Ralph was at the Villa when Diana’s call came in, reminding him of his meeting with Andre’s friend. He had decided to be at the Villa that day to reduce suspicions about his whereabouts.The head of the Villa staff, Emerald Butler, approached him where he sat, seemingly doing nothing. Emerald was a friendly person, a friend to every worker, and she didn’t assert authority over the others. That did not save her from having enemies among them, though. “Is everything okay with you? You were not here yesterday, and you are still doing nothing today. Are you tired of your job?”“Yes. I am.”That was not the response Emerald expected, so she was taken aback.“Really? Have you found another job?”“I’m working on one soon. I will be going for the interview shortly.”“Then, resign and stop being lazy. That Mr. Rovers is no more here doesn’t mean we should not take care of the Villa.”“That’s correct. The Villa has to be kept clean.”“But of what use is it? Some are just sitting around with no
Diana found Lady Margarita at the poolside, as usual. Lady Margarita loved staying near the pool, and whenever she was there, no one dared go in. She noticed Bridget sitting with her and considered turning back, but it was too late as they had already seen her.“Look who we have here. The latest celebrity in town! Mr. R.R.’s crush,” Bridget teased.“The man could not even see me as Diana already hypnotized him.”Left with no choice, Diana turned back and faced them, still a few feet away.“Hi, granny. Hi, aunty.”“Why did you turn back? Weren’t you here to see us? Mother here was just telling me about the outcome of your visit to Rovers’ headquarters. Let me be the first to congratulate you for gaining the attention of the man everyone wishes to know and meet.”Diana didn’t know how to respond. She wasn’t even sure of what the man had for her, yet she was being congratulated. She knew it was not heartfelt, though. Bridget had never liked anyone doing better than her son.“Come on. Com
Andre was sleeping over at the mansion again, two days in a row. He needed to find out what the result of his plan was. He stood on the balcony, observing as Ralph rode in on his bicycle. It was the same balcony he had been on the previous day, anxiously waiting for Ralph's return. Lately, Ralph had been coming home late, and Andre couldn't help but wonder about the outcome of the meeting with Giant Gerald. He noticed Diana approaching Ralph, and what surprised Andre was that Ralph didn't show any signs of distress or discomfort. Earlier on, Andre had questioned Diana about the meeting multiple times. “He didn’t tell me. He said he would let me know later in the day,” Diana replied. Unsatisfied with her response, Andre decided to get an update from Giant Gerald. However, Gerald cryptically responded, “you will see the result when you see him.” This left Andre more puzzled and concerned about the success of the plan. Not able to contain his curiosity, Andre descended the stairs to c
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
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 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.”
“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
“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