"The Golden exclusive suite?" The ladies asked in astonishment.
Duncan nodded. "Yes."
In the Emporium Hotel, the rooms and suites were categorized into three. They had the bronze class, the silver class, and the golden-class rooms.
Average people are those who book the bronze- class rooms while the silver-class rooms were booked by the high-class people. The Golden- class rooms are meant for extremely wealthy people
The Golden Exquisite suite is worth thousands of dollars per night and is specially reserved for those who could afford it.
It's the room meant for the one who owns the hotel but given off in the absence of the person.
"If you're kidding, then you should know that we aren't the kind of people to tolerate your expensive joke. Kindly leave before we get the security guards to bundle and throw you out."
"And before you ask for a room or suite which you could afford, I'm pleased to tell you that there's no room or suite available for someone of your kind. Such things like you aren't welcomed in a grand hotel like the Emporium."
Duncan shook his head and dug out the gold credit card from his pocket. He slid it on the counter surface to the ladies.
"That's my card. Take the money from there."
The ladies eyes the card and hissed loudly, completely ignoring him.
"Excuse me…?"
"Go away. Look at you. I'm sure the trousers you're putting on don't cost more than five bucks and your footwear is as terrible as your face. You look haggard and you want to book a Golden Exquisite suite, do you know how much it costs? It's twenty thousand dollars for a night and you want to book it. You must have lost your sanity. I'm sure that even in your next life, you'll be as poor as a church rat to afford to book the silver class rooms in this hotel," the lady who got infuriated watched him with his words.
The other lady scoffed. "And he's showing us this card. I'm sure the amount in his account is not even up to five hundred dollars."
Duncan could see they were purely disregarding him and that pissed him off but he kept his calm and tried to talk sense into the ladies, but he was cut off the moment he opened his mouth to speak.
"Get lost from here, useless delivery guy…!"
"Is that how you address people here?" A beautiful soft voice said and Duncan slightly turned to see a young woman standing behind him.
She was a beauty which Duncan didn't fail to recognize, despite her having a frown on her face.
She had a beautiful figure that Duncan noticed despite her putting on a tracksuit. She had long brown hair that fell over her shoulders, and just having a glance at her thin lips, Duncan gulped and looked away, wondering who she was.
Duncan couldn't realize she was Karla Burton, the daughter of the city's third richest man. He couldn't recognize her face which he had once seen on TV.
She was the heiress of Burton Investments and one of the special customers of Emporium Hotel.
"Miss Karla," the ladies uttered, straightening up.
"What are your problems? I had seen the both of you demean this man. That's cruel and inappropriate. None of you were a bit polite, that was wrong," Karla scolded.
Duncan was amazed by how she was standing up for him, and that got him a bit curious to know who she was.
"I'm sorry, Miss Karla…"
"No, don't apologize to him. You both should apologize to him instead."
Karla shifted her gaze to Duncan, stepping forward next to him. "I'm sorry about the way they acted towards you."
Duncan nodded.
"Um, if you don't have a place to spend the night, I'm more than willing to let you stay at my suite…." She paused when Duncan raised a brow, understanding he didn't appreciate her offer. "Okay, uh, I can book a room for you then."
Duncan's frown depended. He felt she had also looked down on him, thinking he couldn't afford any of the rooms in the hotel and that hurt his ego.
"Are you fine with that….?"
"No. I'm going for the Golden Exquisite suite."
Duncan turned to face the ladies. He ordered them to swipe his card and when the lady in cap did so, she was shocked to see that the money was deducted.
When the other lady realized that Duncan wasn't lying when he said he could afford the suite, she bowed her head in shame as the other person returned Duncan's card.
"Please forgive us, sir." They sought his forgiveness and gave him the black card key to the room with a small booklet to guide him on how to get to the suite.
"Never judge a book by its cover," Duncan advised them. He stared at Karla. "You too."
"Pardon?" Karla muttered and he strode to the elevator. What a weirdo. I stood up for him and he gave me a cold shoulder.
Karla stared at Duncan until he disappeared into the elevator.
"Hey, I'm sure he got the card pin and stole it. If he really was a little bit wealthy, it would have reflected in his appearance."
Karla heard the ladies whisper to themselves and shot them a hot stare.
"I can't believe you both will think that..it shows how rotten your brains are and what you people really are. I'll make sure I inform your manager," she threatened and headed to her suite.
"Why did I even intervene? That guy was a bit rude," she thought aloud when she entered the elevator and punched in her the floor number her suite was located at.
Duncan was flabbergasted when he entered the suite. It was the largest suite in the hotel, situated on the last floor of the building.
The suite's furniture, sculptures, and even the bathroom had a flint of gold. Duncan couldn't believe he was standing in the suite.
He recalled a day Zinnia had talked about how she was looking forward to spending a few days in the Golden Exquisite suite and smiled when he remembered how she and the family members laughed at him when he jokingly told them that he was going to pass a night in the suite someday.
Duncan felt immense happiness.
He was going to spend the night in a room that was five times bigger than even Zinnia's grandmother's house in the Lennart manor. He became interested in seeing Lady Zelda.
He took his phone and called the number that Luke had reached out to him earlier.
"Hello, young Master…"
"Let's meet tomorrow morning at 10 am. I would follow you to see who this lady Zelda was."
"Oh, that's great, young Master."
Duncan could feel the delight and excitement in Luke's voice. He told him where he was and ended the call.
As he plopped on the soft large bed, he remembered who Luke said he was and he became eager to talk to Lady Zelda tomorrow.
He knew she could be the one to give him a proper explanation of his true identity.
As he pondered, he got confused by everything that had happened to him in less than an hour.
Grrrr! Grrrrr! Grrrrr!Duncan ignored the loud beeping of his phone which was lying on the bed as he immersed his body a little deeper into the bathtub filled with steaming water and petals.He enjoyed the way his muscles relaxed and how comfortable he was feeling. The feeling was awesome. Something he had never felt in his life. The bathtub had been prepared for him as part of the special treat he'll get from booking the Golden Exquisite suite. When his phone rang the third time, he slowly opened his eyes and got out of the bathtub. He slid into the white bathrobe, tying the ropes as he left the bathroom.He took the phone and answered the call."Young Master, it's me, Luke. I'm outside the hotel. Should I come…?""Uh, no. I'll be out there in five minutes.""Okay, but, we got you something nice to wear to see Lady Zelda."Duncan furrowed his eyebrows and walked to the window, shifting the curtains a bit, he looked down to see a dozen cars lined up in front of the building. He s
"Young Master, this Lady Zelda," Luke introduced, forcing Duncan to blink uncontrollably in awe.He couldn't believe he was standing in front of the reputable Lady Zelda. He had heard some things about her but he never believed he would see her in person. Actually, it was the first time he was seeing Lady Zelda and the most shocking thing was that she addressed him as her son.How could that be possible? Duncan thought, but upon taking a close look at her, he looked away as her face became familiar. "Duncan. Son …""Er, sorry, ma'am, but I think there's a mistake here. I'm Duncan South and I am not your son. In fact, I don't even know your son. I guess I've been caught up in something untrue. Pardon me, I had just followed Luke here, thinking he was fooling me. I will take my leave now.""No, Duncan." Lady Zelda grabbed his arm, stopping him from leaving. Her eyes welled with tears. "My son, there's no misunderstanding. I am your mother. You've been away from me for about two decades
When Duncan returned to the hotel, he thought of going to his suite but found himself heading to the lot. He took out the car key in his pocket, got into his car, and drove off without having any destination in his head. He drove around the city, his thoughts consumed by recent revelations about his life. He wasn't feeling happy despite the fact that he has discovered that he is the son of a wealthy family. His mind was clouded with the betrayal of his wife, the shocking confession of his adopted mother, and the struggle to accept the truth because he felt his real mother sort of abandoned him, making him regret seeing her. As he drove, Duncan got lost in his thoughts, barely registering the sights and sounds around him, until, suddenly, his car brushed past another car, forcing him to halt behind the car as he came to his senses. The supposed driver of the car came out and yelled at him. "Are you blind? Don't you know how to drive!" Duncan stared at the man from head to toe. H
As her eyes met his, a flicker of recognition sparkled within her."You?" Karla mumbled, not able to believe that it was no other person than Duncan standing before her with an air of confidence and strength.Shock washed over her, momentarily distracting her from the dangerous circumstances.Duncan eyed her before taking a careful step forward as the menacing thief glared at him and with a swift and purposeful stride, he covered the distance between himself and the thief. Like a predator stalking its prey, he moved skillfully, seizing the upper hand.In a display of sheer power that marveled Karla, he manhandled the thief, forcing him to release his grip on Karla.Not letting the opportunity pass, Karla's bravery surged forth and with a sudden burst of strength and agility, she unleashed a roundhouse kick that landed powerfully against the thief's side, incapacitating him further. It was a tribute to her resilience and determination.Though, still in shock, Duncan grabbed her hand an
Zinnia and Peterson Rogers smooching in front of the club so shamelessly.Duncan's eyes went dark. When he didn't utter a word, Karla lifted her eyes to the steering which Duncan was clutching so tightly and her lips parted as she felt the iron beneath the steering clothing could bend in no time. She noticed he was staring at something as his brows furrowed and she quickly followed his gaze and saw them."Oh oh. Couldn't they rent a room to do their stuff? Gross. They are shamelessly kissing in public." She shook her head dismissively. "Oh my, is that her?" She lowered her head a bit, pressing the button by the door that widened down the window to the lowest level. Her eyes narrowed and she gasped in realization. "That's her. Zinnia." She chuckled bitterly and looked back at Duncan who was still staring at them. And if eyes could kill, Karla was more sure that they would have been below six feet under the ground, which made her wonder why he was reacting that way."But, doesn't she h
"Shut up!" Karla scoffed. She had gotten so irritated by how George was insulting and humiliating Duncan. The shocking part of it for her was that Duncan wasn't saying a word in his defense or to shut him up. "What nonsense are you talking about? He's not my dri…" he was about to reveal that Duncan wasn't her driver when Duncan stepped forward, gently shoving her behind him."It's okay, George. Now you've got a lot of things to go tell the family. Leave."Karla rolled her eyes at Duncan. She couldn't believe he was just telling him to leave without saying a word. It got her more dazed."Sure. Bye, pathetic driver!" George rolled in laughter before leaving with his girl."Hey." Karla groaned, stepping up next to him as she turned him to face her. "You just let him go? He insulted you and…""Quiet." Duncan placed a finger against his lips. "Let's go." He went to the other side of the back seat door and raised his brows as he saw her not making a move."Hey!" She shifted her gaze to him
As Duncan walked up to the security man that had politely called out to him in a respectful manner, he recognized the man and the other security man standing next to him as the security men that had mocked him the other night he arrived. "Good morning, sir," they greeted him, bowing. Duncan was a bit surprised by their show of regard. He buttoned his sleeves, giving a nod in acknowledgment. "How may I help you?""Nothing, sir. We just want to apologize to you for our misbehavior on the night you came. We are truly sorry."The men had actually gotten to know that Duncan had booked the Golden Exquisite suite and were taken aback. They had decided to by all means meet him and apologize for their taunts so as to protect their jobs."It's alright." Duncan waved and they glanced above his shoulder at something. He tilted his head to see what they were looking at but saw nothing."Sir, I hope you haven't complained to Madam Zelda about us," the other security man asked, shaking. Duncan li
Duncan opened his mouth to say something but no words came out of it. He couldn't believe his ears."Babette." Zelda gestured to Babette and the lady stepped forward."Master Duncan, The Walton Imperial conglomerate has over fifty companies under them all over the country and the globe as a whole. There are also chains of great hotels under it and other estates," Babette narrated.Duncan glanced at Karla who was smiling. "Mrs. Zelda, are you sure of what you're saying?"Feeling a bit hurt that he addressed her formally, Lady Zelda forced a smile and held his arms in a loving way. "Everything is yours, my son. Now, I'll step down and let you handle it all. You'll take care of the businesses. You will be in charge now."Luke's expression turned sour for a strange reason when Lady Zelda said so. He stepped forward and whispered into her ear."Ma'am, aren't you going too far? He's inexperienced and…"Zelda held up a hand, shunning Luke. He straightened and took a step backward."He's my
Thank you my dear reader if you followed this story from the very beginning and got here. I really do appreciate you and I celebrate you too. 🥰🥰. To those who lightened my days with their comments, I love you.😘😘And those who unlocked the book chapter and encouraged me with their votes, I cherish you. My amazing followers, I honestly do appreciate you for sticking through.Sooner or later, I hope to bring a new book that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Do well to anticipate it.Kindly drop your hit comments make me blush too like Karla .🤭🤭
The following weeks were a whirlwind of excitement as Duncan and Karla delved into the preparations for their wedding. Amidst the chaos of planning, choosing venues, and coordinating details, their love for each other grew stronger. As the anticipated day arrived, it unfolded as a spectacular event, earning the title of the best wedding ever held.Duncan, mesmerized by Karla as she walked down the aisle, whispered, "You look breathtaking, my love."Karla's eyes glistened with happiness. "And you look dashing. I can't believe this day is finally here." The ceremony was filled with heartfelt vows, joyous laughter, and the collective love of friends and family. As they exchanged rings, symbolizing their commitment, the crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating the union of two souls deeply in love. The celebrations continued into the night, marked by lively dances, heartfelt toasts, and the undeniable glow of happiness radiating from Duncan and Karla. It was a day etched in their heart
Some weeks later, Abigail stepped out of her car in front of the airport. She was set to leave after being unable to detach herself from Duncan for the last weeks.Linda and Xia bid her goodbye, expressing their good wishes."Take care, Miss Abigail. We appreciate everything you've done,” Linda said, emotionally.Xia added, "Safe travels. We'll miss you." As Abigail headed towards the entrance, she was pleasantly surprised to find Duncan and Karla inside, waiting for her. They had arrived earlier to see her off.Duncan, smiling warmly, said, "Hey, Abigail. We thought we'd come to say our goodbyes in person."Abigail was touched. "You didn't have to do that. I'm really grateful."Karla with sincerity, said, “Abigail, you've been a true friend to Duncan and you've helped me in some ways too. We can't thank you enough for helping us."“You're both welcome.” Abigail stared at Duncan as he spread his arms apart, asking for a hug.Abigail hugged Duncan one last time, and with a heartfel
The following morning, the Lennart family received the news that Gregg and Rhino would soon face trial. Ma'am Luna fretted about the implications, and Laila suggested a drastic measure."Mother, considering the situation, maybe we should leave the country. It might be the safest option for us and Zinnia."Ma'am Luna, pondering the idea, said, "Leaving the country might indeed be the best way to ensure Zinnia isn't exposed for Duncan's death. After all, his corpse hasn't been found."Meanwhile, Zinnia overheard their conversation and entered the room."Leave the country? Why? What's happening?"Laila, trying to calm her, explained, "Zinnia, dear, it's just a precaution. With Gregg and Rhino facing trial, it's better for us to avoid any unnecessary attention."Zinnia was skeptical. But what about Duncan?" Ma'am Luna, feigning concern: "Sweetheart, we're doing this for your safety. If we stay, people might start questioning Duncan's disappearance."Zinnia reluctantly agreed."Fine, bu
Abigail observed Duncan and Karla getting into Karla's car before driving off. A single tear slipped down her cheek, quickly wiped away as she elegantly adjusted her knee-length gown. Xia appeared behind her with her P.A., stating, “You shouldn't have held back and listened to the nonsense Karla spewed.”Abigail chuckled. “It's okay.”“Maybe it's time to wrap this up,” Abigail declared. “I will go alone.” She slung her bag over her shoulder and left.“She's so strong,” Linda remarked as they watched Abigail drive away.“You're right,” Xia concurred. “She's also a great person. Right?”Xia dropped her gaze to Linda, nodding in agreement. Meanwhile, Karla kept a watchful eye on Duncan as he drove, his demeanor almost reckless. She hesitated to stop him, not wanting to ruin his mood. However, as Duncan nearly lost control, endangering their lives, she forced him to pull over.“I am sorry,” Duncan apologized after stopping. It dawned on him that he should have been more careful, realiz
Duncan was surprised at what he heard and his expression turned stoic. “Duncan, I only learned about that tonight when I heard her and Karla talking about executing the plan.”Duncan looked away slowly, unable to believe his ears.Karla came closer and said, reluctantly, “Also, Abigail is Rhino's niece. I knew about it.”Duncan's gaze shifted to her in astonishment. “You learned about it today?”Karla shook her head. “It was during the last party.” Duncan's jaw dropped. “I'm sorry.”“You kept it from me for days?!”“I'm sorry, Duncan, I didn't intend to do that.”“Crap! How can you tell me that? Abigail is related to my father's killer and you kept such important information from me. Why?!”Karla sighed, remorse evident in her eyes. "Duncan, I didn't want to burden you with more pain. I was torn between revealing the truth and protecting you from the harsh reality. I thought it would be better to let you know at the right time."Duncan groaned, frustration and betrayal etched on hi
“Duncan!” Karla yelled, taking a step, but a smile on his face eased her worries. Gregg's men, stationed to take Duncan down, surfaced, awed by Duncan's calmness. Karla, surprised, rushed to him, checking his entire body in panic. “Duncan, are you okay?” Duncan nodded, taking off his suit jacket. Unbuttoning his sleeves, he revealed a bulletproof vest. Karla gasped and sighed. “You're wearing a bulletproof?” Duncan nodded, and she laughed softly before pulling him into a hug, panting. Amidst the chaos, Duncan embraced Karla. "I had to take precautions. I couldn't risk anything happening at this critical moment." Karla, relieved, whispered, "I was terrified. It looked so real." Duncan kissed her forehead. "I needed it to be convincing. Now, let's let them think they succeeded." Zinnia and Ma'am Luna, still amid the chaos, discreetly slipped away, realizing the plan had taken an unexpected turn. Lady Zelda, shocked, approached Duncan and Karla. "Duncan, are you alright?"
Ma'am Luna, losing her patience tightened her grip on Zinnia, urging her. “Answer me!” Unsure of how to respond, Zinnia hesitated before finally deciding to play along.“I didn't do anything, grandmother. Duncan just disappeared on his own, and I don't know where he is.” Zinnia maintained a facade of innocence, concealing the dark truth lurking beneath the surface. Ma'am Luna let go of Zinnia and she excused herself to use the bathroom. Confirming ma'am Luna wasn't watching her as she walked away, Zinnia signaled to Gregg who was standing some meters away from her, and headed out. Gregg followed her. He walked up to her as she paced back and forth outside.When he tapped her, she spun, startled and almond screamed.“Dear, relax. What's wrong?” Gregg asked.“Ma’am Luna, I mean my grandmother seems to be suspecting me. She just asked me about Duncan earlier.”Gregg frowned, concern etching his face. "What did you tell her?"Zinnia took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. "I
After a brief silence, Karla pointed at Abigail, who strangely did nothing but stare at her in astonishment. “If you ever wish ill for Duncan again, then I won't think twice before giving you a dirty slap to get you thinking straight.”Abigail smirked and chuckled before rubbing her stinging cheek, which had turned red.“You know what, Karla? You're unbelievable. I had thought for once that you're different from those selfish women out there. I had empathy for you when you opened up to me, and that's why, to date, I have not told Duncan about your relationship with Rhino. You have turned against him and stabbed him in the back. Why? Because he rejected you?! You're so pathetic.”Abigail shrugged and straightened up, managing to smile. She simply said, “Enjoy the party, and… my regards to Duncan.” With that, she entered her car. Karla watched her drive off, engulfed in bitterness, then returned inside.Abigail pulled by the side of the main road later and called Xia.“You're at the pa