Chapter 7
STEPHEN P.O.V
“Why me?” The word flew out of my mouth, and she responded with a chuckle.
“It's simple. He offended you, he should apologize, and you should decide whether to keep him or not since you're the heir,” she explained.
Heir? I'm the heir? Heir of what?
The man quickly turned to me and fell on his knees.
“I'm deeply sorry, sir. Please forgive me. I didn't know who you are, I didn't know you are an important personnel,” he said, his tone very apologetic.
I scoffed at his statement, realizing he was missing the point. No one is entitled to insult or embarrass anyone based on their status. Everyone is equal before God and the law.
“I'm deeply sorry, sir, please forgive me” he lamented.
Another drama…I have had enough of dramas today to last a lifetime.
“You may rise” I reached forward to help him up. “I have forgiven you, but you must learn to treat everyone equally. We are all equal, and you must ensure this does not happen again” I said firmly.
He quickly nodded his head in agreement.
“Yes, sir. It'll never happen again. I promise to change,” he said earnestly, and I flashed him a weak smile.
“Pardon him, Ms,” I said, addressing the president, who was watching with admiration.
She nodded her head with a genuine smile.
“You're lucky he has a good heart,” she remarked, referring to me. “Mr. Stephen, let's go inside,” she invited me in, and I followed obediently, feeling like a lost puppy.
“Thank you, sir,” I heard Marcus's voice behind me, but I simply nodded my head in acknowledgement.
*********
I looked around the compound in awe, taking in the grandeur of the house. It was hard not to be impressed by the obvious display of wealth.
“Welcome to the house,” she said, her smile warm as we stepped into the living room.
I had to restrain myself from letting out an exclamation. I mean, looking at it from the outside marveled me, but seeing what it actually looks from inside is mesmerizing.
In all my years of living, I had never seen a mansion as breathtakingly beautiful as this. It seemed that Susan's house, which, I thought, was luxurious, paled in comparison. It was a humbling reminder that I hadn't seen anything yet.
The house exuded an aura of opulence and elegance. Its architectural design was a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary elements.
As I walked through the living room, my eyes were drawn to the soaring ceilings adorned with intricate moldings, while the walls were embellished with tasteful artwork and ornate mirrors that reflected the abundant natural light.
Luxurious furnishings were arranged meticulously, creating inviting spaces for relaxation and socialization.
The house boasted numerous rooms and sprawling hallways that led to hidden corners and secret alcoves, inviting exploration.
The decors showcased a refined taste, with plush carpets underfoot and detailed woodwork throughout.
The windows were vast and allowed breathtaking views of meticulously manicured gardens, complete with pristine lawns, vibrant flower beds, and sparkling fountains.
Every corner of the house seemed to be carefully curated, with rich fabrics, gleaming fixtures, and intricate chandeliers enhancing the overall ambiance.
It was a mansion that exuded grandeur and spoke of the wealth and success of its occupants.
“Can we have a talk now?” she asked, when she noticed that I had finished admiring the house.
“Sure,” I replied, and she nodded in agreement.
********
We made our way to the relaxation center and took our seats across from each other.
“There's no easy way to begin, but I'll start from here. You are the lost son of Mr. Roberts, his only son. We searched everywhere for you, but we were informed that you had passed away,” she explained, adding to my already growing confusion.
“How is that possible?” I asked, bewildered.
“I will explain” she said, then began. “Several years ago, when you were just a child, one of Mr. Robert's enemies invaded our house and kidnapped you. We tirelessly searched for him, but he remained elusive”
Oh? This will be a typical story time with a popular storyline, but I'd love to hear how my story ended.
"Eventually, we found him two years later. Sadly, we were informed that you had been killed, which led your father to exact revenge by ending Mr. Aaron' life”
Revenge by taking a life? Where is my father now?
I wanted to voice out these questions, but refrained myself.
“I was surprised to see you, and on our first meeting, I even took a sample of your hair for DNA testing. To my joy, it matched with the chairman's. How have you been?” she inquired.
What? A sample of my hair? How the hell did she do that? Why didn't I notice it?
“What happened to you, sir? How did you manage to survive?” she asked.
“It hasn't been easy” I answered. “I grew up in an orphanage home,” I elaborated, noticing her sad expression.
But it soon faded into a pitiful look, which I honestly don't like one bit.
“When I turned eighteen, I left the orphanage to fend for myself” I proceeded. “But life has been a constant struggle. I tried to support myself financially by working as a driver, and I even attempted to pay for my education. However, everything changed when Susan asked me to pretend to be her husband. For the past five years, I've been serving as her husband and house cleaner without any compensation”
I paused and sighed depressingly when my mind flashed back to the harsh treatment Susan and her family offered me all these years.
“They didn't pay me, and whenever they had the chance, they would mistreat and abuse me,”
I'm truly thankful that I could finally get this bitterness off my chest. It seemed as though I'm in a therapist's office.
“You haven't filed for a divorce?” she asked.
“What can I do? They're wealthy and influential. How can I go against the wishes of the only child of the Clintons? I dare not. I've been enduring their mistreatment, hoping that one day I'll be free from their torment,” I replied, my voice laced with a sense of helplessness.
“I understand how difficult this must have been for you,” she responded, her tone empathetic.
“No one should have to endure such mistreatment and abuse. It's unjust and unacceptable.” She paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts before continuing.
“As the president of this organization, I assure you that we will do everything within our power to address this situation. Your well-being and safety are of utmost importance.” “I will personally ensure that you are freed from this unfortunate situation,” she added with determination.
“Together, we will take the necessary steps to ensure justice is served and that you can reclaim your life.” I listened to her words, a spark of hope igniting within me.
It was comforting to know that I had someone in a position of power advocating for concern.
“Thank you, President Karen, for your support and understanding. I have already reviewed the truth of the situation to her parents, and I have made the decision that I will not go back to that house anymore,” I replied with conviction.
President Karen's demeanor hardened as she spoke.
“I won't even accept that. They need to be held accountable for the abuse and misuse of their power. I strongly urge you to consider filing a complaint to ensure justice is served.” I paused for a moment, contemplating her words, but then firmly expressed my perspective.
“I don't see any reason to file a complaint unless they come after me again. For now, I believe that God has already vindicated me, and I am ready to move forward.” President Karen nodded her head, acknowledging my position.
“I have informed your parents about your existence, and they are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to meet you. However, it is important to consider if you are ready to take on the responsibilities as the only heir. Are you ready?
Chapter 8STEPHEN P.O.VAm I ready? I've been through a lot, I've been to hell and back. I shouldn't let this opportunity pass, I can't let this opportunity pass. There are numerous things about me that I want to find out, there are numerous mistakes I wish to correct in my life, and if working at this company can provide that opportunity, then I am fully prepared.“I'm ready” I responded with determination. Karen let out a loud, relieved breath. It's obvious she was holding her breath, she feared what my answer would be.“I was afraid you might not be ready” she said, “The chairman is getting older, and it is crucial for him to pass on the responsibilities to his child. And thankfully, you appeared at the perfect time, and it will undoubtedly bring positive changes to your life and status,” Karen expressed, her words filling me with happiness. Just hearing this news was enough to brighten my day."So sorry for not offering you anything, I was just too happy to see you" she says.
Chapter 9STEPHEN P.O.VShe was taken aback by my request. Her eyes widened, and her jaw dropped slightly as she processed what I had just asked. “What did you mean? You can't do such a thing,” she exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief.I opened my mouth and was ready to enlighten her, but she didn't give me any chance.“Do you want the chairman to grill me? I can't accept that, it's not possible,” she said, her tone filled with a mix of anger and disbelief, firmly rejecting my offer. In response, I paused, considering her objections and also thinking of ways to convince her.“Come to think of it, I can't take over the company like this,” I stated thoughtfully. “I know nothing about the business world. If I'm truly the heir like you said, then I must learn from the root” I explained calmly.Karen nodded thoughtfully at my words, which encouraged me to continue. “So, I think working as a cleaner will be better, It'll make me familiar with the workers and the environment,” I add
I was taken aback when I saw Albert, Susan's cheating partner, standing in front of me. Words like philanderer and home wrecker came to mind as I tried to process the situation. In the character’s point of view, the description could go something like this:I was frozen in place, unable to comprehend what I was seeing. There he was, the man who impregnate nmy ex wife, the man who have been sleeping with my wife, sitting right in front of me. I couldn’t believe it. I felt like the ground had been pulled out from under me. However, I knew I had to maintain professionalism, even though deep down I felt this guy didn't deserve my respect. "I am here to work," I responded, attempting to remain respectful despite my conflicting emotions. "You being a worker here? That's a joke, right?" she scoffed, her disbelief evident. "How did you even manage to get a work here? Who in their right mind advised you to come here as an intern?"I took a deep breath, refusing to let his condescending tone
"Drag him out," he barked, his words causing me to fight back horselaugh. Who did this fool suppose he was, ordering people around to forcefully remove me? "Are you certain you want to go through with this?" I queried, meeting his furious aspect "What are you all standing around for? Drag this imbecile out of my office now!" he screamed, egging the guards to fleetly approach me. Digging into my fund, I recaptured the appointment letter given to me by Mrs. Karen. I extended it towards him, watching as a mixture of surprise and unbelief flashed across his face. His eyes widened in shock, his jaw slackening ever so slightly as he took in the sight of the appointment letter in my outstretched hand. I could see the astonishment marshland over his face, rendering him temporarily speechless. A profound sense of unbelief sounded to stamp his former address, as if he could not sound the possibility that I had some licit claim to be there. The color drained from his face, leaving a pal
Chapter 12 "Did you know," Albert's voice reverberated through the walls of his office, his frustration visible. "You're inside my office? You don't intrude on my working place!" In response, a hearty chuckle escaped from my lips, filling the room with a sudden burst of lightheartedness. Susan, swiftly shifted her gaze towards me, her eyes widening in a mixture of shock and curiosity. The shock on her face spoke volumes, a perfect reflection of her surprise. "What's he doing here?" Susan's voice was filled with disbelief, her eyes darting between Albert and me. "Did you both plan this?" Her surprise was vividly displayed on her face, unable to conceal her confusion. "Leave my office!" Albert's stern command echoed through the room, his voice leaving no room for argument. "We will talk later once I close from work." Despite his demand, Susan seemed undeterred as she stepped closer towards me, her determination clear. "You planned this with him, right?" Her accusation hung heavil
Chapter 13Stephen POVI take a deep breath, then start to inspect the machinery. I studied the controls, the wiring, and the moving parts. I can feel the eyes of the workers on me, but I try to block them out and focus on the task at hand. Then, I notice something, a loose wire. It's out of place, and I have a feeling that's what's causing the problem. I reach out and carefully adjust the wire, then wait to see if it works.After a few tense seconds, the machinery starts to rumble to life. The workers let out a collective sigh of relief, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me. I did it! The assembly line is running again. But there's no time to celebrate; there's still work to be done. I turn to the workers and say,"Let's get this line back up and running! It's nice meeting you all. I'm Stephen Owen, one of the new interns." I smiled, and they gave me a warm welcome. I feel so honored and dignified. This is the least respect I have gotten so far. I feel a tinge of release after th
Chapter 14."Why, Sir?" I replied with a puzzled expression, as I wasn't sure why President Karen would suddenly change my supervisor. He gave me a stern glare."She has heard about what you did at the company today, so she wants you to have a different superior." His words were filled with anger and annoyance, causing me to scoff in disbelief. As I let out a laugh, he shot me a warning look. "Why are you laughing? Have you forgotten that I am still your boss? Don't do anything that will make me angry. I also know how to pull some strings to get you out of here. I am just trying to be kind," he replied, asserting his authority. I simply nodded my head."You don't respond with a nod, I expect you to reply with your voice," he stated firmly, causing me to let out a scoff in response. "May I take my leave now?" I asked, attempting to maintain a polite manner despite feeling frustrated. "Yes, you may leave. But before you go, do you genuinely believe Susan is pregnant?" he asked, an al
Third person POVStephen was being beaten so badly as pain surged through every part of his body that he couldn't stand on his feet. He winced in pain as he couldn't stop shooting her a menacing glare. The hatred in him grew as he tried to stand up but staggered."Didn't I warn you? I thought you had renewed hope; that's why you've been running your mouth. But this is all you will always get." He was angry by her display of power, the feeling to strangle her to death grew, and for the umpteeth time, he gulped down nothing."But you should be aware that this isn't over yet, my judgment on you will be fierce, and I will make you suffer because I now have an a strength. I am going to crush you to your own feet. You will seek mercy, but none will find you. I will bring down everything that made you and lessen your arrogance. You will pay for everything, all the pain you made me pass through." His words sent some shivers down her spine, but she tends to be unshaken, and she burst into laug
"You all are truly despicable," he uttered through gritted teeth, an evident disdain marking his face. "Crossing paths with beings like you is nothing short of repugnant." He paused, his eyes narrowing in a mixture of anger and satisfaction. "However, you should be well aware that your reign of deceit is coming to an end. Very soon, your facade of elegance and superiority will crumble, leaving you with nothing but a burned-out husk of a life. If I were the prosecutor overseeing this case, I would pass judgment swiftly and without mercy—death by hanging. Your mere presence disgusts me, and I eagerly await the day justice is served."With a final act of contempt, he spat in their direction, a visceral symbol of his disgust. Turning his back on them, he began to walk away with an air of quiet confidence. "Enjoy your supposedly peaceful existence for however long it may last," he sneered, his voice brimming with a chilling warning. "But don't even consider attempting to flee, for this pla
"What surprise are you talking about?" He demanded, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and anticipation. His eyebrows furrowed slightly as he awaited an explanation, his eyes scanning the room for any clues."Just chill," he replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes, accompanied by a confident smile that played upon his lips. The corners of his mouth turned up, revealing a set of perfectly aligned teeth. It was clear that he was relishing in the mysteriousness of the situation, determined to keep his secret concealed until the right moment."Trust me," he continued, his voice reassuring yet tinged with excitement. "There's something extraordinary waiting for you, something that will leave you amazed. But before we can unveil this surprise, I need you to trust me and follow me to the station. I can sense their presence," he said, his gaze shifting towards the window as he mentioned "those people," his eyes narrowing as if trying to catch a glimpse of something or someone in the di
In a somber yet courageous tone, Charles continued to speak, his words heavy with a mixture of remorse and determination. "I know that this revelation will go a long way in helping the youth who have lost themselves, who have been entangled in the web of hard drugs, reckless behavior, and harmful influences that are not easily shaken off. I am fully aware that there is no hiding room for me, and I accept the fact that I deserve to be incarcerated for my involvement and cover-up in these nefarious activities. However, I feel a sense of relief in finally speaking out and addressing the truth openly to the world. I am immensely grateful to the individuals who have made it possible for this truth to be exposed. Their efforts and support are truly appreciated." Charles's voice carried a heavy weight of responsibility as he continued, expressing his intention to surrender himself for a rightful punishment as prescribed by the law. Understanding the importance of accountability, he acknowl
He took a deep breath, his eyes fixated on hers, as the weight of their gaze hung heavily in the air between them. The silence was broken as he scratched his head, a perplexed expression etched across his face. "Hmmm, what did I say?" he demanded, his voice filled with a mixture of confusion and concern."You were talking about Nathaniel," she replied, her voice trembling slightly. She leaned forward, clasping her hands together tightly. "Please, tell me, is she truly alive?" Her eyes pleaded for honesty, as if fearing the answer she might receive. "Please don't lie to me."The room fell uncomfortably silent, the tension evident. His hesitation seemed to stretch on for an eternity, as if grappling with the weight of the truth he held. Words seemed to momentarily elude him, his mind racing to find the right way to deliver the news. The air felt heavy, a sense of anticipation swirling in the atmosphere.Finally, with a heavy sigh, he began to speak. His voice held a gentle somberness, a
"I am just deeply worried about what will become of Charles," she expressed, her face etched with genuine concern. Her voice trembled as she continued, "He has always been so good to us, always trying to help. But there is another side to him, a real beast, that has taken numerous lives in the past."Pausing for a moment, she let out a heavy sigh. "However, he's changed now," she added, her voice laced with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "I can see that he's making an effort to become a better person, to leave behind his dark past."Her companion listened intently, a furrow forming on his brow. "I understand your worries," he sympathetically responded. "We truly don't know what will become of him. Perhaps, it is best to allow nature to be the ultimate judge of his fate."Inhaling deeply, he exhaled slowly, contemplating the weight of the situation. The uncertainty hung heavy in the air as they pondered the unpredictable path that lay ahead for Charles."That's a good thing," they
Stephen's voice was filled with concern as he gently held her hands, his touch seeking to provide comfort and reassurance amidst the uncertainty that surrounded them. The weight of his words hung in the air, carrying with them an underlying worry for her safety and well-being."Babe, I don't think staying here is a good idea," he expressed, his voice laced with a hint of urgency. "I want you back home, where you'll be surrounded by loved ones who have genuinely missed you. It's difficult to witness you like this, caught in the web of these troubling times."As he spoke, she could see the genuine care he had for her reflected in his eyes. There was a longing for a return to a sense of normalcy, a yearning to see her smile once again without the weight of the world upon her shoulders.His voice carried a touch of sadness, as if he wished for the present circumstances to simply fade away, to bring about an end to the trials that had plagued them for far too long. Every word spoken held a
As she took a deep breath, gathering her courage, she slowly walked back towards the group of people, her heart pounding in her chest. To her surprise, Charles emerged moments later, moving quickly and efficiently to remove the lifeless body. The sight amazed her, and she couldn't help but feel a mix of admiration and gratitude for his swift actions.Relief washed over them all as the tension dissipated, replaced by a sense of shared relief and camaraderie. In that moment, they knew that the danger had passed, and they could finally relax and enjoy themselves.With the threat now vanquished, the atmosphere shifted, becoming light and joyful. Laughter and smiles spread among the group as they celebrated their victory. It was a time they had eagerly anticipated and worked hard for, and now it had finally arrived.The auspicious time they had been waiting for brought with it a sense of elation and fulfillment. It was a moment of triumph in their shared journey, a culmination of their str
The next day, at the upscale clubhouse, Charles found himself in the company of Mr. Clintons and the other members who had traveled from various cities to attend the event. The lively atmosphere buzzed with excitement as they indulged in merriment and engaged in discussions about their upcoming anniversary plans. It was clear that they were determined to make this celebration a grand affair, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a memorable event.Despite his true intentions simmering beneath the surface, Charles maintained a subtle facade of cooperation. He mingled effortlessly, ensuring not to draw any suspicion or give away his true sentiments towards the group. It was crucial for him to blend in seamlessly, not allowing any indication of his dissent to jeopardize their plan.Following their discussions and finalizing the details, the group collectively decided to immerse themselves in the enjoyment they were accustomed to. Reveling in the luxuries afforded by the clubhouse
"So what do you think we can do to bring them down?" he demanded, his voice filled with determination. Taking a deep breath, he pondered the next steps in their plan."We need to obtain their fingerprint as evidence. With that crucial piece of information, we can ensure everything falls into place," he said, pulling out a sleek device from his pocket. The device gleamed in the dimly lit room, its purpose clear.Stephen, ever the strategist, chimed in with a suggestion. "Since you've been working closely with them, getting hold of their fingerprint shouldn't be too difficult for you. Use your access and influence to retrieve it discreetly."His words hung in the air, with the weight of their plan resting on their next move. The intensity in the room grew evident as they mapped out the intricate details, aware of the high stakes involved in taking down their formidable adversary.He paused for a moment, contemplating the difficulties they would face in obtaining the necessary fingerprin