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The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Twenty-Five
The next day, Ralph met with Attorney Smith to discuss Emerald’s suggestion of giving the Villa workers a break. He valued Attorney Smith’s opinion on the matter.“It’s not a bad idea. It means they get paid without working.”“Not entirely. They will still come occasionally, especially those responsible for keeping the Villa clean. The place has to be maintained, even if I’m not using it right away. It’s a good excuse for me to avoid going there. My wife will question me less if she knows all the workers are on break.”“I understand. It’s a reasonable plan. It also gives the workers some well-deserved rest. They haven’t had a break for a long time. Let’s call it leave and a leave bonus.”“Exactly. I’m glad you see it from my perspective. I’ll call Emerald to organize a virtual meeting with all the workers and share the information.”“Let me know if there’s anything I can assist you with, Mr. Ross.” Attorney Smith noticed the bruise on Ralph’s hand. “Pardon me, may I ask what happened
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Twenty-Six
Saturday had arrived, and the Summers’ mansion was bustling with preparations for Grandpa Andre Summers' memorial. The adjacent Summers hall stood ready to receive guests from various high-class families in Rovers’ County and beyond. It promised to be an evening filled with gatherings of the rich and a long-lasting party. Meanwhile, Ralph was at home, getting ready for the occasion when Diana entered, looking troubled. “Is that what you’re wearing? Wear something better. Don’t make me a laughing stock again tonight,” she remarked, her tone heavy with concern. Ralph sensed her nervousness and inquired, “Is everything okay?” “I’m fine,” Diana snapped as she settled heavily on the bed. Ralph suspected it might be about the gift but had chosen to not mention his plan to her, wanting it to be a surprise for her. “It’s about the gift, right?” “Is it not worth thinking about? Imagine all the kinds of people that will be here this evening. This is not just a family gathering where our e
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Twenty-Seven
The big fancy Summers Hall was filled with rich folks from Rovers County. Ralph and Diana walked in, Ralph wearing a fancy suit Diana picked out. It was his well-groomed wedding suit, a deviation from his usual top and jeans outfits. It had been difficult getting Diana to finally agree to show up. “Let’s just go. Not going will make it worse, Diana.” Ralph had advised, trying to get her to go by all means. There they were, in the midst of the crème de la crème of Rovers County. Lady Margarita had sent an invite to Mr. R.R., but Ralph had told Richard Anderson to represent him. So, he scanned the room to see if Richard was around, but he could not see anyone that looked like him. It was the meet and greet session, Ralph saw Lady Margarita talking with the Youngs, and Stuart, their son, was hanging around, though he was obviously scanning the hall to find someone. His eyes met Ralph’s and shifted to Diana. “Excuse me, Lady Summers. I can see Diana over there. I will go talk to her.”
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Twenty-Eight
“Diana, where have you been? Have you seen Stuart? He asked after you already,” West interrupted them, accompanied by Blake.“Yes,” Diana replied curtly, her annoyance evident in her tone.“So, why are you not sitting with him and his parents? Charlie and Mary Young will make wonderful in-laws.” Blake chimed in, adding another question.“Dad, why should I be sitting with him and not my husband? Have you not been following your wife around like a snail and its shell? Why didn’t you go sit with the Roberts’ unmarried eldest daughter who has been eyeing you since she came here? Steven and Stella Roberts are going to make better in-laws!” Diana retorted sharply.Simultaneously, Blake and West turned towards Nora Roberts, whose eyes were indeed fixed on Blake. West shot her a cold look before directing her ire back at her husband.Ralph couldn’t help but be amused by West’s jealousy-fueled reaction. He was grateful for Diana’s blunt response as he shot her an appreciative look.“Blake? Why
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Twenty-Nine
“Thank you for your hospitality. Ralph said you were so accommodating. You are such a kind and humble person. You even agreed to come here! Your kind is rare. Please do give him the job when you meet again next week,” Diana said graciously, taking a seat next to Giant Gerald since Lionel had occupied hers. “It’s my pleasure, my lady. You are such a good wife to Young Boss. He spoke so well of you,” Gerald replied warmly, his eyes twinkling with sincerity. “He did? But why do you call him ‘Young Boss’? His name is Ralph,” Diana inquired, her curiosity piqued. “I just like to call him that the moment I set my eyes on him. He looks like a boss of mine that I lost contact with many years ago.” Gerald explained with a chuckle, his tone light. Ralph shot Gerald an approving glance, appreciating his quick wit and ability to play along seamlessly. “Andre, what are they talking about?” Lionel interjected, clearly confused by the conversation. Andre could not give a response. He was still
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Thirty
“How did you know it’s Ralph Ross? Do you two know each other?” Diana inquired, intrigued by Fancy's recognition.“Is your name really Ralph Ross?” Fancy asked, her curiosity piqued. She wasn't as shy as Liam had portrayed her to be.“Have we crossed paths before, young lady?” Ralph inquired eagerly, hoping to gauge if Fancy recognized him despite his disguise.“No, but I met someone with that same name, a very decent man. He came to buy a luxurious house at my workplace,” Fancy explained.Ralph felt a wave of relief wash over him. He had feared his secret was about to be exposed. If Diana learned he had purchased such an expensive property, she might become suspicious.“Well, since this person was buying an expensive house, it must be someone else. Certainly not my husband,” Diana asserted confidently.“Why do you say that?” Fancy asked, intrigued by Diana's certainty.“It's clear. He doesn’t have that kind of money,” Diana affirmed, glancing at Ralph for confirmation. Ralph nodded i
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Thirty-One
Outside the hall, Ralph and Giant Gerald were met by a deliveryman holding a package.“Mr. Ross?” the deliveryman inquired.“Yes, that’s me,” Ralph confirmed.“Please sign here,” the deliveryman instructed, handing Ralph a clipboard and pen.Ralph quickly signed for the package, eager to unveil the surprise he had promised Diana. Gerald offered to carry the package back into the hall, where curious eyes followed their return.“What’s in the package, Ralph?” Diana asked eagerly as he approached the table. She appreciated the distraction from Dean and Felicia’s provocative display.“I don’t know. My friend didn’t tell me. I only know it’s an antique,” Ralph replied with a mysterious smile as Gerald carefully set the package down on the table.Dean and Felicia couldn’t hide their surprise. They had assumed Diana and Ralph had nothing to present. It seemed they were wrong.“Where did you get the money to buy this?” Dean asked, his tone skeptical.“Is yours missing?” Ralph retorted, raisin
The Billionaire Gardener Chapter Thirty-Two
Ralph raised an eyebrow at Andre's nonchalant response and repeated his question. "When are you going to lick my feet, Andre?"It was the day after the memorial—a Sunday morning. Ralph had just finished swimming and was drying himself off with a towel when Andre appeared, intending to use the pool himself.Andre looked bemused. "Lick your feet? What are you talking about?"Ralph reminded him with a smirk, "Don't tell me you've forgotten your bet already. You promised to lick my feet if we presented a gift worth more than five thousand dollars. And we did. So, it's time to follow through on your words."Meanwhile, the Regal Timepiece had become the centerpiece of conversation at the party, leaving everyone in awe and curiosity about how Diana and Ralph had acquired such a magnificent gift. Lady Margarita, in particular, couldn't conceal her surprise, realizing that her attempts to ridicule them had fallen short. Even West had been shocked to the marrow of her bones. In short, all membe
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- The Billionaire Gardener
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
- The Billionaire Gardener
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
- The Billionaire Gardener
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
- The Billionaire Gardener
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?
- The Billionaire Gardener
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
- The Billionaire Gardener
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
- The Billionaire Gardener
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
- The Billionaire Gardener
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.
- The Billionaire Gardener
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
