Rayners POV
It was the weekend and I didn't want to stay at my place so I concluded I was going to spend it with Mom. It's been a while since I spent time with her after all. Before now I always spent the weekend with Mom but when Daniel came into the picture, I was either busy with work or at Daniel's place now that he is out of the picture, I will return to my schedule of spending the weekend with Mom. The week had started on a good note for me until I saw the cheaters cheating on me. I signed three contracts with my clients and the one I signed on behalf of Director Kim. I explained to Director Kim what transpired between the client and and he was beyond grateful to me to the dismay of Katherine who had wanted him to scold me again he also advised me to deal with whatever issue I had during the weekend. I stepped down from the car. I boarded a cab to take me to Mom's place. Immediately I stepped down, and the fresh natural air supplied by the many trees in the surroundings greeted me. If there is anything I love about Mom's place is the quietness and the many trees in every compound. If you are not conversant with this place, you will think nobody lives here and people don't believe this place exists in Diavolo too. I paid the cab driver as I dragged my little bag out. I was staying for the weekend. The thought of Daniel and the picture of him riding Maci kept flooding my thoughts and I kept feeling sad speaking to the stranger harshly. I pulled my phone from my bag and dialed Betty's number. Betty has been my best friend since kindergarten. I wanted her to come to spend the weekend at Mom's place too so it would be more lively and I would be occupied. “Hello best friend,” I said happily into the phone as she answered. “Hello,” A thick masculine voice replied to me. “I will pass the phone to her now,” he added. I pulled the phone from my ear to check the caller, perhaps I had called someone else but it was Betty's line I had dialed. Betty didn't tell me she was in a relationship, I know she flirted a lot but none of them has ever answered her call on her behalf. This person has to be very important for him to have done this. “Hello. Rayner,” I heard Betty's sharp voice finally. “Betty, are you okay? What's going on?” I couldn't wait to question her. “I am okay, why did you ask?” She sounded confused with my question. “Betty, who is that guy?” I asked almost in a whisper. “Oh. That's Jeff, my boyfriend,” she replied. “Your what?! “My boyfriend, she said again. “For how long Betty?” I inquired. I felt betrayed by even my best friend, she had a boyfriend and never told me. “For five months now,” she dropped and my ears rang a bell. “Betty, five months? When were you going to tell me?” I asked weakly as I managed to drag myself to the chair outside Mom's place. “I am sorry Ray. I didn't want you to know because I wanted to be sure he is serious, I never meant to hide it from you,” she explained, her voice was no longer sharp as it was. Betty was right, there was no need to tell me if she wasn't sure. Her relationships in the past few years always ended after two to three months and I was always sad seeing her cry so hard because she was already attached. “Is okay. You are my best friend I can't hold it against you.” I finally spoke up after some minutes of silence. “Thank you, Rayner. Why did you call?” “I came to spend the weekend at mom's place and I thought to call you to come too.” “You know I can't now. What about that scumbag called Daniel?” she suddenly asked and I felt cold and hot on hearing his name. “Don't ask me, Betty.” I warned her. I had told her what happened in a chat and she was so mad about it that if Daniel had been in front of her that minute she would have been called a murderer by now. “But you should go out so you can meet new people. It's Daniel's loss,” she advised me. “I will just focus on my job right now and forget about being in any relationship or marriage till I have achieved my career goal.” “Ray, don't let Daniel's betrayal stop you from finding true happiness for yourself, forgive him and….” I didn't let her finish what she wanted to say before cutting her. “Enjoy the weekend with your boyfriend. He is waiting for you, bye.” I hung up without waiting for her response. I breathed in and out before entering Mom's place, she was on a call and screaming at whoever the person was. “We don't need you in our lives. Leave us alone,” she added to the warning she had given the person already. Over the years, Mom had been the only parent I knew. Everyone said I looked so much like her because I had all of her features except her hair. I have very black hair and hers was gray. I remember when I was in college, I summoned the courage to ask her where I got the black hair color from. “Mom. Where did I get this black color hair from?” “From your Dad. Don't ask me where he is, I don't know either.” she had told me as if she knew that would be my next question. After that, I never thought about Dad again since the only person who could tell me about him had no idea either. Mom turned when she noticed me, she removed the phone from her ears surprised I was beside her. When she got herself back, she said, “Get me a glass of water.” Her eyes were red and green vein lines were showing on her neck because she was screaming. Quickly, I ran to the kitchen to get her water. “Please, stay away from us. Everything has been going smoothly since you left.” Mom said to the person this time her voice was low. I stretched the cup toward her and she gulped its content in one go. I wasn't sure if she had ended the call because I could see the minutes still counting. She breathed out heavily before looking at me. “Why are you here? She inquired. What? Did mom just ask me to go get water for her so she could get more strength just to ask me this? I wanted to laugh but mom wasn't happy and I didn't want to annoy her more so I controlled myself. “I came to spend the weekend with you or can't I anymore?” I pouted. “No, you can't. You should be with a man and not me. You should be married and be spending the weekend with your husband while your kids spend the weekend with me,” she complained. “Mom, marriage is the last thing on my mind. I don't want to be looked down on by anyone. I will just pursue my dream of being the Chief Operating Officer in my company when I get that I will think of marriage.” I explained to her. “I wish I never told you what happened between your father and me.” Mom stood up from the chair she was sitting in and walked to me. “You need love to go through whatever you are going through now. Let go and you will find the happiness you so much desire,” she covered my hands with hers. “Mom, I never told you I am not happy. I am happy with myself and my life. I don't want to get married till I get what I want,” I told her again. Mom left my hand and walked backward then she said angrily in a way I have never seen her. “Get out of my house. Don't ever come to see me or call me if you are not married,” she walked to where I had left my bag, picked it up, and matched to the door with it. She held the door and screamed at me, “Now leave my house.” I felt numb and mute. No words came to my mind to say and quietly, I walked out of the door. I stared at her when I was out and she slumped the door on my face. Is Mom truly serious? Hot tears fell from my eyes as I bent down to pick up my bag.Rayner POVMy worst weekend has finally come to an end. I cried my eyes out every minute because everything kept coming as a flash to my head.I tried reaching Mom after I left her place but she never took the call. I knew I needed to do something if I ever wanted to speak with Mom. One thing I know about Mom is that she keeps her word.I manage to drag my tired body and soul to work. When I got to work, I was one minute late and the first person I saw was Director Kim. I knew I was finished at this point but I still walked up to him smiling.Before I entered the company, I stood at the glass windows and reminded myself that it's a new week and I can't screw it up. Being in a sane mind will do me a whole lot, I reminded myself of the target I have in mind, which is the COO position, and that lightened my mood.So when I walked in to see Director Kim, I just smiled because that's what the Rayner before the heartbreak will do.“Late with a minute? Why?” He asked when I got to him.“I am
I stepped down from the company's car in front of Blue Nath. Director Kim had told me to go in the company car as getting a cab might take a while and I might get there late.I wouldn't want to get there late so I accepted. In front of me was the gigantic building of Blue Nath. The building is so high, the front was covered in glass, and it was wide in length that three buildings of the Cee Enterprise Diavolo branch could be built on it.I entered the building after admiring how big the building from the outside looks. The inside was more beautiful than the outside. A giant logo of the company's name was hung on the wall behind the receptionist.“Welcome ma'am,” the beautiful blonde-haired lady greeted me.“Rayner Carson, to meet with the CEO by nine am,” I informed her.She checked through the system in front of her, glanced at me, and back to her computer. “Ma'am you are a special visitor. I would like to call the CEO's PA to come pick you up himself as that was the instruction.” Sh
Nathaniel's POVI could see discomfort written all over her face. When she asked me what I said again, I knew she was surprised hearing my condition for the contract.When I was told about her and Aunt Elizabeth's constant requests for me to get married, I just wanted to do it so she would be happy and I would get what I wanted.I followed her one day after work to see what her life was all about, and that was the day she nearly broke my chest. I had followed her from her place after work, I didn't want Davis or one of my men to do it.I lost sight of the cab she entered when a truck passed by and some other cars covered the one she was in. That same night after she had walked out on me without apologizing, Davis told me when I got back home that Director Kim wanted to have a meeting with me concerning the contract.I had previously declined their Ceo, Mr. Lucas the contract. I wanted to give it to a smaller company, not a well-known company, although I was advised against it.I alway
Rayner’s POV I have never felt this belittled all my life. Yes, Maci and Director Kim did say hurtful words to me but this was the highest of it all. I couldn't stop c*rsing him under my breath while I left his office, what did he take me for? A desperate girl he can just turn to his wife at the first meeting, sorry, second meeting? I was so furious that even the company driver didn't dare ask me how the meeting went because it didn't go well with the look on my face. He even had the guts to tell me to think about it. He is just too arrogant and I can't stand such a man. One who looks down on people is a no for me, and I won't want to take that risk ever. I got back to the office and rushed to the restroom to calm myself. I could feel how hot my face was, it would have turned red by now. When I returned I sat on my desk, “Hey, where is Director Kim?” I asked Carista whose seat was closer to mine. “He is in his office. He hasn't come out since you left. I guess he has a lot of w
Katherine's POVIt was morning and a new day at work, everyone had just come in when I saw Rayner entering Director Kim's office. I didn't find it strange at first because she returned to her desk almost immediately.For some days now, I have been finding it difficult to see a potential client. I keep wondering how she does it so easily. Honestly, I would have gone to meet her to ask her about it but hell no.She met me in this department and I hate her energy. She is just too proud, and I can't see myself asking her for help. I had asked Director Kim about it one time, but he told me he has no idea where she gets her clients from, maybe she is just good at it, he had said.I didn't believe that, and I never did. She could be a scheming woman who knows, but I don't care about her life outside work.I was still trying to look for clients on the net while keeping an eye on her. Her facial expression and the way she carried herself were sending a message I couldn't detect.A few minutes l
Rayner's POVWhen Director Kim said I was chosen, I didn't know where I got the strength to ask him by who, and eww… the same words came out of Katherine's mouth.I felt irritated just by saying the same word with her but there was no time to dwell on that feeling. Director Kim told Katherine to excuse us but I was already anxious.I kept tapping my right foot on the floor, which was audible to him, while he did everything to make sure Katherine walked out.“Director Kim, I need an explanation now,” I demanded, my voice laced with anger.After shutting the door, he walked back to his seat and slumped into it. He closed his eyes for a while then opened it quietly.All this time, I kept waiting for him and counting down. My patience was running out, but I knew he needed to calm down so he could speak, which was why I waited.“Rayner,” he said after reminiscing for a while. “I know you hate me right now.”“Yes, I do,” I fired at him, not waiting to hear what he had to say next.“That's b
Rayner's POV“What do you want? Mom repeated.“I miss you, Mom,” I said, my eyes teary.“I am still here waiting for you to make the right decision,” she said.“Mom, a lot has happened these few days, and I think I am gradually losing it,” I cried, the tears out of my control.“Rayner, all these wouldn't have happened if you had a man in your life. You should have been in his arms crying right now while he cuddled you to sleep,” she said.“Mom!” I exclaimed.“A lot of these will continue to happen and weigh you down till you get a man for yourself.” She added.Mom was never aware of Daniel because I didn't want her to pressure him into getting married to me as soon as possible. On second thought, everything went from good to bad at work from the very moment Mom sent me out of her house.I just had to make peace with her. Maybe everything with Nathaniel Blackwood will end as well. With that in mind, I was determined to make Mom forgive me.Mom, can't you just understand me, I will ge
Nathaniel's POV I was sitting close to the window in my room as I watched the street, I heard Davis walk into my room. He hasn't gone yet because I still wanted him around. “Sir, we haven't gotten any response from Mr. Nelson about his decision for us to be the constructor of the new building he had in mind,” Davis informed me. Blue Nath is known for three things and these I have built on over the years. Software development, architectural works and construction, and lastly, investment. I majored in Software development in my first degree but when I found out that the construction business was also a great source of income, I went for a second degree while investing was something I had loved since I was a child. “If no reply by the end of tomorrow, give his secretary a call,” I said. “Okay, sir.” He bowed. Davis was fond of giving a bow every time despite my constant warnings. He claimed he was used to it but would gradually stop. He is not just my PA. He is the only person I c
Rayner's POVSaturdays for me are special, I sleep till I feel like waking up without any fear. I woke up earlier, looked around my messy room, and slept back.I was still sleeping, enjoying my peace because that's the only place I enjoy peace when my phone rang. “It's Saturday, who could be calling me.” I groaned.I located my phone with my hand and answered the call to hear the voice of the only man who had made me lose my peace for days.“Mrs. Madavaski, a driver is waiting for you outside your apartment. He has a dress with him, take it from him and put that on. He will bring you to me.” Nathaniel explained.His voice was more calm than usual and I wondered if he was okay. What is my business if he isn't fine, I have a job and that's what I will face although I plan on playing a few revenge games on him.“Yes boss,” I responded intentionally.“Boss? You know what, never mind.” He said, “I am waiting for you.”Was he tired already? For the few days we have spoken with each other, w
Daniel's POV “I regret ever trusting you, Maci,” I yelled at Maci in frustration after a meeting the company employee had. After that night, I returned to Diavolo, and Rayner caught me banging Maci passionately. I tried to run after her to apologize, but Maci stopped me, I hadn't spoken with Rayner. I tried reaching her the next day, but she blocked my line, even on all social handles. I was deeply sad knowing I had hurt a girl who truly loved me. I would have gone to her place to talk things out with her, but she doesn't stay at home. If she gave me a second chance, I would end things with Maci immediately. That's after I had gotten what I wanted through her. I remember Rayner didn't want to be my girlfriend when I first approached her. I met her at a business seminar where different companies' staff converged to learn new strategies. I got her number from a colleague of hers, and I never told her who it was even when she asked me. After several chases, she accepted to be m
Rayner's POVI was already worried about what simple dish I could make and have for lunch when the delivery guy called me. I wasn't expecting anything from Nathaniel, but I took it either way. I signed on to the booklet the delivery guy gave to me and went back to my apartment. He sent a text saying he hoped I enjoyed it, addressing me as Mrs. Blackwood. There was no need to respond to his message. I dropped my phone on the couch and sat on the floor. I have no idea of what he sent but I became curious after his text. When I opened the box, I got teary-eyed, and I didn't know when I screamed for good. Inside the box were eight crispy fried chicken pieces with french fries, a BBQ sauce, and a cup of orange juice. How did he know I was hungry? I couldn't be happier, I picked up my phone. I wanted to give him a call to thank him, but I stopped myself. I can't make him think I am happy with it. I will just enjoy myself, he is gradually paying for the pain he cost me, but this is his,
Rayner's POVHe was right. The earlier I accept that my status has changed and I am in a contract marriage with the country's richest man, the better I can act and pretend before everyone.True to his words, a car was waiting outside to take me home. The driver honked when I came out, and I went in. It was a quiet drive, giving me the time to reflect on the decision I had made.Everything was happening outside what I had planned. Getting married without becoming the COO to think he was far richer than me.I gritted my teeth, scared of the decision I had made. I wanted to call Mom and tell her about it, but she wouldn't pick up her phone if I was the one calling.I pray I don't regret this decision I have made, but thinking about it right now, what more pain will I feel besides the one I have gone through?He has made my life a living hell, and I won't be surprised if he does worse now that I have accepted his proposal. As Betty advised, I will just get this done and end the marriage w
Rayner’s POVAfter Davis had texted me the venue and meeting time, I sent a message to Director Kim that I wouldn't be coming to work the next day. He texted back that he was fine with it and I needed to rest. I wondered why he became nice suddenly or if he was feeling guilty.The meeting time was ten in the morning at Blue Nath Country Club. Betty had left early after Jeff called her. I got dressed and headed to the venue.I gave Davis a call when I got there. The country club was big and beautiful, and Davis never told me where they would be at exactly. He told me he was coming to pick me up.While I waited for him, my thoughts were running wide, “Am I doing this?” I questioned myself.I saw Davis's handsome face approaching me with a wide smile. He is fine but not compared to his boss. I followed behind him after exchanging pleasantries and we got to the golf course where Mr. Blackwood was playing golf.He gestured on me to come closer which I obeyed even if I didn't want to. He pl
Director Kim's POVI won't pretend to anyone anymore, and I will stop lying to myself. This contract has done the Business Management Department more harm than good.A lot of things that wouldn't have ever taken place are happening, and to think my favorite worker hates me so much right now.For real, I wish I had never allowed Rayner to go to him when he told me he could only give us the contract if Rayner came to make the offer. I suspected something was wrong, but I was just concerned about what I would get, and I regret it so much now.All the staff think I favor Rayner, but what they don't know is that Rayner paves the way for herself. Who knows what she must have done that made Nathaniel Blackwood notice her?I just wanted to force Rayner into accepting Mr. Blackwood's proposal. He keeps asking me what I am doing about it, and what I am doing is my only way of making her marry him, but now, I am putting a stop to it.After the argument I had with Rayner, she was pissed that I co
Katherine's POV After what happened today between Director Kim, Rayner, and her client, and the heated argument that followed, I knew I had to do something. Believe me when I say these past few days have been the best days of my working experience at Cee Enterprise. Every time Director Kim tells me to go attend to Rayner's client, my heart always leaps for joy. I kept looking for ways to annoy Rayner just so I could mock her with it, but she has avoided me, and I think everyone as well like a plague. Her shoulders, that has always been high, have suddenly come down. Her ever-smiling face no longer recognizes smiling as an expression. I couldn't be happier about everything. Right now, I don't regret eavesdropping on their conversation and confronting Director Kim, maybe he wouldn't have considered me if I hadn't. I heard Director Kim telling Rayner to do what she was asked to do and I felt jealous. I am also beautiful but why does it have to be Rayner? “She is such a st*pid girl
Rayner's POV “What was that for?” I yelled when we entered Director Kim's office. At this point, I was tired of keeping calm and letting go of everything he had done. I didn't care if he was the director anymore. “That client was a big fish, and you let me lose it? For what? For Nathaniel Blackwood?” I roared. “Yes, for Nathaniel Blackwood,” Director Kim retorted. “For a contract, we aren't sure he will give to us? You let me lose one I was sure of?” I snapped, pointing at the door. Director Kim was walking around. I knew he didn't expect that client to walk away just like every other client has stayed back, but he should know people are different. “Rayner, if you had accepted Nathaniel’s proposal, it wouldn't have gotten to this extent. Everything that happened a few minutes ago was your fault and not mine.” He accused me. “Director Kim, my fault? How? I have never lost a client until today, which was caused by you, and you want to blame me?” I bellowed. “Trust me, Rayner, I
Rayner’s POVIt was another weekend, and I hadn't gotten any clients the whole week, but the truth is, I hadn't been searching. Everything was a mess, and I couldn't speak with any client.Director Kim kept asking me if I had gotten any clients, which felt strange to me. I have wiped Nathaniel's marriage contract off my head, just wanted to focus on my job.I was still on the search when a client I had long spoken to and promised to come when he had the time sent a message.I didn't know when I smiled, but I smiled after three days of keeping a straight and gloomy face. I replied to his message while I waited for him. He wasn't buying much, so there was no need for a contract.He finally came in, and I shook off all the sadness inside of me while I approached him.“Good day, Sir,” I greeted happily.“Good day, Miss. I stop by at last.” He said chattily.“Yes, please have your seat, Sir,” I gestured to a seat.“I think I need to see more samples besides the ones you showed me earlier.”