe announced.


    Xavier¡¯s eyes widened as he nced at them all.


    ¡°She did what?¡± He asked again, just to make sure he isn¡¯t deaf.


    ¡°Common dad, she pushed Chloe down.¡± Ben retorted.


    Lilian pushed my daughter down. She starved my children again. And hasn¡¯t said a word to me since I came back home. The sentences kept hitting his ear.


    This is so ridiculous, but something else.


    ¡°What offense did Imit that Lilian is doing this to me and my children? I weed her here to spend days with us before our marriage, but she¡¯s doing the unexpected.¡± He licked his lips and rxed on the sofa. ¡°She has always imed to love my family.¡± He thought again.


    Chloe tapped him but he ignored it. ¡°Should I believe this so easily? What if they had insulted her because they never loved her? Must she keep starving them all the time?¡±Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    This question he wasn¡¯t able to answer, he shook his head and got on his feet.


    The three children watched him climb the stairs until he vanished from their sight.

 Chapter 23

    ¡°Lilian¡­¡± Xavier called out while in the corridor. He pushed the door open to get her asleep on the bed.


    He twitched towards her and tapped her awake. She narrowed her eyes, staring at him like he was a stranger to her.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Xavier? You just woke me up while I¡¯m deep asleep.¡± She uttered reluctantly while wiping her face.


    Xavier gave her an annoying look, his res alone would jail her up at the moment.


    ¡°You starved my children again, Lilian. Must we always quarrel about one issue each time?¡± He yelled.


    She got seated on the bed still staring at him. He knew that Xavier would roar at her once he was back, and this time he might not take it easy with her.


    Then, she needs to spare herself this shit. She needs to relieve himself from his queries.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about this first, Xavier. You left to work without letting me know huh?¡± She asked him.


    He heaved a big sigh. If only Lilian knows how he feels within him, he won¡¯t throw such an annoying question.


    ¡°Lillian, you must be insane for asking me such an unnecessary question¡­¡±


    She got down from the bed. Xavier is turning to something else. This is not the man he met earlier.


    ¡°You just referred to my question as unnecessary huh? Ok then, you have to hold your question¡­¡± she spluttered and dashed into the bathroom.


    Xavier kept staring at the door until she twitched out again.


    ¡°After all the cautions I gave you because of these children, you went ahead emptying the tes without preparing another meal for them.¡± He roared.


    Lilian gasped. Her eyelids lifted as he stared at him.


    ¡°You abandoned me and left to work without letting me know, then you expect me to starve until your return, and then because of your children¡­ Xavier, who does that.¡±


    His palms transfixed on his waist as he paced around the room, the inner of him burning in anger.


    ¡°Why is it so difficult for you to prepare a meal?¡±


    ¡°Since you care to know, I¡¯ll announce it.¡± She moved closer to him and stood directly opposite him. ¡°I can¡¯t have Tracy here and still go into that kitchen to prepare a meal. Hope you get it now..¡±


    He couldn¡¯t believe his ears. Practically, Lilian is turning his children into ves.


    ¡°I never believed that you would starve my children just because of yourziness. But then, thank you for letting me know the real you.¡±


    He paused and wiped his face. ¡°Lilian, you can¡¯t mother a child, and you can¡¯t take care of me either.¡±


    ¡°Despite my health condition, you left me to die in pain. Why won¡¯t I believe that you can murder me soon


    Take your time and have a rethink towards this sudden change, or you will regret it when the time iste.¡± He concluded.


    Lilian nodded, smiling. ¡°Yeah! When the time iste, which means¡­ when you will marry Vanessa in rece of me right.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t dare mention Vanessa¡¯s name again. Respect and follow her footsteps so you will be able to make a good mother¡­¡± he stated and left the room.


    She bit her finger out of anger. Her heart beat increased and she ced her left palm on her chest.


    What the f*ck is going on with her now? She can¡¯t think straight again.


    Losing Xavier to another woman is one thing she doesn¡¯t wish to take ce. But everything had changed between them.


    She wouldn¡¯t want to go the extra way to hurt him either, yet the presence of Vanessa in the home as a worker kept pissing her off.


    If she keeps mute, then Vanessa might take Xavier away from her. Then man us everything she has at that moment.


    His riches and wealth she desires a lot and she won¡¯t let some other women take away what legally belongs to her.


    Oh No! She can¡¯t let this happen.


    As it stands, she feels that Xavier is under the control of Vanessa and that he doesn¡¯t think of appealing her request.


    But, she will stand to take what rightfully belongs to her.


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


    In the morning, Tracy prepared breakfast as usual and they began getting dressed for school.


    Xavier had arrived at the dining room and got seated while she served her father a te of noodles and a cup of tea with slices of bread.


    She watched her father gobble on the meal even though he had filled his stomach the previous night.


    ¡°Dad, I hope you talked to your wifest night. I¡¯m saying this because I can¡¯t take it any longer from her.¡± Tracy asked her father.


    He rolled his eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry, I¡¯ve cautioned her and such a thing won¡¯t take ce again.¡± He assured her.


    Tracy nodded and smiled. She left the dining room to the stairs to join her siblings in dressing up.


    ¡°Chloe¡­¡± Vanessa called out once she arrived.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She dashed into her room to get her brushing her teeth. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry to bete today, I had some challenges.¡±


    Chloe turned and nced at her. ¡°Good morning ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± She was still busy with her teeth.


    ¡°Good morning sweetheart, you slept well right?¡± She asked her.


    She nodded. ¡°I did, what sort of challenges did you have?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to bother yourself about it. Just be quick so you can dress up.¡± Vanessa replied while seated on the bed.


    She was through with brushing and then met Nessa seated on the bed.


    ¡°Do you know that I can get dressed for school myself?¡± Chloe referred to Vanessa who was busy with her clothes.


    She nodded. ¡°Of course, there¡¯s nothing tough for you to do.¡±


    Nessa was done with arranging her clothes and then she took her to the bathroom so she would take a shower.


    Within minutes, she was already out and began putting on her school clothes.


    Tracy announced to her from the doorpost toe downstairs for breakfast which she didn¡¯t hesitate to do.


    ¡°This might be lunch too,¡± Chloe uttered while leaving the room.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t stop smiling at that sentence, she had known Chloe to act ridiculous towards many things.


    The children were so fast with their meal, though their Father had left before them.


    Tracy alerted the driver to drive them to school, and Chloe waved Vanessa goodbye before stepping into the car.


    *********


    After the children had left for school, Vanessa went back to Chloe¡¯s room to get it stalked and arranged.


    She sorted her clothes which were on the sofa and kept the dirty ones aside forundry.


    If only she was less busy at the bakery, she would wash them all. But there are lots of orders from her patronizers, and she needs to get them ready on time.


    Once she was done cleaning up the bedroom and the restroom, she decided to go meet Vanessa about the incident Chloe had told her urred again.


    She needs to talk to her before things get out of hand.


    While on the stairs, she was so lucky to get to the dining table already having her breakfast.


    She waited patiently for her in the sitting room until she was done and met her seated.


    ¡°What do I have to offer a bitch? You are supposed to be at your bakery by now¡­¡± Lilian referred to Vanessa.


    She swallowed deeply trying not to curse back at her at the moment.


    ¡°You can call me whatever you like, but I just want you to do this for me. At least for the sake of Xavier¡¯ste wife¡­¡±


    ¡°And what is it all about this time? Just have something to say or I¡¯ll kick your ass from that sofa.¡± Lilian retorted.


    She nodded. ¡°It¡¯s about Xavier¡¯s children. This is the second time I¡¯m getting theint of you starving them while they prepared their lunch before leaving for school¡­¡±


    Lilian affixed her stares on her.


    ¡°It¡¯s just not fair, Lilian. You¡¯ll be getting married to Xavier soon, and it¡¯s your responsibility to take good care of these children. For heaven¡¯s sake, they¡¯re just like a kid to you.¡± She stated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if you hate me, Lilian. And I will never care because I¡¯m working for Xavier, not you. It¡¯s nothing good to see you quarrel with your fiance over something meaningful..¡± Vanessa added.


    She stood on her feet moving to the sides of the room. Her arms got folded beneath her burst.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard enough of all this Miss Vanessa. This is something between me and Xavier, not you okay. I am not treating the children badly, but if you think then go ahead¡­Maybe you spellbinding Xavier to always believe in everything you say, but I¡¯ll make sure to tie him to my heart.¡±


    She paused her movement and faced Vanessa fully. Her lips circled and she let out an aggressive smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re done with your morning duty, right? Chloe is not present now, so kindly stand on your feet and leave back to your bakery.¡± She ordered her.


    Vanessa quietly got on her feet and grabbed her handbag.


    ¡°Just mark my words.¡± That was all she said and left through the door.

 Chapter 24

    Just, as usual, Lilian was under the roof alone, but the only difference is that she didn¡¯t bother to take the kid¡¯s lunch to eat.


    When she felt the hunger in her, she searched Xavier¡¯s bed drawer and took some cash from the envelope she saw, and then left to a nearby eatery to get something for herself, not bothering Xavier¡¯s reaction once he was back.


    She sat on the sofa in the sitting room after gobbling on the meal she got, her eyes affixed to the television.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Within minutes, she fell asleep and she didn¡¯t notice when the kids were back from school.


    Tracy twitched into the kitchen first, just to make sure their lunch is still untouched.


    Thanks to heaven. She didn¡¯t touch the food and talked more about emptying it. She pulled out from the refrigerator before leaving upstairs to pull off her clothes.


    When he was done taking a quick shower, she stepped back into the kitchen and microwaved the food, after which she served it in the dining room.


    Chloe was the happiest to see their lunch save and set, she wouldn¡¯t want to disturb ma¡¯am Vanessa because of theunch when there¡¯s much to prepare in her home.


    They all sat down and began biting on the meal gradually. It¡¯s merriment to them indeed.


    ¡°Dad cautioned her right? If not so, we would have starved today again.¡± Ben stated while ncing at thedy whoy on the sofa asleep.


    Tracy nodded. ¡°He said so when I asked him this morning before he left, I guess that¡¯s why she looked away from the kitchen since she can¡¯t prepare a meal.¡±


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t suit to be a mother, who will prepare dad¡¯s meal when we aren¡¯t around? Or does it mean that she¡¯s nning to starve my father?¡± Ben asked, referring to no one.


    He dropped his spoon on the te. ¡°Tracy, I believe she knows how to cook, but she¡¯s toozy to do that when there are lots of foodstuffs already packed.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I wished she would leave our lunch alone, so I won¡¯t disturb ma¡¯am Vanessa when there is lots of foodstuff in my home,¡± Chloe added.


    Tracy nced at the little girl and smiled. Chloe will never stop amusing them.


    Her siblings and father had noticed this, she can¡¯t make a sentence without mentioning Vanessa in his words.


    ¡°How important thatdy is to you, Chloe. Tell me more about her? How does she treat you?¡± Tracy questioned the little girl.


    She lifted her eyelids, staring at her elder sister whom she knew had never loved to set her eyes on Vanessa.


    ¡°If I tell you more about her, will you wee and start loving her? Or I should just waste my strength.¡± Chloe uttered angrily.


    Ben snapped her face and smiled. ¡°Whether we love her or not, you love her so much already and dad is pleasing you.¡±


    ¡°Not only that, dad is pleasing to me and also loves her. That¡¯s because if he doesn¡¯t, she won¡¯t be employed no matter what. Aren¡¯t you getting me?¡± Little Chloe remarked.


    Tracy couldn¡¯t hold herughter, her little sister was pissing her off with funny words.


    But to Chloe, it doesn¡¯t sound funny at all. She meant every word that escaped from her lips.


    ¡°So will you tell how she treats you now?¡±


    ¡°Uhmmm! She¡¯s so kind, cheerful, loving, and caring to me. She doesn¡¯t feel like singing for me and cuddling me to bed, only if I want to stay awake. Staring at her beautiful face makes me happy, I just wish dad will get married to her just like thisdy.¡± She announced.


    Tracy tapped her cheek annoyingly. ¡°Shut your mouth, what do you know about marriage?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just pretending to be good, once dad shows interest in her, everything will change within a second,¡± Ben added.


    Chloe chiseled her face, she had known that they would speak ill of her babysitter, and that¡¯s why she didn¡¯t want to say anything about her.


    ¡°I just regret telling you two all this.¡± She continued with her food while frowning.


    Tracy tapped her arm. ¡°You don¡¯t need to regret it, we understand how much she loves and cares for you, but the fact is that we don¡¯t love neither her nor the other.¡±


    She hissed loudly to their hearing, but they couldn¡¯t say a word.


    ¡°Maintain table manners, don¡¯t talk while eating,¡± Ben stated.


    Tracy red at him. ¡°After you¡¯re done vomiting everything outta your throat.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s time you start giving me the respect I deserve, we don¡¯t mate and you know that,¡± Ben uttered with a serious look, but within him, he isn¡¯t sad.


    A wide smile appeared on Tracy¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir.¡±


    ¡°Good of you,¡± Ben responded and they all giggled.


    Ben packed up the tes while Tracy cleaned up the table after they were done with their meal.


    They all stepped out of the veranda and got seated on the cushions entertaining themselves with folks and tales they were taught at school.


    ¡°Examination will soonmence, so we¡¯re gonna be reading at night again.¡± Chloe reminded them.


    They all burst intoughter.


    ¡°And you will be awake with us right?¡± Tracy asked her.


    The unknown won¡¯t stop sleeping at that time, though atst, shees back in the best position.


    ording to Chloe, she prefers reading in the daytime and that she doesn¡¯t fail to do it once she¡¯s back from school during examinations.


    ¡°Is this the beginning or middle of the term, Ben?¡± Tracy inquired.


    ¡°The beginning.¡± He replied.


    ¡°You all shoulde into the sitting room.¡± A feminine familiar voice paused their discussion.


    They all nced back to see that it was Lilian seeking their attention.


    ¡°Why¡¯s she calling us?¡± Chloe asked.


    They nced at her and helped her down from the chair but couldn¡¯t answer the question.


    It took them seconds to step into the sitting room as ordered by Lilian.


    ¡°Get on your knees instantly, all of you. Don¡¯t stare at me that way, just do what I said.¡± Lilian ordered them.


    They nced at each other feeling haunted.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just possible to get on our knees so easily without knowing our offense. You need to tell us what crime wemitted.¡± Ben stated.


    Her eyes widened while staring at them, she got on her feet and moved towards Ben giving him a loud hit on the cheek.


    ¡°How dare you question my order, little boy?¡± She roared.


    Tracy bit her lips multiple times. ¡°How dare youy your hands on my brother? You think I¡¯m scared of you huh?¡±


    She nced at Tracy and smiled. ¡°I don¡¯t want to repeat it, get on your knees for thest time.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s obey her first and then listen to what she¡¯s about to say,¡± Chloe advised.


    They all knelt while ring at her.


    ¡°That¡¯s so good. Now I¡¯d like to get an answer to this question. Why would you tell your father that I starved you when I didn¡¯t?¡± He asked them.


    They nced at each other.


    ¡°But we told the truth and you know that, of course, you starved us and stayed hungry until dinner was prepared at night.¡± Tracy narrated.


    She pped her lips.


    ¡°When there are lots of foodstuffs here, why can¡¯t you prepare another for yourselves?¡±


    Tracy burst out in tears. ¡°And then, what¡¯s so difficult for you to prepare yours and leave ours? But because of yourziness, you couldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°Let us go please, we don¡¯t have any business with you. My dad scolded you because what you did was wrong and that¡¯s why you weren¡¯t able to do it again.¡± Chloe uttered amidst tears already.


    Sighting her two elder ones shedding tears, she couldn¡¯t hold it again. Releasing the tears was now the best option for her.


    ¡°Shut your mouth you little brat. Soonest you¡¯ll lose Vanessa as your babysitter.¡± Lilian scolded her.


    Tracy contorted her face. ¡°She isn¡¯t a little brat and will never lose her babysitter. Dad can never sack her, rather will kick you out either.¡±


    She bit her tongue. After referring to Lilian she couldn¡¯t believe she just backed up thedy she had never loved. Anyways, it means nothing.


    ¡°Now, listen to me very carefully. Don¡¯t you ever, don¡¯t even think of reporting me to your father again. That won¡¯t stop our marriage.¡± She dered.


    Ben hissed. ¡°That¡¯s what you think huh? It¡¯s just the opposite of it though.¡±


    ¡± What¡¯s going on here? Chloe, where are you? Lillian, what¡¯s going on?¡± A voice drew their attention once the door was pushed open.


    Chloe sighted Vanessa and got on her feet running toward her.


    ¡°She¡¯s punishing us because we told dad that she starved yesterday.¡± The little girl narrated.


    Her eyes widened. She wouldn¡¯t believe Lilian will reach this extent.


    ¡°After everything I told you in the morning, you went ahead punishing innocent kids..¡± Vanessa uttered out of annoyance.


    Lilian smiled inwardly. ¡°Get your lips off this, Vanessa.¡±


    ¡°What are you two still doing there? Stand on your feet immediately.¡± She turned to Lilian with a frowned face. ¡°Lilian, do your worst.¡±


    The doorbell rang and was pushed open. Xavier stepped in like one in a worry.


    ¡°Why are you all standing with a chiseled face?¡± He asked in general. His eyes met Chloe who gripped Vanessa so tight. ¡°Chloe, why are you shedding tears?¡±


    Lilian tried approaching him but he hindered her from getting closer to him.


    ¡°She punished us today,¡± Tracy announced at his hearing.


    His eyes widened. ¡°Lilian, you did what¡­?¡±

 Chapter 25

    ¡°Lilian, you did what?¡± He questioned her. Their eyes widened revealing how angry he felt.


    She couldn¡¯t say a word. Her eyes only studied the humans in the sitting room. That¡¯s just shit.


    She was unaware that Xavier would be back so early. Uhmmm! He never let them know of being back so early, and it¡¯s high time he returned by the time.


    ¡°I¡¯ve done my best just to make sure you treat this child like yours, but all to no avail.¡± He bit his lips, shutting his eyes closed. ¡°Tell me, Lilian, what is it that I haven¡¯t done for you?¡±


    Lilian twisted her lips, she red at Vanessa and then at the children. She rubbed her hair with her left palm and then released a loud hiss within them.


    Xavier watched her climb upstairs without giving a single answer to any of his questions. He turned to see his children all moody.


    ¡°Did she hurt?¡± He asked no one in particr.


    Ben nodded. ¡°She did.¡±


    Xavier clutched his palms, he swallowed deeply just to let go of every annoying feeling within him. Biting his lips is one thing he doesn¡¯t fail to do once in such a mood.


    His eyes caught Vanessa as she enveloped Chloe in her arms. There wasn¡¯t a single smile on her face.


    ¡°What did you get her doing, Vanessa?¡± He referred to the youngdy.


    Vanessa stretched her lips, but couldn¡¯t put a smile on her face.


    ¡°Mr. Xavier, I¡¯ll advise you to let everything go, just talk to her when in the mood. Honestly, I won¡¯t bear it anymore seeing little Chloe under punishment without a reason.¡± She narrated.


    Xavier nodded. ¡°I promise to talk to her just like I¡¯ve been doing, but please try to forgive all her ignorant acts.¡±


    Chloe ran to him lifting her arms, he lifted her and left upstairs.


    Ben and Tracy stood staring at Vanessa as she climbed the stairs too. They believed she was leaving for Chloe¡¯s bedroom.


    ¡°I just thank God for thisdy, she saved us.¡± Ben started getting seated on the sofa.


    Tracy moved to him and got seated too. ¡°You¡¯re trying to believe that she¡¯s kind of just doing this to gain our heart and attention.¡±


    ¡°Probably not what I think. Though Dad didn¡¯t hesitate to arrive, who knows what she had nned to do with us?¡± Ben added, his two palms gripping his head.


    She shook her head slightly. ¡°Ummm! But I would have loved it if dad caught us kneeling, I just want him to throw thatdy out for goodness sake. She¡¯s a devil indeed.¡±


    Ben hit her palm which she ced closer to him. ¡°Let¡¯s go upstairs and take a rest before preparing the dinner.¡±


    He got on his feet and Tracy followed him immediately. They both left to their separate rooms.


    ***********


    ¡°You walked out of my sight, not only that but ignored all my questions.¡± Xavier¡¯s hoarse voice echoed in the room.


    Lilian sat on the bed with her legs crossed against each other. She only stared at the stoutly built man standing before her.


    Would she say that it¡¯s her first time studying his body? He wasn¡¯t just handsome, but tall and huge to be feared.


    Despite how angry he felt, he still has his handsome looks on.


    Now he knows why his business partners call him the ¡®fiercest¡¯. The looks he has on when annoyed are so scary. But this time, she didn¡¯t mind.


    Those scary looks seemed sweet to her in all aspects.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t giving me an answer again.¡± His scolding voice drew her out of her silly thoughts.


    She licked her lips rxing on the wall. ¡°I did nothing to your children, they got me annoyed and I had to scold them.¡±


    ¡°They keep annoying you each time, and what¡¯s their offense then?¡± He threw back to question her.


    Lilian hissed. She wasn¡¯tfortable with the questions any longer. ¡°I need to have a rest Xavier, why are you back so early?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve taken much from you, Lilian. Don¡¯t ever make the mistake ofying your hands on my children, because if it ever happens again¡­ you won¡¯t love my actions towards you.¡± He dered.


    Lilian watched him leave the restroom, but she couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t love me anymore. His children are using him as a tool towards me all because they don¡¯t love me¡­ But I won¡¯t let everything go just that way, that children must surely pay if I lose their father¡­¡± She threatened within her.


    ********


    In the evening.


    Vanessa walked to the kitchen to get Tracy and Ben busy with the meal preparation. She peeped but they couldn¡¯t notice her presence.


    She thought of leaving but decided to call out for their attention.


    ¡°Hi kids. Do you need my help?¡± He distracted their discussion.


    They two turned their heads back to get Nessa staring at them.


    Tracy shook her head without a second thought. She has always been the one in charge of the meals and so it isn¡¯t a big deal for her.


    ¡°You¡¯re employed to babysit Chloe, not as a chef. Let me be, I can do everything myself.¡± Tracy stated without taking a nce at her.


    She shuddered.


    ¡°Your help isn¡¯t needed Miss Vanessa,¡± Ben added.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay then.¡± The assuring words escaped her throat and she left the kitchen.


    Tracy nced at Ben and frowned at her face. ¡°What does she want from us?¡±


    ¡°Maybe you will ask her some other time,¡± Ben responded immediately.


    She hit his shoulder and grinned. ¡°Silly boy, I¡¯ll use your flesh to prepare this meal, and you know it¡¯s gonna be so tasty.¡±


    They both giggled.


    ********


    After the meal was served in the dining room, Nessa came downstairs and took Chloe to her room.


    The little girl had persisted in noting to the dining, she had stated of not sighted Lilian throughout the day.


    Xavier tried as much as he could to get what was wrong with Chloe, but Vanessa hid everything from him.


    She doesn¡¯t want to spoil his mood at the moment, because everything about Chloe worries him a lot.


    Vanessa fed Chloe herself, showered her, and cuddled her to bed before leaving promising to be around very early in the morning.


    ****


    She arrived very early in the morning as she promised and left to see Chloe still asleep. It baffled her because this was the first time she was still asleep at that time.


    ¡°Chloe, it¡¯s time to get ready for school¡­¡± she called her out.


    She lifted her into her arms and made her sit on her thighs. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? It¡¯s everything okay?¡±


    Chloe narrowed her eyes, staring at thedy who was so busy staring at her. ¡°I¡¯m very weak today, I don¡¯t feel like going to school.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to say that, this is thest day of school for this week. Try as much as you can.¡± She uttered while pulling off her nightwear.


    She stretched her arm reluctantly and leaned on Vanessa¡¯s chest.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to school if you wille to pick me up yourself.¡±


    Vanessa let her lips agape. This little girl will always bring up one condition each time


    ¡°But you have a driver that does that, and you expect me to leave my bakery to pick you up from school.¡± She remarked trying not to reveal how shocked she was.


    Chloe nced at her face and sniffed. ¡°Ok then, I¡¯ll spend the whole day in your bakery once I¡¯m back from school.¡±


    She eded to that condition rather. ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll get a special cupcake ready for you.¡±Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    A wide smile appeared on Chloe¡¯s face on hearing that promise.


    ¡°Thank you so much, ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± Her arms wrapped around her chest.


    She got down from her thigh and went straight to the bathroom to brush her teeth, while Nessa was getting her school clothes ready on the bed.


    When she was through, she showered her and then began dressing her up for school.


    Just like he did thest night, Vanessa got her breakfast into the room and fed her.


    When the driver arrived, she led her out of the house and bid her farewell. She stood at the surroundings staring around but had nothing in mind at the moment.


    It struck her mind to go get ready and leave for her bakery, but she turned backward and caught Xavier twitching towards her.


    ¡°You¡¯rete to work today, Mr. Xavier.¡± She uttered, referring to the young man who revealed his white crystal teeth.


    She returned the smile instantly.


    ¡°I have a conference meeting you attend this morning before leaving for my office, I¡¯m in a hurry because I couldn¡¯t wake up early¡­¡± he narrated.


    Vanessa kept pouting her lips while he uttered.


    ¡°Sure you took your breakfast huh?¡±


    He stood motionless releasing a deep breath through his nostrils. He nced at Vanessa and bent his head low.


    How is he gonna say this now? Will she grant him the favor when she does have issues with Lilian because of him?


    ¡°Uhmmm! I didn¡¯t¡­ and.¡± He paused, not knowing what to say again.


    She smiled at the statement, it sounded silly to her.


    ¡°Really? You didn¡¯t take anything before leaving? Trying to starve yourself today huh?¡± She asked serially.


    Xavier licked his lips. ¡°Would you help me with my meal in mypany? I¡¯ll appreciate it, please.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t know yourpany, and then your¡­ .¡±


    He shut her up instantly, he had known what she was about to utter.


    ¡°Just forget everything please, you can prepare the meal here. I¡¯ll be in my office in three hours. Miss Vanessa, please do me this favor.¡± He pleaded politely.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t say a word anymore, she only stiffened at ce watching the man who is requesting a favor that should be granted by his fiancee.

 Chapter 26

    ¡°This request is so polite¡­ I should prepare his meal and get it to his office.¡± She thought, circling her lips. She felt baffled at the moment, not knowing what to give as an answer.


    Xavier stood patiently waiting for her response, he had known the hunger won¡¯t spare him once he leaves the conference meeting back to hispany.


    He doesn¡¯t feel like getting a meal from the eatery, he prefers to get a different taste for the day.


    ¡°What if Lilian finds out that the meal is for her fiance and then I¡¯m taking it to his office once I¡¯m done.¡± She bit her upper lip. ¡°But I can¡¯t keep the young man starving throughout the day, since his fiance doesn¡¯t care at all.¡±


    She heaved a big sigh. ¡°Isn¡¯t it better to get a meal from the eatery or resort? At least to save you the time I¡¯ll waste.¡±


    Xavier shook his head expressing how difficult it is to ede to her idea.


    ¡°I want to taste a different meal today, not from the eatery again.¡± He responded vividly.


    She had no other choice than to give in to the request, she assured him of getting the meal prepared soon and then wille over with it.


    Xavier felt happiness overwhelming him, he can¡¯t wait to ept Vanessa in his office.


    She watched him step into his car and drove off from thepound, she bid him a goodbye inwardly and then dashed into the room.


    The sitting room was so quiet, she had expected to see Lilian seated either but her expectation failed her.


    For the first time since she began working for Mr. Xavier, she stepped into the kitchen wholeheartedly.


    She began searching around the room to get hold of the foodstuff. Finally, she found them well organized and ced them carefully at the side of the building.


    Gosh! It slipped her mind asking what to prepare.


    She thought and left to get her cellphone in Chloe¡¯s room, there she contacted him and he picked up the receiver on the first ring.


    ¡°You never told me what to prepare.¡± She spoke through the phone.


    He thought. ¡°I¡¯ll just need something light so I won¡¯t doze off while on duty. Get me noodles and fried chicken wraps, make sure to add the essential nutrients needed.¡±


    ¡°Okay then.¡± She responded and hung up the call.


    It ddened her that what he requested wasn¡¯t something that would take much of her time preparing.


    She needs to hurry up with what she¡¯s doing to visit the bakery and make some sales.


    While she was busy cooking in the kitchen, she heard footsteps approaching the kitchen.


    She doesn¡¯t need to be told that it¡¯s Lilian. The worst enemy she has, and will never be prey to her.


    ¡°What the heck is going on here? Miss Vanessa, who ordered you to step into this kitchen?¡± She queried her.


    Vanessa nced at her and looked away, jabbering with her that this early morning isn¡¯t what she wants.


    ¡°I¡¯m I not speaking to a human? To what guts do you have to step into this kitchen?¡± Lilian asked the second time.


    ¡°Mr. Xavier gave me the guts to do so.¡± That¡¯s just all she said.


    Lilian bit her lips in consternation. ¡°I bet you, Vanessa, you¡¯re digging your grave. Weren¡¯t you employed as a babysitter? Now you¡¯re the chef. And what discussion did you have with him that led to this?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Xavier left to work with an empty stomach, while he has someone like you. So because he¡¯s in a hurry to meet up with the conference meeting, he pleaded I should prepare noodles for him and get them to his office.¡± Vanessa narrated.


    Lilian hit the table out of anger. ¡°Wait for a second, he pleaded¡­ not ordered. And then requested you to get it to his office huh?¡±


    ¡°Is it a crime for him to plead, I am not either his chef or fiancee¡­ that¡¯s why he had to request because I have something else to do.¡± She replied.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°This is serious, you¡¯re just an ordinary worker and you know that right?¡±


    ¡°You said so..¡± Vanessa retorted.


    She pushed Nessa to a side dominating her position. ¡°To hell with your meal, I can¡¯t watch you spellbind Xavier.¡±


    Vanessa didn¡¯t say a word, she only washed her palms and left the kitchen to Chloe¡¯s room.


    There she grabbed her cellphone and handbag and then left the building to her bakery without notifying Lilian.


    Lilian struggled with preparing the meal herself and packaging it. She left her room and got dressed. This time, she¡¯s taking the meal herself.


    She boarded a cab that drove her to thepany and she went straight to Xavier¡¯s office.


    The doorbell rang and Xavier ordered her in. Sighting Lilian with a package of food baffled him, she wasn¡¯t expecting her either.


    ¡°Why are you shocked? Don¡¯t I have the right to visit my darling in his office again?¡± She queried, cing the meal on his table, and then got seated too.


    ¡°I prepared the meal myself, while Vanessa left for her bakery.¡± She uttered.


    He shook his head, something is wrong somewhere. This is not the Lilian that hasn¡¯t cared about his welfare all this while. This isn¡¯t thedy that has always denied his touch all night because of the quarrels.


    ¡°But you were still asleep when I left, you never cared to know how I¡¯m faring.¡± He stated.


    She got on her feet wrapping her arms around his neck. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for that, I overslept and I woke up to find your lying position empty, and then Vanessa was busy in the kitchen.¡±


    Her fingers ran through his hair, which she hasn¡¯t done for a while now.


    Xavier was so convinced that everything isn¡¯t okay, he believed that Lilian must have acted rude to Vanessa and she left.


    ¡°Wait, I¡¯ll confirm from Vanessa first.¡± He remarked and grabbed his cellphone.


    Her facial expression changed instantly. ¡°What¡¯s so special about thatdy, Xavier¡­ that you always look down on me because of her?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t get a reply to the question, Xavier turned deaf while scrolling through his contact list.


    Finally, he found her contact and dialed her line.


    ¡°Miss Vanessa, I pleaded with you to get my lunch and you eded, why to hand it over to Lilian afterward?¡± He questioned Vanessa through the phone.


    She coughed slightly. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Mr. Xavier, but it wasn¡¯t intentional. Honestly, I was preparing the noodles but Lilian pushed me out of the kitchen. To avoid such arguments, I had to leave your home.¡±


    Xavier gasped, he had known it. Lilian will never let the innocentdy be, yet she won¡¯t y her role.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay then, you have to go back to that house, prepare my noodles and get them for me right here in my office¡­ I¡¯m patiently waiting for your presence.¡± He ordered.


    Lilian widened her eyes in great shock, her mouth agape while staring at Xavier.


    ¡°Ok then, I¡¯ll do that.¡± She eded and hung up the call.


    Lilian tapped Xavier to get his attention. ¡°After the time I spent preparing this meal for you, you rejected it and insisted on eating Vanessa huh?¡±


    He red at her. ¡°You turn me down each time I need you, several times you starve my children because of yourziness to prepare a meal for them. And here you are iming to be caring because your fellow woman is handling your responsibilities.¡±


    She clenched her teeth out of annoyance. ¡°Tell me, Xavier, what¡¯s binding you with thatdy to the extent you keep choosing her over me? You aren¡¯t the Xavier that I know since you employed her.¡±


    ¡°Just like you aren¡¯t the Lilian that I¡¯ve known all this while. I¡¯ve told you several times never to step on my order, once I ce mymands, don¡¯t dare reverse it.¡±


    He got seated on his seat while Lilian stood ring at him.


    Minutes psed yet Xavier couldn¡¯t say a word to her again, she packaged the meal again and left his office.


    ********


    Immediately after the call from Xavier ended, she left back to his home. The doors aren¡¯t locked since there are securities securing the environment and everything in it.


    She moved straight to the kitchen to get the meal prepared, while the reason Xavier rejected the first prepared by Lilian kept bothering her.


    She wouldn¡¯t want to have issues with Lilian again because of him, and that¡¯s why she didn¡¯t question when Lilian pushed her away.


    Before Lilian was back home, she had already left the home to Xavier¡¯spany as directed.


    Lilian had wished to get Vanessa around once she was back, but couldn¡¯t get her anymore.


    Vanessa arrived at thepany and was directed to Xavier¡¯s office, she rang the doorbell and was ordered in.


    A young man stepped in too after her approaching Xavier with a file. When he was about to leave, he stared at Nessa for a long time until Xavier noticed that he was admiring her.


    He kept mute, but within him, the stares from his manager were something else. He wasn¡¯tfortable with it but couldn¡¯t get the reason he felt that way.


    Vanessa handed him the meal and he unwrapped it immediately.


    ¡°Did Lilian yell at you?¡± He asked.


    She shook her head. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t meet her though.¡±


    Vanessa watched him gobble on the meal, she thought of how hungry he felt.


    ¡°Thank you so much for your benevolence, Miss Vanessa.¡± He drew her attention away from her cellphone.


    She lifted her face and smiled at him, his stares were something else this time.

 Chapter 27

    After Xavier was done with his meal, he watched Vanessa pack the tes up and got them wrapped back again.


    He rxed on his chair staring at the calmdy as she was in a hurry to leave. It¡¯s been a long time since he ate such a delicious meal like the one he took.


    Anyways, Tracy is trying her best to make the meals delicious and they are too, but it can never bepared with that of Vanessa.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He can¡¯t say anything about Lilian, because since they met he hasn¡¯t had a meal prepared by her. She keeps giving one excuse or the other each time he demands to eat her meal.


    Not even her presence in his house pushed Lilian to the kitchen, she had insisted on not preparing a meal since Tracy can do that.


    This is one of the reasons he rejected her meal, he wants a meal prepared by Vanessa not her. If she minds seeing him taste her meal, then she has to do that for his children too, not because of Vanessa¡¯s presence.


    ¡°I¡¯m about to leave, Mr. Xavier.¡± Vanessa¡¯s voice drew him out of his thoughts.


    He knitted his eyebrows and smiled at her. ¡°It¡¯s okay then, thank you so much. I¡¯ll call my driver toe to drop you off.¡±


    She smiled and shook her head. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about the driver, I¡¯ll board a cab that will take me home.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s already here, once you step out of this building you¡¯ll find him parked at a side,¡± Xaviermented.


    She clutched the package and faced him. ¡°Alright then, I need to make some sales in my bakery. See you when you¡¯re back home.¡±


    Xavier gripped her palm, he couldn¡¯t help but get on his feet.


    ¡°You can¡¯t just leave that way¡­¡±


    Vanessa kept staring at him, just to get what she meant by that statement.


    For some seconds, Xavier wasn¡¯t saying a word again and so she decided to break the silence between them.


    But before she could say a word to him, she felt something so soft and sulent on her forehead. He kissed her twice and then stared into her eyes.


    ¡°Take good care of yourself and Chloe, and please don¡¯t quarrel with Lilian for any reason, okay.¡± He remarked while gripping her palm.


    She nodded and took a deep swallow, at that point Vanessa was dumb¡­ she couldn¡¯t believe the young man ced a kiss on her forehead.


    ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Xavier.¡± She said atst with her bent low. She was blushing and scared of staring back at him.


    Xavier watched her dash out of the office without taking a nce backward, he pouted his lips while seating at the edge of his table.


    He couldn¡¯t tell what was wrong with him, then strange feelings developed in him at the moment that he can¡¯t exin how it began.


    But if only he can leave everything about Vanessa off his mind in order not to cause quarrels with Lilian or bully Vanessa for she knows nothing about him, he would love it most.


    Thedy isn¡¯t doing any harm to him, and neither is she pissing Lilian off herself. Rather, he had been the one creating all scenes just because Vanessa is that type of woman she wants and loves to be with.


    But it isn¡¯t easy for him, since Lilian is already attached to his life and it isn¡¯t so easy to get her out. Lilian will never be like Vanessa and that¡¯s one thing he desires but is unable to get.


    While Lilian walked through the corridor to the stairs, the workers affixed their eyes on her.


    She was so shy to look up to them that she felt to just disappear from their sight but couldn¡¯t.


    There was a great murmuring in the hallway she passed through to get to the door, everyone was so convinced that she was the wife of the boss.


    Males and females couldn¡¯t keep their eyes off her, many souls were happy to set their eyes on such ady that is chosen by their boss, while some developed that deep hatred, envy, and jealousy for her.


    While they are in thepany working their asses off and doing everything just for him to notice and wee them, he doesn¡¯t have time for them instead for a woman outside thepany.


    ¡°She got lunch for him, and I love that¡­¡± one of the workers announced.


    ¡°Yeah! No man will ever resist such a beautifuldy with a curvy shape like her¡­¡± another added immediately.


    They all murmured within them while working.


    Vanessa stepped out of the building and alerted the driver who had been waiting for her.


    They drove off from thepound immediately and she was dropped at Xavier¡¯s residence. She got down, having in mind to go wash the dishes and leave for her bakery immediately.


    Vanessa stepped into the sitting room but couldn¡¯t find Lilian as she had thought, so she made her way to the kitchen and loosened the package.


    While she was so busy washing the dishes, familiar footsteps approached her. She knew it was Lilian, no need to be told.


    ¡°Wee, the only woman striving to take my fiancee away from me.¡± Lilian referred to her.


    She didn¡¯t say a word, all her mind was affixed with what she was doing, or rather, Xavier¡¯s warning kept ringing in her ear.


    He had pleaded with her not to quarrel with Lilian for any reason, and that¡¯s just what she¡¯s obeying.


    She only nced at her foot and looked off again.


    ¡°Now Miss Vanessa, tell me the sort of spell you used on Xavier that he rejected my meal?¡± Lilian queried her.


    She didn¡¯t answer that question, it¡¯s damn meaningless too.


    Lilian tapped her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m talking to you youngdy, or aren¡¯t you hearing my voice. I just hate to be ignored.¡±


    ¡°Just let me be Lilian, when you pushed me out of the kitchen I didn¡¯t question you. I left to go to my bakery and you prepared the meal yourself¡­ isn¡¯t it?¡± Vanessa questioned her.


    She sniffed, staring at the ceiling. ¡°Oh yes! I prepared the meal myself, but why did you spy on him not to ept it? Isn¡¯t he my fiance any longer?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t speak with Xavier immediately after I left here, the only time I spoke with him was the moment you arrived at his office and he called me. I believe you were there too.¡± She narrated.


    Lilian heaved a big sigh of relief, she wasn¡¯t that relieved though¡­ because the anger in her was so raw that it can take any action towards Vanessa at the moment.


    Vanessa wasn¡¯t sparing her a nce, she was so busy drying the wet dish and then keeping it in its position.


    ¡°I need to tell you this Vanessa, in the name of the God you serve please grant me this favor.¡± Lilian drew Vanessa¡¯s attention.


    She turned to face her atst. ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Hope you won¡¯t fall under my hands?¡±


    Vanessa stared at her for a moment. ¡°It depends¡­¡±


    ¡°Leave this homepletely and I¡¯ll pay you in huge, Vanessa. Just tell me the amount of money you want and I¡¯ll give it to you, but please keep your feet away from this abode.¡± Lilian stated.


    Vanessa only stared at her, she couldn¡¯t believe thedy wanted her out of the house by all means.


    Everything about Chloe hit her mind, she can¡¯t do this to the little girl. If she ever leaves just that way, it might lead to many negative things which wouldn¡¯t have taken ce because of her presence.


    Lilian will have the opportunity to treat them like she wants, she will maltreat them to thest. She shook her head at that thought¡­ It¡¯s true.


    If she ever leaves, Xavier won¡¯t take it with her. She shivered on inventing the kiss he ced on her forehead, she loved it so much and won¡¯t love to wound his heart because of Lilian.


    No amount of money can buy happiness, besides, Xavier is paying her well alongside the earnings she gets from her bakery.


    She needs nothing else from Lilian again, taking the money and resigning from work will do much more harm to her than good.


    If not for any other one, but the sake of Chloe. She¡¯s so sure that the little girl won¡¯t survive it if she leaves. Xavier has alwaysmented on her presence doing much good to the little girl.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Lilian, but I can¡¯t ept such an offer. You can invest in so many other things with the money.¡± She stated.


    Lilian smiled inwardly, she thought of what thedy had in thought.


    ¡°Seems like I¡¯ll give you more time to think about it because this is an option for you to choose. When you get home, sit and think deeply about it¡­ I¡¯ll be waiting for a response by tomorrow or any trash you get from me.¡± Lilian dered and left the kitchen.


    Vanessa watched her leave the kitchen, she wondered about the trash she was talking about.


    Meanwhile, she needs to have a second thought about the offer.

 Chapter 28

    She was done with all she had to do and then was about to leave for her bakery.


    Just as she stepped into the sitting room, her eyes met with that of Lilian who sat on the sofa while the television was on but her interest wasn¡¯t in it.


    She nced at her taking long steps to leave the room.


    ¡°Vanessa¡­¡± Lilian called her back.


    She paused her movement sparing her a nce, at this point she doesn¡¯t need anything that would spoil her mood for any reason.


    ¡°What¡¯s the problem?¡± She asked her back.


    Lilian got on her feet expressing a hostile smile on her face, her two palms transfixed on her waist as she moved towards her.


    ¡°You¡¯re leaving for your bakery right?¡± She asked her.


    Vanessa nodded. ¡°Sure, that¡¯s where I¡¯m heading to now.¡±


    ¡°Make sure you have a rethink over what I said, I¡¯m hoping to get feedback from you soon.¡±


    Nessa nced at her and looked off instantly, there¡¯s nothing to think about this but she will have to try to.


    ¡°And you know what? I¡¯m also pleading with you to leave Xavier alone for me. To be honest, this is getting out of hand, and getting pissed off already¡­ Miss Vanessa, if you want a man in your life, then I can help you get one who will take good care of you. Get your eyes off Xavier please.¡± Lilian ordered but in a polite manner this time.


    She nced at her again and sniffed repeatedly, her eyes met hers the second time.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay then, I need to get going now. Just like you said, I¡¯ll have a rethink over it. But note that I have nothing to do with Xavier and I don¡¯t need a man in my life¡­¡± Vanessa retorted.


    Lilian smiled. ¡°Stop pretending that you don¡¯t need a man, because if you don¡¯t¡­ then there isn¡¯t any reason you should be pestering yourself around him just to gain his attention.¡±


    ¡°Enough! I don¡¯t have time for all this¡­¡± Lilian watched her make thest statement and dash out of the room.


    She didn¡¯t stop her again this time, she only peeped through the windows watching her leave through the gate.


    *********


    Vanessa felt bitterness in her, Lilian is biting more than she can chew and she doesn¡¯t need that.


    Staying in that home as a babysitter will cause more trouble than ever between her and Lilian, and no one will bear the pain for her once thatdy takes the issue to the next level.


    Nessa thought of quitting the job for the sake of her life, if that will bring forth enmity between her and Xavier, then she¡¯s good with that.


    The trash she¡¯s talking about is still what she hasn¡¯t been able to get what she meant by that, and Lilian is quite ready to wipe her off this earth just because of Xavier.


    But then, there¡¯s nothing binding her together with Xavier, and she has noticed that her presence gives him and his daughter a certain amount of joy.


    Heaven knows she won¡¯t love to bring an end to that happiness, but then her life is more important.


    She had indirectly used her of trying to take Xavier away from her, meanwhile¡­ it¡¯s one thing she hasn¡¯t thought of despite the strange feelings developing in her towards him¡­ she keeps being herself, besides the young man is engaged already.


    Chloe might not survive losing her this time, the life of that innocent child matters a lot to her.


    The buzzing of her cell phone distracted her thoughts, she stared at the screen to see that it was one of her patrons.


    Her order is almost ready though.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for keeping you waiting ma¡¯am, I¡¯ll get it for you instantly.¡±Nessa pleaded with assurance.


    Thedy eded and hung up the call.


    She got on her feet and began packaging thedy¡¯s order, she needed to take it to her before dawn to get her payment instantly.


    It didn¡¯t take her much time to get everything ready and then she locked up her bakery at the woman¡¯s residence which wasn¡¯t much far from her bakery.


    Happiness filled her heart, she had made many sales despite all her days spent in Xavier¡¯s residence.


    Precisely, people are getting to know her business and how good she is at it, she believes that the money she would be making from her business can solve her problems even if she quits the babysitting job.


    She arrived at the mall which wasn¡¯t thatrge and then requested to see the woman who arrived with her payment and took the order from her.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Vanessa.¡± She greeted me.


    Nessa stood at a side watching a young man as he purchased one of her fruit bread and gobbled on it demanding more from them.


    With the man¡¯s purchase, she assured herself of double good in the business.


    She left the mall some secondster heading back to her bakery, but since she wasn¡¯t in a hurry, she decided to Trek to save her money.


    While walking home majestically, she stumbled on a huge dude that wasn¡¯t expressing any smiles on his face.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡± she pleaded.


    But there wasn¡¯t an atom of a smile on his face, he red at her with a chiseled face.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you seeing your path? Must you stumble on my feet?¡± He screeched.


    Nessa bent her head low.¡±It wasn¡¯t intentional, I¡¯m so sorry okay.¡± She pleaded and left his sight.


    He kept staring at her for a while and then turned to leave through her path, he needed to know more about her though on a mission.


    Vanessa stepped into her bakery after unlocking it but was called out from work some minutester by the dude he met some minutes ago.


    She was so shocked to see him standing on the veranda of her bakery staring at her.


    ¡°Hey! What do you want from me again? I¡¯ve apologized for that, haven¡¯t I?¡± She asked toe closer to him.


    He smiled and put his cellphone into his pocket. ¡°Uhmmm! I¡­ I¡­ just decided toe over and see where you do stay.¡±


    ¡°Any problem with that? Well, you¡¯re wee but anything you want to purchase?¡± She referred to him.


    He shook his head. ¡°Not at all, but can I ask you a favor?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    He moved closer to her. ¡°Can we go on a date? Even if it¡¯s once?¡±


    She stared at himpletely again and licked her lips angrily. ¡°But I don¡¯t know who you are, and I¡¯m not interested anyway.¡±


    ¡°Why? I¡¯m I not good enough to go on a date with? Just take a good look at me before making such a decision.¡± He remarked.


    Vanessa shook her head, she wasn¡¯t in the mood of arguing with anyone. If only the young man would just leave quietly, she would appreciate it the most.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m not in the mood. You can look for some other women to go on a date with.¡± She replied and stepped backward.


    He held her back. ¡°You don¡¯t walk out of my presence that way. Why look down on me? I¡¯m I not handsome enough to care for you?¡±Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I never said that, but I don¡¯t have time for dating at this time. You can look for some other women and go on a date with.¡± Vanessa stated.


    He drew her closer again ring into her eyes, much hatred and anger filled his eyes.


    ¡°Now I know that everything is true. She was saying the truth, you aren¡¯t interested in any other man except him huh?¡± He yelled at her.


    Nessa felt baffled, she was trying to recall why the dude was making such a statement.


    At that moment, Lilian¡¯s quest struck her mind again.


    ¡°Lilian sent you to me?¡± He asked the young man.


    He smiled and shook his head in anger. ¡°You said that youngdy.¡±


    This is just the reason Lilian pleaded to pay her so she can resign from her work. This is also the reason she remarked to get her a man so she would leave Xavier¡¯s home.


    ¡°But I never told her that I need a man, I¡¯m okay without any.¡± She referred to him.


    ¡°Then you must be crazy for rejecting my offer. Why would you want to take her fiance away from her because the young man is wealthy huh?¡± He gripped her palm so tight.


    Nessa tried so hard to let go of her palm, but couldn¡¯t. It hurts her so much.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have anything to do with Xavier, he just employed me to babysit his little daughter and that¡¯s all.¡± She started amidst pain.


    He hit her cheek. ¡°You lie. Now, you have to leave that home or you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    ¡°And how dare you raise your hands on her?¡± A masculine voice echoed behind them.


    She flicked her head aside to get Xavier to step out of his car.


    He moved closer to the dude and gripped his cor. ¡°Who sent you to hurt her? What offense did shemit?¡±


    But he didn¡¯t say a word, Xavier couldn¡¯t hold up the anger in him. He hit him several times until he took on his heels.


    He moved to Vanessa who was almost in tears attributed to the hit she got from the dude.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Vanessa¡­?¡± He pleaded.


    She looked up staring at him. He¡¯s the reason she¡¯s passing through all this hell in the hands of Lilian.


    ¡°Who sent him? Did you offend him?¡± He asked her.


    She shook her head. ¡°I didn¡¯t offend him, just because I rejected going on a date with him¡­¡±


    He felt jealous of hearing that, but couldn¡¯t get the reason he felt that way.


    ¡°Why did you reject it?¡±


    She nced at him and bent her head low. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in any man.¡±


    He felt happiness in him hearing that but pretended to be against her reason.


    ¡°I overheard you mention Lilian¡¯s name. Don¡¯t tell me she sent him to harm you again.¡± He tried inquiring.


    Vanessa swallowed deeply, she doesn¡¯t wish to cause quarrels between them again.


    ¡°Uhmmm! I¡­ I¡­ don¡¯t, I¡¯m not sure¡­ I don¡¯t know what to say¡­¡± she stammered.


    Xavier gritted his teeth, he must see Lilian now because of this.


    Before Nessa would utter a word again, he had left his car and drove off to his residence.

 Chapter 29

    Lilian was seated on the bed when Xavier came in, the look on his face revealed how annoyed he felt.


    He pulled off his shirt and moved towards the bed, he was biting his lips while ring at Lilian.


    ¡°So it has reached this extent, Lilian? You now work with hoodlums huh?¡± He yelled at her.


    She hissed and looked off at him. ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of that question?¡±


    ¡°You just asked me that? Tell me the offense Vanessamitted that you¡¯re treating her this way? What exactly is your problem?¡±


    Lilian got down from the bed taking her cell phone with her. ¡°I don¡¯t ever want to speak about thatdy, you rejected my meal because of her and you still expect me to be happy, Xavier.¡±


    She was so upset at that moment, if only he wasn¡¯t her fiance, then she might raise her hands on her.


    ¡°Vanessa is just a babysitter in this home. I can¡¯t watch her take over my position or either my ce in your heart.¡± She remarked.


    He sat on the bed but couldn¡¯t say a word. Vanessa red at him with much anger revealed on her face. She opened the door and left him alone in the room.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t bear the anger so he left instantly to the sitting room where she¡¯s busy with her cell phone.


    ¡°Lillian, you can¡¯t just be hooking up with hoodlums in my home all because of ady like you. Who gave you the guts to send a thug to deal with Vanessa because of the meal he brought for me in the office? Besides, you haven¡¯t once prepared a meal for me since you came into this home, you are toozy to do that and you left everything to Tracy to do herself¡­ meanwhile I never expected you to do so.¡± His hoarse voice echoed.


    Lilian bit her lips in agony, she felt ufortable in the sitting room that she got on her feet to leave, but Xavier didn¡¯t let her pass by.


    She paused her movement staring into his eyes to see how irritated he was at the moment.


    For all the months she has been with him she has never witnessed him getting angry just like he has always been since he paid him this visit, and that has all that started from the day Vanessa began working for them as a babysitter, which she never wanted.


    ¡°Xavier you need to understand me, you know how I¡¯m feeling at the moment. Before me you rejected a meal I prepared myself all because of Vanessa¡­ you ignored my presence and contacted Vanessa in my presence to get you her own meal¡­ and then, what did you expect me to do? To sit, cross my leg and watch her take my position in your heart just like that? Tell me exactly, what will I ever do to get you to myself? What will I ever do to make you happy? Tell me, I¡¯m ready to do anything just to make you happy.¡± She screamed.


    Xavier  took a deep breath through his nostrils, he watched as Vanessa stood uttering gibberish words while opposite him.


    Only if she knows how he felt, she wouldn¡¯t stand saying such words to his hearing.


    ¡°There is nothing that you can do to make me happy other than letting Vanessa be. I employed her myself and I am the one paying her on a monthly basis. She is babysitting my little daughter which I know you can never do, so you kindly let her be.¡±


    ¡°I need her to have rest of mind in my home, you can do your work¡­yes, you can do your job as my fiance why she does her as a worker¡­ don¡¯t worry me again if she wholeheartedly does your job because you left it for her to do. You don¡¯t need toin when she does what you¡¯re supposed to do because you know it is your responsibility.¡±


    Lillian folded her arms against her chest, she stood immobile without saying a word again.


    This is one thing she can never believe Xavier will ever let her know. The presence of Vanessa in the home has changed every part of her, besides she had let him know on time to sack her but he refused.


    But then, that¡¯s not the reason behind her sudden change¡­ just as Xavier had exined, Vanessa is just employed to babysit Chloe while she is his fiance but wouldn¡¯t concentrate on the reason behind her visit.


    Tracy moved towards her father tapping him, Xavier turned to see the girl kind of exhausted.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you, Tracy? Are you alright? Your hair is so rumpled¡­ Did anyone get you upset?¡± He threw multiple questions at her.


    Tracy couldn¡¯t say a word, either she stared at Lilian who focused on ring at her.


    At the time, she left the position back to her room.


    Xavier wasn¡¯t himself, he had to leave Lillian in the sitting room just to know what¡¯s wrong with Tracy only for him to get her with Chloe in a cuddle.


    He moved towards the bed feeling baffled. ¡°Are you alright Chloe?¡± he asked, trying to know what¡¯s going on with the little girl.


    She sat on the bed and crossed her legs together, her eyes were reddish and puffy. Tears were still rolling down her cheeks.


    Xavier got seated on the bed wiping the tears on her cheek.¡±You haven¡¯t given me an answer to the question I just asked, what is wrong with you little girl? Did anyone hurt you? Don¡¯t be scared, just let me know.¡±


    Little Chloe got on her feet while still on the bed, she fell into his arms. ¡°Ma¡¯am Lilian threatened me,¡± she uttered.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Tracy nced at her father who pretended not to hear what she just said.


    ¡°What did you just say now? Who threatened you?¡± he asked again.


    ¡°She  just said that ma¡¯am Lillian threatened her, don¡¯t pretend you didn¡¯t hear what she said.¡± Tracy retorted.


    Xavier was about getting on his feet but Chloe drew him back. ¡°I never said you should go query her, but I just want to let you know that I willmit suicide if you ever sack ma¡¯am Vanessa from babysitting me¡­ I can never stay with ma¡¯am Lilian for any reason. She is so hostile, even the steps she takes are so arrogant and I don¡¯t feelfortable with it¡­.


    She paused and wiped the tears on her cheek, her heart was too heavy at that moment.


    She wouldn¡¯t be losing the only woman that makes her happy.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Lilian ordered me to reject ma¡¯am Vanessa from babysitting me, she promised to take good care of me if I do so ¡­but I¡¯m notfortable with her. She said that Vanessa is an obstacle in this home and she would love her to get sacked. But Dad, I won¡¯t stand and watch that happen ¡­whenever you¡¯re ready to sack her, just let me know I will leave with her too.¡± Chloe narrated andid on the bed.


    Tracy caressed her hair with her palm while she got on her feet and left the room. This is just the reason she looked exhausted, in order to attract her father¡¯s attention so quickly.


    Despite the fact that she doesn¡¯t love any of the twodies, she would manage to ept Vanessa for the sake of Chloe. At least with her, she won¡¯t be worried again.


    Xavier cuddled Chloe into his arms, he made sure she fell asleep before he left the room to meet Lilian in his bedroom deep asleep.


    He thought of waking her up, but was against it atst.


    It¡¯s time for him to keep mute towards Lillian¡¯s action and just watch her get herself out of his life.


    For her to threaten his little daughter she had done the worst more than he expected. With everything she narrated to Chloe, means that she isn¡¯t just happy meeting Vanessa in his home, and thest thing he will ever do is to kick thedy out because of her.


    That¡¯s just because he believes Lilian will never be able to solve the problems Vanessa has been solving for him.


    With Vanessa¡¯s presence in the house Chloe has been able to sleep throughout the night without disturbance, she doesn¡¯t experience nightmares any longer and she doesn¡¯t visit him in his room at midnights again.


    The happiness he noticed roaming in her mind all this while is beyond his expectations, he loved seeing the little girlfortable around Vanessa.


    She speaks of her every time and wants to be with her every second. A mistake he will never do¡­ one thing he will never attempt to do is to kick Vanessa off his home.


    Besides, she¡¯s a worker and there is nothing binding him with Vanessa.


    He wiped his face and left to the bathroom to take his shower after which he returned to the room and got his nightwear on before heading to the dining room to take his dinner.


    Lillian has never run around when he is back from work to make sure he takes his meal before going to bed, rather she¡¯s always out to tackle an innocentdy that has been a Savior in his home.

 Chapter 30

    The next morning, Xavier was still lying on the bed when Lilian got up¡­had her shower, dressed and left the room.


    She didn¡¯t bother telling him of her whereabouts and he didn¡¯t bother to ask either.


    He has just decided to keep his eyes and ears away from her, all he needs this time is to monitor her activities in order to conclude if this marriage will work out for the two of them.


    After so many minutes Lilian had left the house, he stood from his bed¡­ left for the bathroom, washed his face and brushed his teeth.


    He left downstairs to find Ben cleaning the sitting room and Tracy busy in the kitchen. Chloe was assisting Tracy in the kitchen too, though she wasn¡¯t doing much but keeping herpany.


    He was so happy to see his children doing the house chores without anyone giving a helping hand, meanwhile he was so sure that they would make a good family without a woman.


    When he stepped out of the kitchen to the sitting room, he met Vanessa standing behind the door¡­ she looked more beautiful than ever and he couldn¡¯t take his eyes off her.


    Vanessa greeted him and he didn¡¯t hesitate to respond. Little Chloe heard her voice from the kitchen and ran to the sitting room for an embrace.


    He was so excited seeing them y around like Mother and child.


    ¡°You need to start dressing up for school before you gette.¡± Vanessa uttered leaving with Chloe upstairs.


    After a few seconds, he left his room too in order to get ready for work.


    The image of Vanessa couldn¡¯t let him concentrate on whatever he¡¯s doing, he kept thinking about the beautiful damsel he met at the sitting room.


    She looked more gorgeous and elegant too.


    Xavier stood opposite the mirror staring at his image, he imagined himself beside Vanessa¡­ he thought of gripping her palms and stare into her eyes.


    But at a point, he decided to cast aside the silly thoughts¡­ he had convinced himself that Vanessa will never give a listening ear to him, neither will she give him any of her time since Lillian is already beside him¡­ but then he wouldn¡¯t know how to exin the fact that he can¡¯t resist her sight from the first day he was weed in her bakery.


    He had her in his mind all through but tried as much to hide it from everybody, because he wouldn¡¯t want to flirt with a woman.


    He heaved a big sigh of relief and got seated on the bed, his eyes studying how uncluttered his room seemed to be, yet Lillian didn¡¯t bother arranging it before leaving.


    Wondering the sort of woman he¡¯s getting ready to be united with, he chiseled his face. A woman that never cares for her spouse.


    He hissed loudly, got on his feet and began getting ready for work.


    Before he was done, Vanessa was almost through with his daughter while Tracy and Ben were still getting ready.


    He left to eat but the food wasn¡¯t served yet, while trying to call out to Tracy¡­ Vanessa assured him of getting the meal for him instead.


    He felt happy at that assurance and got seated while Vanessa left to the kitchen and got his meal.


    While she was trying to leave he called her back just to ask her some certain questions.


    Vanessa felt baffled, because she wouldn¡¯t want to talk about Lillian so early in the morning¡­ her mood was so filled with happiness and so she would not like to feel sad before leaving to her bakery.


    ¡°I would like you to tell me the truth Vanessa, did you in any way offend Lilian that she is tormenting you this way? I¡¯m so fed up with her characters¡­ not only that she hooked up with a hoodlum to beat you up but she threatened my daughter to reject you in my home. I just want to know if you have offended her because I wouldn¡¯t want to judge wrongly.¡±


    Vanessa bit her lips, this is what she doesn¡¯t want to hear¡­ but then, will Xavier ever believe that she hasn¡¯t for once offended thedy?


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything to her, Mr Xavier. I haven¡¯t once challenged her¡­ I haven¡¯t once offended her. I believe she just decided to keep tackling me¡­


    She wiped her face, heaving a big sigh. ¡°Before I left for my bakery yesterday, she pleaded with me to leave your home and she will pay me any amount I request¡­ but I didn¡¯t find this useful. You know I can do that and get the amount of money¡­ and then save myself from her stress, but when I remember your daughter it weakens my bones¡­.


    ¡°I knew I hadn¡¯t offended her, but then she just developed a deep hatred towards me without a genuine reason¡­ and I promise to end this work if this continues like this. I wouldn¡¯t love to stay in an ufortable arena¡­ but I just feel for your daughter because I know the pains will pass through.¡±


    She sniffed, twisting her face, her two palms transfixed on her waist.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t stop staring at the beautifuldy with an annoying look. He understood how she felt at the moment.


    Right from the first day he set his eyes on Vanessa, he had known her as a woman with a good heart¡­so cheerful that he wees even strangers wholeheartedly.


    He wouldn¡¯t try to think again about the reason behind Lilian¡¯s hatred towards her, just like he had decided¡­ he will have to get his eyes and ears of thedy.


    He wouldn¡¯t query her again but will be so careful this time to know the type of woman he¡¯s trying to end up with.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for the pains you are passing through in my home, Vanessa. You don¡¯t deserve such a thing¡­ From the first day I met you, you have been so good to me and my daughter¡­she hasn¡¯t for onceined of how badly you treated her. I myself have witnessed many times the way you both cuddle like Mother and child and it gives me Joy¡­


    ¡°Please I¡¯m begging you Vanessa, don¡¯t ever think of leaving my home. if I never wanted you I wouldn¡¯t have employed you¡­ A fellow woman cannot kick you out from your work. Remember you are the source of Chloe¡¯s happiness, if you ever stop this work I don¡¯t really know what to do again because I don¡¯t think no one can ever take good care of her the way you do.¡±


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t help but affix a smile on her face atst, she left the dining room to Chloe¡¯s room.


    Xavier was so fast to gobble up his food and then he got ready to leave, while beside his car unlocking it¡­ he sent for Vanessa who didn¡¯t hesitate toe forward immediately.


    ¡°My room is so unkept, I would love it if you help me put it together.¡± he ordered politely.


    Vanessa shuddered, she didn¡¯t know how to reject the request because of Lillian¡­ but she wouldn¡¯t want to make Xavier feel bad while leaving for work.


    ¡°Okay then, I will arrange it before youe back,¡± she assured him and left for the sitting room after Xavier had driven off from thepound.


    Vanessa made sure the children left for school before she left for Xavier¡¯s  room and began getting it cluttered.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She tidied the bed and began sweeping the floor, when she was almost done she decided to arrange the clothes in his wardrobe which she began doing.


    She noticed that there were some dirty clothes below the wardrobe and she packed it at the side, deciding to wash it off before leaving for her bakery.


    When she was done with theundry, she came back to the room to get some certain things arranged which she almost forgot.


    She found an envelope which she didn¡¯t care to disclose. Rather she opened the table drawer and dropped it.


    Her eyes narrowed as she caught a little attractive boss reddish in color, she grabbed it into her arms and disclosed it to find two diamond sparkling rings in it.


    A ¡®wow escaped her lips. She stared at the ring for some time and closed the box again.


    A strange feeling developed in her but she couldn¡¯t tell what it meant,  the ring she just saw wiped away the joy and happiness in her at the moment¡­ but still she couldn¡¯t tell the reason.


    She left the room instantly to that of Chloe, grabbed her handbag and left her bedroom to her bakery.


    Throughout the day¡¯s sales, she wasn¡¯t concentrating. She lost her attention and felt ufortable.


    She remorsed on cleaning up his room for the first time.

 Chapter 31

    Vanessa couldn¡¯t find the day interesting any longer, she was so sad towards the ring she saw in Xavier¡¯s room.


    She doesn¡¯t need to be told that the ring is for their uing wedding ceremony, her heart was filled with sorrow and anger, yet she wasn¡¯t able to give a reason behind her strange feelings.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    This is the first time she¡¯s acting this way towards Xavier, although she has been feeling jealous all this while but not to this extent.


    While busy in her oven, her mind was so deserted¡­she felt all the blood running through her veins had dried up.


    Despite the fact she had lots of customers to attend to¡­ she wasn¡¯t happy.


    The day I came with a big sale but she felt sad.


    In the evening time, Chleo visited her in the bakery¡­ She offered her some cupcakes and the little girl felt excited being with her babysitter.


    She noticed the sudden feeling in Vanessa, because throughout the little moment had spent with her¡­ Vanessa had not smiled for once.


    She had known her babysitter to be a cheerful type¡­always weing her with a smile is always part of her, but then everything changed for the day.


    Vanessa wasn¡¯t smiling at her¡­she wasn¡¯t saying a word, all her concentration was on the oven arranging the cakes while her face was so chiseled like she had fought with someone.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t said anything to me since I came in here, ma¡¯am Vanessa. Hope everything is okay with you?¡± Chleo asked her, distracting her thoughts.


    She lifted her face and stared at the little girl forcing a smile on her face at the moment,  just to make sure she doesn¡¯t feel hurt.


    ¡°I am just good, but the stress is too much¡­ I feel so weak that I need a big rest, that¡¯s all¡­ nothing much baby girl.¡± she assured Chloe trying tofort her.


    Due to the smile on her face, the little girl felt d and then began telling her some stories she got from her teacher.


    Vanessa wasn¡¯t concentrating on hearing the stories, the only thing she had in mind was the ring.


    She wondered when their wedding would take ce and she had decided never to be present no matter what. She wouldn¡¯t stand and watch Xavier get married to Lilian in her presence.


    Anyways, not that she will bring a scotch to it, but she wouldn¡¯t be able to bear the pains though.


    She heaved a big sigh and shut the oven.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s time we get home, because¡­ I need some rest. I can¡¯t just stand here any longer.¡± She referred to little Chleo.


    The girl happily got on her feet running into her arms. Vanessa didn¡¯t hesitate to lift her up as usual just to make sure she doesn¡¯t notice the strange feeling in her.


    Vanessa locked up her bakery and left Xavier¡¯s residence with the little girl. They stepped into the building to find everywhere so quiet.


    She didn¡¯t bother to know what¡¯s going on since she¡¯s quite sure that Tracy and Ben would be around


    ¡°My siblings must be asleep ma¡¯am Vanessa, and the otherdy isn¡¯t around¡­¡± Chleo tried narrating without being questioned.


    She turned deaf ear to the statement she just made while they walked into the sitting room. She got seated on the sofa in the sitting room trying to affix her mind in the ongoing movie¡­ yet she couldn¡¯t.


    The owner of her kept battling in sorrow and she couldn¡¯t bring it to a stop.


    ¡°Have you had your lunch?¡±  She asked after how many hours they¡¯ve been together.


    The little girl smiled. ¡°Yes ma¡¯am Vanessa, I took my lunch beforeing over to the bakery.¡±


    She nodded at that response and rxed on the sofa again. Within some minutes she dozed off and Chloe didn¡¯t bother to wake her up.


    Tracy and Ben came downstairs and caught her asleep on the sofa for the first time, they asked Cleo what¡¯s wrong with thedy and she assured them everything was okay¡­ just that she is weak. Tracy sniffed and left the kitchen to get the dinner prepared, while Ben left immediately with her.


    Since Vanessa had taken some rest, Chloe  had to wake her up and then left upstairs to her room, sheid on the bed staring at the white ceiling counting on it while getting herself in a deep thought again.


    ¡°What exactly is wrong with you ma¡¯am Vanessa? You are acting so strange¡­ this isn¡¯t the woman that I know.¡±


    She nced at the little girl and forced a smile on her face. ¡°I¡¯ll be ok dear you need to take your shower now.¡± she got on her feet and undressed her.


    They stepped into the bathroom and she freshened her up. They both sat  on the bed chatting, at that moment Chloe decided to repeat all the stories she had told her before since she noticed she wasn¡¯t concentrating.


    ¡°My teacher has taught me a lot today and I believe you learnt from my story right?¡± she asked Vanessa.


    She nodded. ¡°Yeah! I learnt a lot just like you did, now you go check if Tracy is done with the meal so I can feed you and start  going.¡±


    Chloe shook her head¡­ ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, please do me this favour. I would like you to sleep over with me just for today¡­ I want to rest my head on your chest just for tonight.¡±


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t help it but let out a loudughter, this little girl won¡¯t stop amusing her.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t our agreement Chloe, or have you forgotten I need to go home and do some certain things for myself thene back in the morning? I believe you¡¯ve been taking a nice sleep all this while, so this night won¡¯t be different right? I would like to leave as soon as I¡¯m done with my work¡­ if you feel like being with someone on your bed, you can leave to your sibling or rather to your father¡­ or do you want to go with me at least to know where I reside huh?¡±


    If only her father would let her go with Vanessa, she would love it¡­ at least to see her residence for the first time.


    ¡°If I tell my father he might not ede to that, I know my father won¡¯t let me go with you¡­ so please spend the night with me. I wille visit you during the weekends.¡± she assured Vanessa.


    Vanessa didn¡¯t bother to give a response to that request again, she got on her feet heading to the kitchen herself.


    Time will tell if she will ede to granting this request, but as for now, she isn¡¯t in that mood.


    She met Tracy in the kitchen and ordered Chloe¡¯s meal which she handed over to her instantly. Chloeid on the bed shedding tears when she stepped into the living room.


    ¡°Sweethearts, what¡¯s wrong with you again?¡± she asked, lifting the little girl into her arms.


    Chloe twisted her face while ring at her. ¡°I¡¯m just sure you aren¡¯t here to feed me, because I am not eating anything unless you grant my request¡­if only you will stay with me tonight then I¡¯ll be the happiest on Earth.¡± Chleo uttered politely


    She got on her feet pacing around the room. ¡°But why are you doing this to me? You know I have a lot of things to do tonight in my home¡­ Despite the fact I told you that I am weak and need some rest, I will do that whenever I am back on my feet before morning. If I should spend my night here, then who will do all those things for me? Anyways, you need to take your meal first before we talk about it.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not taking my meal unless we discuss it first¡­ the assurance you give me will let me know if I¡¯m to take the meal or not. I promise to starve tonight if you ever decline my request again.¡±


    ¡°Chloe¡­¡± She overheard her daddy call her from the corridor.


    She jumped down from the bed and headed to the corridor. ¡°You just called me now Dad, wee back.¡± She greeted her father without a single smile on her face.


    ¡°Xavier moved towards her gripping her palm while squatting.¡±You are sad again.¡±


    ¡°Yes  Dad, because of ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡±


    Xavier nced around but didn¡¯t get any soul with them. ¡°Where is she?¡±  he asked her


    Chloe shut her eyes. ¡°She¡¯s  in my room, I pleaded that she should stay over but she refused.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t say that Chloe, she needs to go home of course¡­ it¡¯s not our agreement.  She will be back in the morning ok.¡± he assured her and left for his room.


    She felt sad at the moment.


    ¡°Can you now have your dinner so I can be taking my leave?¡±


    ¡°You hate me now, ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡±


    ¡°Oh! Come on, don¡¯t say that again.¡± Vanessa scolded her, she looked off and sat on the sofa.


    ¡°You can go, I am not taking the meal.¡±


    ¡°Ok  now, you are refusing to eat¡­ you just decided to starve yourself all because I refused to stay with you for the night¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course I will, and I promise not to eat until you grant my request.¡± the little girl persisted.


    Vanessa felt baffled, she didn¡¯t want to spend her night and had never nned to do that¡­the ring she had just seen is killing the inner of her and she wouldn¡¯t want to spend the night in the same home that is eating her up.


    ¡°Do you know I can get revenge for this one day, Chloe?¡±


    ¡°Anytime, just remind me that it is revenge and I¡¯ll be ready to bear the pain.¡± Chloe remarked.


    She smiled, getting her ass on the bed. ¡°Okay  then, I will spend my night with you today and then you will take your meal. I don¡¯t want you to starve okay.¡± she assured the little girl.


    Chloe couldn¡¯t hold the happiness, she ran into her arms with a huge smile on her face.

 Chapter 32

    While they interacted, Vanessa fed Chloe herself. Just to make the little girl happy again, she decided to tell her lots of stories until she fell asleep.


    She led her on the bed and made sure she was covered with a nket before she left the sofa, getting herself busy with her cell phone.


    The ring shed in her mind again making her heart flip twice¡­ this isn¡¯t what she¡¯s ready for, she is fighting within her to make sure everything about the ring is wiped out of her mind so she can be herself again, yet it keeps getting deeper and deeper.


    When she felt staying awake was enough, she left the bathroom and took a shower beforeying beside Chloe on the bed.


    ********


    Xavier had been in deep thought since Chloe told him about Vanessa sleeping over with her for the night.


    He thought of what the little girl is up to for making such a request.


    This isn¡¯t the right time to demand such a request ¡­all these days he had noticed something different in Vanessa. He knew the pains she had been passing through in the hands of Lillian.


    Meanwhile, she wouldn¡¯t give into the request in order to avoid more quarrels from Lillian.


    Lilian had been busy with her PC from the time he came in, the least she could do was to wee him with a warm hug but didn¡¯t bother for any other thing just as usual.


    He undressed and left to eat immediately due to the rumbling of his stomach. Out of hunger, he decided to take his meal before freshening up.


    Tracy served him his meal and left to his room immediately, he sat alone with Ben discussing some certain issues about his school¡­ With that he was able to kick some thoughts off his mind in order to concentrate on his meal.


    Ben didn¡¯t bother to leave his room, he decided to be with his dad until he¡¯s done with the meal, because he had noticed his mood and his facial expression wasn¡¯t bright.


    ¡°There is thispetition that will be ongoing in our school very soon Dad, I just hope you¡¯ll be present¡­¡± Ben announced his hearing.


    He shook his head in rejection.¡±You know I can¡¯t leave my office just because of a merepetition, maybe Lillian will be present.¡±


    ¡°To hell with thatdying over to my school dad, I just prefer no one shoulde other than letting her represent you.¡± Ben retorted


    Xavier didn¡¯t bother to ask him further questions because of that statement, he had known that his children will never love Lilian because of the torture she had made them pass through.


    ¡°Who then will represent me if I¡¯m not around, or you don¡¯t need anyone huh?¡±


    He nodded. ¡°I  think it¡¯s better, if you can¡¯t make it then no problems with that.¡±


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll tell Vanessa toe over on that day¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh dad, you¡¯vee again¡­ even if I should wee thedy, you know Tracy wouldn¡¯t. She doesn¡¯t love either of thedies.. no one at all. So I think it¡¯s better we stay just for ourselves or rather on that day we won¡¯t participate in thepetition.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t do that to yourself Ben, okay, you know what? I will see what I can do about that. But just have it in mind that if I¡¯m not present, someone might be there to represent me.¡± he assured him.


    Ben smiled at that assurance, but all he wished is that none of thedies would be present if his dad won¡¯t make it there


    ¡°Have you had your dinner?¡± Xavier asked, drawing his attention again.


    He nodded. ¡°Yes Dad, we all have taken our dinner though I¡¯m not sure about Chloe.¡±


    ¡°She had, Vanessa fed her.¡± Xavier replied, dropping the spoon on the te.


    Ben packed up the dishes to the kitchen and cleaned up the dining before the two left upstairs to their various rooms.


    After some minutes of taking a rest on the sofa in his room, he headed to the bathroom and freshened up.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t bother to know how I worked for today, Lillian? what sort of human being are you?¡±


    She lifted her eyelids, staring at himpletely. ¡°As you can see, I am very busy¡­ all I need is to concentrate on what I¡¯m doing¡­


    ¡°Of course you¡¯ve taken your meal . Haven¡¯t you? you¡¯ve taken your shower too, so the next thing is to go to bed. Just to let me be, Mr Xavier.¡± Lillian screamed.


    He gritted his teeth while ring at her as she sat on the sofa still busy with her PC.


    ¡°Since you said so, no problems with that.¡± He climbed on the bed andid down, his eyes shut trying to force himself to sleep but he couldn¡¯t sleep.


    He found it difficult to doze off.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you sleeping any longer? Don¡¯t just stand and start disturbing me.¡± Lillian remarked.


    He rumbled the bed covers while trying to put himself together, but he couldn¡¯t.


    Lilian watched him get down on the bed and move out of the room, she let out a loud noise and then looked off at him.


    Xavier moved to Chloe¡¯s room to get Vanessaid on the bed deep asleep. He was so shocked, he couldn¡¯t believe Vanessater adhered to Chloe¡¯s request despite how tough it was.


    He bit his lips moving closer to the bed, he had thought that Vanessa wasn¡¯t asleep yet, but when he tapped her shoulder she didn¡¯t make a move.


    He stood at a corner staring at the innocent face of Vanessa¡­ how beautiful she looks when  asleep.


    His eyes caught her red sulent lips and her straightened eyshes,  her long dark hair was tied up with ribbons.


    Chloe rested  her head on Vanessa¡¯s chest sleeping like a baby, he smiled at that.


    ¡°So this is just the reason you wanted thisdy to sleep over with you right? In order for you to rest your head on his chest just like you have always done to me before I employed her¡­¡±  he smiled widely and got on his feet.


    Xavier began darting his eyes round the corner of the room. It¡¯s been a long time since he did this¡­ he had trusted Vanessa to take care of Chloe and all the properties in her room and so it is.


    Everywhere was so clean and sparkling, he moved towards the bed again cing his palm on Vanessa¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°I will never regret the first day I met you, employing you into my home was something great in my life¡­you have done much for me and I don¡¯t even know how to repay you back.  Thank you so much Vanessa for not turning your back on me despite the pains you are passing through in the hands of Lillian.¡±


    He swallowed deeply running his fingers in his hair while his eyes affixed on her face.


    ¡°Miss Vanessa, sorry for saying this¡­ but, I love you so much from the depths of my heart.¡± he dered audibly.


    The door pushed open and Lilian dashed in. The expression on her face was so chiseled that he had suspected that she had been at the doorpost all this while.


    ¡°What did you just say now, Xavier? You love who?¡­ You love her right?¡±


    She let out a wicked smile. ¡°No wonder you¡¯ve been acting strange towards me since I came here. So you love yet you¡¯re hiding it from me? Why not just go ahead and tell me that you are not interested in me any longer so I can make my way out of your life?¡±T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He moved towards Lillian staring into her eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to hurt you, and the love that I¡¯m talking about isn¡¯t that type going on in your mind, stop misquoting me¡­


    ¡°Yes, I love her because of how assiduously she¡¯s working for me¡­ not because I am taking her in rece of you. You just need to understand me for once.¡±


    Lillian hit his cheek with her left palm. ¡°I think it¡¯s high time I began tolerating all your deeds, now just tell me the truth. You¡¯ve been having affairs with her right? Haven¡¯t you¡­?¡± She sparked.


    Xavier stepped backwards, the anger rooming in him at the moment was so deep that he could do anything to Lillian out of it.


    ¡°You had the guts to raise your hand on me just because of the word ¡®love¡¯. Why would you always monitor everything that I do, because you don¡¯t trust me huh?¡±


    He shook his head, rumbling his hair at the same time. ¡°Lillian, you have a bit more than you can chew. I think I have tolerated much from you¡­


    ¡°I haven¡¯t for once raised my hands on you, but you had the guts to do that all because of a fellow woman, whom you know so well that I have nothing to do with her.¡±


    ¡°Then why did you remark on loving her? You are having affairs with Xavier, stop lying, I know everything you are doing.¡±


    ¡°And I know what you are doing too Lillian, take your time and stop pushing me to the wall because I won¡¯t take it any longer from you.¡± He retorted.


    Lilian red at him. ¡°I should be the one to say that, because between two options¡­ one must surely happen. Thest thing I will ever do is to sit and watch this bitch take my position in your life, but you know what¡­she must pay for it and you will do too.¡±


    Xavier watched Lilian twitch out of the room hitting the door so hard that Vanessa got awake.


    Her eyes narrowed as she nced around. ¡°Mr Xavier, is everything alright? Why are you here? You are not asleep yet?¡± She asked multiple questions at once.


    Xavier moved towards her, gripping her palm. ¡°Everything is ok, I just came over to see how Chloe is doing but I was shocked to see you sleeping over with her.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, she persisted that I should sleep over or she wouldn¡¯t take her dinner, so in order to make her happy I had to give in to her request and I believe she will be happy now.¡± Vanessa stated.


    Xavier smiled and let go of her palm. ¡°I will have to go to bed now, take care of yourself and Chloe.¡±


    She nodded and watched him leave the room.

 Chapter 33

    Xavier left for his room after speaking with Vanessa, he couldn¡¯t be himself. He kept thinking about her¡­ her thoughts roamed in his mind.


    When he stepped into the room, he found Lillian lying on the bed but he didn¡¯t say a word to her. Heid down as well trying to force himself to sleep but the image of Vanessa kept shing in his mind.


    Gosh! Thisdy is really taking a ce in his heart that he can never get her off his mind.


    He turned his neck to nce at Lillian but she was facing the wall, he didn¡¯t mind but slept off instead


    *****


    After Xavier had left Vanessa, she got on her feet and left for the bathroom. Staring at the mirror opposite her, she didn¡¯t say a word or think of anything.


    She left back to the bed andid down beside Chloe was deep asleep and she smiled.


    ¡°What the heck brought Xavier into this room? He is supposed to be asleep by this time¡­¡± she questioned inwardly, twisting her face.


    She got on her feet again and got seated on the sofa staring around the room.


    ¡°I¡¯m very sure that I heard Lilian¡¯s voice, or was it just a dream?¡± she shook her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m very sure of what I¡¯m saying¡­ I had Lilian¡¯s voice and in a screeching manner.¡± she pouted her lips and shut her eyes.


    ¡°Hope they are not quarreling again because of my presence here tonight?¡± she got on her feet pacing around the room.


    This is just one reason she never wanted to spend the night with Chloe, in order to avoid further quarrels with Lilian¡­ but here she is causing more troubles for the couples.


    ¡°I¡¯m just sorry¡­Yes, I¡¯m sorry for taking this decision just to make Chloe happy. If I had known that it won¡¯t be of any good, I would have just persisted of leaving other than causing more troubles between you and the Xavier


    ¡± she murmured, clutching her palms.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Sheid back on the bed again and within minutes she dozed off.


    ******


    Vanessa made sure to get Chloe ready in the morning so she would be able to leave with her siblings not staying behind.


    After Tracy and her siblings had left for school she left the building too without a waste of time.


    Before they left, Xavier had already left to work leaving Lilian behind as usual.


    Lilian had stepped down into the sitting room to find everywhere so quiet, she had thought that Vanessa would be around just as she has always been after the kids leave for school¡­but to her greatest shock, she was nowhere to be found.


    She searched thoroughly in the kitchen and in the rooms including at the backyard but couldn¡¯t find Vanessa.


    This got her more irritated as she was nning to scold thedy for staying behind the night, so she left the kitchen and prepared a breakfast for herself, not trying toy her hands on that of the kids.


    When she had got herself certified with the meal, she left her room freshened up and left.


    She thought of leaving Xavier¡¯s office but was against it, so she decided to go see a friend who will direct her.


    She left the street a bit far from there¡­ There she met an old friend.


    The youngdy weed her into the house and offered her some chilled juice, because she noticed the anger in her through her facial expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s high time you visited me, Lillian ¡­now tell me what brought you to my abode.¡± The youngdy referred to her.


    She gritted her teeth. ¡°You said it all, Yes¡­ it¡¯s been a long time since I visited you but not just intentional. I have been so busy all this while but there is this favour that I need from you and that¡¯s the reason I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°So go ahead and tell me what you need¡­ anything for my baby.¡±


    She heaved a big sigh trying toport herself. ¡°I want you to direct me to the hoodlum who has been working for you all this while.¡±


    ¡°And what the heck are you doing with a hoodlum? Are you out of your senses?¡±


    She nced at thedy and bent her head again. ¡°I know you are very shocked but I just need a hoodlum as it stands. I can¡¯t just sit and watch anotherdy take away my fiance.¡±


    She nodded¡­¡±Ohh yes! When are you getting married? It¡¯s high time Xavier engaged you.¡±


    ¡°Anyways, I came over to his home¡­ but there is this onedy working for her and she is trying as much as possible to take my ce in his heart and you know what, I can¡¯t let that happen. I just need to deal with thatdy so much¡­ I need to take her away from his side no matter what it will cost.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not a problem.¡±


    Thedy stood and left into her bedroom, she came back with a piece of paper and then handed it over to Lilian.


    ¡°This is his contact, make sure you reach him as soon as possible and you know what¡­? You will have to pay him well in order for your job to be done urately.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no problem with that, I will make sure to treat him well. Thatdy must get out of that house.¡± She grabbed the ss of juice and emptied it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to be on my way now, thank you so much for your effort.¡± They exchange pleasantries as she was on her feet already.


    Thedy escorted her out of the room and she left after bidding her goodbye.


    *******


    Vanessa was so busy in her bakery, she had baked a lot and to her greatest surprise they were all finished¡­ so she had to get more ready in order to get more sales before evening.


    When she was done, she began cleaning up the bakery.


    While busy with the cleaning, a hand tapped her shoulder drawing her attention.


    ¡°Good afternoon sir, what do you want?¡±  she asked the young man who had affixed his stairs on her.


    ¡°I am not your boss, so you don¡¯t refer to me that way. I am not here  to purchase anything.¡±


    She rolled her eyes in surprise. ¡°Okay then, what do you want?¡±


    ¡°Would you offer me what I want?¡± the young man replied to her with a question.


    She stepped backwards feeling baffled. ¡°I don¡¯t really get what you mean sir, oh sorry¡­ gentlemen. Just tell me what you want and I¡¯ll give it to you.¡±


    ¡°Alright Then¡­ I need you.¡±


    ¡°Huh! How do you mean sir? Do you need me? I don¡¯t really get what you mean.¡± She referred to the young man while taking a few steps backwards.


    ¡°Why are you stepping backwards Miss? Come forward and give me a listening ear.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t just do that, you haven¡¯t told me the reason you are in my bakery. If you aren¡¯t here to purchase anything, why don¡¯t you just leave.¡± She yelled.


    The young man smiled. ¡°I can see you are being stubborn¡­ Yes, you¡¯re trying to be stubborn.¡±


    ¡°I am not being stubborn Mr, just tell me what you want and I¡¯ll give it to you then you leave my bakery so I can continue with what I am doing.¡±


    ¡°You shut up your mouth, silly bitch. I thought you would be calm, but you are the opposite of my thinking. Maybe I was mistaking myself for someone else.¡± He shrieked at her.


    ¡°Yes of course, you are mistaking me for someone else. Please can I get this chance?¡± She uttered politely.


    ¡°Never¡­ you can¡¯t when I¡¯m here, just don¡¯t try to take a step.¡± He retorted.


    She felt her heart sinking into her stomach and the rate of her heartbeat increased. She began stepping into the bakery with a few steps.


    ¡°And you think leaving in your bakery would save you from my hands now?¡± He queried.


    She shook her head and nodded at the same time. ¡°Just let me be, I don¡¯t have anything to do with you.¡±


    ¡°But I can¡¯t let you be and I¡¯m here for a purpose.¡± he dashed into the bakery gripping her palm.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t get was going on, she began quivering and then a  scorching heat enveloped her instantly, her palms clenched while dripping water


    ¡°You are threatening me Mr, just let me go¡­ your hands are hurting me.¡± she pleaded trying to rescue herself out from his grip, but he held her so tight.


    ¡°You tested my patience and then my patience has exhausted, it¡¯s time to pounce on you.¡± He remarked.


    ¡°You can¡¯t just do that to me, let me go. I didn¡¯t offend you in any way.¡± she pleaded again.


    He hit her face the first time and before she could say a word again, he hit her the second time.


    ¡°You don¡¯t just talk to a stranger anyhow.¡±


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t insult you¡­ I didn¡¯t use abusive words on you. Now tell me the offense Imitted.¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth, bitch.¡± he dipped his palm into his pocket bringing out a coloured handkerchief.


    ¡°What¡¯s that on your hand?¡± She questioned amidst fear.


    ¡°Shut that sticky mouth.¡±  he yelled, grabbing her neck.


    Her mouth let open as she was about to say a word again, but instantly she  felt so weak.


    ¡°I¡­. I¡­ am¡­¡±  she dozed off and fell into his arms.


    He lifted her into his arms and left the bakery instantly without taking a nce backwards.

 Chapter 34

    While in the office, Xavier was very busy with the files on his table which he had not worked on yet.


    He picked up his phone and decided to reach Lillian, but he couldn¡¯t¡­ He tried many times yet his contact wasn¡¯t avable at the moment.


    He didn¡¯t bother  trying her line again, rather he decided to keep everything on his mind until he got home.


    After so many hours had psed, it was already noon, he decided to move to the eatery and get something into his stomach since he didn¡¯t take anything before leaving for work.


    His secretary dashed into his office while he was already on his feet.


    ¡°Sir, a message came in just now¡­you have a meeting to attend at the conference hall.¡± His secretary announced.


    He felt weak on hearing the news, that isn¡¯t how he nned the day to be. He had thought of taking enough rest.


    ¡°Okay then, I¡¯ve heard you¡­¡±  he replied and thedy left.


    He got seated again thinking of what to do. ¡°The conference meeting might take lots of hours, I will need to take my lunch first before leaving¡­ because I don¡¯t know how long this meeting willst.¡± he thought to himself and got on his feet leaving his office.


    He stepped into the eatery and ordered a light meal which was served immediately. While gobbling on his food, he got a message on his cell phone about the conference meeting.


    ¡°Soon I¡¯ll be there, I¡¯m on my way and will be with you all immediately.¡± He soliloquized putting back the phone into his pocket.


    When he was through with the meal, he dropped the ss of water ced beside the te just to see it slip off his palm.


    ¡°Oh my God! What the heck is happening to me¡­¡± he screamed, getting on his feet.


    The waitress rushed towards him with a little towel to dry the water that spilled on his shirt. ¡°It¡¯s ok dear, you don¡¯t need to worry¡­ I should be the one to apologize for the broken ss.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s ok sir, it¡¯s just an ident¡­¡± Thedy replied, handing the towel over to him.


    He dried up the water on his shirt, and then was served with another ss of water before he left the eatery.


    For the first time a ss slipped off his palm, he thought of what¡¯s behind it or how careless he is at handling certain things.


    His eyes shut and he hissed out loud. ¡°I just believe it¡¯s amon broken ss.¡± he uttered and stepped into his car to leave for the meeting.


    Xavier parked his car at the garage, alighted from it and moved into the hall. His colleagues were already seated and he was the only one left to arrive.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for the dys ining.  To be honest, I got the message sote so I needed to hurry up.¡± he pleaded to them.


    ¡°It¡¯s  ok Mr Xavier, thanks you are here so the meeting is supposed to begin now.¡± One of the leaders uttered.


    He got seated after exchanging pleasantries with the others.


    While ncing at the faces of his colleagues seated opposite and beside him, he got a face so familiar.


    Yes! That face is so familiar to him and he is trying as much as he can to reminisce on where he knew the face.


    ¡°Who is he¡­? Do I really know him¡­? Where do I know this face¡­? Does he know me too¡­?¡± These questions kept battling in him yet he couldn¡¯t give a reply to it.


    His eyes affixed on the young man who kept staring at him too, and then he decided to look up and concentrate on the meeting.


    Just as usual, they discussed certain issues about their business schedules in New York and how it is going to be organised and amended.


    They all brought up an idea and suggestions on how to put things together for the benefits of themselves.


    While the meeting wasing to an end, they were served some dishes in order to get some strength and for the time wasted.


    The meeting came to an end finally and Xavier left the hall immediately leaving for his car.


    ¡°Hey Mr¡­¡± a voice paused his movement.


    He turned his face backwards to see that the same man had been staring in the hall, but now there is something different.


    Yes, he can finally get his face very well.


    He is his worst enemy.


    ¡°Jasper¡­ I¡¯m sure I¡¯m not mistaken.¡± he questioned with so much crity.


    The young man smiled moving towards him. ¡°Of course, you aren¡¯t mistaken. I am the Jasper that you have known all these years.¡±


    ¡°Why then are you stopping me? Do I still have any business with you¡­? Is there anything binding the two of us together again? If I had known that you were the one I¡¯ve been seeing in the hall, I wouldn¡¯t bother staring at you that way.¡± He retorted.


    ¡°Yes, you continued staring at me because I am familiar right? My face is familiar, that¡¯s why you continued staring at me.¡± the young man replied.


    He circled his lips in anger while his palms clutched together sweating profusely.


    ¡°Jasper, you can just have your way¡­ I don¡¯t think I have any business with you at the moment.¡± Xaviermented and turned his back on him.


    ¡°That¡¯s not the end of everything Mr Xavier, don¡¯t just think that I¡¯ve forgotten everything¡­¡±


    ¡°And what the heck do you just have in mind? Did I in any way offend you or you¡¯re just trying to threaten yourself and not me¡­?¡± Xavier retorted.


    Jasper moved closer to him. ¡°Maybe you didn¡¯t offend me or you offended me though, but I should be the one to tell you if you did or not. Remember this, whenever I start beating my drum that¡¯s when you start dancing to the tune.¡±


    ¡°Oh shut up. ¡­ A jerk, that¡¯s what you are. And again, when did you join the business administration because I know the past meeting you weren¡¯t here.¡± Xavier questioned him.


    ¡°How would you know? Will you bother to know that the worst enemy that I ever had isn¡¯t dead.¡± Jasper stated.


    ¡°I¡¯m d you called me that, you are my worst enemy just  like I am to you. You¡¯re the worst friend I have ever had, and they regret having you as a friend at first.¡± Xavier spluttered.


    Jasper stepped backwards. ¡°It¡¯s ok then, we will see¡­ This is not the end of the game.¡± he threatened.


    Xavier stared at him gritting his teeth, his heart became so heavy instantly and he bit his lips out of anger. ¡°Don¡¯t dare me again Jasper. Don¡¯t you ever try pushing me to the wall because I promise to take it to any level you want. I will teach you a lesson you¡¯ve never been taught before.¡± Xavier  sniffed and shut his eyes.


    ¡°Mr Xavier Brown, goodbye but don¡¯t just forget as I said earlier¡­this is not the end of the game. I am stilling back to tell you that I am Mr Jasper Turner.¡± he threatened again.


    Xavier left him stepping into his car, he stood and watched him drive off from thepound.


    He felt his heart beating so fast and the inside of her burning like mes. ¡°I will teach you a lesson¡­ I will make sure you roast in hell.¡± he abused.


    Immediately he left to his own car and drove off, but the sight of Xavier in the conference meeting kept bothering him.


    For a long time now, he had wished never to set his eyes on Xavier again, he had promised to keep Xavier as his worst enemy throughout his life¡­ and here he is in New York again gathering in a conference hall with his worst enemy.


    ¡°I won¡¯t spare your life, Xavier, I will make sure you regret having me as a friend at first. You dealt with my heart but I¡¯ll make sure to stab you from the back.¡± He muttered within him while driving back home.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Everything about the past keeps shing in his mind, he could remember the days they were the best friends ever. Xavier loved him and every step he took, but he couldn¡¯t believe his best friend would turn around to be his worst enemy.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you  go scot-free.¡±  he uttered, gritting his teeth. ¡°I don¡¯t care the heck you have done for me in the past, all your love and care years ago are just in vain, because I will never look up to it¡­ rather I will work my ns on you and make sure you will regret everything.¡± he licked his lips in agony.


    *******


    Due to the anger in him, he arrived home and left to his bedroom without saying a word to his children.


    The only thing he managed is to respond to their greeting not minding  if their facial expression was bright., especially that of Chloe.


    He twitched into his bedroom to see Lillian lying on the bed, with the way he felt he didn¡¯t bother mentioning her name nor did Lillian bother to say a word to him.


    He had lost his appetite already and so there¡¯s no need for dinner, so he dropped his briefcase on the table and began undressing himself.


    To hell with the dude he met at the conference today, if he had known he would meet Jasper he would have taken an excuse so he wouldn¡¯t attend the meeting.


    ¡°What brought him back to New York anyways? I thought he had left the city for goodness sake.¡± He pouted his lips in dismay. ¡°He¡¯s trying to see the other side of me¡­ he has done a lot.¡± he thought.


    He dashed into the bathroom and freshened up after which he got seated on the sofa affixing himself in deep thought.


    Meeting his worst enemy after so many years is one thing he has never wanted to happen, and here he is battling with the inside of him because he wouldn¡¯t want Jasper to step on his feet again.

 Chapter 35

    So many minutes had psed after Xavier came back from work, he had left to his room without returning back and his children we all baffled to know what¡¯s going on.


    Little Chloe nced at her two siblings who were not saying a word at all. They all sat still.


    ¡°Are you sure daddy is ok? He hasn¡¯t stepped down for his dinner yet you too and not bothered just like I am.¡±  She authored referring to her siblings


    Ben nced at her and And licked his lips. ¡°I think it¡¯s better you go upstairs and check what¡¯s going on with Dad, he will Grant you the opportunity and wouldn¡¯t scold you if you dash into their room.¡± he suggested.


    Tracy eded to the idea taking a nce at her little sister too. ¡°He said the right thing Chloe, it¡¯s better you go check on him¡­Dad would understand you more better.¡±


    She got on his feet about to leave.


    ¡°Wait¡­e back here, I need to ask you a question.¡± Tracy called her back.


    She returned reluctantly, staring at the both. ¡°Any problems?¡±  she asked her.


    Tracy swallowed deeply. ¡°Your babysitter isn¡¯t at work by this time, does it mean she isn¡¯ting to work today?¡± she askedThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Her eyes shut. ¡°I don¡¯t really know what¡¯s going on, I¡¯ve searched for her at the bakery but she isn¡¯t around. The door itself was wide open yet no one was in the shop, so I had to push the door closed but couldn¡¯t lock it. Then I called a young man who locked it up l for me. I left with the keys too¡­  and since then I haven¡¯t heard from her¡­ that¡¯s why I¡¯m bothered to know what¡¯s wrong with dad.¡±


    Ben heaved a big sigh. ¡°It¡¯s okay then, you go upstairs and speak with Dad, he might know her whereabouts.¡± he assured her.


    The little girl nodded and left the sitting room up the stairs. She met her Dad seated on the sofa while his head rested on the wall.


    She moved in and tapped his thigh.


    ¡°Come on Dad, you don¡¯t want to take your dinner for tonight or are you filled up already? Did you visit ma¡¯am Vanessa and she gave you any food¡­?¡± She sat beside him. ¡°You are not saying a word.¡±  She threw multiple questions at him.


    Xavier stared at her for a while and hissed. ¡°I lost my appetite and I don¡¯t feel like taking anything until tomorrow, but then¡­ it¡¯s ok. Everything is fine¡­¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t visit Vanessa, I don¡¯t even know her residence¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that¡­ Dad, since I returned from school I haven¡¯t set my eyes on ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± She uttered.


    His eyes widened. ¡°Are you for real?  Did you really check well?¡± Xavier got on his feet moving out of the room while she followed him.


    He moved into Chloe¡¯s room but found nobody, there wasn¡¯t a single soul in it. And then he stepped downstairs to find Tracy and Ben seated on the sofa expressing partially how bitter they are.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you two? Did anyone hurt you?¡± he asked them.


    They shook their heads in unison. ¡°Not at all, but we should be asking you that because you didn¡¯t bother to know how we¡¯re feeling and you haven¡¯t taken your dinner.¡±


    He heaved a big sigh. ¡°You won¡¯t get what¡¯s going on, anyway let the dinner be for tonight.¡±


    He nced at the dining and no-one was seated there. ¡°Did you ever see Vanessa today?¡±


    The two shook their heads. ¡°Nope! We didn¡¯t. It¡¯s just in the morning and we haven¡¯t seen her since we came back from school, she hasn¡¯t been present for work.¡±


    ¡°And did you bother checking on her?¡±


    Tracy nced at Ben who was already staring at her, they shook their heads.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    He pouted his lips in an angry manner. ¡°You two are very silly, I mean so crazy. The babysitter isn¡¯t here and you didn¡¯t even bother to know what¡¯s going on¡­ even if it¡¯s a call you couldn¡¯t give me.¡±


    ¡°Because we know you cooperate with her so well, and maybe you spoke with her through the phone.  That¡¯s why we didn¡¯t bother giving you a call about her.¡± Tracy stated.


    ¡°You shut your mouth. I cooperate with her so well¡­ don¡¯t ever say that again.¡± He scolded her.


    ¡°But she¡¯s telling the truth, Dad.¡±


    He red at Ben and looked off. Chloe held his palm.


    ¡°Now tell me that you have spoken with him today dad, because I have tried my best but couldn¡¯t find her.¡±


    ¡°Did you visit her bakery today?¡± he asked her.


    She nodded. ¡°Of course, I did after taking my lunch when I returned back from school. I left for her bakery but no one  was found in it. And because I couldn¡¯t lock the door I had to call out for help and the key was in my room¡­but since then she hasn¡¯t shown up.¡± Chloe narrated.


    ¡°This must be a joke.¡± he muttered and left back upstairs.


    He tapped Lillian, getting her awake. ¡°Did Chloe¡¯s babysittere over today?¡± he asked.


    Lillian wiped her face while thinking of an answer to that question which seemed so awful to her hearing.


    ¡°What sort of question is that Xavier? Do I have any business to do with your babysitter? Besides, you employed her¡­ didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yes I did, I employed her and she¡¯s supposed to be here by now. Yet she hasn¡¯t shown up.¡± Xavier replied.


    ¡°Then go look for her and stop disturbing me.¡± she retorted andid back on the bed.


    Xavier kept staring at thedy who had turned down on his question.


    ¡°Lilian, this isn¡¯t fair at all¡­ fine she¡¯s my worker, and you didn¡¯t even bother to check on her.¡± Xavier spluttered.


    ¡°Why would I check on that bitch? Someone that¡¯s stepping on my foot and you expect me to keep checking on her. I¡¯m not her employee. Aren¡¯t you the one paying her? Go ahead and look for her, Mr Xavier.¡± She retorted.


    Xavier stared at her for a while and hissed out loud. ¡°I guess you know her whereabouts. Don¡¯t you?¡±


    She stood from the bed. ¡°You are using me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not an usation Miss, just tell me you know about her whereabouts. Stop acting strange.¡± Xavier yelled at her.


    ¡°Then, what¡¯s strange about my actions? I haven¡¯t set my eyes on her since today¡­ Do I have anything to do with her?¡± Lilian replied feeling ufortable.


    He heaved a big sigh and got seated on the sofa. ¡°That¡¯s because you¡¯ve been threatening her life all this while. Lilian, you¡¯ve been trying Your possible best to make sure she¡¯s out of my house, stop pretending you don¡¯t know her whereabouts. Tell me Lillian, where is Vanessa.¡±


    ¡°This is really getting intense, Xavier feel free to report to the police if you are looking for your worker. I am not her employee.¡± She uttered.


    He red at her, snapping her face. ¡°You must be insane for saying that. Lillian, make sure Vanessa is back or I¡¯ll make sure to deal with you no matter what it seems like. I won¡¯t spare you this time, you¡¯ve pushed me to the wall so much.¡± he screeched at her and left the room.


    Lilian kept staring at him while seated on the bed, she wondered what¡¯s going on with him.


    It¡¯s quite true that she knows her whereabouts, but then what business does he have with that? She sighed andid back on the bed again, affixing herself in deep thoughts on the next step to take.


    If only she would get rid of thatdy from this house so easily, and Xavier wouldn¡¯tin¡­ She will do that in a hurry. But here is Xavier questioning her.


    It¡¯s not even an usation because she knows so well of her whereabouts.


    ¡°How on earth is Xavier sure that I know Vanessa¡¯s whereabouts? When I said that she had spellbind him, I wasn¡¯t mistaken.¡± She hissed. ¡°He¡¯s thinking of no one else now except Vanessa, to hell with thatdy.¡±


    She grabbed the pillow enclosing her face.

 Chapter 36

    The disappearance of Vanessa in Xavier¡¯s home caused lots of troubles.


    Not neither he nor his daughter felt at home that night, so he left for Vanessa¡¯s bakery just to be sure she wasn¡¯t there.


    But just as Chloe had stated, the bakery was locked up.


    He went back home to meet his little daughter seated at the veranda. Tears tried running down his cheeks but he made sure to hold them up.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry Chloe, I believe Vanessa will be here tomorrow morning.¡± he triedforting the little girl¡­but she shook her head.


    ¡°Dad, you aren¡¯t seriou. How sure are you that ma¡¯am Vanessa will be present at work tomorrow morning when she isn¡¯t here¡­ besides we haven¡¯t heard from her since she left in the morning. I¡¯m So worried.¡± she stated and wiped the tears on her cheek.


    Xavier lifted her into his arms and left into the sitting room to meet Tracy and Ben dozing off.


    ¡°Why not go upstairs to your room and have some rest?¡± he uttered, referring to them.


    Ben wiped his face. ¡°But you aren¡¯t thinking of sleeping soon, you are still feeling worried because of your worker.¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m supposed to be worried because of her, you two know that she¡¯s supposed to be here by now.¡± He replied.


    ¡°It¡¯s ok Dad, let¡¯s see if she will be here tomorrow morning.¡± Tracy added while standing on her feet.


    They all left to their various rooms, while Chloe persisted to stay with her father.


    ******


    In the morning.


    Tracy had dressed up for school. Since Vanessa hasn¡¯t showed up yet¡­ she decided to get Chloe ready.


    They all had their breakfast.


    While waiting for the driver to arrive, Chloe sat on the sofa in the sitting room with a chiseled face, she wasn¡¯t smiling at all.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave us for school Chloe.¡± Ben referred to her.


    She shook her head in disagreement. ¡°I am going nowhere unless ma¡¯am Vanessa is present¡­ I mean, don¡¯t you feel worried just like I am? My babysitter isn¡¯t here yet and you expect me to be happy.¡± She narrated.


    Xavier stepped into the sitting room not dressed yet.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± he questioned them.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Tracy turned to see his father in his casual wear, he didn¡¯t look like one ready for work.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t going to work dad and Leo isn¡¯t ready to go to school. Is anything the problem? Because of her babysitter huh?¡° She referred to her father.


    Xavier swallowed deeply. ¡°Not as you think, you all should leave for school. There are some issues that I need to handle.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to school today, Dad. It¡¯s better we go look for ma¡¯am Vanessa or I won¡¯t go to school again.¡± she insisted.


    Xavier nced at her and got seated on the sofa. ¡°What are you trying to say now? Being absent from school because of Vanessa?¡±


    ¡°Of course, she has been absent from work all this while. I just hope you¡¯re reporting it to the police soon .¡± she added.


    Ben moved towards her, gripping her palm. ¡°Let¡¯s leave for school¡­ Dad will sort everything out.¡±


    She took away her palm. ¡°Let go of me, you can go to school¡­ I¡¯m not ready for it.¡±


    They watched her move to the stairs heading to her room. As they all waited for her return¡­ she came back putting on her casual wear.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the police Dad.¡±  She referred to her father.


    Xavier ordered Tracy and Ben to leave for school instead of being kept waiting by Chloe, and the two hissed loudly and left.


    *******


    ¡°Xavier, you are not going to work today¡­ What are you doing here Chloe?¡± She referred to them from the stairs.


    Chloe nced at her and hissed loudly, rxing and cing her head on her father¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to speak to me throughout the day, Lillian¡­ until I get Vanessa.¡± he spluttered.


    Lilian stepped towards him trying to get seated but he couldn¡¯t let her.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t told me the truth, Miss. Where is Vanessa?¡± he questioned her.


    Lillian rolled her eyes, she felt her heart heavy. ¡°You are still using me of what I know nothing about¡­ why not try contacting her? I haven¡¯t seen her since yesterday.¡± she uttered.


    Xavier got on his feet. ¡°I have tried as many times as I can to contact her, but it wasn¡¯t possible¡­her contact isn¡¯t avable.¡± he nced at her again. ¡°You are still hiding the truth from me, I believe you know everything about her whereabouts. Just tell me the truth in order to spare you.¡±


    ¡°And you think that I¡¯m scared right? Go ahead and do whatever you want to do¡­ but I promise you, I won¡¯t let you go even if you hurt me.¡± She retorted.


    He picked up his cellphone from the sofa, Chloe got on her feet still gripping his palm.


    ¡°Dad please, let¡¯s leave it to the police. It¡¯s better we report the case to them.¡± she suggested.


    His father nced at her. ¡°I know¡­ we must surely report this case to the police, but first I need to question thisdy here. I strongly believe you know everything. You know what I¡¯m talking about so stop pretending.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not pretending to be Mr Xavier. Do your worst.¡± She replied to him.


    Out of anger, Xavier hit her face so hard that she screamed on top of her voice due to the pain.


    ¡°Are you ready to tell me the truth now Lilian? Are you ready.¡± He yanked her hair.


    She tried relieving herself from his grip, but couldn¡¯t. He let go of her hair gripping her neck.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure you rust in jail if you don¡¯t tell me the truth now. Where is Vanessa?¡± He questioned again.


    Lilian stared into his eyes, she noticed the mes of anger streaming in his eyes and then she felt his heart beating so fast.


    ¡°Oh my God! Is that why you¡¯re hurting me? Just let go of me.¡± She screamed out of pain.


    Xavier yanked her hair again pushing her to the sofa, and she forcefully got her ass on it.


    She held her cheek. ¡°You¡¯re hurting me because of a woman¡­ a mere babysitter for that matter. You hurt me so hard, don¡¯t you know it¡¯s painful.¡± she screeched.


    Xavier took a deep breath through his nostrils. ¡°I know it¡¯s painful, and that¡¯s why I want it that way. I believe that you will let Vanessa be.¡± He grabbed his car key and his cellphone, and then left the room with Chloe.


    Lillian stood still staring through the window as they drove off from thepound, she was quite sure that he¡¯s leaving to the police custody and then everything will beplicated for her.


    She left upstairs to the bedroom in order to contact the hoodlum, she picked up her cell phone and began dialling his contacts¡­ but for the three times he didn¡¯t pick up the call.


    It made her feel haunted, she knew Xavier would go to all extent to make sure Vanessa is released¡­ and if he ever knows that she is the reason behind this, then he must do anything to her.


    She left to the bathroom to freshen up and hurry up to see the hoodlum.


    When she was done, she left the house heading to the dudes residence. But unfortunately for her, the dude wasn¡¯t around when she arrived at his residence.


    She wondered what the hell was going on, so she decided to go visit her friend who had directed her to the hoodlum¡­but when he reached, the building was locked up.


    Hot ball of tears rolled down her cheeks, she nced at her cell phone but wouldn¡¯t say a word at that time. She decided to redial the hoodlums contacts but then he didn¡¯t pick up after two times again.


    Her bones felt weak and she struggled to get a nice breeze that would aid her reach home.


    *******


    Xavier reached the police custody and reported the disappearance of Vanessa, he had trusted them to do a good job and then the step he took made Chloe feel relieved a bit.


    Before they left back home, he decided to go in search of Vanessa in her residence just to be sure he wasn¡¯t mistaken.


    He left with Chloe, searching around and inquiring from people until he got to her residence¡­but when he stepped into thepound, the door was locked.


    He shook his head in annoyance, being convinced that Vanessa is missing and he knew so well that Lillian must be behind it. He left home with Chleo to meet Lilian seated in the sitting room.


    She sighted his presence and quivered. The fact that the hoodlum¡¯s contact and that of her friend isn¡¯t avable made her feel haunted, and then none of them was present in their residence.


    She stood on his feet staring at both Xavier and his little daughter.


    ¡°Have you reported to the police custody?¡± she asked them, trying to relieve herself of the fears.


    Xavier red at her. ¡°Why do you care to know?¡± he questioned in a hoarse voice.


    ¡°I just want you to know.¡± She replied.


    Xavier stepped towards her. ¡°It¡¯s a matter of time or you will regret having me as your fiance.  Make sure Vanessa is back before sunset or I won¡¯t take it lightly with you any longer. Just dare me if you want to see the other part of me.¡± he remarked and left upstairs with his daughter.


    Lilian stood motionless staring at them as they departed from her sight, she couldn¡¯t bear the pains again.


    The tears that had gathered in her eyes began gushing down without control, all because she¡¯s baffled.


    Releasing Vanessa made her feel like she¡¯s losing Xavier, and then¡­she can¡¯t withstand Xavier¡¯s wrath.

 Chapter 37

    Immediately Xavier left to his room with Chloe, Lilian dashed out of the house. She was damn frightened.


    All this while she has been dating Xavier, she hasn¡¯t seen him in such mood. He had never for once raised his hand on her.


    And that¡¯s why she was shocked when he hit her cheek and yanked her hair so hard. The pains were much on her, and she knew Xavier might take the worst action if Vanessa isn¡¯t back before evening as he ordered.


    She left to her own residence in order to take a rest and stay away from the angry man.


    When Xavier noticed she isn¡¯t within the environment again, she began dialing her contact.


    But because she was so scared of hearing her voice again, she didn¡¯t think I¡¯d picking up the call despite several times he called.


    She has been thinking of how to reach the hoodlum so Vanessa would be released, but then¡­ she¡¯s so ashamed of going to Xavier as it stands.


    It¡¯s time she stays away from him, even if Vanessa is back or she might regret it due to his annoying mood. She had convinced herself that Xavier would miss her if she stays for some days out of his sight.


    After so many hours had psed, she decided to redial the hoodlums contact and that of her friend. Luckily for her this time, he picked up the receive on the first ring.


    ¡°Hi dear¡­ how is Vanessa doing?¡± She referred to the thug through the phone.


    He nced at the phone screen and ced it back in his ear again. ¡°Sorry, but I don¡¯t know who I¡¯m speaking with.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Lilian¡­¡±


    He nodded. ¡°Oh! I remember¡­ so your captive is feeling okay over here. You want to speak with her?¡±


    ¡°Not at all, just that the police is out in search of her, and my fiance had promised to go all extent just to make sure she¡¯s back. I don¡¯t want to risk your life please, he isn¡¯t an easy going type¡­ just release Vanessa to go.¡± She narrated.


    He shook his head. ¡°Just like that? Without any torture or threat?¡±


    ¡°Uhmmm! You can torture her, but please don¡¯t hurt her the bad way or my Xavier won¡¯t take it easy with anyone.¡± She remarked.


    ¡°But isn¡¯t he your fiance? Why are you scared of him¡­ and who¡¯s thisdy to him?¡± The young man questioned.


    She swallowed deeply. ¡°It¡¯s a question you don¡¯t need to bother asking, just do what I said please¡­ for the benefit of everyone.¡±


    He eded to her order and hung up the call.


    After some minutes of ending the call, he moved to Vanessa and untied the scarf used in enclosing her face.


    ¡°Take a good look at me, woman.¡± He ordered her.


    Vanessa shook her head slightly while wiping her face in order to see clearly. She lifted her face to get in sight with the young man who had visited her bakery.


    ¡°It¡¯s you¡­ why did you bring me here? You drugged me right?¡± She uttered about to weep.


    He stretched his lips into an annoying smile. ¡°Of course I told you not to misbehave when referring to a stranger, maybe you thought I was joking right?¡±


    ¡°I never used abusive words on you, rather you did. Please, just let me go¡­ my bakery must be open.¡± She pleaded amidst tears.


    ¡°Who cares? That isn¡¯t my business.¡± He squatted. ¡°Now tell me, what¡¯s between you and your boss?¡±


    She shivered on hearing that question. ¡°What sort of question is that? Do I have a boss? I¡¯m self employed.¡±


    ¡°Of course you are, and then you¡¯re babysitting Mr Xavier¡¯s little child. Isn¡¯t it?¡± He questioned.


    She heaved a big sigh. ¡°That¡¯s why you abducted me huh? To know what¡¯s between me and Xavier? Well, there¡¯s nothing binding the both of us, but if you still don¡¯t believe, then it¡¯s left to you.¡±


    He pped her cheek so hard making her groan in deep pain.


    ¡°What have I done again this time.¡± She referred enclosing her face with her two palms.


    He pulled out her palms off her face. ¡°Xavier is Lilian¡¯s fiance and you know that, what then are you up to towards Xavier that he loves you damn much than his fiancee?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about, I¡¯m just a mere babysitter for goodness sake. Why wont Lilian let me be¡­


    ¡°And she¡¯s always unlucky, all the thugs she hires always expose her. What have I done to deserve all this mess? I¡¯m i the only babysitter in New York?¡±


    She wiped her face and rested her head on the wall. ¡°I just wish Xavier woulde to my rescue¡­¡± she hissed inwaey.


    ¡°Why would I seek for his help when he¡¯s the reason for me locked up here?¡± She rolled her eyes. ¡°But then it¡¯s not her fault, he has been good to me all this while¡­ just that Lilian won¡¯t let me be because of unreasonable jealousy.¡±


    He waved his palm on her face. ¡°Hey! Are you okay?¡±


    She noddeding back to reality. ¡°Yes I am¡­¡±


    He left to get with a knife, she watched him cut the rope tied in her leg and she hot on her feet straightening her body.


    ¡°What do you think is the reason behind your liberty?¡± He referred to her.


    She stretched her skirt and top. ¡°My freedom is because I¡¯m innocent, I know nothing about what Lilian has been saying. Maybe she expects Xavier to be so rude to me because I¡¯m his worker, but she can¡¯t care for the children under her control¡­¡±


    Her face lifted up staring at him. ¡°That¡¯s why he hired me to babysit his little daughter who is missing the love of a mother.¡±


    He gasped. ¡°You mean, Lilian can¡¯t take care of the children?¡±


    ¡°I never said so, but I guess it¡¯s because they aren¡¯t her biological children. That¡¯s what I think.¡± She replied.


    He stepped backwards staring at herpletely. He began regretting on raising his hand on her. But he couldn¡¯t apologize.


    ¡°Then you have to be extremely careful with her and take good care of the kids.¡± He stated.


    Vanessa was so shocked to see him saying such thing to her, she wondered the sort of spirit that upied a space in him.


    ¡°Are you for real? I mean, you are the one advising me huh?¡± She referred to him.


    He smiled and leaned in the wall. ¡°I¡¯ve examined you and noticed that you have a good heart, and Lilian is kind of inhuman. If she isn¡¯t, she wouldn¡¯t want her fellow woman to pass through hell.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever hate that family because if Lilian, do your job in a way that your boss would love. And please, don¡¯t tell anyone that I¡¯m the one who abducted you.¡± He stated.


    Vanessa shuddered, she wondered the hell that would cage her up to expose a thug, she will die in a moment.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­ so what are you up to now.¡± She asked.


    ¡°Nothing, just go. I have nothing to do with you.¡± He dered.


    Vanessa felt d and appreciated him before leaving the house. She boarded a cab that dropped her at the street near her bakery.


    While she was taking short bit steady steps back to her bakery, she wished nothing would be lost there and then Xavier and his daughter are okay.


    She walked pass a car that parked along the road, after which the car engine ignited and moved towards her.


    She stopped to see who is that obstructing her view.


    ¡°Hello beautiful, can I drop you off.¡± The young man seating in the car called out.


    She hissed, if only this man knows that she¡¯s in a haste and doesn¡¯t have time for jabbering¡­ he won¡¯t bother disturbing her.


    ¡°Please dear, can I have a talk with you?¡± He referred to her again causing her to stop moving.


    She turned her grimaced face to the man. ¡°What do you want from me young man? As you can see I¡¯m in a haste.¡±


    He nodded. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for distracting you, but please I¡¯ll like to be a friend to a prettydy like you.¡±


    She nced at her and looked off feeling irritated.


    ¡°I¡¯m Jasper Turner¡­ and you?¡± He asked.


    Vanessa shook her head showing disagreement. ¡°You can keep that question for some other day, I¡¯m not in the mood of introducing myself.¡±


    She moved ahead very fast this time without taking a nce backwards. All her mind was affixed to getting to her bakery.


    He followed her instantly but was so slow in driving. His mind was made up to know where Vanessa was heading to.


    Vanessa took long steps to her bakery to get it locked, her heart beat increased. It began sinking into her stomach.


    She nced at every corner, and then the tears rolled down.


    ¡°Who locked up my bakery? I just hope nothing is missing here¡­ will I have to lose this ce that I fought to get with myst sweat?¡± She shook her head out of curiosity. ¡°No! Never! That can¡¯t happen.¡±Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She turned back instantly and began heading home.


    Jasper kept watching her until she vanished from his sight, and then he revised and went back.

 Chapter 38.

    It skipped Vanessa¡¯s mind that the key to her residence is inside her bakery, and now she isn¡¯t aware of how her bakery was locked.


    She felt baffled, not knowing whom to ask. While she strode back to the bakery¡­ it hit her mind that Chloe must have visited when back from school.


    But at the same time, she¡¯s so convinced that the little girl won¡¯t be able to lock up the bakery.


    She stood in the veranda of her shop staring around. The image of everything that happened to her behalf shing in her mind.


    All that had urred. She could invent how the thug stepped into her bakery and the conversations that took ce within them.


    She transfixed her palm on her waist while staring around.


    She was drugged. It hit her mind the moment her memory went blurred, and when she got awake¡­ It was in a strange environment.


    Vanessa shook her head in disgust, the hell she¡¯s passing through in the hands of Lillian is really getting to something else.


    This time it isn¡¯t just to bully her, rather she hired a thug toe deal with her.


    She pulled her lips into an annoying smile, it¡¯s high time she overlooked thatdy. She won¡¯t keep mute any longer, besides she¡¯s only framing up usations.


    Vanessa decided to leave Xavier¡¯s residence in order to find out how her bakery was locked up; she believed that they might know how it happened or rather help her sort it out.


    While taking short but steady steps, she began contemting on an issue. The only thing roaming in her mind at the moment is Xavier¡¯s reaction when they couldn¡¯t get me.


    She wondered if he was troubled about her disappearance, or he was just feeling unconcerned.


    Chloe sat at the veranda when she stepped into thepound, the little girl couldn¡¯t believe her eyes. She ran into her arms with lots of embrace.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­ ¡± she called out, taking a good look at her.


    She couldn¡¯t believe thedy standing before her was her babysitter. Thedy has been longing to know her whereabouts all this while.


    ¡°Why are you absent from school today?¡± She asked her.


    Chloe shook her, wiping her a. ¡°You¡¯re the reason, how will I feel happy and leave for school when you¡¯re nowhere to be found? I couldn¡¯t sleepst night, no one to cuddle me.¡± She broke into tears.


    ¡°When I visited your bakery yesterday, it was unlocked but I couldn¡¯t find you inside. I waited for up to an hour but couldn¡¯t get your presence, so I had to call out for help and it was locked. Dad himself had searched everywhere but couldn¡¯t find you, he then reported to the police custody.¡± She narrated.


    Vanessa stood staring at her as she exined everything. She felt her heart bleeding in sorrow.


    ¡°Are you the only one at home? Tracy and Ben aren¡¯t back from school yet huh?¡± She inquired again while they stepped into the sitting room.


    Chloe nodded. ¡°They aren¡¯t back from school yet, but dad is upstairs¡­ don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll go call him.¡±


    She left to her father¡¯s bedroom to get him seated on the sofa counting on the ceiling. She knew the disappearance of Vanessa was really eating him up.


    ¡°Dad¡­ ¡± she drew his attention.


    Xavier adjusted on the seat in getting his daughter beside him. ¡°Anything the matter? Are you hungry?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°Not all this, ma¡¯am Vanessa is back¡­ she¡¯s in the sitting room now.¡±


    Xavier got on his feet instantly. ¡°Don¡¯t tell it¡¯s a joke. You¡¯re serious about this huh?¡±


    Chloe smiled. ¡°Sure. Go see her.¡±


    Xavier twitched out of the bedroom downstairs while Chloe followed him immediately. He was so shocked but damn happy.


    ¡°Vanessa. Is this really you?¡± He questioned taking short steps towards her.


    Vanessa got on her feet stretching her lips into a wide smile. ¡°It¡¯s me Vanessa, Mr Xavier.¡±


    He moved closer to her gripping her palm, they stared at each otherpletely.


    Vanessa couldn¡¯t believe Xavier would be acting this way on sighting her presence, she had thought Lilian would make him turn his back on her.


    ¡°I searched everywhere for you, including your home. But you weren¡¯t there. So the next thing was to report the case to the police.¡± Xavier narrated.


    She smiled again. ¡°Chloe had told me everything. I would say thank you so much for locking up my bakery Chloe, because that alone drained all the blood in my veins.¡±


    ¡°How did this happen? I¡¯m so shocked.¡± He asked.


    She sat down and they did so too. ¡°I just hope Lilian isn¡¯t around, because I won¡¯t love to drag issues with her.¡±


    He wiped away the tears on her cheek. ¡°Go ahead and exin everything to me.¡±


    She swallowed. ¡°I never knew he was a thug, but he came into the bakery and I thought he came to purchase. We dragged on so many issues and had some arguments¡­ after which I found myself in a new environment when I got awake.¡±


    She paused and wiped her face.


    ¡°I believed that he drugged me because at a time my head went blurred, but I was so convinced that Lilian hired him when he mentioned your name in the process of questioning me.¡± She stated.


    Xavier gripped her palm, staring into her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for everything Vanessa, please find a ce in your heart and forgive me and my little daughter for all the pains you¡¯re passing through. I had known that we are the reason you¡¯re still here despite all, but please don¡¯t turn your back on us.¡±


    Her eyes caught Chloe who was shedding tears bitterly.


    ¡°Mr Xavier, why not make peace with Lilian so she can care for Chloe?¡± She bent her head low. ¡°I¡¯m totally fed up with this.¡± Thest statement almost popped out of her mouth but she bit her lips.


    Xavier tapped her shoulder.  ¡°Lilian can¡¯t take care of my family. I¡¯ve studied her so well.¡± He thought within him.


    Chloe moved towards her and got seated on her thighs, she wrapped her palms round her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go prepare something for you to eat okay.¡± He assured her and got on his feet.


    Vanessa kept staring at him until he vanished from her sight.


    Who would believe Xavier would volunteer himself to prepare a meal for someone, talk more of a worker.


    She smiled at that thought, all she wishes is that Lilian won¡¯t arrive. Not that she will watch her act silly again¡­ but she wouldn¡¯t want to cause Xavier pains.


    ¡°I missed you so much, ma¡¯am Vanessa. Everything about you.¡± Chloe uttered, drawing her attention.


    She smiled at her. ¡°I missed you too sweetheart.¡±


    *******


    Xavier prepared the meal as he had promised, and the three left to dine all together.


    She watched as he dished the meal into their tes, before his.


    ¡°It seems great eating a meal prepared by a great CEO. I Just hope it¡¯s sweet.¡± She uttered audibly.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t help it butugh, all he wanted at this point was her happiness, at least so she would forget everything that had taken ce for a while.


    They slowly ate their food until the te was emptied. He didn¡¯t bother anyone, rather he cleaned up the dinning himself.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to go take your bath now, don¡¯t worry I¡¯ll get a new dress to put on.¡± He assured her.


    She nodded and left upstairs to Chloe¡¯s room, while Xavier got seated in the sitting room.


    The door was rapped open and Tracy stepped in followed by Ben, they had their look on their faces which revealed how hungry they are.


    ¡°Good afternoon dad¡­¡± the both greeted.


    He smiled at them and responded to their greeting. ¡°Wee¡­¡±


    Chloe moved towards them smiling widely, she paused their movement. ¡°My babysitter is back, she¡¯s looking strong and healthy. The police found her.¡±


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s great news¡­ but I¡¯m so hungry.¡± Ben replied.


    Tracy stood staring at them. ¡°No wonder the smiles on both of your faces.¡±


    ¡°Dad prepared lunch, it¡¯s in the kitchen.¡± Chloe announced.


    Their eyes widened as they stared at him. He smiled knowing fully well that they were surprised.


    ¡°He did it because of your babysitter right? I know so well.¡± Tracy added.


    Heughed out loud this time. ¡°Now you can go.¡±


    They left upstairs smiling.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ben and Tracy got off their school uniforms and came down to the dinning in order to have their lunch.


    They both got seated after the meal was served on the table.


    ¡°Tracy¡­¡± Ben called her.


    She lifted her face, staring at him. ¡°You called me, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    He licked his lips not knowing how to put the words together in order to form a sentence.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m¡­ uhmmm!¡± He stammered wiping his face.


    ¡°Ben, are you okay?¡± Tracy asked.


    He nodded. ¡°Just that, I¡¯m in love with Melissa¡­ but I don¡¯t know what to do about it.¡±


    Tracy dropped her spoon. ¡°You¡¯re in love with Melissa, the one I know huh?¡±


    He nodded.


    ¡°I see¡­ lover boy. Why not go ahead and tell her, who will ever reject a handsome dude like you?¡± She uttered jokingly.


    Ben swallowed deeply, he felt baffled. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to date her, but I won¡¯t love to see her with another dude.¡±


    ¡°Then you need to do something very fast. Very very fast.¡± She remarked.


    ¡°Hi kids. How is school today?¡± A feminine but familiar voice paused their conversation.


    They both nced backwards to see that it¡¯s Vanessa, and then they stared at each other again.

 Chapter 39.

    The two children nced at each other while holding their spoon. Their res alone would tell Vanessa that she isn¡¯t weed in their midst.


    ¡°You¡¯re back from hostage¡­ wee and who caged you?¡± Ben uttered staring at her.


    She pulled her lips into a smile, though she felt bitter on how she was addressed by them.


    They weren¡¯t feeling pity about her disappearance, and she knows so well that it¡¯s because they had never loved her.


    ¡°Yes I¡¯m back, how are you two doing?¡± She replied.


    The nced at each other again and broke out in a mockingugh. ¡°As yoh can see, we are fine even when you were nowhere to be found.¡±


    ¡°Thank your good God that Chloe locked up your bakery, I wonder what you would have done.¡± Tracy spluttered.


    She wasn¡¯t smiling this time, her face was damn chiseled. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Miss, but you aren¡¯t weed in our midst. Thank you for checking on us, you can take your leave.¡±


    ¡°And learn to stay far away from us especially when we¡¯re in an important discussion.¡± Ben added.


    She nodded. ¡°It¡¯s okay, we aren¡¯t quarelling. You two can go ahead with your meal.¡± She turned her back on them to leave.


    Tracy twisted her lips, a question skipped her mind. ¡°Excuse me madam¡­ where is your colleague, I mean your partner in crime.¡±


    ¡°You mean Lilian huh?¡± Nessa replied with a question too.


    She nodded. ¡°Yes, Lilian. You know she¡¯s a bitch and forbidden in this family just like you are?¡±


    ¡°For goodness sake, don¡¯t use swear words on me. You can say whatever you want, but don¡¯t use swear words on me.¡± Vanessa scolded her.


    She felt like pouncing on the girl for referring her as a bitch and forbidden. She wouldn¡¯t keep mute if she repeats that again.


    ¡°Please, take your leave. I have nothing to do with you.¡± Tracy stated.


    She swallowed deeply and left. Heaven knows that her love for those children are irreceable. She can¡¯t heart them less despite the way they talk to her.


    But then, she wouldn¡¯t keep mute and watch them talk to her like she depends on them for survival, besides¡­ her sry is not her major means of getting ie.


    Tracy nced at her brother. Sgw noticed he¡¯s lost in thought.


    ¡°Are you okay Ben? Is anything the matter?¡± She tried inquiring.


    He licked his lips taking a nce at her. ¡°Uhmmm! I¡¯m not that okay, but you don¡¯t need to worry¡­ I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Tracy got on his feet and moved towards him. ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s the matter with you? Your facial expression doesn¡¯t show that you will be fer.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to feel haunted Tracy. I¡¯ll be okay, it¡¯s a matter of time.¡± He insisted.


    She felt sad within her, this is the first time he¡¯s seeing her brother in such mood and decides to keep the worries to himself.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell you¡¯re still thinking about Melissa? Hope it isn¡¯t her?¡± She referred to him.


    Ben lifted his head staring at her. He¡¯s so sure that Tracy wasn¡¯t lying. That girl has upied a certain ce in her.


    ¡°It¡¯s her. Tracy you won¡¯t believe the kind of love I have for her. I love that girl so much.¡± He narrated.


    Tracy stared at her for a while. She couldn¡¯t believe her own brother would be dieing of bitterness because of a girl he isn¡¯t sure will love him.


    ¡°You¡¯re killing yourself here because of Melissa huh? By the way, is she the only girl in school? Aren¡¯t other damsels around?¡± She questioned.


    Ben twisted his lips, there¡¯s nothing meaningful about what Tracy is uttering this time.


    Whether there are millions of girls in their school or not, the only person he needs to himself is Melissa¡­ and that¡¯s all.


    ¡°Pleaseport yourself and eat your food. Melissa will not provide lunch for you, she might not even love you.¡± Tracy stated, she picked her spoon again and began eating while Ben kept staring at her. ¡°There are many girls flirting themselves around you, yet you overlook them all because of Melissa. Pick one amongst them and get addicted to her.¡±


    ¡°Enough of this Tracy, I¡¯ve made my choice and you can¡¯t change it okay.¡± Ben retorted.


    She threw him a re and bent her head.


    *********


    The next day.


    Vanessa had left the previous day with the bakery¡¯s key. She unlocked it and took the key to her house.


    She made sure to wake up on time the previous day and arrive at Xavier¡¯s residence to get Chloe ready for school.


    The little girl was so overwhelmed with joy when she woke up to sight Vanessa seated on her bed. A wide smile appeared on her face.


    ¡°Good morning ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡± she greeted standing from the bed.


    She responded to her greeting and helped her up. ¡°You need to hurry up okay.¡±


    Chloe nodded and twitched into the bathroom to brush her teeth. Vanessa for her ready and she moved to the dinning room to take her breakfast.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Her n is just to leave instantly before or after the kids. While stepping down the stairs, she sighted Xavier in the sitting room about to dash out.


    ¡°Mr. Xavier¡­¡± she called distracting him.


    He turned to see her and smiled. ¡°How are you doing Vanessa?¡±


    She returned the smile moving closer to him. ¡°I¡¯m very fine sir, just wanted to ask you a question.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, I¡¯m all ears.¡± He assured.


    Vanessa swallowed her saliva. ¡°I¡¯ve not set my eyes on Lilian since yesterday, hope you¡¯re in good terms with her? Look Mr Xavier, I don¡¯t ever want to be the reason you¡¯re having issues with your fiancee.¡±


    Xavier looked off, she found that question pulling the past to his brain, thereby getting him irritated.


    ¡°I knew she¡¯s responsible for your disappearance, because she¡¯s been tackling you. And so, I threatened to deal with her if you aren¡¯t back before sunset. And you were back before sunset proving that I wasn¡¯t wrong.¡± He narrated.


    She heaved a big sigh of relief. ¡°Yeah! Truly she¡¯s behind my disappearance, but now I want you to forgive her and reunite with her too. Let all thise to an end.¡±


    ¡°Vanessa, it¡¯s so easy for you to say, but you don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on in her mind. That¡¯s just hy the way for now, because she left my house herself¡­ I didn¡¯t send her out.¡± He added.


    Vanessa nodded and picked her handbag and cell phone from the sofa. ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving now, I have a lot to do in my bakery.¡±


    He eded to that and watched her leave the house.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving you three behind, when you¡¯re done then you can go okay.¡± He shouted to their hearing.


    ¡°Okay Dad¡­ have a nice day.¡± They all replied in unison.


    He left the room too and drove to his office.


    When they kids were through, they left to the car and the driver drove off from the house.


    ********


    While at school, Ben sat at a corner watching the cheerleading team as they all gathered some miles away from him.


    He had caught the presence of Tracy within them, and then Melissa who is their leader.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on Ben,e over with us let¡¯s y some jokes.¡± One of his friend drew him outta his thoughts.


    He nced at him and looked off. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood.¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking at the cheerleading teams, they¡¯re ying their role¡­e let¡¯s go fo ours.¡± The same guy uttered.


    This time he felt irritated. ¡°But you heard me well now, I¡¯m not in the mood of ying games.¡±


    He shuddered. ¡°Okay then, see you in the ssroom.¡± He stated and left him alone.


    Ben watched the dude leave his presence, and then he hissed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait over here until you¡¯re done with your team.¡± He remarked inwardly.


    He felt a tap on his thigh.


    ¡°Hi Ben, how are you? Why are you seating alone?¡± A feminine voice hit his ear.


    He stared at the girl. He had known her to be one of those flirting themselves around him.


    ¡°Who called for your presence? Please you aren¡¯t needed here.¡± He referred to her.


    She pouted her lips in a sexy manner. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop disturbing me please, I need to be alone.¡± He shut her up.


    The girl sighed. ¡°Okay then, if you persist.¡± She uttered and left.


    Ben hissed loudly, he wouldn¡¯t take it easy with anyone that distracts him again.


    He watched the cheerleading teams as they all left serially. But he wasn¡¯t able to see Melissa again.


    His heart was filled with sorrow, he wondered when the girl left that he wasn¡¯t aware.


    ¡°Gosh! I¡¯m looking for her now.¡± He muttered getting on his feet.


    While moving to the ce that had gathered, he caught her stepping ahead of him but he stood staring.


    He felt shy. Thinking of how to approach her and exin his feelings to her, he wasn¡¯t able to do that.


    He stood watching Melissa as she walked away from his sight.

 Chapter 40.

    The day ran so fast, but Vanessa was able to make it in sales. She had covered the other days she wasn¡¯t present for business.


    Her patrons were so worried about her whereabouts. They had allmented of not seeing her in the bakery while it¡¯s wide open.


    She didn¡¯t let anyone know what¡¯s going on, the least she could was to cover up everything, telling them she got an urgent call that made her leave instantly.


    Nessa wasn¡¯tzy to bake as many cakes and other bakeries as she could, she made sure to distribute them to the various malls and shops she was called for.


    Before evening, she had more than she had expected for the day, and it really ddened her.


    After the sun had set, she decided to close for the day being so sure that Chloe might be waiting for her.


    She cleaned up her oven since there wasn¡¯t any cake in it.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    When she was done, she locked up the door and was about to leave, when she heard her name being called out by a masculine.


    Her neck swirled backwards in search of the person calling her out, but she didn¡¯t find anyone.


    She felt scared. All she wishes is that it¡¯s a safe voice.


    Again, she heard her name more loudly and repeated this time.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± She asked in a low tune. Her eyes widened while ncing around.


    She felt an arm around her waist. But couldn¡¯t get it off while struggling to.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Jasper Turner.¡± The voice stated.


    She ced her palm on her heart while trying to recall where she heard the name.


    ¡°Uhmmm! Do you know me? Okay, just let me be on my own first.¡± She uttered feeling a bit relieved.


    He let go of her waist. ¡°Take a good look at me, did you recognize this face?¡±


    She narrowed her eyes while recalling the past. Finally, it hit her mind on where she met the face.


    ¡°You stopped me yesterday right?¡± She asked him.


    He nodded facing her. ¡°I did, and I¡¯m still Jasper Turner. The only man that disturbs ady like you.¡±


    She chuckled wondering what he¡¯s up to. ¡°So what can I do for you?¡± She asked, stepping forward.


    He gripped her palm taking her towards his car, she gently followed him.


    She leaned on the car forcing her to do so. ¡°I¡¯m in a haste, just let me know the reason you stopped me.¡±


    He licked his lips, staring at her. ¡°First, what¡¯s your name? You didn¡¯t tell me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Vanessa.¡± She stated. ¡°Now you¡¯ll speak up right?¡±


    He breathed heavily. ¡°I have interest in you Vanessa. Can we go on a date during the weekend?¡±


    She lifted her face and nced at him. ¡°I don¡¯t really get what you mean?¡±


    He turned towards her totally. ¡°I¡¯m very serious Vanessa, I love you so much and would love to go on a date with you.¡±


    She turned speechless instantly, staring at the huge dude that¡¯s kind of wealthy asking her on a date.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Jasper, but I¡¯m rejecting that offer. You can look for some other women that can give you such time.¡± She remarked.


    He held her in order not to let her go. ¡°Why are you speaking this way? I¡¯m not good looking enough to stay with you?¡± She swallowed. ¡°Look Vanessa, I had loved you from the first day I set my eyes on you. I promise to give you all you want from me.¡±


    ¡°This is a matter of love please. Do you even know what it means to go on a date with someone? Jasper, I am not interested at all. I¡¯m a very busy person and won¡¯t give time to that.¡± She insisted on turning down his request.


    Jasper felt shattered, this isn¡¯t what he had expected from her.


    All through his life, Vanessa is the first woman to turn down his request¡­ meanwhile, otherdies force themselves on him which he desires a lot.


    He had turned himself to a womanizer because of that, to find them, use and delete¡­ that¡¯s what he¡¯s up to.


    But it¡¯s different this time¡­ Vanessa had stolen his heart for sure and nothing can change that. If only she would be able to view his heart, she would be very sure that he isn¡¯t teasing her.


    ¡°Vanessa, don¡¯t do this to me. I love you so damn much and I promise not to stop doing that.¡± He uttered again.


    She looked off. ¡°You¡¯re wasting my time here. I¡¯ve told you the fact, I don¡¯t love you and am not ready to go on a date with you. Just let me go.¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry but I won¡¯t let you go, only if you ede to my request, then I have a rest of mind and let you go.¡±


    Vanessa felt baffled, the time is running so fast and she needs to leave in order to go meet Chloe.


    But then, she isn¡¯t interested in the dude despite the fact she isn¡¯t in any rtionship.


    ¡°Jasper, why not keep this discussion for next time. I can¡¯t just give you a reply now, besides I¡¯m in a hurry and you stopped me.¡± She referred to him.


    He didn¡¯t say a word, rather his eyes affixed on her.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you saying something to me any longer? I¡¯m so tired of standing here, just let me go.¡± She uttered after waiting for his response but couldn¡¯t get any.


    He sniffed. ¡°I need an assurance. I need to be sure that you¡¯ll have me in mind. Look Vanessa, I don¡¯t ever want to lose you to someone else, or I won¡¯t take it lightly with the person.¡±


    ¡°What if I¡¯m married or in a rtionship?¡± She asked him.


    He smiled. ¡°Then that¡¯s different. But you never know anything about it, that means you¡¯re still single.¡±


    Vanessa didn¡¯t say a word again. She is just fed up with his queries.


    ¡°Nessa¡­¡± he called her out of her thoughts.


    She lifted her face, staring at him. ¡°You called me¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes I did. Now tell me what you¡¯re saying about my request. I¡¯d like to know, but please don¡¯t turn me down.¡± He pleaded politely.


    She stretched her lips and then circled it. ¡°I¡¯ll sleep over it, juste back next time for my response, because my head is nk now and I think straight.¡±


    Jasper nodded. ¡°It¡¯s okay then. Why not go into the car so I¡¯ll drop you off.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about it, the building I¡¯m leaving is just over here.¡± She uttered pointing at the building.


    He gazed at the building for a while and swallowed deeply. ¡°Is that your home?¡±


    ¡°Nope! I work there as a babysitter.¡± She replied to him.


    He nodded. ¡°It¡¯s alright then, take good care of yourself.¡±


    Vanessa waved him goodbye and left him.


    He still leaned on his car watching Nessa until she entered the building.


    He narrowed his eyes deep in thought. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m mistaken, but it seems like Xavier¡¯s residence.¡± He thought, rolling his eyes.


    He rolled his eyes and stepped into his car ready to leave. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s his residence.¡± He assured himself and drove off instantly.


    ******


    Chloeid on her bed busy with her toy when Nessa came in, she stood up running into her arms.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you.¡± She uttered.


    ¡°And you didn¡¯t minding over to the bakery today.¡± She replied to her.


    She got seated on the sofa just to take some rest. Chloe got seated beside her too.


    ¡°I slept off, that¡¯s why I couldn¡¯te. I¡¯m just waking up now, so since it¡¯s already evening, I decided to wait till youe over.¡± The little girl narrated.


    She smiled at her. ¡°It¡¯s nothing to worry about. So how is today¡¯s study?¡± She caressed her hair.


    ¡°I enjoyed it, because you¡¯re back to me.¡± She replied smiling.


    Vanessa got on his feet after they interacted for a while, and then decided to start her work.


    Chloe sat watching her as she arranged the room and her clothes too.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, when will you teach me how to do all these things you do? I¡¯d like to learn.¡± She referred to drawing Vanessa¡¯s attention.


    She stood erect facing her. ¡°When it¡¯s time, I¡¯ll teach you. But now you need to start arranging your clothes.¡±


    ¡°I think I can do that. You know what, I¡¯ll do it before youe tomorrow and you examine it when you arrive.¡± Chloe replied.


    She nodded and went ahead with the chores.


    After she was done, and was sure that Tracy was done preparing their dinner, she decided to go meet her in order to take that of Chloe.


    While walking towards the stairs, she heard a voice of someone in agony but making a call.


    That voice paused her movement and she decided to trace where it¡¯sing from.


    Finally, she noticed it¡¯s from Ben¡¯s room.


    She stood in the corridor listening to all he had been saying through the phone, but wasn¡¯t shocked when she heard him say he¡¯s in love with a girl in his school but doesn¡¯t know how to express it to the girl.


    Nessa noticed he was narrating it to a friend of his.


    She pushed the door open a little and peeped through it, her eyes caught Ben standing beside the window with his cell phone in his ear.


    ¡°Can I be of help to him?¡± The question bombarded her mind, but she only stretched her lips.

 Chapter 41.

    She stood on the door post staring at Ben continuously, but was kinda scared of moving in.


    She was sure that he wouldn¡¯t love to set his eyes on her.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡± Chloe tapped her.


    She froze on that touch and then turned to see Chloe standing beside her. ¡°I¡¯ming Chloe.¡±


    ¡°What are you doing here? I don¡¯t want him to scold you and spoil your mood,e let¡¯s go to my room.¡± Chloe referred to her.


    She smiled at that statement she made. Chloe wasn¡¯t mistaking though, she¡¯s really saying nothing but the truth.


    Since she began working here, the little girl had known that her siblings don¡¯t in any way love Vanessa, and that¡¯s why she wouldn¡¯t want her to speak with Ben¡­ because she¡¯s sure that he will scold her again.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry Chloe, I¡¯lle over with you once I¡¯m done speaking with him.¡± She assured her.


    But she wasn¡¯t pleased with the assurance, all she wants is to leave with her immediately.


    ¡°Ben might hurt you with his words, I wouldn¡¯t like to see you acting strange all because of him. Please let¡¯s leave.¡± Chloe insisted on drawing her clothes.


    She took a deep breath and then turned to face her. She noticed how grimaced her face seemed to be, and the only thing that would brighten it up is leaving with her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave your room okay.¡± She lifted her into her arms and they left for her room.


    There, she told her lots of folks and tales after which she asked her some questions and she gave a in answer to it.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, have you seen my father¡¯s wife since you came back?¡± Chloe asked her.


    She shook her head, wondering what the little girl had in mind to ask such a question.


    Precisely, Chloe had known she wasn¡¯t on good terms with Lilian and lots of issues wereing up between Lilian and her father.


    ¡°Since Dad scolded her because of your disappearance, I haven¡¯t set my eyes on her again. I wonder where she left off.¡± She uttered again.


    Vanessa tapped her cheek and smiled. ¡°Why are you worried about her when you don¡¯t love her presence here? You want her back right?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°Not me wanting her back. I don¡¯t ever want to see her here again. She¡¯s causing lots of trouble in this home.¡± She stated audibly.


    Vanessa only smiled at every word that escaped her throat. She doesn¡¯t need to keep asking why she doesn¡¯t love her again.


    She had known none of them love Lilian, and that¡¯s because of her attitude towards them. When talking about her, she isn¡¯t alleged to bepared with Lilian in terms of being present in this house, that¡¯s because Lilian is expected to steal their heart with lots of love and care because she¡¯s gonna be their step mother soon.


    But everything is opposite of what it should be. She isn¡¯t treating her fiance like one, and there¡¯s no means the children would wee her if it continues that way.


    Meanwhile, she isn¡¯t expected to act rude towards them, at least this is her first visit.


    ¡°She isn¡¯t after taking care of us, rather she wants my father to sack you from working here. I wonder what she¡¯s up to.¡± Chloe stated again, distracting her thoughts.


    Vanessa adjusted on the bed, and sheid her head on her thigh.


    ¡°You¡¯re still a kid to be worried about all this, your siblings aren¡¯t worried. I would advise you kick off everything about Lilian off your mind and concentrate on your studies okay.¡± She advised her.


    She stretched her lips into a wide smile. ¡°I¡¯m always the happiest so long as ma¡¯am Vanessa is concerned.¡±


    Vanessa blushed, rubbing her palm on her hair. ¡°I¡¯ll soon be leaving, you know that right?¡±


    Chloe wrapped her arms round her waist. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving to see father tonight, so please cuddle me to bed before you leave.¡±


    ¡°Of course I will, it¡¯s part of my job or you¡¯ve forgotten. Maybe it¡¯s because certain times you decide to be awake because of your father.¡± She referred to her.


    Chloe rxed on her thigh humming some rhymes while she tapped her back following along with the rhymes too.


    She sat with her, and cuddled her to bed. When she realized she had slept off, she grabbed her handbag and left the room instantly.


    ******


    Ben was seated in his bed when Nessa knocked on the door, she had been worried about the young boy and would love to speak with him.


    Though, she wasn¡¯t sure if he would wee her presence.


    Ben got on his foot and walked towards the door, he let it open to see Vanessa standing at the door post staring at him.


    ¡°What¡¯s it? I¡¯m sure you missed the road, I don¡¯t wee people like you here.¡± He retorted, not even letting her speak.


    Nessa pouted her lips. ¡°Ummm! I¡¯m just here to discuss something with you before I leave.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no time left for you, so please leave if you¡¯re done with today¡¯s work.¡± Ben spluttered.


    He tried shutting the door, but Nessa didn¡¯t let him. She insisted on speaking with him.


    ¡°But I just told you that I¡¯m not interested to hear the hell you¡¯re about to say. Why not just let me be for goodness sake¡­ ¡± he yelled at her but not in a high voice.


    Nessa swallowed deeply. She wouldn¡¯t care to know the swear words she might use on her this time, all she needs is his attention.


    ¡°Trust me Ben, you won¡¯t ever regret weing me to tell you this. If it isn¡¯t important, then I wouldn¡¯t be here.¡± She referred to him.


    ¡°I wonder what the hell you wanna tell me that¡¯s so important to leave since you¡¯re done with your work.¡± He replied aggressively.


    She took a deep breath. Her head lifted upwards and then she bent it low, biting her lips slightly.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t mandatory that you would let me into your room, just promise to give me your ears while I go ahead with anything I want to say.¡± She referred to her.


    He licked his lips leaning on the door post. ¡°Go ahead then, but I¡¯m giving you my ears because it¡¯s interstate and important to me. In Spite of that, I¡¯m with you but my mind is elsewhere.¡±


    She was kind of relieved on hearing that, because she believed that he would love what she¡¯s about to say.


    ¡°Ummm! I overheard you on a call some minutes ago, or maybe up to an hour now¡­


    He red at her for making that statement. ¡°Excuse me Madam, you mean all this while I¡¯ve been on call, you¡¯ve been here widening your ears to everything that I¡¯ve been saying?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to hurt you, but I heard the conversation and it touched me, so I decided to get to the root of it.¡± She replied.


    His eyes furrowed in anger that Vanessa noticed it. ¡°You still had the guts to tell me you wanna have a discussion with me huh?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because I believe I can be of help¡­ .


    He gritted his teeth. ¡°Look, don¡¯t even make such a mistake again, or I promise not to take it lightly with you. I¡¯m not Chloe, I am Ben.¡±


    She nodded. ¡°No problems, I already know that you are Ben, not Chloe. But that¡¯s by the way. Should I go ahead?¡±


    ¡°Just split the fucking words out of your throat and leave my sight.¡± He remarked.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Nessa didn¡¯t spare her a nce, she only swallowed her saliva just toport herself.


    ¡°I overhead you telling a friend of the young girl you¡¯re in love with in school, but you don¡¯t know how to approach her¡­¡± she stated staring into his eyes.


    He red at her. ¡°You had everything and you¡¯re still asking me.¡±


    She blinked several times. ¡°Look Ben, you can¡¯t just stand and keep watching the girl you love around without approaching her, that¡¯s because there are so many dudes like you also crushing on her¡­


    ¡°Stop being shy¡­ pull that stuff by the side and express your feelings to her. If you keep waiting all because you¡¯re scared she might turn you down, then you will be a loser atst, because someone else will put on rr courage, approach her and she will give in¡­


    ¡°Forget the fact that you don¡¯t know her mind, but you need to take action first. If she declines your request three times, then note that she isn¡¯t made for you.¡± She concluded.


    Ben couldn¡¯t get his eyes off her, he kept contemting everything she uttered.


    ¡°So how do I approach her when I can¡¯t get the courage?¡± He asked her.


    She licked her lips. ¡°During leisure time, sight her when she¡¯s alone and move to her. Spend lots of time with her and make sure she feels happy and safe being with you. At the end of the day, speak out your mind to her and await her response¡­ Who knows if she has been crushing on you too.¡±


    Ben heaved a big sigh of relief, he stared at Nessa for a while and nodded.


    ¡°Thank you so much for this piece of idea, I¡¯ll give it a try and let you know the oue.¡± He stated.


    She nodded and left his sight.


    Ben didn¡¯t get off from the door post, he stood staring at Vanessa until she vanished from his sight.


    He shut the door and moved to the bed, getting his ass on it. Within him, he felt okay with all Nessa had stated and had decided to give it a try hoping that it would work out for him.

 Chapter 42.

    Throughout the night, Ben couldn¡¯t stop contemting on what Nessa had advised him to do henceforth.


    He kept on thinking about how he would walk up to Melissa despite how shy he is.


    ¡°But what if she degrades me, or rather turns me down because she feels I¡¯m not the type of guy she needs?¡± He pouted his lips while I thought.


    He got on his feet and moved to the wardrobe, leaned his back on it while his head lifted, staring at the ceiling.


    ¡°Every guy loves Melissa, but will she take a nce at me for the first time?¡± He shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t think this will work out¡­ it can never.¡±


    He moved back to his bed and got seated. ¡°I¡¯ll just walk up to her, tap her shoulder in order to get her attention¡­ then I¡¯ll start speaking up my heart.¡±


    A silly smile appeared on his face. ¡°How¡¯s that even possible? I mean, standing before her and she stares back at me just like I¡¯ll do.¡± He got on his feet again, but broke out in a silentugh. ¡°I might even slump due to her stares. But that is, if she won¡¯t pour a bottle of acid on me.¡±


    He moved to the table, ced his left palm on it and began biting his finger.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it this way¡­¡± he swallowed deeply and then stretched his lips.


    He moved like a gentleman to the door post and paused. ¡°Hi Melissa¡­ how are you doing?¡± He soliloquized all in the name of practicing on how to approach the young girl.


    His eyes narrowed while his palms dipped into his pocket. ¡°Ummm! I just wanna spend some time with you. Hope you don¡¯t turn me down.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help it any longer but burst intoughter. He wondered if all this was going to take ce the next day.


    ¡°Thisdy urged me to do all this huh?¡± He shook his head and then got seated on the bed. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll give it a try tomorrow.¡±


    He arched his brows. ¡°ording to her, three times is okay to prove if she loves me. Oh Melissa, please don¡¯t turn me down.¡±


    His cell phone buzzed, drawing his attention towards it. He picked it up to get a message from his friend. Same guy he was speaking with when Vanessa heard him.


    A resounding hiss escaped his lips on going through the message. ¡°We¡¯ll talk about this tomorrow in school.¡±


    He threw the cell phone on the bed and then covered himself with a nket.


    ¡°I just wish to sleep off instantly, so I can read my books at midnight.¡± He muttered, shutting his eyes.


    ?~?~?~?


    They all ran around the building all in the name of getting ready for school. It¡¯s obvious they had slept ahead of time.


    But they aren¡¯t to me, they woke up to read in the middle of the midnight and it really affected them waking up as early as always.


    Tracy tried as much as she could to get their breakfast prepared so they wouldn¡¯t starve before leaving. She had concluded on preparing their lunch as well if there¡¯s  much time ahead, otherwise¡­ The lunch will be prepared once they¡¯re back.


    Chloe was still brushing their teeth when Vanessa stepped into her room, herself was also a bitte because she didn¡¯t sleep on time.


    ¡°Good morning ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡± She greeted her from the bathroom.


    She responded with a smile and dropped her handbag. ¡°You all woke upte right?¡±


    ¡°How did you know that?¡± Chloe asked her.


    She got seated on the bed. ¡°Tracy is still preparing your breakfast, when I¡¯m sure she¡¯s done by this time.¡±


    ¡°We read at midnight.¡± She replied.


    Vanessaughed. ¡°Including you huh?¡±


    ¡°Sure¡­ dad taught me.¡± She responded.


    Vanessa moved towards her wardrobe and took her school uniform, after which she took her to the bathtub.


    ¡°Would you prepare lunch for us today? Please ma¡¯am Vanessa, I don¡¯t want to starve when I¡¯m back.¡± Chloe pleaded.


    She smiled at that request, if it¡¯s just for her she would do that so easily. But her siblings are too strict to cope with.


    ¡°Tracy won¡¯t let that happen, not even Ben would love to perceive the aroma so let it be.¡± She replied.


    Chloe broke out in tears. ¡°Please ma¡¯am Vanessa, they will not reject it. Not when we¡¯re so hungry like never.¡±


    ¡°Chloe you won¡¯t understand how your siblings take me. They hate me so much that even my footsteps irritate them.¡± She stood erect staring at her. ¡°I might prepare it, and they¡¯ll dispose it, so just let it be.¡±


    She shook her head in disgust. ¡°Such a thing can never happen. My siblings won¡¯t dare dispose of a meal or Dad will deal with them.¡±


    ¡°Vanessa¡­ Vanessa.¡± She heard her name called out so loud.


    She nced at Chloe who has been staring at her. ¡°That¡¯s my dad¡¯s voice.¡±


    She moved to the door and unlocked it to see Xavier standing at the door post.


    ¡°Good morning, Mr Xavier¡­¡± She greeted him.


    Xavier licked his lips. ¡°Good morning Vanessa.¡± He stepped into the room to get Chloe in the bathtub.


    He smiled seeing her there, she¡¯s not familiar with it and hardly takes her bath in it.


    ¡°I¡¯m giving the bathtub a try again today, dad.¡± She smiled.


    ¡°I can see, and you¡¯re enjoying it.¡± He swirled his neck to face Nessa. ¡°I beg of you please, prepare a lunch for my kids, they¡¯re alreadyte to school and I wouldn¡¯t want them to starve when they¡¯re back at noon.¡±


    Vanessa nced at Chloe who smiled at her. ¡°It¡¯s okay then, I¡¯ll do that for them.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much ma¡¯am Vanessa, I love you dearly.¡± Chloe uttered even before her father.


    Xavier gripped her palm. ¡°Thank you so much Nessa.¡± He appreciated it with a smile.


    She watched him leave the room and she went back to the bathroom again.


    ?~?~?~?


    Tracy got seated with her siblings as they gobbled on their breakfast. They were in a haste since the driver was already waiting for them.


    Vanessa stepped into the kitchen to get their breakfast ready so she could leave for her bakery.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What¡¯s she going in there to do? I¡¯m gonna¡­¡± Tracy questioned with eyes widened.


    Chloe tapped her arm. ¡°Dad pleaded she should prepare our lunch so we won¡¯t starve when we¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s nice. I¡¯m sure of eating when I¡¯m back from school.¡± Benmented.


    Tracy nced at him and hissed. ¡°What¡¯s so special about her meal?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. But it would save you the stress.¡± He licked his lips. ¡°She advised me on what to do about Melissa.¡±


    ¡°On what? How are you gonna do it?¡± She questioned him out of curiosity.


    Ben dropped his spoon. ¡°The steps I should take in order to get to myself, or someone else would take her away from me.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re loving her already because of that huh?¡± Tracy twisted her face.


    He heaved a big sigh. ¡°Not at all, until I¡¯m satisfied with the advice. I mean if it works out for me the way I expect.¡±


    Chloe pulled her lips into a smile. ¡°It¡¯s gonna work out. I trust my babysitter.¡±


    ¡°You keep talking about her everytime. Just eat your food.¡± Tracy referred to her little sister.


    ¡°She¡¯s her babysitter, or you¡¯ve forgotten huh?¡± Ben added.


    She circled her lips. ¡°Let¡¯s be fast.¡±


    Within a few minutes, they were already done with the meal, and then were ready to leave.


    ¡°We¡¯re leaving ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡± Chloe drew her attention.


    She dropped the knife and turned to face her. ¡°Is the driver waiting?¡±


    ¡°Yes, all this while.¡± She nodded slightly while giving a reply.


    Vanessa smiled. ¡°Ok then, I¡¯ll leave for the bakery once I¡¯m done with the meal. Make sure you concentrate on today¡¯s teaching, because I¡¯ll ask you questions when you¡¯re back.¡±


    She returned the smile. ¡°It¡¯s okay with that. Have a nice day ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡±


    ¡°You too, and take care of yourself okay.¡±


    She waved her goodbye and she left the kitchen to meet her siblings already waiting for her.


    They left for school immediately.


    ?~?~?~?


    During break hour, Ben left with his friends to go have some fun together.


    His closest friend amongst them drew him closer.


    ¡°You¡¯ve never said anything about Melissa since today or you¡¯ve changed your mind from approaching her¡­¡± he referred to Ben.


    He rolled his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m still thinking of how to do that, already you know I¡¯m a shy type of guy.¡±


    ¡°This time you need to be courageous. I¡¯m saying this because the new guy that came in our ss had already approached her.¡± He stated.


    His eyes widened and face grimaced. ¡°What do you mean? He¡¯s already crushing on her.¡±


    He knitted his eyebrows. ¡°That¡¯s it. Though I¡¯m not sure if Melissa epted the request, but then you need to approach her too. It¡¯s much better than hiding, who knows she might love you.¡±


    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t want to quarrel with anyone because of a girl. I don¡¯t just want that.¡± Ben remarked.


    ¡°What¡¯s yours will always be yours. If Melissa loves you, that guy can¡¯t take her away from you.¡± His friend advised.


    He twisted his lips. ¡°Uhmmm! But I haven¡¯t set my eyes on her since today.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s sitting alone over there.¡± He replied pointing in the other direction.


    His heart began pounding. He dressed up and decided to move ahead with the advice.


    ¡°I¡¯m going¡­¡± he referred to his friend.


    He nodded. ¡°I wish you good luck.¡±


    Ben began taking steps towards the direction Melissa sat, he felt his heart beating so fast.

 Chapter 43.

    ¡°I¡¯m not feeding you today, you¡¯ll do that yourself.¡± That¡¯s Vanessa¡¯s voice sounding so loud to Chloe¡¯s hearing.


    She smiled and nodded. ¡°I can do it, of course. Okay, you think that I can¡¯t do that right. I¡¯ve been doing that myself before you started this work.¡± She replied andid on the bed.


    Nessa nced at her and finally returned the smile, this little girl won¡¯t stop actingedy for her all the time.


    She isn¡¯t in the mood of jabbering with her at the moment, all she needs to do is the needful and get her foot out of their house.


    ¡°Your teacher didn¡¯t tell you any story today, because you haven¡¯t told me any.¡± She referred to her while so busy with her cell phone.


    ¡°Leave that to me. I am not telling you stories today.¡± She lifted her face gazing at her. ¡°Not until you feed me.¡± She giggled.


    Nessa nced at her and hissed. ¡°But you imed to do that yourself now. Isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Yes I did, but I love it when you feed me. You know I do feed myself at noon.¡± Chloe replied.


    She got on her feet. ¡°I¡¯ll go meet Chloe in the kitchen, I¡¯m very sure she must have been done with the meal by now.¡±


    Chloe affixed her gaze on her until she left the room, she picked up her story book and began going through it again.


    This time it¡¯s all about folks, but she isn¡¯t nning to talk about folks. Meanwhile, she¡¯s gonna transform it in a way that would match with what she has in mind.


    ***


    Vanessa twitched into the kitchen like one being chased by a bear, she caught Tracy leaning her forehead on the wall.


    What¡¯s wrong with her? Is she alright or just stressed up? These questions she couldn¡¯t provide an answer for.


    She moved closer to her trying to tap her shoulder, but stepped backwards again.


    ¡°She might yell at me. I don¡¯t want anyone to spoil my mood this evening.¡± she thought and swallowed. ¡°I think I should just request for Chloe¡¯s meal and leave with it¡­ she isn¡¯t aware that I¡¯m here by the way.¡±


    Vanessa kept contemting over and over again, she had known Tracy to be that strict type towards her, though she doesn¡¯t mind¡­ but this time, the inner of her doesn¡¯t need to be in a dark mood.


    She stood there for over sixty seconds staring at Tracy who wasn¡¯t making a turn. She nced around to find out that she¡¯s done with the meal but it isn¡¯t served yet.


    Her mind was filled up this time, she can¡¯t keep standing watching at the girl when she needs to leave soon.


    She began gathering courage to call for her attention. All she wants now is Chloe¡¯s meal¡­ nothing else.


    ¡°Tracy¡­¡± she called her for the first time after so many minutes she came in.


    Tracy didn¡¯t make a move, she felt like her voice wasn¡¯t that loud to her hearing or whatever.


    She moved closer to her this time and tapped her back. ¡°I want to take Chloe¡¯s meal, where¡¯s it?¡± She uttered, but the girl sniffed, raising her head¡­ the next was to wipe her face with her palms.


    ¡°You can take the meal from the pot yourself.¡± Tracy uttered, facing her.


    She narrowed her eyes while staring at her. ¡°You¡¯re crying? What¡¯s wrong?¡± She inquired trying to touch her shoulder.


    But she stepped backwards waving her left palm on her face. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about me, I¡¯m okay. Just take the meal and leave.¡±


    She shook her head in disgust. ¡°Tracy you can¡¯t keep acting this way, your eyes are puffy and reddish.. yet you im to be okay. Look, feel free to share your problems with me.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t share my problems with anyone, I keep it to myself alone. So please Miss, take the meal and leave the kitchen.¡± Tracy stated.


    She shuddered. ¡°If you persist, then I¡¯ll let you be.¡±


    Vanessa moved to the pot after taking Chloe¡¯s dish with her, she filled the te as usual.


    As she was trying to leave, she noticed Tracy was sobbing bitterly that it was hidden any longer. She ced the food on the table aside and moved towards her.


    She gripped her palm making her turn to face her, the girl couldn¡¯t help but fall into her arms in deep pain.


    Vanessa began caressing her back whileforting her, but she sobbed heavier.


    Despite all herforts, she couldn¡¯t stop weeping¡­ Nessa decided to take her into her room and that she did. They both climbed the stairs while she left Chloe¡¯s meal aside.


    She sat beside her on the bed stillforting her. Her tears had already soaked up her clothes, but she wasn¡¯t stopping.


    ¡°Tell me the problem Tracy, why are you sobbing bitterly this way?¡± She questioned her.


    She lifted her face and began wiping the tears on her cheek, her eyes focused on the wall opposite the bed.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t saying anything Tracy? Did anyone hurt you?¡± She asked her again.


    She nced at her and sniffed. ¡°I miss my mother. I want her back to me. It¡¯s really heartbreaking that she¡¯s no more.¡±


    Vanessa bit her lips, she understood how the girl felt. Living a life without a mother is kind of hurting. Talk more of the kids losing her in an early stage.


    ¡°My ssmate molested me because of that, she bullied me and cursed me for being a motherless child because I refused to give her my answer script. She used me of being the reason for my mother¡¯s death.¡± She started again.


    Vanessa was right in her shoes this time, facing the pain of being used that you¡¯re behind what you know nothing about. That¡¯s so painful that it can damage someone¡¯s identity.


    ¡°You need to wipe everything off your mind and focus on your education. She¡¯s sad because you will never let her take your position all in the name of being a friend.¡± She cuddled her into her arms running her fingers in her hair.


    Tracy rested her head on her chest feeling rxed, she wished not to let her go again.


    ¡°Even without a mother, you are a heroine and will be so great in the future. The soul of your mother will never leave you apart¡­ she¡¯s always with you all.¡± Sheforted her.


    She stared into her eyes letting another stream of tears roll down. ¡°Thank you so much ma¡¯am Vanessa, I really appreciate it.¡±


    Vanessa smiled letting her rest on her shoulder, she was so shocked seeing her address her that way for the first time.


    She caressed her back.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get your meal okay.¡± Nessa uttered.


    She let her go after which she returned with it, and then left with that of Chloe to her room.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you all this while.¡± Chloe uttered on sighting her.


    She smiled and got seated. ¡°I was with Tracy in her room.¡±


    ¡°Huh! She allowed you to be with her?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s by the way¡­ take your meal.¡±


    Chloe got seated and began eating her meal. A knock came on the door and Vanessa left to find out who¡¯s there.


    She let the door open to see that it¡¯s Ben.


    ¡°Good evening ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± He greeted her.


    She nodded and responded to the greeting.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa, I did as you ordered me today and it really worked out. To be honest, I¡¯m the happiest. Thank you so much for being there for me.¡± He appreciated it.


    Nessa nodded to that, she had been wanting to see them all in a good mood¡­ talk more of getting their heart.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m d to see you in this exciting mood.¡± She smiled at him. ¡°Have you taken your meal?¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°I haven¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get it now okay.¡± She assured him and left for the kitchen.


    Ben turned immediately and left to Tracy¡¯s room to get her to eat too. ¡°You never told me you were done with the meal already, and here you¡¯re enjoying yours.¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa got it for me here..


    She¡¯s so kind and caring.¡± She uttered with her head bent low.


    Ben tapped her leg. ¡°I spoke to Melissa today and she was even the one who expressed how she loved me but didn¡¯t know how to tell me.¡±


    ¡°She agreed huh?¡± Tracy questioned.


    He nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m so happy about that.¡±


    Tracy smiled. ¡°So her advice worked out, I¡¯m so in love with her.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°More than Chloe?¡±


    She giggled. ¡°Maybe, I just wish dad will¡­¡± she shut her lips.


    Ben nodded. ¡°I see, you thought I didn¡¯t get your point?¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯ll get it, she will make a good mother.¡± She added.


    He heard his name being called out by Vanessa, he dashed out of the room to meet Vanessa at the corridor with her meal.


    He took the meal from her with appreciation and then left back to Tracy¡¯s room to join her.


    Vanessa left to Chloe¡¯s room again, to get that she¡¯s done with the meal.


    ¡°I¡¯ll bath myself.¡± The little girl uttereding down from the bed with the empty te.


    Vanessa stood at a ce watching her as she kept the te on the table, undressed herself and twitched into the bathroom.

 Chapter 44.

    She stood at the door post of the bathroom watching Chloe as she bathed herself, thereby¡­ correcting her in some necessary ces she was mistaking.


    ¡°Give me the sponge, I¡¯ll wash your back myself.¡± She uttered moving towards her.


    Chloe handed the sponge to her and she began scrubbing her back. ¡°Make sure to wash between your legs but with only water.¡± She ordered her.


    She nodded and began doing as she ordered immediately. Vanessa still stood watching her until she was satisfied with what she was doing.


    ¡°I¡¯m done.¡± She uttered and dashed out of the bathroom.


    Vanessa handed over to her the cup of moisturizing cream which she began applying on her skin repeatedly.


    ¡°You just apply it once.¡± She stopped her.


    She nodded and pushed the cream at the side, she nced at the bed to see her nightwear on it.


    ¡°You should have left me the nightwear myself.¡± Chloe uttered climbing to the bed.


    Vanessa gasped and got seated on the sofa opposite the bed still staring at her as she had the nightwear on.


    ¡°Once upon a time¡­¡± she uttered audibly, drawing her attention.


    Vanessa adjusted on the sofa to affix all concentration on the story she¡¯s about to tell.


    ¡°In a city far away from the earth, a CEO had a worker whom she trusts so well¡­ she¡¯s a female and has all the qualities of a good woman in her. She¡¯s so caring and loving that everyone cherished her¡­


    Vanessa lifted her jaw with her right palm still having her mind on the ongoing story.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Despite the difficult times and the pains she had passed through as a worker¡­ She didn¡¯t give up on the work. The two genders were so understanding to each other that people kept thinking they were couples already¡­ a lot of women envied them but they didn¡¯t mind the rumors¡­


    ¡°Until that day, the CEO bumped into the worker unexpectedly and in a deserted area. He couldn¡¯t help it but get what he wanted all this while¡­


    Vanessa burst intoughter. ¡°And what¡¯s that he had always wanted from her?¡± She asked Chloe who was all ears to her question.


    ¡°A kiss¡­ a warm hug and the three words everyone knows¡­¡±


    ¡°Which is?¡±


    ¡°I love you¡­¡± Chloe responded.


    She bursted intoughter again. ¡°You¡¯re so smart to know what love is all about at this age huh? Well that¡¯s by the way, keep going with your interesting story.¡±


    ¡°From that point, they became lovers and the next thing was to get married which took ce in a haste. They lived happily ever after with their kids.¡± She concluded.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you aren¡¯t expecting me to learn a lesson from this too.¡± Vanessa referred to her.


    She chuckled and fell on the bed. ¡°This time, you won¡¯t just learn a lesson¡­ but you¡¯ll count your teeth with your tongue.¡±


    ¡°You must be crazy Chloe.¡± She uttered giggling. She has nothing to do with the story and isn¡¯t after to know the reason behind herment.


    ¡°Actually I¡¯m crazy because of you¡­ and the other side of it.¡± She replied.


    Nessa hissed so loud and got on her feet. ¡°I need to go see how your sister is doing now, I¡¯ll go back to cuddle you to bed too.¡±


    Chloe watched her leave the room out of her sight, and then she grabbed the story book again.


    ****


    Vanessa dashed into Tracy¡¯s room to get her seated on the bed leaning her back at the edge of it.


    She sat beside her again. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re still thinking about it again. You need to sleep off all your worries.¡±


    Tracy nced at her and sniffed. ¡°I can imagine my mother.¡± She wiped her face with her palm.


    ¡°Stop that imagination and put yourself together.¡± She cautioned her and pulled her to herself.


    Tracy rested her head on her shoulder and her palm clutched with hers. ¡°I¡¯m feeling sleepy.¡±


    She made her lie down on the bed, and she began singing a rhyme for her. She caressed her hair and back.. ran her finger in her ears too until she dozed off.


    She got on her feet and covered her with a nket after which she left the room to that of Ben. He was already asleep.


    A smile appeared on her face as she walked into the room, she covered him with a nket too and dashed out to meet Chloe.


    The little girl doesn¡¯t feel like sleeping. Her eyes were so wide that she was busy with her story book.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we gonna sleep today Chloe?¡± She asked her.


    She lifted her face giving her a nce. ¡°I don¡¯t think so, the story book is so interesting.¡±


    Vanessa walked up to her and took the book from her. ¡°You¡¯ll do that tomorrow when you¡¯re back from school, you need to sleep now so you can get up early for tomorrow and then I need to leave too.¡±


    Chloe eded to it andid down on the bed, sheid with her too.


    Just like she did to Tracy, she did that to her too and she slept off within minutes.


    She was now ready to leave since they were all asleep. She took her handbag and left the room.


    ¡°Vanessa¡­¡± she heard her name called out from the back.


    She turned to see Xavier standing in his door post staring at her.


    ¡°You made them sleep on time today. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re leaving already.¡± He uttered.


    She smiled. ¡°But I¡¯m done, I need to be on my way now.¡± She replied, pulling her lips into a smile.


    Xavier walked to her, gripping her palm. ¡°I¡¯ll drop you off, but I need you to serve me my meal please.¡±


    ¡°But you can do that yourself. Can¡¯t you?¡± She asked with widened eyes.


    He smiled at that question. ¡°Yeah! I can do it, but I need you to do it for me now.¡± he kept staring at her.


    Vanessa had no other option than to give in to his plea, they both left to the dinning while she left to get his meal in the kitchen.


    She dished the meal in his presence.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t get his eyes off her, he affixed his gaze on her like it¡¯s the first time of seeing her.


    Several times, he either bite or licks his lips when Vanessa noticed it. He insisted she would sit and watch him eat.


    Vanessa adhered to that and had a seat beside him, he got on his feet this time and dished Vanessa¡¯s meal.


    ¡°Xavier, I never asked for this, and besides I already prepared my meal beforeing out today.¡± She narrated.


    He nodded. ¡°I know that, but you don¡¯t have to reject eating with me for the first time.¡± His voice sounded calm.


    Nessa heaved a big sigh. She picked up the fork and joined him as he demanded.


    ¡°When is Lilianing back to you? Don¡¯t tell me you haven¡¯t been speaking with her since she left your home.¡± She referred to him.


    He smiled slightly. ¡°I haven¡¯t been speaking with her though, and I don¡¯t care because I¡¯m not talking about her again.¡±


    ¡°Come on, you can¡¯t just wave her out of your life that way. Make peace with her please.¡± She stated again.


    Xavier dropped his spoon since he had already emptied the te. ¡°Vanessa, please forget everything about Lilian. I don¡¯t want to talk about her again since she isn¡¯t feeling sorry for the offense shemitted.¡±


    She shook her head and nodded. ¡°If you insist.¡±


    She packed up the te to the kitchen to meet Xavier seated on the sofa. She walked to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m good to go.¡± She stated to his hearing.


    Xavier got on his feet and took his car key from the table. ¡°Let¡¯s move to the car.¡±


    They both moved to the car and he drove off. Within minutes, they arrived at her residence.


    She unlocked the door and got down from the car after wishing him a good night.

 Chapter 45.

    Throughout the night, Vanessa kept thinking about Xavier. She couldn¡¯t get him off her mind.


    She wondered the sort of stupidity that came over Lilian that she would be misbehaving towards a caring man like Xavier. A type of man every woman desires to have.


    Whileid on her bed, she began recalling the past. The first day she set her eyes on him¡­ and how nice she had been since then.


    Anyways, not that she¡¯s being jealous of Xavier having a fiance, but she can¡¯t tell what¡¯s wrong with her feelings.


    She was already convinced that Xavier will never leave his fiance to her no matter what. Despite the fact he hasn¡¯t been on good terms with Lilian, that won¡¯t urge him to choose her between Lilian.


    They are already in love with each other even before she began working for him, and so she believes that nothing can cut that bond.


    She has nothing binding her with Xavier, and here is Lilian making different plots for her. Then when her thinkinges to reality¡­ only God knows the hell she will do to her.


    She covered herself with the nket and slept off.


    ******


    When Xavier arrived home that same night, he went straight to the bathroom to freshen up. He had thought about how easy it was for Nessa to cuddle his children in bed.


    He¡¯s so sure that Chloe is the only one who loves her. Tracy and Ben will never love to set their eyes on her no matter what.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    All through Vanessa¡¯s stay in his home as a worker, she hasn¡¯t been weed by anyone else warmly if not him and Chloe.


    But then to get her going into their rooms to cover them is one new thing he can¡¯t tell how it started.


    Since he wasn¡¯t able to tell what¡¯s going on, he freshened up so quickly in order to go to bed.


    To be precise, he can¡¯t wait to set his eyes again on her in the morning. Taking a good look at her does a great job in his body system.


    He had convinced himself several times that there¡¯s something different about Vanessa to other women¡­ and that¡¯s one thing he can¡¯t exin.


    Deep in thought, he wasn¡¯t aware when he dozed off.


    *****


    The children ran Helter skelter in order to get ready for school. Chloe was still asleep in her room.


    Tracy didn¡¯t bother waking her up because she was so busy, and so is Ben. She had left her to be handled by her babysitter.


    She was so out to prepare their breakfast first before their lunch, and then Ben was so busy with cleaning up everywhere.


    Even though she was damn busy, she kept contemting on the time she spent with the babysitter the past night¡­ the way she slept off for the first time since her mom departed.


    Her lips stretched into a wide smile. Now she believes that Vanessa is so kind to them¡­ she is the best just like Chloe had always said.


    She was busy washing the tes when a voice called her out. She turned towards the door post to see that it¡¯s Vanessa calling her out.


    The smiles on her face were so maic that she couldn¡¯t help but return it.


    ¡°Good morning ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡± She greeted her.


    Vanessa smiled walking towards her. ¡°Good morning dear, I¡¯m sure you slept well right?¡±


    Tracy nodded. ¡°I did, for the first time after my mum departed I slept like a baby.¡±


    That alone made Nessa so happy. ¡°Are you done with breakfast?¡± She moved beside her.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m just getting the other ready for our lunch.¡± She replied.


    She nodded. ¡°You know what, go get ready for school and make sure you wake Chloe because I¡¯m so sure she¡¯s still asleep. You all should take your shower while I get other things ready.¡±


    Happiness filled Tracy¡¯s heart on hearing that, she eded and dashed out of the kitchen immediately to the stairs since Ben was done with his cleaning.


    She got to Chloe¡¯s room to see her brushing her teeth.


    ¡°I thought you¡¯re still sleeping.¡± She referred to her.


    Chloe hissed. ¡°I already know how to brush my teeth and take my bath. So I don¡¯t need to wait for her again.¡± She began brushing again.


    She went straight to get her school uniform ready. ¡°I¡¯ll bathe you today. It was an order from your babysitter so she can prepare our meal.¡±


    Chloe turned fully to stare at her sister. ¡°Huh! When did you start obeying my babysitter? Did she use a spell on you?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°Maybe she did. The love, care and attention had meant a lot to me. I am now a lover of her.¡±


    Chloe twisted her lips and sniffed, that¡¯s so incredible to her. She knows so well that her siblings are always ready to criticize her babysitter for no genuine reason.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to watch me bathe myself, I can wash my back but she always does that because my hand is still short.¡± Chloe exined.


    Tracy eded and watched her remove her clothes, and then she began taking her bath.


    She was so excited to see her little sister taking care of herself. ¡°You learned other things huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes I did, I can arrange and clean my room. One thing remaining is to wash my clothes.¡± She replied while the water ran down her back.


    Tracy was damn happy. ¡°Next, you¡¯ll learn how to wash dishes. And you¡¯ll be helping me in the kitchen right?¡±


    She wiped her face so she could take a good look at her sister. ¡°Yes, but I¡¯ll always eat some chicken in order to calm my nerves.¡±


    Tracy let out a loudugh, she wondered about the sort of tricky sister she has.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay then, and you won¡¯t eat any when the meal is served.¡±


    ¡°Then I won¡¯t cook with you.¡± Chloe remarked.


    Tracy couldn¡¯t hold herughter. ¡°Come on Chloe, you need to learn how to cook too. That¡¯s what every female must know.¡±


    Chloe didn¡¯t say a word again until she was done with taking her shower. Then Tracy left to get ready too.


    ******


    While Vanessa was busy serving their meal on the dining table, she sighted Lilian moving towards the stairs.


    She had red at her like it would eat her up, and then looked off to the stairs.


    She only left back to the kitchen so as to go ahead with what she¡¯s doing. There¡¯s no time left for her anymore.


    Lilian rang Xavier¡¯s doorbell, and he ordered her into thinking it¡¯s Vanessa. But to his greatest shock¡­ Lilian walked in.


    He stood on his feet with a chiseled face. He wasn¡¯t nning to see her, and not in the morning either.


    ¡°Good morning Xavier.¡± She greeted him.


    He only nodded. ¡°What again are you here to do Lilian? Thought you¡¯ve gotten a new lover out there that¡¯s taking care of you?¡±


    She pouted her lips. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re trying to kick me out of your house. Or you¡¯ve chosen someone else over me huh?¡±


    ¡°You shut your fucking mouth. I should be asking you that¡­ you left without telling me all because I scolded you for the crime youmitted. And here you¡¯re jabbering.¡± He retorted.


    She gasped. ¡°You still can¡¯t believe that I know nothing about Vanessa¡¯s disappearance huh? Look, I just had to leave because you¡¯re molesting me.¡±


    ¡°Please Vanessa¡­ sorry I mean Lilian. This is early morning so I wouldn¡¯t love to argue with you okay.¡± He said moving to his wardrobe.


    Lilian bit her lips in dismay, she wouldn¡¯t believe Xavier is mistaking her name to that of her mere worker.


    She isn¡¯t here to yell at anyone, rather to be epted by him again. Watching another woman take him away from her is one thing she can¡¯t take.


    ¡°Xavier, can you please forgive me for everything. I¡¯m sorry and have decided to change.¡± She pleaded.


    Xavier turned to her. ¡°Now you admit that you know everything about her disappearance right?¡±


    Lilian didn¡¯t say a word. ¡°Let¡¯s just call everything the past. Just forgive me okay.¡±


    He turned to her fully. ¡°Who¡¯s the young man I saw you with in a resort yesterday?¡±


    Lilian let her lips open, that question alone caused goose pimples on her skin.


    She still can¡¯t believe that Xavier is the one asking that question.


    ¡°I don¡¯t get what you mean Xavier. Can you just exin more on this?¡±


    She tried holding up.


    Xavier stood opposite her. ¡°Stop pretending that you don¡¯t know what I¡¯m talking about Lilian. I caught you with my own two eyes and that¡¯s the reason I¡¯m shocked to see you here today¡­ Who¡¯s that young man?¡±


    Her feet stiffened at a ce, her mouth was agape but she couldn¡¯t say a word again.


    All she wants is his forgiveness, not a question to answer.


    ¡°I am talking to you Lilian and I need an answer. Who is that young man?¡± His voice echoed in the room again.

 Chapter 46.

    Lilian froze at the moment Xavier asked her the same question again, she doesn¡¯t know what to say as a cover up when he knows all her family.


    She stood still staring at him. ¡°Does it mean he saw me so clearly? Gosh! I don¡¯t really know what¡¯s going on between me and this man. Is this how I¡¯m gonna spend my life with him?¡± She kept contemting.


    Xavier tapped her shoulder again repeating the question again. This time, his voice revealed deep anger and action.


    He wants to get the answer by all means.


    ¡°Xavier, can¡¯t we talk about this when you¡¯re back from work? I don¡¯t need to spoil your mood this early morning.¡± She uttered politely.


    He red at her and released a loud hiss. ¡°Then leave my home. Don¡¯t speak with anyone, just leave.¡± He ordered her.


    Lilian nodded slightly while shivering in fear, she turned her back and vanished from his sight instantly.


    While in the sitting room, she sighted Vanessa cleaning up the dinning, while the three kids were leaving to thepound.


    The driver was already waiting for them.


    She red at Vanessa who had seen her but looked off. She has nothing to do with hering here. Besides, it¡¯s gonna be hers soon.


    Lilian left the sitting room immediately Nessa left to the kitchen, she didn¡¯t spare the kids a nce. She just dashed out of thepound.


    Xavier got dressed and came down for his breakfast as usual, he met Vanessa dishing it herself.


    ¡°What of Tracy? They¡¯ve left for school huh?¡± He referred to Vanessa drawing her attention.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She looked up to him and nodded with a smile. ¡°Good morning Mr Xavier.¡± She greeted him.


    He returned the smile and responded to the greeting.


    ¡°They just left now.¡± She stated.


    He had a seat while Vanessa left back to the kitchen. It began going through his mind. The changes in his children.


    They haven¡¯t been to school so early like today. For the first time he saw Vanessa in the kitchen while his children got ready for school.


    Damnit! It seems so good having someone like her around. A woman that has all the qualities of a mother.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to get my handbag, so I can leave immediately you¡¯re done with your meal.¡± She uttered, referring to him.


    He held her palm. ¡°Why not exercise patience so I¡¯ll drop you off?¡±


    She shook her head in disagreement. ¡°I¡¯m sorry but I can¡¯t. I don¡¯t need anything to cause quarells between me and Lilian¡­ or rather you and her.¡± Her face chiseled.


    Xavier pleaded she should have a seat. ¡°Vanessa, we are already quarreling.¡±


    Her eyes widened. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Hope I¡¯m not the reason?¡± She inquired, feeling haunted.


    His lips stretched into a smile just to console her. ¡°It¡¯s not about you Nessa, it¡¯s all about us¡­ the two of us.¡±


    Vanessa kept staring at him, she¡¯s so nervous to know what¡¯s going on between them. One thing is that, she will never wish they separate¡­ and if they do¡­ she will never be the reason behind it.


    ¡°I caught Lilian with another man in a resort yesterday. It hurts me, because they were acting like love birds.¡± He narrated.


    Nessa swallowed deeply, that¡¯s kind ofplicated and she doesn¡¯t want to affix herself into the matter.


    They are to solve it out within them, but here Xavier wants an idea from her.


    ¡°Are you sure the dude isn¡¯t just a friend or a family to her?¡± She asked him twisting her face.


    Xavier nodded showing that he¡¯s so sure of what he narrated. ¡°I know all her family and friends. I¡¯m quite sure that Lilian is cheating on me, yet she¡¯s pretending to love me.¡±


    ¡°I have that feeling that she¡¯s up to something, since I couldn¡¯t let her exercise her power over you. Lilian doesn¡¯t love me, I can see it through my children¡­ if she does, then my family will be one of her priorities.¡± Xavier added.


    Vanessa was totally baffled on what to say, she doesn¡¯t know where you start in judging the matter.


    She had turned out to be a counsel in a family she collided to work for¡­ not just a babysitter again.


    ¡°But then, what¡¯s the reason for hering? Did you let her know that you caught her with another man yesterday?¡± She questioned him.


    He nodded rxing on the chair. ¡°I don¡¯t hide feelings, especially when one hurts me. I am always ready to let you know the offense youmitted.¡±


    ¡°She came begging for my forgiveness.. She wanted me to ept her back, but then I wasn¡¯t the one who kicked her out. She did that herself¡­ okay, it would have been so easy to do that, but the fact that she¡¯s cheating on me is really eating me up.¡± He narrated in an angry manner.


    Vanessa could view it in his eyes and voice. He is damn angry and irritated. He is burning in anger and annoyance.


    She ced her palm on his staring into his eyes. She could hear his heartbeat, it was damn fast.


    ¡°Mr Xavier¡­¡± she called him. He took a deep breath. ¡°You need to resolve this case with her, she¡¯s your fiancee for crying out loud¡­ and you aren¡¯t sure if truly she was cheating on you.¡±


    She tapped the table. ¡°Look, you have to make peace with her¡­ forgive and ept her back, at least give her a second chance.¡±


    ¡°And I promise to keep my eyes on her, thatdy might be up to something which I don¡¯t know¡­ and she isn¡¯t gonna seed¡­


    She smiled. ¡°You just don¡¯t have to use her just like that, all you need is to be careful with her.¡± she advised.


    He nodded and heaved a big sigh of relief. ¡°Thank you so much for always being there for me and my family.¡± He smiled. ¡°Now tell me the spell you used on Tracy and Ben, I¡¯ve been noticing something different.¡±


    Her lips pulled into a wide smile. ¡°Honestly, I can¡¯t just tell myself¡­ I¡¯m surprised just like you are.¡±


    She got on her feet to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll go get my bag and wait for you here.¡±


    He eded and began gobbling on his meal, he nced at the wall clock to get that he¡¯s sote to work already.


    ******


    She couldn¡¯t stop pacing round the room while her palms transfixed on her waist.


    The ss filled with wine was still on the table untouchable, she doesn¡¯t care about that. The only thing going on in her mind is how to get Xavier¡¯s heart again.


    She¡¯s so sure that he isn¡¯t madly in love with her again like previously


    The question he had asked her several times hit her head again, and she gasped.


    That¡¯s so unusual. When and how did he get her with the young man? He wasn¡¯t lying though, quite right she had left with the young man in a resort.


    She forcefully got her ass on the sofa. ¡°I¡¯m just sure that filthy Lady must have a spell binding him¡­ she can do anything just to have my Xavier to herself.¡±


    She bit her finger in disgust. ¡°If getting on my knees to beg for forgiveness will change his heart, then I¡¯m ready to do that. Thatdy will never seed.¡±


    Her eyes narrowed.

 Chapter 47.

    Xavier sat in his office busy with work, he had been working all day without a break.


    He dropped the pen in his arm and rested his head on the table, he wasn¡¯t hungry though¡­ but damn weak.


    Everything Vanessa gave him advice came hitting in his head, it seemed like she was beside him repeating those words again.


    Hmmm! He gasped and lifted his head again, the hell that he¡¯s baffled and haunted is what he couldn¡¯t get a reason behind it.


    Is he worried because of Lilian¡¯s visit or because of what Vanessa said to him? He shook his head. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m running mad now. I just don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with me.¡±


    He pushed the register that he was going through aside and decided to take a nap. That might bring back his senses again.


    Just as he bent his head, the doorbell rang making him lift his face again staring at the door. ¡°Who¡¯s that? Juste in.¡± He ordered.


    The door was wrapped open and Lilian walked in taking short steps towards him. He didn¡¯t get his eyes off her either.


    ¡°Good afternoon Xavier.¡± She greeted drawing the seat backwards to settle down. She had expected him to reply, but he didn¡¯t. ¡°Why are you staring at me this way? You don¡¯t know me any longer huh?¡±


    He sighed and pulled his jaw a bit up with his right palm. ¡°If I knew that you¡¯re the one knocking, I wouldn¡¯t let you in.¡±


    ¡°Why? Is it a crime to visit you in your office, or I¡¯m not good enough to do that?¡± Sheined not even rxed on the chair.


    Xavier sniffed. ¡°I didn¡¯t invite you over, and you shouldn¡¯te without letting me know. Just take that as a correction.¡± He remarked.


    She felt hurt within her. ¡°That order goes to me, Lilian¡­ your fiance because I¡¯m not the babysitter huh?¡±


    ¡°I beg of you please. This is my office and in public too. Kindly know the sort of words you vomit here.¡± He shunned her.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She shut her mouth for a while, but couldn¡¯t bear it again. ¡°You¡¯re scared so that your workers won¡¯t be aware that you¡¯re a cheater huh? That¡¯s it¡­ I know.¡±


    Xavier twisted his face. ¡°You know I should be saying that.. not you making the statement.¡± He bent down and picked up his pen which fell on the ground.


    She kept ring at him. She couldn¡¯t believe that Xavier had changed this much towards her already¡­ but she wouldn¡¯t mind, so long as he¡¯s gonna be hers atst.


    The reason she decided to visit him when at work is to gain that forgiveness from him. At least for the sake of his workers not knowing what¡¯s going on¡­ he will do it.


    She doesn¡¯t care if the forgivenesses from his inner heart, all she wants is to be given ess to his home as before.


    All she wants is to keep visiting his home, until time will tell if they¡¯re getting married or not. She can¡¯t just be the loser entirely.


    ¡°Now tell me the reason for youring, or you just came to waste my time.¡± He referred to her while going through the office system. ¡°You can see I have a lot of work to do now, so it would be better If you speak up before I get too busy again.¡± He wasn¡¯t ncing at her though.


    Lilian affixed her gaze at him, but wasn¡¯t staring at him. She was so deep in thought that she didn¡¯t grab a dime from what Xavier uttered.


    For some seconds, Lilian hadn¡¯t uttered a word¡­ he lifted his face to nce at her.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you Lilian? You aren¡¯t saying a word, or aren¡¯t you here with me all this while?¡± He drew her out of her thoughts.


    She shrugged her shoulders and licked her lips. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was deep in thought.¡±


    He adjusted staring at herpletely this time. ¡°You were thinking about who was in my presence? The dude you¡¯ve been cheating with right?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°Come on Xavier, you¡¯re going too far. I just want to think of how to make it up with you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a lie from the pit of hell.¡± He uttered vividly.


    Lilian smiled inwardly, she counted him to be sure she was lying. ¡°That¡¯s by the way. Did you ask me any questions? Can you please repeat it?¡±


    Xavier heaved a big sigh. ¡°Nothing other than you telling me the reason you are here. That¡¯s all.¡±


    She pouted her lips. ¡°Ummm! I¡¯m here so we can make everything up again, I meant like¡­ having peace again¡­ing together.¡±


    ¡°Like seriously? You want peace. You wanna make it up with me again, so you¡¯ll start molesting an innocent woman that I employed huh?¡± He stated without sparing him a nce.


    She licked her lips. Heaven knows she won¡¯t take it easy with Vanessa, but for now¡­ she needs to pretend that she has changed.


    ¡°That¡¯s not it Xavier, I have nothing in mind for her. Okay you know what¡­ I¡¯m so sorry for the past, it¡¯s just because of jealousy¡­ I didn¡¯t want to lose you to her or any other woman.¡± She uttered.


    Xavier couldn¡¯t help it but broke out inughter. Thisdy is really pissing him off.


    ¡°All because you were jealous, you did all that huh? You know, it sounds stupid¡­¡± he nodded. ¡°Yes, because If at all I want to leave you¡­ trust me not to tell you Lilian. But just these few days, you¡¯ve already started cheating on me and you think that it sounds sweet huh?¡± His voice was sounding hoarse this time.


    Lilian shook her head, she doesn¡¯t want anyone to know what¡¯s going on in his office. All she wished for was for his forgiveness so easily.


    ¡°Xavier, I¡¯m so sorry¡­ just find a ce in your heart and forgive me and I promise that such a thing won¡¯t take ce anymore. Just give me this second chance and you won¡¯t regret it.¡± She pleaded.


    He nced at her and gasped. ¡°You¡¯ll have a ce in my heart if I truly see the changes in you. But for now, you don¡¯t have a ce to rx yet.¡±


    Lilian felt a bit relieved on hearing that, she believed within her that Xavier wouldn¡¯t waste time to love her again.


    ¡°I¡¯m weed into your life again right?¡± She inquired.


    He smiled, thisdy is kind of silly to him. ¡°Yeah! You are, but mind you if the steps you take this time or you¡¯ll lose it forever this time.¡±


    She was so d that she embraced him, cing a kiss on his cheek.


    *********


    Two dayster.


    After the discussion Lilian had with Xavier, she hasn¡¯t stepped her feet in his home.


    Although Xavier wasn¡¯t worried¡­ he had totally changed for her, unlike before he always wants her beside him all the time.


    Lilian made up her mind toe spend the night with him, so she decided toe in the morning to meet Xavier, but before she arrived¡­ Xavier had already left to work.


    She had to rx and watch as the kids were running around Vanessa. That was weird to her. She¡¯s so sure that the kids hate Vanessa except Chloe.


    The presence of Vanessa bittered her heart, she felt like pushing her out but couldn¡¯t do that. She hates it now that the children all love her¡­ that means, no one is siding her. Not even Xavier.


    She kept mute while the worries kept pondering. She decided to question the children when they¡¯re back from school.


    Vanessa left together with the kids and she was the only one at home.


    She prepared a meal for herself and decided to stay in the sitting room until the kids return back from school.


    At noon, they weren¡¯t back and it haunted her. But when she dozed off in the evening, the kids arrived.


    She got awake after they were done with their lunch and was busy with the television¡­ since they were done with their school examination.


    ¡°Why should you all be acting like you¡¯re senseless? You saw in a deep sleep, yet you went ahead switching on the television while it was off.¡± She yelled at them.


    They didn¡¯t say a word to her, their eyes affixed on the television instead.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking to you all. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re deaf.¡± She screeched again.


    Tracy hissed. ¡°But this is a sitting room, not for sleeping but for taking a rest. You can go upstairs and enjoy your sleep please.¡±


    She raised her hand to hit her but brought it down again. She wouldn¡¯t start it now.


    ¡°Why did youe back? I don¡¯t love you to be around here.¡± Chloe referred to her.


    She threw a devilish re at her that sent shivers down her spine. ¡°You must be insane.¡±


    ¡°Now tell me, what pushed you two to love Vanessa? I¡¯m very sure you have hated her.¡± She uttered again.


    Ben sniffed. ¡°You weren¡¯t sure because we never hated her. Just let us be please.¡±


    She drew his ear and squeezed them so that he screamed in pain.


    The door was wrapped open and Vanessa came in. They all ran to her.


    ¡°What did you do to him?¡± She asked Lilian, staring at Ben.


    He broke out in tears. ¡°She squeezed my ears.¡±


    ¡°Lilian you have to squeeze my own ear now, or I¡¯ll squeeze yours.¡± Vanessa remarked taking long steps to her.

 Chapter 48.

    ¡°Squeeze my ear or I¡¯ll squeeze yours, Lilian¡­¡± Vanessa repeated the second time.


    Lilian stepped back smiling, she couldn¡¯t believe the Vanessa she knows now had the guts to talk back at her.


    ¡°I can see how courageous you are now. You now talk back at me anyhow you like¡­ scream at me huh.. because Xavier threatened me because of you.. or rather the children loves you¡­¡± Lilian uttered.


    She gritted her teeth. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be speaking back at me if this children aren¡¯t close to you. I believe you understand what I mean.¡±


    Vanessa shrugged her shoulders. She just quoted everything Lilian uttered to be totally wrong. She¡¯s had already decided not to spare her a damn good look again if she dares her.


    All this while she had been tackling her peace, she kept mute with due respect to Xavier. But as it stands, she isn¡¯t gonna take it easy again, even if Xavier sacks her.


    This job is not her means of survival, and so she wouldn¡¯t tolerate Lilian again.


    ¡°Since you left this home, none of them have everined. And i believe you¡¯re the reason they have been running away from me¡­ because they think that I¡¯m cruel like you are.¡± Nessa spluttered.


    Her face twisted on grabbing thest statement she made. It bittered her heart.


    She twitched towards her. Vanessa watched as she raised her right palm tond it on her cheek.


    ¡°Don¡¯t dare it! Make an attempt¡­ just make a mistake and see the hell you will pass through in my hands now.¡± Vanessa referred to her holding her arm in the air.


    She was breathing so fast, so enraged at the moment¡­ but Nessa didn¡¯t care.


    ¡°Let go of my hand¡­ you bitch.¡± She growled in anger.


    Vanessa pulled her lips into an irritating smile letting go of her arm. ¡°I should be the one to refer you as bitch¡­ because that¡¯s exactly what you are.¡±


    ¡°Go to hell¡­¡± Lilian screeched.


    Sheughed out moving to the sofa. ¡°You¡¯re already in hell¡­ so I should be asking how it tastes.¡± She rxed on the sofa.


    Her eyes caught her handbag and she grabbed it getting on her feet. ¡°Lest I forgot.¡± She paused and swallowed. ¡°Don¡¯t you ever¡­ I¡¯m sure you¡¯re hearing me. Don¡¯t you every your filthy hands on this kids again¡­ or you¡¯ll see the other side of me.¡± She warned her.


    Lilian stood immobile ring at her and bitting her lips in agony. She couldn¡¯t believe a mere babysitter would shun her in the presence of those kids she had hated.


    It¡¯s just like a dream to her, Vanessa scolded her like a servant in a home that will soon be hers.


    That¡¯s it¡­ this is one of the reasons her hatred towards her will never quench. She is so reckless to be in her presence.


    She turned back to the sofa and then got seated on it trying to concentrate on the ongoing movie¡­ but her mind wasn¡¯t at ce¡­ she was so furious that she felt like strangling Vanessa with her bare palms.


    The inside of her was burning and she wasn¡¯t happy at all.


    ******


    Vanessa did her usual chores, she made sure she prepared the dinner herself¡­ cuddle Chloe to bed before leaving that night.


    She wasn¡¯t able to meet Xavier¡­ thanks to heaven she didn¡¯t meet her too¡­ because with the way she felt she wouldn¡¯t hesitate to tell him all that had happened in the evening time¡­ but one thing she¡¯s just trying to avoid is causing troubles between the two lovers.


    She wouldn¡¯t want them to separate all because of her¡­ she left him before Xavier had returned but the keys had gone to bed at that time.


    ******


    The next day****


    There were a lot of customers in Vanessa¡¯s bakery. She had sold a lot aftering back from Xavier¡¯s residence.


    Even when she met Lilian, she didn¡¯t bother exchanging greetings with her¡­ because the hatred she had towards her this time was so intense¡­ and she wouldn¡¯t want her to step on her toes again.


    She may be sure to prepare Chloe for school before returning back to her bakery¡­ Meanwhile, there were lots of her patrons waiting for her to arrive.


    She began baking more and more cakes which she needed for the orders she had got. She needed to be fast in order to meet up with time.


    After attending to the patrons around her, she decided to leave in order to deliver the second round of orders she got at noon.


    She locked up her bakery and was about stucking the orders in her bike when a hand tapped her back drawing her attention.


    She turned to see the dude standing beside her. ¡°What¡¯s it now? I¡¯m owing you huh? What do you want from me¡­?¡± She threw multiple questions at him.


    Yes! she can remember the face¡­she recalled thest time they met and how he requested a date with her.


    But then, she hasn¡¯t thought about that all these days because she didn¡¯t have time for such a thing.


    ¡°You again! I can remember everything about the past day, but I haven¡¯t thought about them.¡±  She referred to the young man standing beside her.


    Jasper smiled at her, but she didn¡¯t bother to return the smile.


    ¡°I asked you just a simple question but you aren¡¯t giving me an answer to it.¡± She retorted.


    Jasper gripped her palm. ¡°But you aren¡¯t supposed to ask me such a question when you know me so well and the reason for mying here.¡±


    She shrugged her shoulders. ¡°It¡¯s just okay¡­ as you can see, I¡¯m in a hurry now. I have to go deliver the orders I got before it¡¯s toote.¡±


    ¡± Wow! That sounds nice though¡­ wouldn¡¯t you mind getting into the car so I can drop you off?¡± Jasper gestured referring to her.


    She shook her head disagreeing with that. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry, I have a bike that I do use to deliver my orders.¡±


    He knitted his brows. ¡°It¡¯s ok then since you persist in not needing my help, but wouldn¡¯t you mind giving me an answer to my request before leaving.¡± he pouted his lips.


    ¡°I don¡¯t really know when we are going to meet again for today, you might return sote to meet me.¡± He added.


    Vanessa licked her lips, she didn¡¯t know what to give as a reply.


    Probably, she¡¯s a very busy person who doesn¡¯t have time for going out¡­ talk more about going on a date with a young man.


    She stretched her lips. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t just want to turn down your request¡­ that¡¯s because mere looking at me I hardly bring out time for such things. But since you insist, I think I will have to give in to granting your request but on one condition.¡±


    Jasper furrowed his brows wondering what the condition is all about. ¡°Anything, just say anything that will be the condition¡­ I am ready to imply.¡±


    She coughed slightly. ¡°Even if I leave with you on a date , the world won¡¯t be aware of it.¡±


    ¡°Come on, I adhere to that.¡± He replied chuckling within him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to take my leave then.¡± Vanessa uttered stepping out of the bakery.


    Her eyes met with that of Chloe who had that sad expression on her face. The little girl stared at Jasper, and then at Vanessa.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She didn¡¯t say a word, rather she turned back and leave.


    Vanessa tried as much as she could to draw back her attention, but it wasn¡¯t possible for her.

 Chapter 49.

    Chloe left home with lots of anger roaming in her, she was so sad witnessing what she just saw.


    ¡°If I had known, I wouldn¡¯t have bothered to go see her in the bakery. Isn¡¯t it better than meeting what I didn¡¯t expect?¡±


    She grimaced her face, her palm kept squeezing the bed covers rumbling it. Tears were rolling down her cheeks uncontrobly.


    ¡°But why am I worried? Isn¡¯t ma¡¯am Vanessa old enough to get married¡­ or rather have a lover?¡± She squeezed the bed cover again.


    ¡°Does  it mean that I¡¯m jealous or what?¡± She wiped her face with the back of her left palm.


    Her eyes widened and she yawned. ¡°I guess the young man might be her lover, but I don¡¯t like him¡­ I don¡¯t want her to be with another man.¡± She muttered to herself.


    ¡°Maybe I should tell Dad when he¡¯s back he needs to do something about it.¡±


    She sniffed and breathed heavily. ¡°Why should I even tell him that, when he already has a fiance? There is nothing to tell him about¡­ or, no¡­ I will tell him even if he has a fiance.¡±


    She gripped her head like one running insane. ¡°I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on with me¡­ the reason this issue should bother me is what I can tell. But¡­¡± she sighed. ¡°I¡¯m not justfortable¡­ I don¡¯t want her with another man¡­ I wish another man would take her away from my dad.¡± she thought, biting her lips.


    ¡°Chloe¡­¡± she overheard Tracy calling out her name from the corridor.


    Before she could give a response, Tracy had already banged the door open and walked in towards the bed.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you Chloe? Your facial expression isn¡¯t bright at all.¡± Tracy held her leg.


    She lifted her head to see Tracy who sat on the bed staring at her face that was stained with tears.


    ¡°You are crying Chloe¡­ What¡¯s the matter? Did anyone hurt you?¡± she asked curiously.


    She nodded. ¡°Yes! okay.. no, she didn¡¯t hurt me¡­but it hurts.¡±


    Tracy found that statement so funny that she couldn¡¯t help butugh out loud.


    ¡°Now tell me what¡¯s funny about what I just said. Did Imit a crime to tell you what¡¯s wrong with me huh?¡± Chloe spluttered.


    ¡°Not at all darling, but it¡¯s kind of funny. I can¡¯t even get what you mean. You just said something that sounds silly.¡± Tracy licked her lips.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t hurt you¡­ but it hurts. Now tell me, who is that? Hope it isn¡¯t me.¡± She bit her lips


    Chloe took a deep breath. ¡°It¡¯s ma¡¯am Vanessa, I just left now to see her at the bakery but with a young man though she was almost leaving,  maybe to deliver the orders she got.¡±


    Tracy narrowed her eyes. ¡°Are you being serious? You saw her with another man?¡±


    She hissed out loud. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m turning blind, or I don¡¯t even know what I¡¯m doing again.¡± She looked off. ¡°I repeat myself, I saw ma¡¯am Vanessa with a young man at her bakery just this afternoon.¡±


    Tracy felt hurt within her, now she could see the reason her little sister made that statement.


    ¡°But¡­ Why are you worried? Isn¡¯t she grown up enough to get married?¡±


    Chloe stretched her lips. ¡°To be honest Tracy, I don¡¯t even know why I¡¯m worried¡­ but I don¡¯t just want to see her with any other man.¡±


    ¡°Just like me, I don¡¯t wish to see her with another man¡­ but she¡¯s supposed to get married. You know what, let¡¯s keep our eyes off her¡­her mode of living isn¡¯t our issue.¡± Tracy suggested.


    ¡°That¡¯s for you but not for me, trust me I¡¯m going to tell Dad once he¡¯s back. He needs to talk sense into her head.¡± The little girl added.


    ¡°Talk sense into her head? Do you even know what you¡¯re saying Chloe? That she¡¯s making a mistake by having a lover right?¡± Tracy threw the question at her.


    She shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t even know, but that¡¯s just what I mean¡­ I don¡¯t know why I feel like she¡¯s losing some senses. Maybe Dad will put some knots in her head again. I hate that man I saw in her bakery today.¡±


    ¡°Chloe, it¡¯s time you mind your business, that she¡¯s your babysitter  doesn¡¯t mean you should step into her private matters. Let go of her for goodness sake¡­her mode of living is none of your business.¡± She paused and scratched her head. ¡°Don¡¯t you ever tell Dad.¡±


    ¡°Then trust me Tracy, I will do that once Dad is back. I¡¯ll make sure I tell him.¡± She insisted andid down.


    Tracy stared at her for a while.


    ¡°Chloe will  never stop being so stubborn.¡±


    She got on her feet and left her room.


    ******


    Vanessa nced at Chloe who hasn¡¯t said a word to her since she came. She had recalled her action in the afternoon but was expecting her to ask some questions.


    But since she didn¡¯t¡­ she had decided to do that herself.


    She moved towards the sofa getting seated beside her. Chloe didn¡¯t bother sparing her a nce.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you darling?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t refer to me as darling¡­. call me sweetheart.¡± She replied instantly.


    Vanessa smiled. ¡°Okay sweetheartz what¡¯s going on your mind?¡±


    She pouted her lips. ¡°Nothing, I just want to be alone.¡±


    ¡°Why¡­? You mean I should leave you huh?¡± Vanessa widened her eyes.


    ¡°Not at all¡­. I¡¯m not talking about you. But nothing is wrong with me, I¡¯m fine.¡± she responded.


    Vanessa herself wasn¡¯t okay with that response, but she couldn¡¯t force words out of her mouth. She got on her feet and left the room.


    Chloe began ming herself for not asking her whom the man she met her with is to her.


    She shook her head in anger.


    ¡°Gosh! I don¡¯t think I will ever make this mistake again¡­losing a privilege that should have done much for me.¡± She shrugged her shoulders andid her head on the sofa.


    Vanessa came back with her dinner, but she insisted she would feed her.


    It wasn¡¯t a big deal for Vanessa, she ought youply with that. She watched Chloe as you bit and swallowed the food.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving immediately, I don¡¯t want to stay long today.¡±


    ¡°No problem, I will go to bed when I feel like it.¡± She replied.


    Vanessa loves that statement. Since she has taken her shower already, there is no other thing left.


    When she was done with everything, she left the house back home.


    ******


    So many minutes psed after Vanessa left, Chloe stepped down to the sitting room to meet her dad seated on the sofa.


    ¡°Wee dad¡­ Did you meet ma¡¯am Vanessa whening back?¡± she asked.


    Xavier shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t¡­ is there any problem?¡± he referred to her again.


    She didn¡¯t give an answer to the question, rather she got seated beside him.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Chloe, you aren¡¯t saying anything.¡±


    ¡°Not at all, just that she left some minutes ago and here you are.¡± She gave a reply.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m justing back now. There¡¯s nothing much.¡±


    ¡°All right, dad, have you taken your dinner?¡±


    ¡°I will take it when I feel like it,¡±Xavier replied, very busy with her cell phone.


    Chloe ran her fingers in his hair. ¡°I met ma¡¯am Vanessa with a man today at her bakery.¡± she announced.


    Xavier narrowed his eyes, he just believed it to be an imagination.


    He pretended to be deaf.


    ¡°Are you hearing me dad, I said that I met ma¡¯am Vanessa with a man today at her bakery.¡±


    This time he turned towards her. ¡°You¡¯re trying to be serious huh? Ummm! You saw Vanessa with a man? No, you must be joking.¡±


    ¡°Dad, I left to see her¡­ then I met the man. You wouldn¡¯t believe that I got angry while I shouldn¡¯t be.¡± Chloe uttered vividly.


    His face twisted.


    ¡°What the heck? Who is that fucking man that visited Vanessa at her bakery?¡± The question ran in his mind.


    He doesn¡¯t love that, and he wouldn¡¯t keep mute to it. Vanessa must answer that question the next day.

 Chapter 50.

    Xavier couldn¡¯t tell why he¡¯s ufortable and sad towards what Chloe had told him. He shouldn¡¯t be feeling that way¡­ but here he is gritting his teeth.


    ¡°Are you sure of this Chloe? But¡­ why should you tell me?¡± He referred to his little daughter.


    Chloe lifted her face staring at him, ¡°I should be asking you why your facial expression changed when I told you about it. You shouldn¡¯t be worried¡­ should you?¡±


    She shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m very sure that you shouldn¡¯t feel haunted, because you¡¯re already engaged¡­ or you don¡¯t want her to get married like you¡¯ll be doing soon huh?¡± She leaned on his shoulder.


    Xavier breathed heavily. Chloe is actually saying the truth about this. He shouldn¡¯t be worried, but he¡¯s already.


    He can¡¯t really tell why he should feel that way when there¡¯s nothing binding them together.


    ¡°Why then did you tell me this? Weren¡¯t you feeling haunted about it before you decided to let me know?¡± He tried covering up.


    Chloe arched her brows. ¡°Probably, I was kind of sad because I don¡¯t love the dude I saw her with


    Though he¡¯s so handsome and physically fit but¡­ I don¡¯t just want to see her with another man.¡±


    His eyes widened on hearing that. ¡°Did you just hear yourself now? You don¡¯t want to see Vanessa with a man huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Dad, ask her who the man is then shees tomorrow so you know what¡¯s going on.¡± She suggested.


    Xavier shook his head, but within him he had already decided to do that once she came the next day.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t proper to interfere in someone¡¯s privacy. Let her leave her life the way she wants¡­ and besides, it isn¡¯t a crime to fall in love with a man and get married to him.¡± Xavier announced.


    She squeezed his clothes. ¡°That¡¯s because you didn¡¯t see the man that I¡¯m talking about. You would have gotten jealous.¡± She paused and swallowed. ¡°Look Dad, just ask her who the man is¡­ it isn¡¯t something tough.¡±


    ¡°Let this discussione to an end¡­ I need to go take my dinner and go to bed.¡± He tried bringing a stop to their discussion.


    He wouldn¡¯t want his daughter to know how he¡¯s feeling on hearing the news. It wasn¡¯t something good to him¡­ but should be something delightful to one¡¯s hearing.


    Chloe got on her feet forcefully moving to the stairs. He didn¡¯t take time to conclude that she¡¯s sad because he didn¡¯t grant her request.


    ¡°At times, I need to turn down your request¡­ so you would understand that not every topic is given much attention.¡± He thought within him getting on his feet.


    He moved to the dinning to get his meal already served, he got seated to gobble on it in order to leave for the bed.


    The day was so hectic for him, and he needed much rest for the night.


    When he was done, he left for his room to get Lilian asleep already. He didn¡¯t bother disturbing her for any reason. The only thing battling in him is the news gotten from Chloe.


    He decided to go check on Chloe and know if she¡¯s okay, only for him to get her deep asleep.


    ¡°Thought you wouldn¡¯t sleep tonight because of that. Good night darling.¡± He muttered and shut the door.


    ******


    Vanessaid on her bed facing the ceiling, she has been counting on it all this while.


    Jasper¡¯s visit kept troubling her, she couldn¡¯t believe she gave in to his request when he would never love him.


    Chloe¡¯s action when she caught them still baffled her.


    ¡°What the heck is going on in her brain that age acted that way? Huh¡­ !¡± She rolled her eyes. ¡°I should be asking myself the reason I still don¡¯t love this dude. He¡¯s handsome and charming¡­ and also wealthy. Why then I¡¯m i not giving him a chance.¡±


    She hissed. ¡°I¡¯m just sure it isn¡¯t about Xavier¡­ or it is?¡± She shook her head. ¡°Xavier is engaged, I don¡¯t see any reason I should have him in my mind when I¡¯m sure he isn¡¯t gonna spare me a nce at such a thing.¡±


    A loud hiss escaped her lips, she grimaced facing the wall.


    ¡°Better still, I¡¯ll sleep than overstress myself over something meaningless.¡± Ste shut her eyes while gripping the pillow.


    Since she didn¡¯t try affixing herself in a thought again, she dozed off instantly.


    ******


    The next morning***


    Tracy was in the kitchen when Vanessa arrived, she first left the room to get Chloe brushing her teeth.


    ¡°Sweetheart¡­¡± she drew her attention.


    Chloe turned to see her smiling at her. She returned the smile. ¡°Good morning ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­¡±


    ¡°How are you doing today?¡± She asked, dropping her handbag on the sofa.


    ¡°I¡¯m quite good¡­ and you.¡± She referred.


    Vanessa nodded. ¡°I¡¯m okay¡­¡±


    She left the room to go meet Tracy in the kitchen. ¡°Baby girl¡­¡±


    ¡°Good morning ma¡¯am¡­¡± she smiled.


    She responded by returning the smile too. ¡°Why not go take your bath and get ready while I do the cooking?¡±


    Tracy nodded. She had known she would take over the kitchen once she arrived.


    ¡°Take care of Chloe okay¡­¡± Nessa referred to her.


    She nodded. ¡°That¡¯s not a problem¡­ I¡¯ll get her ready.¡±


    Tracy dashed out of the kitchen instantly to meet Chloe taking her clothes off so as to take her bath.


    ¡°You no longer wait for your babysitter to handle everything herself.¡± Tracy drew her attention.


    She turned to see her some feet away from her. ¡°She taught me how to do everything myself including cleaning up my room. So I don¡¯t need to disturb her again.¡±


    Tracy nodded, getting her school uniform for her. ¡°Go take your bath, I¡¯ll go take mine now.¡±


    She left while Chloe twitched into the bathroom.


    Chloe doesn¡¯t bother asking her babysitter when she knows that she¡¯s busy in the kitchen warranting Tracy out to get ready for school.


    She was done with taking her bath, and she began dressing up.


    ******


    Vanessa was done with their breakfast, she had to start preparing their Lunch.


    She had dished their food and served it on the dining table before Leaving back to concentrate on the lunch she¡¯s preparing.


    While all her mind was on what she¡¯s doing, she felt a foot approaching closer to her.


    She turned her head to see that it¡¯s Xaviering closer to her.


    ¡°Good morning Mr Xavier¡­¡± she greeted me.


    He nodded, responding to her greeting. ¡°I¡¯m quite sure you slept well right?¡± He asked her.


    She nced at him and nodded. ¡°I¡¯m very strong.¡±


    Xavier stood still watching as she was very busy with what she was doing. He had been creating¡­ trying to get courage and tell her the reason she¡¯s here.


    ¡°Uhmmm! Vanessa¡­ ¡± he called her and bit his lips.


    She flicked her head aside to nce at him. ¡°I¡¯m hearing you¡­ it¡¯s anything the problem?¡± She inquired.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He shook his head smiling, but Vanessa noticed that something was wrong.


    ¡°Everything is fine¡­¡± he replied.


    Vanessa shrugged her shoulders. ¡°If you say so¡­¡±


    After some minutes had psed, he tapped her shoulder again.


    ¡°Can I ask you a question?¡± He asked.


    She nodded. ¡°Sure you can.¡±


    ¡°Okay, not actually a question though¡­ but just want to congratte you for finding a new lover.¡± He stated.


    Vanessa¡¯s eyes widened, she shivered within her upon hearing that.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± She asked again wondering what¡¯s going on with him.

 Chapter 51.

    ¡°I meant, who was the man you left out with? How sure are you that you¡¯re safe with him?¡± Xavier couldn¡¯t help but ask those questions.


    Vanessa pouted her lips. She couldn¡¯t believe that Xavier could be jealous this way. He could be damn sad for seeing her with another man.


    ¡°But I neverined to you. I¡¯m good with him, you don¡¯t need to worry.¡± She replied.


    He gave a nod to that. ¡°Uhmmm! What¡¯s his name..? Sorry, you don¡¯t need to give me an answer to that¡­ I was just being caring so you won¡¯t fall into the hands of thugs as a lover.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°He isn¡¯t my lover yet, it¡¯s just a date for now.¡± She replied.


    He smiled. ¡°But, do you know him so well? Like, how long now?¡¯


    Vanessa turned fully to him. ¡°I¡¯ve not known him all this while, and I believe I will do that as days keep going. Knowing him and everything about him is better. But physically, he¡¯s so handsome and fit.¡±


    He felt jealous. Who is the fucking man stealing Vanessa¡¯s heart all in the name of being handsome?


    ¡°I¡¯m i not handsome?¡± He never knew when the question popped out of his throat.


    Vanessaughed at him. ¡°I didn¡¯t say you aren¡¯t handsome. I meant the guy himself¡­¡±


    He smiled. ¡± Okay then¡­ I thought of how ugly I might seem to be in your sight.¡±


    ¡°Why should you be ugly in my sight? Okay, even if you are¡­ you have a girlfriend who would be telling you how handsome you arepared to other men.¡± She stated.


    Xavier didn¡¯t love it when he mentioned him having a fiance. That¡¯s just something he can¡¯t get.


    Why would he be so jealous when he had a fiance.


    ¡°You¡¯re being jealous because of that right?¡± She asked him.


    He shook his head. ¡°Not at all. I was just trying to be caring¡­ not jealousy.¡±


    ¡°If you aren¡¯t jealous, why should youe over to ask me about this when you have a fiance already? I can see you don¡¯t want me to get married huh?¡± She referred to him.


    He heaved a big sigh. ¡°Don¡¯t say that Nessa. I¡¯ve already told you that I¡¯m not being jealous. Ummm! Anyways¡­ I¡¯m so sorry for interfering in your private matters.¡± He uttered and left.


    She tried stopping Jim but thought against it.


    ¡°Gosh! Does it mean that I¡¯ve irritated him just now? No! He shouldn¡¯t take things seriously this way.¡± She rolled her eyes. ¡°But he¡¯s engaged for heaven¡¯s sake, he isn¡¯t supposed to be jealous this way.¡±


    She felt hurt watching Xavier leave. Heaven knows how much she wants him beside her. But she can¡¯t help it since he¡¯ll be getting married soon.


    While I thought, she was also busy with what she was doing. Within a few minutes, she was already done with preparing the meal.


    So she left upstairs to go meet Chloe, at least to be sure that she was getting ready for school.


    ********


    At midday*****


    He paid her a visit again, and she weed him into her bakery¡­ offered him a seat while they began chanting.


    For over an hour, the two were busy with a discussion that¡¯s kind of silly but meant much to them.


    Vanessa loved spending her day with him, he made her day with funny conversations which they argued on.


    The games they yed together. Nessa loved it so much.


    ¡°Huh! What¡¯s going on here?¡± A feminine voice attracted their attention. They both swirled their necks.


    Vanessa saw that it¡¯s Lilian disturbing her. This woman will never let her be for once.


    ¡°Jasper¡­ I just hope it isn¡¯t what I¡¯m thinking?¡± Lilian uttered, staring at him.


    He didn¡¯t say a word, he only sat busy with his cell phone in order not to get attracted to her.


    Vanessa was shocked, she wants to know more about what¡¯s going on between the two.


    ¡°So you¡¯ve been cheating on me with this slut? Jasper, I am not okay for you right?¡± He took the cell phone away from him.


    He lifted his face, staring at her. ¡°Can I have the phone first?¡± He didn¡¯t mind letting her say something, he took the cell phone from her palm.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been cheating on me with this birch here huh?¡± She shook her head feeling hurt.


    Vanessa felt baffled, why would she refer to her as a slut and a bitch? She isn¡¯t gonna keep mute to that


    She moved closer to Lilian and gripped her neck. Lilian pulled out her hand and she yanked her hair.


    ¡°What warranted you to refer to me as a slut and ve? I guess you must be damn crazy for doing that.,.¡± She yanked her hair so hard pushing her away from the store.


    Jasper didn¡¯t say a word, he only stared at the two women as they fought because of him.


    He couldn¡¯t stopughing inwardly. They¡¯re really amusing.


    Vanessa came back to him, she almost vomited that Lilian is engaged¡­ but she shut her mouth. The fact that Lilian is Jasper¡¯s girlfriend still haunts her.


    Why would she be deceiving Xavier? She¡¯s cheating on him yet keeps pretending to love him.


    ¡°You¡¯re happy right? You¡¯re happy to witness the scene of seeing two women quarrel because of you huh?¡± She snapped.


    Jasper bent his head low.


    ¡°I never wanted to give in to this, but you kept flocking around me pretending to be single while you¡¯re in a rtionship.¡± She spluttered at him.


    Lilian came to her again. ¡°You should be shameless about everything you do. Nessa you¡¯re so useless that taking what belongs to me matters to you a lot.¡±


    ¡°I should be saying that¡­ but I have nothing to do with you. Just leave my bakery.¡± She scolded.


    Rather, Lilian kepting closer and closer. She grabbed the mopping stick which was iron like and stretched her hand to hit it on her, but she dodged it and stepped back.


    ¡°I¡¯ll never forgive you for this Jasper. You¡¯ve hurt the innermost part of me and I¡¯ll never kick it out.¡± She uttered expecting him to say a word, but he didn¡¯t.


    She turned her back and left the bakery instantly leaving the two alone.


    Jasper didn¡¯t say a word after Lilian left, he watched her leave to the inner room of her bakery and came back some secondster.


    ¡°I guess you¡¯ve overstayed your wee.¡± She referred to him.


    He shook his head. ¡°You can¡¯t do this to me Vanessa, I love you so much from the depth of my heart.¡±


    ¡°Oh my goodness! Shut your sticky mouth and get out of my bakery. You¡¯re a womanizer¡­ a flirt¡­ a jerk.. a cheater.¡± She cursed him.


    He didn¡¯t attempt getting on his feet. ¡°You can call me anything you want, but just have it in mind that I love you so much and won¡¯t watch another man take you away from me.¡±


    ¡°Not only me¡­ but Lilian too, or you¡¯ve forgotten already.¡± She rolled her eyes. ¡°Jasper get on your feet and leave my bakery¡­ and don¡¯t you ever return again¡­ go focus on your first lover.¡±


    Jasper got on his feet still focusing his gaze on her. ¡°It¡¯s a promise Vanessa, I am not leaving permanently but for a while because I¡¯m sure you¡¯re so upset. I¡¯lle back some other day to check on you.¡±


    She hissed loudly. ¡°Just go and nevere back again. I have nothing to do with your care¡­ I was fine before I met you.¡±


    He nodded and left the bakery after waving her goodbye.


    Vanessa yelled within her, she hated what just happened between them now and wished it never took ce.


    The questions Xavier asked her in the morning began reflecting in her mind. She guessed that this was the reason he did that.


    ¡°But he isn¡¯t aware that Lilian is cheating on him¡­ or is he?¡± He shook her head. ¡°And besides, he didn¡¯t see Jasper. Chloe had just told him of the man she caught with me.¡±


    She breathed heavily and got seated. ¡°I just pity him because Lilian is really dealing with him but he isn¡¯t aware. Isn¡¯t he so handsome and wealthy that she began cheating on him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just sure that she is faking to love him¡­ nothing much. And I wish Xavier would notice on time.¡± She thought within herself.


    ¡°Who¡¯s here? Can I get some fruit bread? Make it five¡­¡± a masculine voice echoed in the presence of her bakery.


    She got on his feet. ¡°Come closer sir.¡± She addressed the man while getting the fruit bread.


    He paid the amount of money given to him and left with the purchased stuff, while Vanessa went ahead with her thought.


    ¡°Lilian¡­ you¡¯re a whore.¡± She cursed, grimacing her face. ¡°I just wish you¡¯ll regret all this atst.¡±


    She remorsed on not listening to Xavier in the morning. ¡°It¡¯s out of jealousy though, but I should have given in to that¡­ Now I¡¯m feeling hurt.¡±


    ¡°I just hope this doesn¡¯t turn out to be something else¡­ or rather Xavier knowing about it again¡­ I don¡¯t want to get him upset this time.¡± She muttered pulling her jaw with her right palm.

 Chapter 52.

    Her heart was bleeding, she couldn¡¯t get herself. ¡°What the heck!¡± She roared, forcing her ass on the bed.


    Recalling all that urred in Nessa¡¯s bakery got her irritated. ¡°Huh! Thisdy is bitch¡­ it¡¯s no longer Xavier, but Jasper now.¡±


    She bit her lips and took a deep breath. ¡°Why would thisdy be a disaster to me? She steps into everything.¡±


    Her eyes rolled. ¡°Seems like I made a mistake by yelling at Jasper in her presence, now she might be well convinced that I¡¯m his lover and then pretending to love Xavier.¡±


    She hissed grimacing. ¡°I just wish she won¡¯t say anything about this to Xavier¡­ or I won¡¯t let her go to make me lose him.¡±


    The buzzing of her phone drew her attention and she picked it up to see that it¡¯s Jasper. A loud hiss escaped her lips.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I just hope you aren¡¯t calling to scold me, or I¡¯ll make sure you roast in hell.¡± She referred to him when he picked up the call.


    Jasper shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Stop acting silly Lilian. Why should you act that way when you don¡¯t know who she is to me?¡±


    ¡°Who else is she if not your new Lover? You know what? I hate thatdy damn much and I don¡¯t care to know who she is to you.¡± She snapped.


    Jasper shook his head. ¡°What do you mean by hating her damn much? Have you known her for a long time? What¡¯s her offence to you that you hate her that way?¡± He asked me multiple questions.


    She twisted her lips while her heart began pounding so fast. ¡°You don¡¯t need to know, just have in mind that I won¡¯t sit and watch you cheat on me¡­ neither will I let thatdy take you away from me.¡± She remarked.


    He found it funny, all she announced were all leaving his ear immediately. Whatever she¡¯s up to will never be his business.


    The fact that he had known Vanessa is a fact that he won¡¯t let her go because of Lilian. If she would leave because of that, then there¡¯s no problem with that.


    He knew nothing to say again about that, because he¡¯s gonna follow his heart.


    He hung up the call and dropped his phone on the bed.


    Lilian yelled out in anger. How dare he hang up the call when she isn¡¯t through with all she had to say to him?


    Gosh! She¡¯s gonna take action before things get out of hand.


    She moved to the bathroom to freshen up before leaving to meet her friend.


    ********


    Jasper ended the call but was damn haunted. He felt baffled concerning everything Lilian uttered about Vanessa.


    Mere looking at thedy, she is decent both physically and her mode of living. Why then is Lilian uttering the negative side about her.


    Something must be done on time before things get out Of hand. But how is he going to know what¡¯s wrong between the twodies?


    He needs to know the reason they are enemies. Vanessa didn¡¯t keep mute when Lilian scolded her¡­ they all behaved like cat and dog.


    Lilian needs toe over so they can discuss this. He believes that through her she would get the information he needs.


    He picked up his phone and sent Lilian a message. She has toe over before the day ends.


    *******


    At night..


    Chloe sat beside her father in his room, she is here for nothing else than to him thetest gist.


    The incident she witnessed at noon troubled her mind that she can¡¯t keep it to herself no matter what it might take to do that.


    At first, it was only Vanessa and the young man¡­ today, Lilian was seen present with them as she quarreled with Vanessa.


    With her six knots upstairs, she concluded that it¡¯s because of the man¡­ but one thing needed to be talked about.


    What will Lilian have to do with the young man when she is engaged by her father? Is it damn possible huh?


    She shook her head. This matter needs to be looked into or things might get out of hand. Probably, she doesn¡¯t wish anything bad to happen to Vanessa because of a man.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it better to leave the so-called friend if he¡¯s gonna cause hurt to her? I guess my idea is good¡­¡± she thought within her.


    Xavier had been staring at his daughter who hasn¡¯t said a word since she came into his room. Her eyes were focused on him, but he believed that her mind wasn¡¯t within.


    ¡°Chloe¡­ are you okay? What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± His deep voice brought her out of her thoughts.


    She stretched her lips into a wide smile, and he smiled at her too.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay dad¡­ just that there are certain things that I want us to discuss.¡± She uttered.


    He arched his brow and shuddered. ¡°Anything! Juste up with the discussion.¡±


    ¡°I just wish he wouldn¡¯t be sad¡­ but I can¡¯t just keep this stuff away from him.¡± She thought within herself.


    She got down from the bed and sat opposite him on the sofa. ¡°Dad¡­ promise me you won¡¯t get mad at anyone if I tell you this?¡±


    Xavier snapped her face. He wondered what the discussion is all about, that a promise is being brought up.


    Anyways, he¡¯s ready to do anything just to make sure that she tells him all she has in mind.


    ¡°It¡¯s a promise¡­ I won¡¯t get mad at anyone for any reason.¡± He assured her.


    She smiled. ¡°And just pretend that you didn¡¯t hear anything¡­ then use your brain.¡± She added.


    Xavier twisted his lips. ¡°No problems with that. ¡°I¡¯ll keep mute towards the issue.¡±


    She nodded and coughed slightly. ¡°I caught ma¡¯am Vanessa and Lilian quarreling because of a man today in her bakery.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t told, and no one saw me. I just hid and was listening to everything they said¡­ before I tiptoed and left the surroundings back home.¡± She added.


    Xavier felt his heart sinking into his stomach, the heck that he¡¯s hearing isn¡¯t what he had expected to hear.


    ¡°Uhmmm! Chloe¡­ can you tell me a little about what they said while quarreling?¡± He inquired curiously.


    She smiled at that statement. Sure! She¡¯ll tell him everything.


    ¡°Lilian used ma¡¯am Vanessa of snatching her lover from her¡­ and ma¡¯am Vanessa kept calling her a whore.¡±


    He wiped his face¡­ this must be a dream. He just hoped the lover Lilian was talking about is him and no one else.


    ¡°Are you okay das?¡± She tapped him.


    He nodded. ¡°I¡¯m fine, but did you get to know the lover Lilian was talking about?¡±


    She rolled her eyes. ¡°To be honest, she was referring to the young man they were calling out as Jasper who visited ma¡¯am Vanessa.¡±


    Huh! This is what he never wanted to hear. That Lilian is vividly cheating on him and he¡¯s busy loving her.


    No! Wait!! Did he just hear her call Jasper? He gritted his teeth.


    Hope it isn¡¯t the Jasper he knows? It must be another Jasper and not the one that has Turner as his second name.


    It can never be¡­ it can¡¯t be his worst enemy.


    ¡°Are you sure of what you¡¯re saying Chloe? I¡¯m saying this because I¡¯ll make investigations¡­¡± he uttered.


    Chloe sighed. Heaven knows she was a witness. Everything happened right before her, so she¡¯s sure of what she¡¯s saying.


    ¡°I am not lying Dad. Go ahead with your investigations.¡± She replied.


    Xavier was well convinced that Chloe was lying. She had announced the first to him and he confirmed it to be true through Vanessa.


    And here is another news that happens to implicate the woman he called a fiance.


    No! He can¡¯t keep mute towards the issue. He needs to start taking action before he regrets it.


    But, how is he gonna know the truth when Chloe was the only one there? Would he ask Lilian?


    He shook his head being so sure that Lilian might lie to him¡­ Then will Vanessa give him the reply he wants?


    ¡°Thank you so much for this Chloe¡­ I¡¯ll know what to do about it then.¡± He cuddled her, caressing her hair.


    She smiled rxingly on his body.


    They¡¯ll have to talk about this the next day.


    ********


    In the morning¡­ .


    The children were still asleep when Vanessa came into the house. She only found Xavier seated on the sofa but asleep too.


    She didn¡¯t bother awakening him, she left to the kitchen but couldn¡¯t get Tracy busy as usual. She wondered if they weren¡¯t leaving for school.


    Huh! Chloe never told her that the next day wasn¡¯t school, and that¡¯s why she¡¯s here.


    She left to Chloe¡¯s room to see her rumbling the bed covers all in the name of sleeping.


    Heavenly father! They aren¡¯t thinking of getting awake.


    She moved to the bed and tapped her leg calling out her name. Chloe turned to the other side of the bed and yawned.


    She peeped through one eye to see Vanessa seated on the bed. She yawned while her eyes narrowed.


    ¡°Jesus! Ma¡¯am Vanessa¡­ good morning.¡± She screamed getting out of the bed.


    Vanessa was frightened on hearing her scream so loud.


    ¡°Is anything the matter Chloe? Why scream this way?¡± She asked the little girl who was standing at the window.


    Chloe turned to her. ¡°We¡¯rete to school.¡± She rushed out of the room to wake her siblings up. They all ran out of the room to their various ces of duty.


    Xavier was still asleep on the sofa when Chloe approached him with the tap on his cheek.


    ¡°You should have awoken us when you left your room here. Now we¡¯rete to school.¡± She announced almost about to cry.


    Xavier widened her eyes, staring at her. ¡°My goodness! I slept off again¡­¡± he yawned.


    He was hot on his feet.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am Vanessa is here already. She¡¯s even the one that woke me up.¡± Chloe stated staring at Ben who was cleaning the room.


    Vanessa stepped into the sitting room to get him awake. ¡°It¡¯s everything okay with you all? This is my first time seeing everyone asleep by this time.¡±


    ¡°When did you arrive?¡± He asked her.


    ¡°Some minutes ago, I didn¡¯t want to bother you with my greeting.¡± She replied.


    He took a deep breath affixing his palm on his waist. ¡°I¡¯ll go dress up for work now.¡±


    She watched him leave the stairs, and then she turned to Chloe.


    ¡°Go brush your teeth, I¡¯ming over there now.¡± She ordered her and she left instantly.


    Vanessa left to the kitchen and ordered Tracy out so they would go get ready for school. She did that to Ben, promising to do all those things herself just to save their time.


    They all adhered and left to their rooms to get dressed.


    Xavier brushed his teeth and freshened up. He went down to the dinning room to have his breakfast.


    She served him while preparing the kids lunch.


    About to leave the dining room, he called back her attention, insisting that she should get seated.


    ¡°Tell me Vanessa, what happened between you and Lilian in your bakery yesterday?¡± He asked her.


    She quivered. How on earth did he know about this since she was sure Chloe wasn¡¯t in her bakery the past day.


    ¡°Nothing¡­ absolutely nothing.¡± She replied.


    He nced at her. ¡°Just tell me the truth Vanessa. I trust you to do that.¡±


    That calm voice battled in her, that she didn¡¯t know what to say as a lie again.


    ¡°But¡­ it¡¯s just a mere quarrel..¡± she replied.


    ¡°I know. But I want to know the reason behind it.¡± He questioned again.


    Vanessa noticed her palms sweating profusely. ¡°She was scolding me as usual.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s because of your new lover right?¡± He dropped his spoon and affixed his gaze at her.


    She bit her lips. ¡°Uhmmm¡­!¡±


    ¡°Just tell me the truth. He¡¯s Lilian¡¯s lover right?¡±


    Her eyes widened. This is not as easy as she thought. ¡°I don¡¯t know..¡±


    ¡°You know everything Vanessa. Okay, tell me everything about the guy.¡± He inquired.


    She began breathing fast. ¡°He¡¯s tall and huge. Fair and good looking. ording to him, he¡¯s Jasper Turner.¡±


    He lost his appetite instantly. ¡°So it¡¯s him¡­ Jasper Turner, my worst enemy.¡± He muttered to himself.

 Chapter 53.

    Xavier sat in his office deep in thought, the only thing that upies his mind is the reply Vanessa had given him.


    Which should she talk about first? The fact that Lilian is cheating on him, or that the dude is Jasper¡­ his worst enemy?


    Gosh! That¡¯s kind of irritating.


    He enveloped his face with his two palms not knowing what to do.


    ¡°Sir¡­¡± a female voice called him out from the doorpost.


    He lifted his face and hissed. ¡°I am not in the mood to handle anything now, take it to the manager or keep it till tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s urgent Sir, there¡¯s a project that we need to start now and your signature is needed.¡± Thedy narrated.


    He sighed and leaned on the chair. ¡°Must it be my signature? I have a manager or you¡¯ve forgotten?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir but the manger has signed his, yours ispulsory here.¡±


    He sighed and ordered her in. She ced the document on the table and he signed approving the project.


    Thedy left his office instantly and he went back to his deep thoughts again.


    ¡°Lilian is just fooling herself and not me, the hell that pains me is about Jasper¡­ I won¡¯t sit and watch him take over Vanessa.¡± He heaved a big sigh. ¡°Since he has already started with Lilian, they ought to go ahead.¡± He muttered to himself.


    A resounding hiss escaped his throat. ¡°I¡¯ll just pretend that I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on. Lilian must reveal what she has in mind herself.¡±


    He got on his feet and moved the shelf, there¡¯s this particr thing he has to get before sunset.


    *****


    ¡°This must be a joke.¡± Jasper sipped from his ss of wine. He recalled everything that urred in Nessa¡¯s bakery.


    He had gotten the secret between the twodies but pretended not to know anything.


    ¡°How can a man have two prettydies under his roof alone? It¡¯s kinda impossible¡­ I won¡¯t let that happen.¡±


    He got seated on the long stool and ced his arm on the table beside him. The image of Vanessa kept shing in his mind.


    What baffles him is what Vanessa got to do with babysitting Xavier¡¯s child when she has a bakery. That bakery is enough to solve her problems, but she works for Xavier.


    He shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s a skeleton in the cupboard. A beautiful damsel like her can¡¯t just be working for him when she has a means of getting more ie in a day.¡±


    He bit his finger in disgust, he must surely get to the root of all this.


    Talking about Lilian, he isn¡¯t shocked that she¡¯s betrothed to Xavier, she had counted her to be a tool that can be used by a man.


    He isn¡¯t worried about her though, what matters to him is all about Vanessa. He had sworn to get her to himself entirely.


    No man would share her with him nor take her away from him. He is damn ready to go to all extent just to make sure that Vanessa is fully hers.


    He emptied the ss and left it on the table heading to his room. Within minutes, he was already dressed in his white t-shirt and in dark trousers.


    He made his way out of the room to his car, and kicked off Xavier¡¯spany.


    *****


    At noon, Xavier was seated behind the shelf still in search of the file. It¡¯s so important to him that he can¡¯t afford to lose a huge project.


    And without submitting the file, the project won¡¯t be approved. He needs to get it and submit it to the business board.


    The manager bumped in, causing to get on his feet in a haste. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is anyone chasing you?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s this young man that has been shrieking all this while, he persists to see you.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s his name?¡±


    ¡°Jasper Turner.¡± He replied.


    His eyes narrowed. ¡°What the heck is he doing here?¡±


    The manager twisted his lips. ¡°I don¡¯t know Sir.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Let him in, but tell the securities to be on alert, I don¡¯t trust that trash.¡±


    The manager eded and left his office. Seconds psed and Jasper bumped into his office.


    Anger revealed on his face, but Xavier didn¡¯t care. Heaven knows he isn¡¯t gonna let him go Scott free if he tries something stupid.


    ¡°What brought you to my office?¡± Xavier questioned him.


    He let out a devilish grin. ¡°Can¡¯t I have a seat first?¡±


    ¡°If you wish to.¡±


    Jasper got seated opposite him leaning his arms on the table. His eyes focused on Xavier who wasn¡¯t giving a damn smile.


    ¡°I came to inquire who Vanessa and Lilian are to you.¡± Jasper broke up the silence between them.


    Xavier sniffed. He had already concluded within him that it¡¯s the reason for hising, but he needed to hear from him first.


    ¡°Any problem with that? Why do you care to know?¡± Xavier felt the inside of him getting hot. He was irritated already.


    Jasper tapped his finger on the table. ¡°Lilian is my lover, and I¡¯m dumping her to get Vanessa since she¡¯s your fiance.¡±


    Xavier affixed his eyes on him without saying a word.


    ¡°I just want you to sack Vanessa, she can¡¯t be babysitting your child when she has a nice business to focus on. Let go of her and go ahead with Lilian, the bitch can do the babysitting.¡± Jasper added.


    ¡°You called Lilian a bitch?¡±


    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s what she is. A professional bitch that couldn¡¯t tell me that she¡¯s engaged, but she wants to squander my money.¡± He replied.


    Xavier nodded. ¡°I¡¯m d she¡¯s a bitch and you¡¯ve taken advantage of her already. Go she¡¯s with her.¡±


    ¡°Never¡­¡± he screamed, hitting his palm on the table. He got on his feet.


    Xavier stood too, he won¡¯t spare him if he tries stepping on his feet. ¡°I¡¯ve taken enough from you Jasper, and I won¡¯t tolerate it again this time. Let Vanessa be for peace yo reign.¡±


    ¡°We either lose her, instead of leaving her.¡± He remarked.


    Xavier let his mouth agape to say a word, when the door was rapped open and Vanessa strode in with a package of food smiling.


    Vanessa nced at the both men. ¡°What are you doing here Jasper?¡±


    He turned to take a good look at her.


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