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2024-10-29 19:42:56Ralph didn’t faze; he was accustomed to such treatment, a norm growing up on the streets of Vernice. He resisted the urge to retaliate, knowing it wouldn't be right to mishandle a woman. Plus, he didn’t want to escalate the situation and hurt Diana further. He chose to let it go, understanding the dynamics of his life so far in the Summers mansion. So, he wiped his face with his palm.
“Do you have more disrespect to show me? Get out and never come back here!” Lady Margarita demanded, her anger unabated.On impulse, Diana went on her knees, attempting to salvage the situation. “Please don’t be angry. He will apologize, granny,” she pleaded, pulling Ralph down to kneel beside her.Reluctantly, for the sake of Diana, Ralph knelt and apologized. The room fell silent, waiting for Lady Margarita's reaction.“Are you just going to kneel there like a dumb head?” Lady Margarita demanded, her stern gaze fixed on Ralph.“I apologize,” Ralph muttered, almost indistinctly.“For what?” Lady Margarita's stern demand lingered in the air. Diana, dissatisfied with Ralph's initial response, discreetly pinched his finger under the table as a silent prompt to do better.“I apologize for my bad behavior,” Ralph said, his tone clearer this time, though he appeared unbothered.“I didn’t hear you clearly. Say it louder, Bingo!” Andre interjected, his antagonistic tone evident.Reluctantly, Ralph repeated the apology, enduring the humiliation of being called "Bingo" by Andre.“I will determine a better punishment later,” Lady Margarita declared dismissively, leaving a cloud of uncertainty hanging over Ralph.As Diana and Ralph resumed their seats, a heavy silence enveloped them, each lost in their thoughts.“Andre sweet, do I need to invite the family doctor?” Lady Margarita's tone shifted, revealing concern for her favorite grandson.“No, Granny. I’m fine. Let’s talk about how my day went. I have a piece of good news,” Andre announced with apparent excitement.“Oh, yes! That’s right. Let’s hear about everyone’s week. Andre, you may start,” Lady Margarita instructed, setting the stage for the family updates. Ralph, however, was cautious, having discovered the tendency for Andre's reports to be filled with a mix of truths and lies."Great! So, today, I finally met with the almighty Mr. Rovers in his villa," he declared, pausing for the information to sink in.Gasps of astonishment filled the room, everyone seemingly captivated by Andre's supposed encounter. Mr. Rovers was a highly respected and influential person anyone would be glad to meet in person. He hardly entertained guests physically.However, Ralph, aware of the lies woven into Andre’s tale, sat dumbfounded. He knew Mr. Rovers rarely entertained visitors, having restricted his movements since the tragic incident that claimed the lives of his wife and two daughters. That particular day, Mr. Rovers was not in a pleasant state, so he couldn’t have welcomed any visitor. Andre's claim seemed more fiction than reality, but he kept his observations to himself. He could only deceive his family for a short while.Just as Andre was about to spew more lies, Stuart Young walked in with a gift box in his hand. Stuart was the first son of the Young family, a family known for its wealth and influence in Rovers County. He was a friend to the Summers family, especially Lady Margarita, and had been eyeing Diana for a while."Good evening, everyone," Stuart greeted with a charming smile. "I heard we were having a little gathering, so I thought I'd join in.""Of course. You are family. Please join us. Ralph? Get up for Stuart to sit. Yeah! You will stand through the meeting. I think that’s the punishment I have for you. Of course, there may be more later," commanded Lady Margarita.“He can sit somewhere else, not beside my wife.” Ralph replied firmly.The others burst into laughter.“You call her your wife? Do you even have what it takes to be a husband?” Asked Liam, the last grandchild as others laughed the more.“Get up or get out. Let a better in-law sit.” Lady Margarita commanded.Ralph chose to go out but wanted to protect Diana against Stuart. So, he reluctantly vacated his seat for Stuart, standing behind his wife in a protective manner. Stuart, with a sense of accomplishment, took the seat beside Diana, pleased to be close to her.Diana exchanged a concerned glance with Ralph, who responded with a reassuring smile."I bought this gift for you with my Elite Reserve Card, Grandma. It’s a token. Please accept it." Stuart handed the gift box to Lady Margarita, who opened it immediately to reveal a diamond necklace called "Eternal Elegance." It is a rare piece of jewelry that cost a significant sum.Everyone admired the piece from their seats. They were also impressed that Stuart had the special card owned by just few individuals in Rovers County. Of course, Ralph was unbothered. He knew Stuart’s motive for the gift was to win Lady Margarita’s favor and marry Diana."Don't worry. Diana will be yours soon once she divorces that scum. She won't disobey her grandmother," Lady Margarita said as she admired her gift."I will make her get the divorce papers next week. She won't dare disobey her mother. Right, Diana?" West added, sizing Ralph up with her angry stare.How could they be talking of marrying a married woman off to another man? But that was just a tip of the constant ridicule Ralph had to endure with his in-laws hoping that, one day, they would truly accept him as one of them. He loved Diana that much and was willing to endure the ill-treatment just to be with her.
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The most influential figure in Rovers County, after whom the County was named, had just suddenly passed away, and everyone was curious to know who his successor would be since he had no living family. The Summers family was not left out. Lady Margarita Summers was keenly interested in Mr. Rovers’ successor. Summers Luxury Automobiles, the major family business of the Summers, was almost dependent on Rovers Motors which was one of the many companies owned by the deceased Billionaire.With a sense of urgency, Lady Margarita convened an emergency meeting of the Summers family to discuss and speculate on the identity of the next owner of Rovers Group of companies. The family recognized the need to establish favorable relations with the successor, considering the late Mr. Rovers' approval of their dealership contract, though he had remained elusive since the tragic incident that claimed his family."Even though Mr. Rovers managed his companies from his Villa and didn't meet with us much
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"Can you delay the public announcement of my inheritance for one year? I want to manage Rovers Group incognito.""Whatever you want. But what could be your reason?""I need time to equip myself for the great task ahead of me. Rest assured, I will be ready in a year's time.""Sure. As your lordship pleases. I will announce you to the workers without mentioning your name or showing your face. I will be glad to get you acclimatized with everything Rovers Group stands for."Ralph read and signed all the necessary paperwork and got the possession of the highly esteemed Elite Reserve Card. With the Elite Reserve Card in his possession, he now held the key to not just billions of dollars but also high-end privileges, concierge services, and exclusive events. "The card remains dormant until it is activated by your fingerprint. I will take you to the bank tomorrow if you don't mind.""No, I prefer to go alone. It's better if you're not seen in public with me."Ralph had successfully acquired
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Victor Sterling thought the weekend would never be over, but he was glad it finally was.“Today is the day I will be announced as the successor of Mr. Rovers. Make sure everything is in place for the celebration later in the evening,” he said to his secretary as he stepped down from his Rovers Bugatti, a luxurious masterpiece from Rovers Motors. As the Executive Director of Rovers Group of companies, all other directors reported to him, and he reported to the deceased Mr. Rovers.“Yes, Mr. Sterling. Everything is in order. I will put the finishing touches. Let me know if there is anything else you need me to do.” Sabrina Rolls, a gorgeous secretary, seemed to harbor a secret admiration for her boss, Victor. She wished he could be hers.“Nothing for now. I will get myself ready for the Attorney’s arrival. You can go and tidy things up.”They were on the premises of the headquarters of Rovers Group of Companies.“One moment, sir,” and Sabrina pretended to brush off a non-existing speck
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The news of the anonymous successor spread quickly through Rovers County and beyond. People gathered in groups to analyze the situation.“Mr. R.R.? Even the original owner did not make himself anonymous. How preposterous of this new successor!” Lady Margarita was not pleased with the news of Mr. Rover’s anonymous successor. She was seated in the courtyard, not far away from the pool like she usually did. All her five grandchildren were seated around her. She had summoned them when she heard the news of the anonymous successor.“If I were a member of the staff, I would protest working for an anonymous boss.”Lionel had a heavily-built body that made him look bigger than his age.“And put yourself at risk of getting sacked? Well, it’s just for a year. It’s not like his anonymity is affecting us in any way. I’m sure he has his reasons.” Diana had a different view.“You call a year ‘just’? Do you know how much I had been eager to know who the successor is so we could make friends with him
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That evening, Andre and Victor Sterling convened at Rovers Royale, the epitome of luxury within Rovers County. It stood as the grandest among all Rovers hotels, exclusively frequented by the crème de la crème.It marked a departure from their usual business meetings at Rovers Group. While Victor had represented Mr. Rovers’s interests in numerous business dealings, Andre, as a representative of Summers Luxury Automobiles, had never interacted with him beyond the professional realm. This casual meeting was the first time they connected on a more personal level. Although Andre sought the meeting for genuine conversation, Victor was more in need of someone to talk to than a personal interest in Andre.Andre and Victor were meeting casually for the first time. It had always been business meetings at Rovers Group. Victor had represented Mr. Rovers’s interests in many business meetings of which Andre was part as a representative of Summers Luxury Automobiles. None knew the other beyond the b
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Andre saw them first. At first, he concluded they were not the ones. What would the loser be doing there? Someone who couldn’t afford the cheapest hotel in Rovers County! But at a third look, he concluded they were the ones. They were moving towards where he sat with Victor and Stuart, who just joined them.“Diana?”“Andre. Hi!”“What are you doing here?”“What do they do here? What are you also doing here?” Ralph interjected as he settled with Diana at the table opposite Andre. He deliberately chose that location.“How did you enter? What was the guard thinking when he allowed you in?”“Why don’t you go to the guard and ask that silly question?”Stuart wanted to join the conversation, but he did not want Ralph to expose his lie. He had always bragged to the Summers about having the Elite Reserve Card. If he talked, Ralph might put him in a situation where he would be required to show the card to the others. He didn’t want Diana or Andre to know he had been lying all this while. He wo
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Soon, the waiter and another waiter brought Ralph’s orders, and Andre, Stuart, and Victor opened their mouths wide. Diana was equally surprised. She didn’t know what Ralph had ticked on the menu but was sure they were the cheapest of the items. But Ralph had gone ahead to order the most expensive wine, food, and dessert!The waiters placed the order in front of Ralph and Diana. The first waiter brought a card reader out.“You have to pay now!” He instructed.“Now, I’m sure he will soon be thrown out. How can he even afford all of those?” Andre said confidently while Victor and Stuart nodded in agreement.Ralph dipped his hand in his pocket and brought out his Elite Reserve Card. The two waiters were stunned to see the cheap-looking man holding the prestigious card. Stuart had seen it before. He only wanted to confirm if it was original. Andre and Victor were surprised yet again. How could a common gardener have such a card that they did not have?“I am sure that is fake. Get ready to
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Eleven
Ralph came out of Rovers Royale with Diana. They had eventually had a nice time out after Andre, Victor, and Stuart had been thrown out. At the entrance, it was another security guard who was there. “Where is Bright Moore?” Ralph asked, looking like someone seeking confirmation. He knew what happened to Bright Moore. It’s a result of his instruction. “He has just been suspended for six months with no pay.” Diana exchanged knowing looks with Ralph. “Really? What is his offense?” “He insulted a customer earlier on. Seemed Mr. R.R. got wind of it and stated his punishment. This new owner now seems to tolerate no nonsense. I wonder if he is a ghost.” Again, Diana looked at Ralph questioningly. “Oh! He should learn to treat people better then. I’m sure the punishment will reform him.” “Do you want to give him a tip, sir? I can collect it on his behalf.” “He doesn’t deserve anything, but let me find you something.” Ralph gave him a few bucks. “Thank you, sir. I will look forward to
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Chapter Fifty-Six
Victor was on his second bottle of wine when Gerald arrived. He waved at him, and Gerald made his way to the table. The pub was bustling, with music blaring loudly.“Why would you choose this place for the kind of meeting we have?” Gerald asked as he took his seat.“At least, greet first!” Victor said.“Am I here to greet? If you called me here to greet, then I can start greeting everyone as long as you pay me,” Gerald replied in an unfriendly tone.“You like money too much!” Victor observed.“Don’t you? Why do you work if not for money?” Gerald retorted.“Okay, fine. I was just trying to lighten the mood, but you’re obviously not in the mood,” Victor said, pushing the wine bottle aside.“I’m glad you finally see that. Why am I here?” Gerald asked.“To abduct someone,” Victor said.Gerald looked around to ensure no one was listening.“No cause for alarm. I chose this location because of its privacy,” Victor assured him.“Who do you want me to abduct?” Gerald finally asked.“Attorney S
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Chapter Fifty Five
Andre heard the knock a second time. He wasn’t expecting anyone. Victor was at work, and he had just spoken with him, who mentioned his phone conversation with Giant Gerald. Andre wondered who could be at the door.“Sabrina?” he muttered to himself, but then realized she would also be at work, possibly in Victor’s office. He walked to the door and peeped through the security hole, seeing what appeared to be a delivery man. He hadn’t ordered anything. Maybe Victor did. Cautiously, he opened the door.“I didn’t order anything. Wrong address…”“There’s nothing wrong about the address,” Bridget said, emerging from the corner where she had been hiding.“Mom!” Andre couldn’t hide the shock on his face.“Son! Inconsiderate son! How could you be this mean!” Bridget handed some cash to the supposed delivery man, who then left.“You went as far as hiring a delivery guy just to lure me out?” Andre asked, still stunned.“Because I knew you wouldn’t respond if you found out it was me,” Bridget rep
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Chapter Fifty-Four
“Bright Moore, sir,” he introduced himself to the man in front of him, still standing. He was the last candidate for the day, applying for the role of a security supervisor at Giant Security Services.“When are you concluding your suspension?” Ralph asked from behind his glasses. He could see the shock on Bright Moore’s face.“Suspension? What do you mean, sir?” Bright asked innocently, wondering how the man knew about his suspension. He tried to figure out if he knew his interviewer, but he couldn't see his face clearly.“You know what I’m talking about, so stop wasting my time and answer the question,” Ralph said with a stern voice and expression.Bright could no longer lie. He concluded the man knew about his suspension from Rovers Royale after that ‘poor couple’ visit to the hotel.“I will round off the suspension in about four months’ time, but I have not been paid ever since then, and I need money,” Bright explained.“You deserve it, don’t you think?” Ralph asked.“I didn't do a
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Chapter Fifty Three
Asphalt Thompson was the next interviewee at Cabbage Master Laundry, so he went into the interview room where a man sat behind the table. The man had dark glasses on, so Asphalt could not see his eyes. Asphalt had thought there would be more than one interviewer but he could see that only one person was handling the interview.When the interviewer said nothing, Asphalt greeted, expecting further instructions."Asphalt Thompson?""Yes, sir. I’m the next candidate, Mr...""Ross," Ralph said, removing his glasses slowly.Soon, Asphalt could see him clearly, and recognition dawned on him as he fidgeted."Do you remember this face?" Ralph asked. He had the same disguise as the one he used at Lowell Real Estate that day.Asphalt thought about denying it but decided to be truthful since the man knew he was the same person. He stammered his response, "Ye... yes... yes... sir...""How do you feel standing before me for an interview that will get you the position of a production manager at CML?
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Fifty Two
Sabrina looked from Andre to Victor, seeking an explanation. They were now all seated in Victor’s living room, with Sabrina seated opposite them. When neither of them spoke, she asked the question again.“Why is Andre here when, I believe, his family is looking for him?”“I don’t think you should bother yourself with that. We are fine by ourselves and we need no intruder. You need to leave now. You shouldn’t have come here in the first place,” Victor said firmly, staring at Sabrina stoically.“I told you I am here to check up on you. Can you just be nice this time and let me breathe?” Sabrina displayed a boldness that surprised both Victor and Andre.“I can see you are high. Leave and never come here again. Our relationship is at work only, and if you don’t stop getting under my skin, I will have you fired.” Victor stood and pointed toward the exit.Sabrina stood and pretended to be leaving. “I should as well take this secret to the Summers mansion on my way home.”“Wait!” Andre stood
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Fifty One
Dean Summers couldn't hide his tension as he presented his solution to the issues facing Summers Business. He was uncomfortable under the scrutinizing gaze of others, especially Lady Margarita. His father was seated to his right, giving him an encouraging smile. His wife, seated to his left, cheered him on despite Lady Margarita's disapproving look. Dean had always felt inadequate among the others.“Go, Dean. So brilliant,” Felicia cheered, while Bridget loudly hissed. Dean pressed on regardless.“This will help us partner with more businesses. If we hadn’t made Rovers Motors our major supplier, the impact would have been less severe. I'm confident there are other luxury brands from around the world we can source luxury cars from. Thank you.” Dean concluded, and only Felicia, Blake, West, and Fancy applauded him. Liam and his brother shot disapproving looks at Fancy.“You weren't supposed to applaud him,” Liam muttered to Fancy.“Why not? He presented well and I liked his solution,” F
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Chapter Fifty
Fancy arrived at the Summers’ Mansion just as Ralph was parking his bicycle. It was dusk, but the mansion was always well-lit, so she could see him clearly. She quickly exited her car and caught up with Ralph.“Hello, Mr. Ross,” she greeted as she matched his steps.“Just Ralph, please. Hello, Fancy,” Ralph replied, pausing to reciprocate the greeting.“Why? Does Mr. Ross strike a chord?” Fancy replied cryptically.“I'm not sure what you mean. Why would Mr. Ross strike a chord when it's also my name? I simply prefer Ralph.”“I understand. Congratulations on your new bicycle.”“Thank you,” Ralph said shortly, sensing where Fancy was leading the conversation.“You've already forgotten about the old one?”“There was nothing special about the old one.”“I know. I just wish I had seen it before it was taken away.”“And why are you interested in seeing it?” Ralph asked, though he knew the answer.“Nothing, really. Just to confirm something. So, how was work?” Fancy diverted.“Fine!” Ralph r
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Chapter Forty-Nine
“Are there capable and reliable contractors anymore? The other time, that Giant Gerald took my money without providing that loser in his unconscious state. Now, just to abduct an attorney became a mountain for these ones too. I should have just gone myself…” Andre spoke with visible rage as he paced up and down Victor’s cozy living room.Victor watched the younger man with amusement as he spoke nonstop. He had called in sick to avoid going to work so they could strategize since their plan to abduct Attorney Smith and force the truth out of him had failed.When Andre noticed that Victor was just looking at him without saying anything, he stopped and looked at him questioningly. He had hoped to return home that day with the real identity of the anonymous successor to impress his grandmother and get back his position and relevance. Now, it was not possible as Attorney Smith had narrowly escaped their plan.“Is this a joke to you? What’s funny? Why are you laughing?” Andre said viciously.
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Chapter Forty-Eight
"Pack your things and get out of these premises and never return," Emily commanded after processing Diana's denial, her skepticism still evident. If the news wasn't true, why would the Times Paper publish it? They were known for authentic reporting, so Diana could be lying."I am not pregnant. You can test me for pregnancy," Diana insisted firmly, wondering where the false news could have originated. She would investigate later, but for now, she needed to clear her name before it reached Mr. R.R. Part of her blamed Ralph for inadvertently giving the impression that she was pregnant."I understand it's difficult to leave all of this behind, especially the luxurious Rovers Luxuria, but you really have to leave this minute before I order the security men to throw you out," Emily declared with seriousness.Diana recognized the gravity of the situation but felt compelled to say one more thing before leaving, at least until she could clear her name.Emily's phone rang just as Diana was abou
