2024-10-08 17:39:09Rowland remained rooted to the spot in the doctor’s office, his mind reeling from the unexpected news. Mrs. Patricia's surgery was paid for, and someone had referred to him as "master"? It didn't make any sense.
He was just a poor orphan that was on the street before Grandpa Jones helped him out of his misery. Even though things are getting hard for him at the moment, at least he was not on the street anymore. “Doctor, did the person leave a name?” Rowland asked, his voice barely above a whisper. The doctor shook his head. “No, Mr. Rowland, they didn’t leave a name. But they did leave this card.” “What card is that doctor?” Rowland was absolutely curious, looking eager to see the card. The doctor reached into his desk and handed Rowland a small, white card with an embossed gold number on it. “They said you should call this number and that someone will come to pick you up.” Pick him up to where? At this point, Rowland was completely confused. First, he was being referred to as “Master”, now they want to come pick him up. It was actually hard for him to think straight at the moment. Rowland stared at the card, feeling the rough texture under his fingers. He had no phone, he couldn’t even afford the luxury of one. He didn’t know what to make of this situation. Who would pay for Mrs. Patricia's surgery? And why did they call him "master"? He thanked the doctor and left the office, his thoughts racing. As he walked through the hospital corridors, he felt a flicker of hope. Perhaps Mrs Patricia would not die after all, thanks to the unknown. But then, he shook his head, wary of believing in miracles. *** He went home immediately. In the Jones family house, he entered quietly, his footsteps echoing in the grand but empty foyer. The house, usually bustling with activity, seemed oddly silent tonight. He glanced around, wondering where everyone had gone. Upstairs, while in the dining, the event was over, but the pressure on Amaya was still mounting. Her parents had cornered her, their expressions fierce and unyielding. “Amaya, why are you being so stubborn?” Mrs. Jones snapped, her tone dripping with frustration. “Clinton is a good match for you, far better than that useless Rowland. Think about your future!” Amaya’s eyes flashed with defiance. “Mother, I love Rowland. I don’t care about Clinton’s money or his connections. I made my vows, and I intend to keep them.” Mr. Jones sighed, his patience wearing thin. “Amaya, you’re being naive. Love won’t put food on the table. Love won’t secure our family’s business. Clinton can do all that and more.” Amaya's resolve wavered slightly as she faced her parents' unrelenting pressure. Her father’s words stung, but she stood firm. “Father, I understand what you’re saying, but I won’t leave Rowland just to secure some business deal. He might not have money or connections, but he has a good heart, and I love him.” Mrs. Jones's expression hardened, her voice turning ice-cold. “Good heart? Amaya, a good heart won’t save this family from ruin! Can’t you see? This is your chance to rise above mediocrity and save us from embarrassment! Do you want to be known as the girl who stayed married to nobody?” Amaya balled her fists at her sides, trying to keep her composure even as her knuckles turned white. "Mom, Rowland is not insignificant. He is my husband, and I choose to support him." Amaya heard a sneer from the doorway and turned to see her sister Healey walking into the room with a look that mixed disdain and annoyance. "Do not be foolish, Amaya," Healey said, her tone condescending. "You are wasting your life on someone who will never amount to anything. Consider all the chances you are missing out on. Clinton is offering you a life most women would dream of! Just let go of that loser!” Amaya bit her lip, fighting back tears. “You don’t understand, Healey. It’s not about money or opportunity. It’s about love and commitment.” Healey rolled her eyes. “Love? Commitment? You think Rowland would stay with you if the roles were reversed? If he were the one with the choice between a billionaire’s daughter and you, a broke woman with no prospects, do you think he’d choose you? Don’t be so naive.” Amaya shook her head, tears brimming in her eyes. “No, I won’t divorce Rowland. You can’t make me do it. I’m tired of this constant pressure!” Amaya’s family was still trying to persuade her when Rowland push the door of the dining room open. “You fo*l!” His mother-in-law snorted in disgust. “I thought you had lost your memory, and you could find the way home.” Mr. Jones sneered, his face contorted with anger. “I do not even know why you came back. You should have just died on the way or something.” It was as usual to Rowland, his in-laws have alway disrespected and insult him so much, but would he tell them about the sorted hospital bill of Mrs. Patricia, by someone who referred to him as “Master”? Why would he? After all they did not even ask about the well being of Mrs. Patricia, and they would not care to believe anything he tells them. Staying quiet was the best option for now. Then, he lowered his head and humbly said, “I am sorry for what happened at the event, I just–” “You still talk?” Mrs Jones interrupted him angrily with an “I do not care” manner. “Shut your mouth and just divorce me daughter!” “Mom, stop it. He was just apologizing.” Amaya said looking disappointed. Healey then chipped in desperately, “To hell with his apologies, who cares?!”. It was during the moment, Mrs. Jones’s phone buzzed in her pocket. She glanced at the screen and saw Clinton’s name flashing. Excusing herself, she stepped out into the quiet hallway and answered. “Mrs. Jones,” Clinton’s voice was smooth and confident. “Has Amaya agreed to divorce that worthless man?” Mrs. Jones sighed, her frustration evident. “No, Clinton, she’s still being stubborn. She refuses to see reason!” Clinton chuckled lightly. "That is unfortunate. But do not worry, I have something planned. Listen closely. You need to frame Rowland for theft at the Jones company. Make it something big—enough to make Amaya see him for the lowlife he is. She’ll be forced to divorce him to protect your family’s reputation.” Mrs. Jones’s eyes lit up with a wicked gleam. “Are you sure this will work?” Clinton’s voice was cold. “Trust me. Nothing ruins a man faster than being exposed as a thief. When Amaya sees him in handcuffs, she’ll realize what a mistake she made. I’ll have my people ready to handle everything.” Mrs. Jones grinned, a sinister smile spreading across her face. “Consider it done, Clinton.”
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ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 3: The Set-Up
Rowland arrived at the Jones Company early that morning, the rain from the previous night still wet through his clothes. He walked into the building, his steps deliberate and slow. He avoided the approving looks from his colleagues by keeping his head down. Rowland was used to being treated like dung, especially from the Jones family, who were always reminding him of his lowly station in life. However, something felt off today; there was an odd tension in the air.After getting his cleaning supplies, he headed to the janitorial closet. His thoughts were elsewhere, with the word "Master" resounding in his mind as he considered the enigmatic card he had been given at the hospital. Who could have sent it? How come it was intended for him? He shook his head, attempting to ignore the ideas. It was time to get back to work. His task for the day was to remain focused and persevere.As usual, Rowland began scrubbing the floors in the corridor outside the senior management offices with great
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 4: The Journey Back
“You animal, get off the road!” A driver nearly brought Rowland down while traveling at a high speed.As Rowland walked on the wet sidewalk, the last words of Mr. Jones continued to echo in his mind. He had been thrown back into the streets, just as Grandpa Jones had discovered him years before, abandoned, hopeless, and with nowhere to turn. The city drenched in rain appeared to ridicule his suffering, with the lights illuminating the tall buildings above him like icy, heartless eyes."I am sorry, I did not see your car approaching." Rowland responded.However, the driver was less concerned with his explanation. "If you want to die, go somewhere else."With hopelessness weighing every step he took, his mind raced. Now, where could he go? The moment his luck changed, the people he had once considered friends abandoned him.In an attempt to track down an old friend, he went up to a small corner store, but the owner just gave him a scowl and shook his head."Rowland, we do not wish for
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 5: The Hidden Heir.
The rain had stopped, but the streets glistened with moisture, reflecting the dim light of the streetlamps. His thoughts were filled with questions and emotions. Could this actually be happening? The car came to a halt as the gates automatically swung open, and they drove down a long, manicured driveway lined with tall oak trees. The moment Rowland saw the Fence Family mansion clearly, his breath caught in his throat. It was huge, with a wide balcony supported by tall pillars that made it resemble a palace rather than a house. It was unlike anything he had ever seen in his life. The vehicle came to a stop in front of the main entrance. Edward held the door open for Rowland as he, Daniel, and Marcus got out first. "Master Rowland, this way," Edward said, bending slightly. Rowland paused for a moment before stepping outside, feeling the weight of his wet clothes and the cool night air. The enormous wooden doors opened as they arrived at the entrance. Rowland was astounded by what
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 6: Promise Broken
"Amaya, you have to file for divorce right away because that thing is a thief; you can not stay as his wife forever!" "Clinton is too rich to embarrass you, unlike that thing you call your husband. He would never steal." Mr. and Mrs. Jones sat at the dining table with Amaya and other members inside the lavish walls of the Jones mansion, increasing the pressure on Amaya. In order to obtain the contract they so desperately want from Clinton, they must ensure that Amaya follows through with her marriage to her. But Amaya was still proving to be a barrier. "I disagree with you guys. Rowland would never steal," Amaya said as she left for her room. "I wish I was in her shoes, I would immediately accept to marry Clinton. Who would not?" Healey thought to herself, feeling both frustrated and ashamed of Amaya at the moment. Mrs. Jones went straight to her husband and whispered, "We have to do whatever it takes to secure the other half of the contract. Amaya is stubborn, but she will come
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 7: The Revealing
“What?! This cannot be true.” Rowland's heart was pounding in his chest as he walked up the grand driveway of the Jones mansion, looking tattered to avoid suspicion. Despite the sensation of a heavy weight dragging him down with every step, he persisted, mentally reliving the message he had received. "Amaya accepted Clinton's marriage proposal."For a moment, he wondered if it was a cruel joke or a misunderstanding. But for him to see the truth in her eyes, he needed to hear it from her.As he got closer to the entry, a knot of fear tightened in his stomach. The mansion towered over him, its lavish exterior a sharp contrast to the chaos he was experiencing within. His footsteps echoed on the floor as he entered, and the grandiosity of the house did nothing to calm his racing heart.The grand parlor, a palatial space with expensive artwork hanging on the walls and gilded furniture, was the gathering place for the Jones family. Amaya was sitting on Clinton's lap with her head leaning
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 8: The Silence Before the Storm
In the large room of his parents, Rowland sat in silence, his head spinning from what had happened over the last few hours. He could not stop the dialogue with Amaya from replaying itself in his mind like a shattered record. Her harsh remarks, Clinton's chuckles, and the Jones family's laughter were all too real and raw. Mrs. Fence, his mother, sat opposite him, trying not to show her rage with her piercing eyes as she studied his face. Mr. Fence was visibly furious at what their son had been through as he paced the room in a deliberate and agitated manner. "They made fun of you in front of their family? That little Jones girl dared to treat you in that manner?" Mrs. Fence spoke in a tight, barely controlled rage. With his fingers tapping lightly on the chair's arm, Rowland maintained his composure despite having just lost someone he loved to Clinton. "I want to deal with them in my own way," he stated, his tone firm. "I do not want them to discover who I truly am. Not just yet.
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 9: A Scheme Underway.
“What?! They did that to you? Mrs. Fence's nostrils flared, her anger barely contained. "That family has no idea who they are messing with. If I make just one call, the family's finances will be completely destroyed by the end of the week!" It was clear from their remarks that Mr. and Mrs. Fence disapproved of Rowland's courtroom humiliation. It was Mr. Fence who finally spoke from his silent spot by the window. "Son, I know you want to exact revenge, but why hold off? At this point, you can destroy them. All of the power is at your disposal. You do not have to conceal yourself behind this... front." Rowland stayed put, his jaw clenched. "This is personal, Father. I do not want them to only know my true identity. I want them to feel the weight of their own stupidity, the agony of seeing someone they thought was beneath them soar to heights they can only imagine." With pride and concern in her eyes, Mrs. Fence folded her arms and gazed at her son. "And precisely how are you g
ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule) Chapter 10: The Unveiling of a Ghost
A new day dawned at Fence Emerald Company, one unlike any other. The sun was high in the sky, casting a soft golden hue across the modern building's glass facade. Inside, there was a palpable sense of anticipation, particularly among upper management. The unveiling of their most recent jewelry project, which they had been working on for months. A crowd of investors had gathered from all over the city to see what they thought would be a historic occasion for the company. "Hey, fetch those files from my office and hand them over to the secretary right away." Amaya spoke while seated at the sizable mahogany conference table, her fingers tapping tensely on its glossy surface. She was the company's general manager, so she was well aware of the importance of this presentation. This was a critical day; success could propel the business to unprecedented heights, and failure? Well, the alternative was not failure. She looked over at Vice President Clinton, who was standing by the
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Chapter 98: Hidden Truth Exposed
There was an oppressive tension in the room. The old man who had just turned the entire meeting upside down had everyone sitting motionless, staring at him. He repeated himself in a steady voice that was rough with age."Amaya is my biological daughter. The daughter I lost years ago."There was a new round of whispering among the board members and investors. As others shook their heads in shock, others leaned forward, curious for more information.Mr. Mark narrowed his eyes and spoke suspiciously to the old man."The last time you interrupted a meeting like this, you claimed that Mr. Rowland was your son," he said slowly. "Is this implying that Rowland and Amaya are siblings?"His question hung heavily in the air. There were more gasps. All eyes shifted between Amaya and Rowland, attempting to process the possibility.Rowland's face was bright, but his expression was unclear. Amaya, on the other hand, appeared totally lost. As though she needed to hold onto something to steady herself
Chapter 97: The Old Man Interrupt Again
There was silence in the room as soon as the heavy doors opened. Heads turned, eyes grew wide, and there were whispers in the air. The atmosphere in the hall changed from tension to complete confusion."It is him again," someone in the audience said, their voice full of wonder and disbelief."How does he manage to get past security every time?" Another voice whispered, looking at the guards, who stood motionless, unsure what to do next.Even though the old man at the doorway was a little crooked from age, his presence demanded notice.His eyes were burning with resolve, but his face was wrinkled and his clothes were worn.He seemed to have fought his way here, and he had no plans to back off without making his voice heard.Amaya's lips gradually curled into a smile as she realized what had happened. Her eyes sparkled with confidence, in stark contrast to her earlier hesitation.Already she sensed that trouble was coming for Rowland, and it was coming at just the right moment.She shif
Chapter 96: Say Something Amaya
Amaya's heart was beating so loudly that she was unable to think as she stood motionless. The investors' stares pressed down on her, and she could sense their doubt growing by the second.Her mind raced, desperately looking for a way out of this situation, but nothing came up. The fact that Rowland would never be able to prove his claim had given her such confidence.And yet, here he was, standing firm on undeniable evidence.Clinton clenched his fists while he remained seated next to her. He stared at the screen that displayed Rowland's creation logs and design drafts, his jaw clenched.He wanted to believe his wife, but something inside him said otherwise.Rowland had provided evidence that was too specific and detailed to be fake. Even so, he could not allow Amaya to collapse in this manner—not in front of these investors."This is ridiculous!" Clinton jerked to his feet. His anger was barely contained as he pointed at Rowland. "You think we will assume you are the legitimate owner
Chapter 95: The Design Proof
When Rowland finished speaking, the grand hall fell into a thick silence. His charge had struck like a clap of thunder, upending the foundation of what had appeared to be a successful and seamless presentation.However, instead of immediate acceptance, the reaction was far from what he had expected.The audience started whispering."He is just making this up," someone whispered."He can not take the fact that Amaya got the deal instead of him," another voice scoffed."I have heard he is been having personal problems recently. Perhaps this is just another desperate attempt to stay relevant," muttered a man in a navy blue suit to his colleague.With skeptical looks on their faces, a few heads nodded in agreement. They saw Rowland's claim as nothing more than a bitter outburst from someone who had lost the deal at first in the company.Clinton jumped out of his chair at that precise moment, his face flushed with rage. He raised a trembling finger to Rowland."Enough with this nonsense!"
Chapter 94: Another Presentation Day
The day of the final presentation at Fence Emerald Company arrived with much excitement. The venue was a grand hall that had been meticulously decorated with golden drapes and silver accents to create an elegant and formal atmosphere.The floor was lined with rows of neatly arranged tables, each reserved for a prominent figure in business. As attendees began to arrive, the room was filled with low murmurs and excited chatter.Mr. Mark and a group of prominent investors were among the invited guests from a variety of industries.Clinton, the Fence Emerald Company's vice president, was seated at a prestigious table close to the front with Mr. Fence, the company's chief executive officer, and Khalid, his personal assistant.Mr. and Mrs. Jones soon followed, their triumphant, self-assured steps announcing their arrival.Discreetly enjoying the fact that their plan appeared to be going well, they dressed immaculately and greeted other guests politely."Today is the day," Mrs. Jones muttere
Chapter 93: Rowland Got Mia Fired!
That same day, the atmosphere at the Jones Company was tense. Rowland sat at his desk, looking composed but determined.He had just signed off on a letter that he knew would cause a stir throughout the company—a termination letter for Mia.He put the letter in a folder and a few seconds later Beauty, the secretary, came into the room. She noted his unusual stillness and furrowed brow as he slid the document across the desk toward her."Sir, Is there anything urgent?" Beauty inquired cautiously."Yes," Rowland responded, his tone even yet firm. "This is Mia's termination notice. I would like you to personally deliver it to Mr. and Mrs. Jones. I want them to sign it too."Beauty stood stunned, her eyes widening in disbelief. "Sir... Mia? Are you certain?”Rowland responded with a nod. "It has been authorized. Please ensure that it gets to them as soon as possible."Beauty paused, searching his face for an explanation, but his expression was unreadable. Knowing better than to inquire fur
Chapter 92: Rowland's Plan
The next morning at Jones Company, the atmosphere was alive with activity as employees shuffled around, getting ready for another busy day. However, behind the pristine façade of the company's operations, Mr. and Mrs. Jones were deep in conversation, their voices hushed but charged with malice. They sat across from each other in Mr. Jones' large office, with the blinds drawn to ensure privacy. Mrs. Jones leaned forward, tapping the table with her neatly manicured nails. "It is no surprise that Mia has been assisting Rowland behind our backs. That girl has created her own obstacle, and you know how I feel about obstacles." Mr. Jones smirked, his expression darkened. "She has no idea what is going to happen. You are right, though. If we are going to deal with Rowland properly, we need to first neutralize Mia.” Mrs. Jones gave a nod, her eyes narrowing. "Exactly. And, after hearing how Rowland lost the deal at Fence Emerald Company, I am confident we can replicate his success
Chapter 91: Gladness in Amaya's Eyes
Amaya moved quickly down the hallway of Fence Emerald Company, her heels clicking sharply against the polished tiles. Her confidence radiated as she approached the Vice President's office.She had always considered Clinton to be not only her husband, but also her strongest ally in the company, and she felt vindicated today.She could still remember Mr. Mark's gleeful compliments, and she felt even more triumphant after witnessing Rowland's subdued response.She knocked lightly and went inside without waiting for a response. Clinton looked up from his desk, his sharp features softening into a happy smile."Amaya," he replied, leaning back in his chair. "Just on time. I assume everything went according to plan?"Amaya returned the smile, setting her handbag on one of the chairs before taking a seat. "It was better than I expected. Mr. Mark was completely impressed. He’s reinstating the deal and even praised the design to Rowland’s face.”Clinton chuckled and shook his head. "I promised
Chapter 90: The Deal is Back!
Rowland stepped out of the taxi as it approached Fence Emerald Company, his mind racing with memories of the old man's revelations. He had promised to help, but there was still much he did not know. The old man remained in the taxi, reluctant to draw attention to himself. "I will handle this for the time being," Rowland said, looking back at him. "The taxi driver will transport you back from here." The old man nodded reluctantly and clutched his photograph tightly. Rowland adjusted his tie before entering the company's sleek glass doors. The air was filled with activity, with employees rushing back and forth with files and tablets in hand. Rowland came to a halt as he approached his office, recognizing Mr. Mark, standing near the main lobby. Mr Mark was shaking hands with Amaya Clinton. The sight was unusual enough to make him pause. "Thank you, Mrs. Clinton," Mr. Mark replied warmly, his tone full of gratitude. "Your design is precisely what we needed to persuade the board
