Chapter 19: Chapter 19

As much as I tried to keep my heart at ease through the ride, it never yielded any positive result. I was going back to my former house, but was having a different feud of emotions and feelings bottled inside of me.

I wasn't sure what I was thinking about, but I was more than determined to give it a try. I wanted to at least see if the place had been rented out, or perhaps it was still there, just desolate.

“Mr. Walter, you can take the right turn, then head straight sir.” I directed, as the car continued moving.

The road wasn't so good, as the car kept bumping in and out of potholes. Much for living a little far from the city side.

I stared out of the window, as memories flashes in. Countless times, I had trekked a long distance from home to save money for transport to school. I would always end up getting tired when I get back to school.

Just one night and my life suddenly changed. A night of secrets and lies. And a night of new beginnings. I must confess, I still find it difficult to wrap my head around what has happened in my life for over a month now. It felt so fast.

“Here. You can stop, sir. This is where I would be visiting.” I beckoned, as he parked the car, closely.

He removed the car safety belt in an effort to follow me.

“This is my former house. I just wanted to pick one or two things and I would be out.” I said, as he sighed.

“Young Madam, Mr. Ryan will be angry with me if anything happens to you under my watch. Let me follow you.”

I wasn't certain if I should be happy Ryan actually cared about me, or maybe still stop him from following me.

“It is Ariel, sir. I would like you to address me by my name. And you should stay in the car. Give me just 10 minutes and if I am not out, you are free to go in.” Our eyes met through the front rear mirror.

“Okay. Be safe.” I nodded, before jumping out of the car, becoming aware of my surroundings.

I looked at the place I called home and could not help but feel a bitter feeling down the gut of my stomach. I walked in as everywhere was quiet.

I noticed the door was locked as I looked around before creeping my hand to the carpet where the keys to the house were usually kept.

A smile crept to my lips, as I realized that the keys were still there. Without further ado, I slid in the keys and opened the door.

I was welcomed with dust and cobwebs. I coughed for a while, before sauntering to my room. It was dusty, but everything about the room was still intact.

I was still surprised nothing was done to the house already. I thought it would have been sold by now. Even though it was the hose built by my dad, I felt my step mum would have demolished or sold it off.

I opened the drawers containing my files and documents, as I picked the important ones I would be needing, especially in finding a new job. Staying with the Ackers is not helping me.

The earlier I start work, the better for me. I could not afford to rely on Ryan's wealth. I wanted to be independent to some extent. And getting myself a job will keep my mind off numerous things.

I spent enough time packing and unpacking. I was sure I would reach the 10 minutes deadline I set for Mr. Walter,or else he would definitely come looking for me.

Without wasting much time, I quickly packed the few documents I had managed to lay my hands on. I walked out, and reached the front door in no time.

I locked the door immediately, before walking towards the car. My legs stopped, as I came in contact with the individuals I never wanted to see.

“Where do you think you are going, Ariel?” My stepmom stepped out of the car, as well as Lucile, as they took their steps toward me.

I exchanged glances with Mr. Walter, who understood that he doesn't need to interfere. He nodded and looked on.

“I never knew you had a spy around. It is surprising you came here so quickly. Am I that important?.” My voice didn't hide the mocking tone I wanted to give.

“What do you think? A little birdy told me you came here. Let me guess.” She stopped and peered at me.

“You thought your dad was here.” I gave a humorless laugh, as she frowned.

“Well. I came for some of my things, actually. I hope you won't still think of hurting my father. After all, your partnership with Ryan is back.” I stated, feeling weary of the conversation we were having.

“Mum, Is that true? The AK corporation has accepted you?” Lucille, who never spoke since, said as her mum nodded.

“Yes. They agreed to partner with our company.” I felt my heart break at her use of words. 'Our company?' Seriously?

A gush if anger passed through me, but I knew it was better to remain calm.

“If you do not have anything worthwhile to say, I will be leaving.” I opened the car, dropping my files on the chair.

“Wait Ariel.” I turned, closing the door, to face them.

At that instant, I took in more of their flashy appearance. They looked as if they spent a fortune on themselves.

“Your sister's wedding is tomorrow and I would like you to attend.” I glanced from mother to daughter and was certain they were speaking the truth.

“I am not interested in attending.” I waved it off, wanting to leave as soon as possible.

“You have to attend. It is a must.” She was getting furious, as she stated firmly.

I simply smiled, before opening the car to pick something from my purse. I took two steps closer as I stretched it forward to my stepmom.

She accepted it and read through it. Her frown deepened instantly, as she passed the card to Lucille.

“That is my invitation card to my marriage at the Registry. Strictly by invitation. Join me next month.”

“Are you kidding with us? Does this look like trade by barter?” Lucille lost it, as she shouted, the heavy makeup on her face not doing justice to her look.

She stopped, when my step mum glared at her. She grumbled, resting her arms under her bosom.

“What do you want, Ariel?” I let out a devious smile, glad we were getting to a point of agreement.

“I will attend Lucille's wedding, but give me your word that you alongside my dad will attend my marriage.” I stated, quite confident.

“And what if we don't attend?” She countered.

“I might not be kind enough when something unexpected happens. And the properties you stole from me, don't be surprised if I try to get it back. Don't make me revenge.” I gave a stern look at them.

“Are you bullshitting us right now? You are supposed to be crawling at our feet.” Lucille was angry as she voiced out.

“Shut up, Lucille and allow me to concentrate here.” She scolded her, as she kept quiet, with her countenance towards me quite sour.

“We will attend Ariel. We have a deal.” They left immediately as I climbed into the car, breathing a sigh of relief.

I can't believe I just negotiated with my stepmom. I wondered if she would keep to her words.

I requested for Mr. Walter to drive me to Ryan's company. I needed to inform him I was attending my sister's wedding. He would no doubt be angry I met with my stepmom behind his back.

........

“Come in.” His voice was gentle as I walked in.

His gaze rose to mine, as I smiled at him.

“Hey. I hope you are good.” He nodded.

“Yes. Please sit.” I took my seat, as I stared into space. I felt my tongue-tied, lost in what I would tell Ryan.

“You do not have to stare like that, if you have something to say to me, Ariel. I don't bite.” He stopped working as he rested his elbow on the table.

My face reddened with embarrassment.

“I… Pardon me. I was just thinking about how to present it to you.”

He hummed, as he stared at me.

“My sister's wedding is tomorrow. Was wondering if I could go.” I avoided his gaze as I spoke.

He reached for my right hand, as I allowed his soft warm hand to touch it. I felt tingles instantly.

“If it is about your step-sister's wedding tomorrow, consider me as your date. We will go together” He winked at me, as my face flushed.

At that instant, I wasn't sure what I was to think. But I think I am beginning to be interested in getting married to the man in front of me.