~ Andrea ~
It's a beautiful brand new day and I am so excited. Nope..not because I am going to meet Derrik but because of the events that happened the day before.
Spending time with my siblings was so good. I don't remember the last time I sat with Laurel without receiving accusations, but it happened yesterday.
A Miracle!!!
I got out of bed and rushed to take my shower. I needed to see Derrik before going to see my mother and probably get back to work.
Feeling the water on my skin in the shower made me calm. Yesterday was such a good day and I hope today is too.
I started singing ‘Water’ by Tyler while I continued to shower.
I believe I was in there for almost an hour forgetting the world around me when I finally heard a voice from inside my bedroom.
“Andrea Price!! Are you in there?”
Aaah! Lisa just found the perfect time to disturb me.
“You didn't have to shout out my name!” I shouted back ensuring she heard me loud and clear.
“We have somewhere to be remember? Better get your a*s out of there before I storm in and kick your b*tt.”
“What the -” I tried to say but was cut off by Lisa.
“Don't say anything miss, just hurry. ”
I could hear her steps fade as she left. That girl was growing horns really. Now my happy moment has been cut off.
I came out of the bathroom and dressed quickly before I got summoned the second time.
Downstairs, I saw Laurel and Lisa seated around the dining table.
“What is happening here? Who made breakfast?”
“We did. You have been doing all the work and we decided to appreciate you by making breakfast today.” Laurel said with a huge smile.
This was once again the first time in years Laurel had given me such a big smile. I sat with excitement as I got ready to dig in.
“Not too fast Miss Andrea. No prayer, No food.”
“Fine..fine. Who is praying?”
I asked as I looked between the two of them.
“We will invite Miss Andrea to pray for us today. Woahhh!”
Lisa announced using a spoon as a Microphone and I could only shake my head at her behavior.
“Let's pray. Father in heaven, we thank you once again. We thank you for your Love, your Protection and your Mercies. Bless us today and any other day, Amen.”
“Amen.” The twins said in unison.
Few moments later, we were done with our food and the twins offered to wash the utensils.
I left my room as I got dressed in my formal suit. Standing in the mirror, I was glad about how our family was turning out to be.
Now, I had to sort out things with Derrik King and I can be happy with my family.
Downstairs, I met Laurel and Lisa waiting for me so we could go and meet our mother.
“Andrea, we are supposed to see mom today at the hospital. Why are you dressed like this?”
Laurel asked as Lisa also looked at me waiting for an answer.
“I know that baby, but I have to tell my boss first. I will meet you at the hospital once I am able to get his permission. ”
“Are you sure about that?”
Lisa was always suspecting my movement. Why does she think I'm not sure about what I am saying?
“I'm very sure Lisa. I will get you a cab to take you to the hospital and I will meet you there later. ”
“Okay. Make sure you come earlier.”
“I will. Let's head out now.”
I gave the cab driver the address of the hospital and watched as he drove away.
As if on time, Derrik called me right after the cab left.
“Andrea Price, do you still remember we had a meeting today?” He went straight to the point right after I answered the call.
He should have at least greeted me and not show his arrogance everywhere.
And what's with everybody calling me ‘Andrea Price’ today? Did the universe send them a message about me or something.
“Are you there?”
“Yes Der–I mean Mr. King. I am here and I remember we have a meeting as well.”
“What is keeping you then?”
“I'm sorry, I will be on my way now.”
“Be fast about that. I reserved a spot at the Grace Restaurant, and it will be there in 20 minutes. ”
He ended the call almost immediately after saying that.
That arrogant, rude and annoying boss of mine will never change. I didn't even get to say anything before he hung up.
Driving from this street to the Grace Restaurant is about a 40 minutes ride and he expects me to be there in 20 minutes? That's inconsiderate.
I got into a cab immediately. I knew I would still be late but at least, I had to put in an effort to get there a little earlier.
“To Grace restaurant please.”
I told the cab driver as he gave a little nod and drove off.
After tomorrow, I will have to move in with Derrik and still haven't told my family about it.
“Miss, we are here.” The cab driver drew my attention.
“I thought this was supposed to be a forty minute drive. Why so soon?”
“Check your time miss. I have been calling for about five minutes now.”
That makes it forty-five minutes.
“Sorry for the delay sir. ”
I said as I paid him and got out of the car.
The Grace restaurant was a popular restaurant here in New York City. It's also an expensive restaurant and wealthy people are mostly found here.
People of my social class do not belong anywhere close to this place.
Standing in front here talking more of going inside, looks like a dream. I never thought I would sit in a luxurious restaurant.
I walked to the entrance and entered the restaurant.
Goodness!! This was huge.
The decorations, the tables, the lights, everything screamed wealth!
I had to compose myself not wanting to be seen as a commoner. I noticed one of their workers walking towards me.
“Good day miss. I am sorry but the whole place is booked.” She said with a smile.
So Derrik King booked a whole restaurant just for a minute meeting. He sure doesn't know how to spend his money.
While there are numerous people outside in need of money.
“I am actually here to meet Mr. King.”
“Oh..sorry I failed to recognize you. We were asked to direct you to the VIP lounge when you come. You must be Miss Andrea Price right?”
“Yes I am.”
“Please follow me.” She said as she went ahead and I trailer behind her.
I was eager to see what the VIP lounge looked like. I continued to look around everywhere we passed.
Come to think of it, I saw one of Derrik's men at the entrance and he didn't even think it wise to take me to his boss.
How rude? He is supposed to know who I am because I literally go everywhere with Mr. King.
Okay you are going crazy Andrea. How do you expect him to recognize you?
There probably are other women who drive with Mr. King all the time.
“We are here, miss.”
The lady said as she left the place.
I knocked gently, waiting for a response.
“Come in.” The deep voice from inside the room said and chills ran down my spine.
I opened the door slowly and went inside. The sight of the room made my mouth drop in aww.
The place was very beautiful, even more beautiful than the one I saw earlier.
D*mn, I have never seen anything like this before. I moved forward as I ran my hand on the flower vase, the table and was moving to the next item when his voice came out.
“I know you have never seen anything like this before, but,do you have to show it? You kept me waiting for forty-five minutes and you came inside to admire things?”
“Sorry Mr. King.” I took a seat across from him after saying that.
“You should know why I called you here. The ‘CEO Of the year awards’ is tomorrow and after announcing you as my fiance, people will question how we met”
He paused to take a sip from his wine and continued. “ We will have to learn some basic things about each other in order not to raise any suspicions. I hope you understand?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Good. You can pour yourself a drink while we talk.”
Finally, someone is being a gentleman. The few minutes were spent getting to know ourselves.
We just shared the basic things as none of us wanted to go deep into each other's life and to top it, this was just a fake marriage and nothing else.
Minutes later, we were done with everything and decided to leave.
“I will drop you off at work Andrea”
I was shocked. Mr. King? Drop me off? Wow..what have I been doing these days. Looks like surprising things keep happening.
“No need for that Mr. King. I will get a cab and head to the office. I know you do not want rumors about an affair with your PA.”
He nodded in agreement as he went out while I followed behind.
Although I was his personal assistant and went everywhere with him, it was different when there were no special occasions.
Right outside the building, a lady shouted Derrik's name as she came out of her car.
She looked rich, ranging from her clothes to her bag and her shoes as well.
“What are you doing here Derrik?” She asked as she held his hand.
For her to call him Derrik instead of Mr. King means they knew each other well, but it looks like Mr. King's next words proved me wrong.
“I do not have to tell you wherever I go Isabella.”
Okay so her name is Isabella. She is very beautiful.
“I am going to be your wife in two weeks, I deserve to know.”
Wife? Does that means
She's his fiancee? Then why does he want a contract marriage? I looked at his face as if wanting answers.
“We are not getting married Isabella Berry Scott ! Your parents want me to but I don't.”
“You forgot to say your dad wants it as well. ”
“Even if he does, I don’t. This woman you see here, Isabella -” Derrik paused as he held me closer to him and continued. “Is my fiance, so stay away from me. I hate the sight of you. ”
I was shocked when he said that. The lady Isabella Scott looked angry. Wait- Isabella Berry Scott!!! From the Scott family? The second wealthiest after the king's family?
I'm doomed!
~~ Derrik King ~~When Andrea called to agree to my offer, I was both excited and disappointed. Excited because I've got somebody to help me escape spending the rest of my life with Isabella and disappointed because I knew she was in for the money. Just when I thought she was different and would agree because she wants to help, not for the money. I expected too much from her. I know I did not tell her my reason for that but she agreed desperately. I spoke rudely to her when I called her a gold digger, but I couldn't help it. Her desperation for the money reminded me of my mother. I never intended to make any rules in the contract, but seeing she wanted the money, she might as well breach the contract and follow another guy for money. After my call with her, I informed my lawyer to get the contract papers ready. The night when I went to bed, the only thought in my mind was her being a gold digger like other women, like my mom. *****************************I went to the office
~Andrea~Now, I will have to fight against Isabella Berry Scott just because of a man. Who would have thought I would meet a billionaire's daughter one day? When she said Derrik was her fiance, I was shocked. If that was the case, why does Derrik need me for a contract marriage? But on a second thought, I knew he was about to be forced to get married to a woman he can't stand. Staying your whole life with someone you do not love can be complicated. It's not like I have experienced it but from others' experience, it isn't a good choice. I was in a cab going back to the office after Isabella had driven away. She was indeed a beautiful lady, but she doesn't look too generous. When I finally thought I had everything under control, Isabella appeared out of nowhere and now, I know she wouldn't let me be. Getting out of the cab, I felt the cool breeze on my skin and that was a lot to help clear my mind. The sight I saw in the office left me shocked. Isabella stood inside as if waiting
~ Andrea ~In his office, I watched as he took off his suit and sat on his chair. I stood like a robot still recounting the incident from earlier. “Will you keep standing like a log of tree?”Did he have to say that? I sat down and the only thing that came to mind was to appreciate him. “Thank you for earlier Mr. King.”“Don't think you are any special, I did it because I am no monster.”I thought he was beginning to have a soft sport for me. Andrea.. How can you be so crazy? Have a soft spot for you? Are you kidding? “Tomorrow is the Ceo of the year awards, I will send clothes over to you.”“I can take it from here to the house Mr. King.”He doesn't have to send it to me at home as it will only raise more suspicions from his family. “I do as I want Andrea and about your house address, I know that don't worry. Just get dressed in one of the clothes and a chauffeur will come pick you.”Does he know my address? That's surprising. I shouldn't think of myself, he might probably know
~ Andrea~After getting the food, I headed back to the hospital. I gave out the food to my sisters and made sure mom ate as well. Once everything was done, I checked the time on my watch. That was a hint I needed to get back to the office. “ Do you really have to go back now?” Lisa asked, her voice laced with disappointment. “ I'm afraid so. I'll be back soon okay?”“But mom just woke up. Let's spend more time together.”“ We will, but for now I have to go. Take care of mom.”“Andrea baby, please take care and don't overwork yourself.” Mom said, concern all over her face. “ Don't worry mom, I will be fine.”I gave her a kiss on the forehead as I left and rushed to work. I left the hospital with a heavy heart. I needed to end this arrangement with Mr. King soon. I also needed to find a way to let my family know the truth. If Derrik makes the announcement, it will spread over the city like wildfire. Hours later, as I was wrapping up to end the tedious day, a call came in. “Lisa,
~Andrea~Now, he has finally succeeded. He didn't even give me permission to leave but that does not mean I will stay the whole night in this office. Derrik King is biting more than he can chew and I'll make sure to get back at him in any way I can. I am standing in front of Lisa right now. She has her hand on her waist, looking me straight in the eye. I could feel beads of sweat forming on my forehead. Lisa always gets me in this spot. “Andrea, we've been standing for minutes now and you're not answering my question.”She took a step forward as she said this and held my hands. “I know you're older, but I'll always look out for you. You can tell me anything at all. Who is this person that sent the clothes and accessories?”“Lisa, I'm so tired from the day's work. Can you allow me to rest please? I will answer your question later.”“No Andrea, you're not leaving until you tell me who brought those else I'll tell mom about it too.”“Okay, Okay, my boss sent it. I'll go with him for
~Andrea~I spent the whole day with the family talking about things we will do when mom is discharged from the hospital. All this while, my thoughts were still on the big announcement that will be on the news tomorrow. It was night already and I made a decision to tell them the truth before I leave. “Mom, I want to tell you something.”She turns to look at me,noticing the urgency in my voice. “What is the problem Andrea?”“There will be a big announcement today at–”I was still talking when my phone started ringing. If it was any other person, I would have ignored it but it was Derrik. That should mean he is calling to remind me and I can't skip it. Hum.I gave out a deep sigh and looked around only to see everybody looking at me. The call ended while the phone was in my hand. “Andrea, who is that? Why didn't you answer?”“I will answer that later, mom. As I was saying, an announcement will be–” The call came in the second time, cutting me off. If I miss this chance of tellin
~ Andrea ~I felt him hold my hand and it was as if that was the comfort I needed at that moment. We stepped out of the car and met photographers clicking pictures at every step we took. I feel like a different person. I never in my life thought I would one day walk on a red carpet. When we got inside, everybody turned to look at us. “Who is she?”“Is that Mr. King's girlfriend?”“Nobody thought he had one.”These were whispers coming from every corner of the room. “Just relax, let them say what they want to say.” Derrik said as he held my hand tighter. I was scanning the room until I saw Isabella. She looked beautiful in her cocktail gown. The look in her eyes, she hated me.Her eyes bored with rage. Isabella was with a man and woman equally dressed in expensive clothes. That should be her parents. I finally get to meet the famous scott family, but not on good grounds. Derrik directs me to a seat and left me to talk with other people. He knew I was nervous but still left me
* Andrea *“ It's an honor to have you all here for the annual CEO of the year awards. We're hoping this year will be as peaceful as the previous years. For now, enjoy yourselves.”That said, a song began playing with couples dancing. I was standing with Derrik when Isabella came. She has been acting like some sort of leech stuck unto Derrik. “Let's dance, Derrik.” She started dragging Derrik to the dance floor after saying that. The next moment, Derrik had his arm removed from her grip and heading towards me. “May I have this dance Andrea?”I nodded in response as I took his hand which was stretched out to me. His hand placed on my waist sent shivers down my spine. I had my hand on his shoulder as we stared into each other's eyes. It looked like everything had stopped moving and we were the only people in this world. Our eyes speaking to each other. We were lost in the moment until an applause broke through. Turns out the song was over and we were in the spotlight now. “An ama
~Andrea~The last thing I wanted was for morning to come. I know it's stupid to have such a wish but I just couldn't bear people throwing my decision to my face here and there. I dressed for work and made my way downstairs. I met Lisa and Laurel who didn't try to talk to me. It hurt that I made this decision to help the family but now, I am facing multiple scoldings from them. I silently had breakfast then went straight to work. The cab driver recognized me as he started asking questions. “Miss, do I know you from somewhere? You really look familiar.”“Sorry but I don't think you know me. It could be a coincidence.”“No, I'm not mistaken. I saw you on the news. You're everywhere on the news as Mr. King's fiancée.”There we go again. “Can we have a silent ride please?”“Sorry ma'am, I was just excited to see you. Everybody believed Mr. King was into men and it was shocking when he finally announced you as his wife.”I ignored him till we got to the office building. The shocking th
~ Andrea ~“Andrea! Andrea!”I'm I dreaming or is it morning already? Who keeps shouting my name? “Andrea tell us this is not true! Andrea!”I heard the sound of my door creaking and that was all it took for me to wake up. First, it was a blur. Blinking for some time, I saw Lisa and Laura standing in my room. “It's morning already?”“Yes, it is. Now, please tell us the meaning of this news circulating.”Lisa was always interrogating me. What news is it this time? “What news? How do you expect me to know about some news? Did you wake me up because of that? I'm going back to bed, don't wake me up again.”“You should know about this news because it's about you! How the hell are you your boss’ fiancée?” Laurel added. Goodness! That news! I had forgotten everything about what happened yesterday. How could I? “The look on your face Andrea, it shows. This can't be real right? Why didn't you tell us?” Lisa was at it again. “Listen, I can explain.”“Gosh! So it's true Andrea. Why didn'
* Andrea *“ It's an honor to have you all here for the annual CEO of the year awards. We're hoping this year will be as peaceful as the previous years. For now, enjoy yourselves.”That said, a song began playing with couples dancing. I was standing with Derrik when Isabella came. She has been acting like some sort of leech stuck unto Derrik. “Let's dance, Derrik.” She started dragging Derrik to the dance floor after saying that. The next moment, Derrik had his arm removed from her grip and heading towards me. “May I have this dance Andrea?”I nodded in response as I took his hand which was stretched out to me. His hand placed on my waist sent shivers down my spine. I had my hand on his shoulder as we stared into each other's eyes. It looked like everything had stopped moving and we were the only people in this world. Our eyes speaking to each other. We were lost in the moment until an applause broke through. Turns out the song was over and we were in the spotlight now. “An ama
~ Andrea ~I felt him hold my hand and it was as if that was the comfort I needed at that moment. We stepped out of the car and met photographers clicking pictures at every step we took. I feel like a different person. I never in my life thought I would one day walk on a red carpet. When we got inside, everybody turned to look at us. “Who is she?”“Is that Mr. King's girlfriend?”“Nobody thought he had one.”These were whispers coming from every corner of the room. “Just relax, let them say what they want to say.” Derrik said as he held my hand tighter. I was scanning the room until I saw Isabella. She looked beautiful in her cocktail gown. The look in her eyes, she hated me.Her eyes bored with rage. Isabella was with a man and woman equally dressed in expensive clothes. That should be her parents. I finally get to meet the famous scott family, but not on good grounds. Derrik directs me to a seat and left me to talk with other people. He knew I was nervous but still left me
~Andrea~I spent the whole day with the family talking about things we will do when mom is discharged from the hospital. All this while, my thoughts were still on the big announcement that will be on the news tomorrow. It was night already and I made a decision to tell them the truth before I leave. “Mom, I want to tell you something.”She turns to look at me,noticing the urgency in my voice. “What is the problem Andrea?”“There will be a big announcement today at–”I was still talking when my phone started ringing. If it was any other person, I would have ignored it but it was Derrik. That should mean he is calling to remind me and I can't skip it. Hum.I gave out a deep sigh and looked around only to see everybody looking at me. The call ended while the phone was in my hand. “Andrea, who is that? Why didn't you answer?”“I will answer that later, mom. As I was saying, an announcement will be–” The call came in the second time, cutting me off. If I miss this chance of tellin
~Andrea~Now, he has finally succeeded. He didn't even give me permission to leave but that does not mean I will stay the whole night in this office. Derrik King is biting more than he can chew and I'll make sure to get back at him in any way I can. I am standing in front of Lisa right now. She has her hand on her waist, looking me straight in the eye. I could feel beads of sweat forming on my forehead. Lisa always gets me in this spot. “Andrea, we've been standing for minutes now and you're not answering my question.”She took a step forward as she said this and held my hands. “I know you're older, but I'll always look out for you. You can tell me anything at all. Who is this person that sent the clothes and accessories?”“Lisa, I'm so tired from the day's work. Can you allow me to rest please? I will answer your question later.”“No Andrea, you're not leaving until you tell me who brought those else I'll tell mom about it too.”“Okay, Okay, my boss sent it. I'll go with him for
~ Andrea~After getting the food, I headed back to the hospital. I gave out the food to my sisters and made sure mom ate as well. Once everything was done, I checked the time on my watch. That was a hint I needed to get back to the office. “ Do you really have to go back now?” Lisa asked, her voice laced with disappointment. “ I'm afraid so. I'll be back soon okay?”“But mom just woke up. Let's spend more time together.”“ We will, but for now I have to go. Take care of mom.”“Andrea baby, please take care and don't overwork yourself.” Mom said, concern all over her face. “ Don't worry mom, I will be fine.”I gave her a kiss on the forehead as I left and rushed to work. I left the hospital with a heavy heart. I needed to end this arrangement with Mr. King soon. I also needed to find a way to let my family know the truth. If Derrik makes the announcement, it will spread over the city like wildfire. Hours later, as I was wrapping up to end the tedious day, a call came in. “Lisa,
~ Andrea ~In his office, I watched as he took off his suit and sat on his chair. I stood like a robot still recounting the incident from earlier. “Will you keep standing like a log of tree?”Did he have to say that? I sat down and the only thing that came to mind was to appreciate him. “Thank you for earlier Mr. King.”“Don't think you are any special, I did it because I am no monster.”I thought he was beginning to have a soft sport for me. Andrea.. How can you be so crazy? Have a soft spot for you? Are you kidding? “Tomorrow is the Ceo of the year awards, I will send clothes over to you.”“I can take it from here to the house Mr. King.”He doesn't have to send it to me at home as it will only raise more suspicions from his family. “I do as I want Andrea and about your house address, I know that don't worry. Just get dressed in one of the clothes and a chauffeur will come pick you.”Does he know my address? That's surprising. I shouldn't think of myself, he might probably know
~Andrea~Now, I will have to fight against Isabella Berry Scott just because of a man. Who would have thought I would meet a billionaire's daughter one day? When she said Derrik was her fiance, I was shocked. If that was the case, why does Derrik need me for a contract marriage? But on a second thought, I knew he was about to be forced to get married to a woman he can't stand. Staying your whole life with someone you do not love can be complicated. It's not like I have experienced it but from others' experience, it isn't a good choice. I was in a cab going back to the office after Isabella had driven away. She was indeed a beautiful lady, but she doesn't look too generous. When I finally thought I had everything under control, Isabella appeared out of nowhere and now, I know she wouldn't let me be. Getting out of the cab, I felt the cool breeze on my skin and that was a lot to help clear my mind. The sight I saw in the office left me shocked. Isabella stood inside as if waiting