Vivian's pov"That was a great meal. Thank you so much for the invitation, we're really grateful, and we promise to continue to offer the best service," Collins said, and smiled. I couldn't take my gaze off him no matter how hard I tried. How on earth can a man be so handsome and, on top of that, the handsome man is the most annoying man I've ever met. I took a slow breath and pretended to laugh along with the rest.The woman brought out a wrapped object and handed it over to Collins. She smiled at him and said "This is a present from us, please accept it. It's our way of congratulating you on winning the contract"I smiled as Collins' face lit, and his face turned into another smile, his dimples forming perfectly. "Thank you so much, we really appreciate this" he said and jerked at Helen. She smiled too and added "Yeah, we're really honored. Thank you. We anticipate another time with you""Yeah sure, more wins" the man said and raised his glass for a toast. Our glasses clicked, and
Helen's pov.Seeing him hold her like that makes my blood boil and I grit hard on my teeth. Why is he suddenly protective of her, I thought, and tilted my head to see the man who had made Collins react that way. I inhaled sharply and blew out air with my mouth. He is so cool, something in me beamed excitedly but j waved it away. He's no match for my Collins, I responded inwardly and pouted. Who is he anyway, and where did Vivian know him from? I wondered and saw Collins leaping to his feet, clutching Vivian's hand closely. "Thanks for the dinner" he said and bowed slightly. What's he trying to do? He was trying to walk away in front of the clients? I thought in disbelief and gazed at him. "I appreciate the kind gesture and the present too. I look forward to repaying your kindness. Something urgent came up so we'll take our leave now. Thank you". He said, not looking at me.I scoffed, crazy jerk! I swore at him silently and tightened my fist. I really can't believe he's getting work
Chapter one6:am, GreenvilleCollins Pov"What! No! No way"!"This is a joke, right...? You... don't mean this." I screamed unbelievably into the phone receiver. The voice at the other end of the receiver came through."Yes Collins. I'm sorry it has to end this way" and then the call ended. The shock was too much for me to bear. I burst into hysterical laughter, feeling a deep stab in my heart. "Oh no!, I started ."Haha... that was a...that was the greatest joke I've heard in my life....", I broke off and suddenly felt an itch to scream. Hitting the mirror in which I stood in front, I rubbed my hair in my hands and impulsively threw a fist at the pitiful image in front of me. The mirror came shattering all over in front of me and I watched blood triple down my battered hands. I heard a hurried advancement and knew instantly that it was my mum rushing up. She let out a gasp the moment she stepped in and echoed "What have you done, Collins?" She gazed at me, her expression clearly w
Chapter two.Vivian's povI had just stepped into the living room to pick up my phone which I had left on the couch, when Cynthia stormed in, dropped the bag she was carrying and walked angrily into her room. I watched her in curiosity and wondered what could have caused her reaction. Picking up the bag she dropped, I peeped into the contents and seemed satisfied. This is the exact medicine the doctor asked me to get for mum, I thought, and smiled. I'll have to drop by at the hospital later in the day, but for now, I have to check on my younger sister.I turned and saw her approaching, in a changed dress. "What's wrong with you?" I demanded and added, "You dropped your bag carelessly and stormed off".I stared at her intensely as she scoffed and folded her arms. Though with a frown, I still acknowledged Cynthia's beauty, which, of course, is a replica of myself. We look so much alike that people do make mistakes in identifying us.Cynthia turned her gaze at me, her lips pouted. "I r
Fifteen minutes earlierFred's pov.As the gate opened, and I drove in, I seemed very pleased with myself. I peeped at the lady in the back and smiled. Mr Johnson would be delighted at the Angel I just found, I thought.I let my mind drift to the event that happened earlier. I adjusted my collar as I stepped out of the car and stood before a magnificent building. The Johnson family is damn rich, I thought as I scanned the company, watching the people around me go in and out with files. I walked in and the secretary immediately stood up to acknowledge me. "Assemble the ladies working in the company," I ordered.He arched his brow while I looked away. Soon, the ladies were marched before me and I moved from one lady to the other. Mr Johnson wouldn't settle for less, so I had to select carefully, I thought.Then the door swung open. I turned and gasped at the damsel advancing.She wore an off-white top on a black skirt which hung just below her knees, revealing perfectly long toned legs
Vivian's pov "Hell no! Evelyn ma'am, how can you ask me to do such a thing?" I fumed, widening my eyes in horror.The restaurant is empty already. No wonder Evelyn ma'am had sent Lauren to get something I consider irrelevant in the first place. Is it to discuss this trash with me? I thought angrily.It was almost unbelievable to me as I stood bewildered, tapping my feet rapidly. "Vivian dear..." Evelyn started, patting my back."No, I'm not going to do that. That's ridiculous", I cut in."I'm not going to be a replacement bride for anyone, and that's final" I said, with tears forming."Think about your mother" Evelyn ma'am said, and I sniffed. She raised a finger to wipe my lines of tears and continued in a shaky voice. "She needs a lot of money for her surgery and there's no way to realize such an amount, you know that". This reality stung and I cried the more.I stammered and searched for words. ""I... I... don't....,""I know it's a very tough decision dear, but you have to do
Johnson's Mansion. 7:30amVivian's pov.I got out of the taxi and paid the driver, who drove away quickly. Looking up at the mansion before me, I gasped. This is really it, I thought. It has to be. I tapped my phone to reconfirm the address. I'm not mistaken. But am I not standing at paradise gate? I questioned, still marveling at the beautiful sight before me.I was still lost in admiration when the gate opened swiftly and a security officer scanned me with his eyes. "Sorry..." I stammered"Is this Mr Johnson's mansion please" I inquired."What business do you have here, young lady?" The officer growled at me and I instantly felt a flicker of fear.Picking up confidence, I replied "I'm here to see Mr Johnson please""You have an appointment with him? May I check the appointment?""No, I...I""What's going on here?" A voice cuts in, trailing me off. I was glad when he came closer, and I discovered it was Fred."Ma'am, you're here" he said, his face lifting.Relieved at seeing him, I
Collin's povI saw her clearly. She has a tiny stature with a waist that seems to break the next second. If I stood close, I am sure her head would be below my shoulder. She stood a few steps away from me as she admired the beautiful garden. But who is she? I thought. I greatly admire her long hair, curly and sparkling in the sunlight. The breeze gently adds rhythm to the curly hair. She let out a soft smile and I immediately felt drawn. I started to move closer; one resounding step after the other and just when I was about to reach her...."Collins", I heard someone call my name and turned sleepily."Collins! Collins" I heard again, feeling a hand gently tapping me.I glanced up and saw Fred standing over me. Oh! I've been dreaming. What the hell! I wish Fred hadn't interrupted at that moment, I was so close to discovering who she was."Hey man, you've got to wake up" he said persistently. I yawned and murmured "What is it, Fred?"It's not unusual for Fred to come wake me up, I thou
Helen's pov.Seeing him hold her like that makes my blood boil and I grit hard on my teeth. Why is he suddenly protective of her, I thought, and tilted my head to see the man who had made Collins react that way. I inhaled sharply and blew out air with my mouth. He is so cool, something in me beamed excitedly but j waved it away. He's no match for my Collins, I responded inwardly and pouted. Who is he anyway, and where did Vivian know him from? I wondered and saw Collins leaping to his feet, clutching Vivian's hand closely. "Thanks for the dinner" he said and bowed slightly. What's he trying to do? He was trying to walk away in front of the clients? I thought in disbelief and gazed at him. "I appreciate the kind gesture and the present too. I look forward to repaying your kindness. Something urgent came up so we'll take our leave now. Thank you". He said, not looking at me.I scoffed, crazy jerk! I swore at him silently and tightened my fist. I really can't believe he's getting work
Vivian's pov"That was a great meal. Thank you so much for the invitation, we're really grateful, and we promise to continue to offer the best service," Collins said, and smiled. I couldn't take my gaze off him no matter how hard I tried. How on earth can a man be so handsome and, on top of that, the handsome man is the most annoying man I've ever met. I took a slow breath and pretended to laugh along with the rest.The woman brought out a wrapped object and handed it over to Collins. She smiled at him and said "This is a present from us, please accept it. It's our way of congratulating you on winning the contract"I smiled as Collins' face lit, and his face turned into another smile, his dimples forming perfectly. "Thank you so much, we really appreciate this" he said and jerked at Helen. She smiled too and added "Yeah, we're really honored. Thank you. We anticipate another time with you""Yeah sure, more wins" the man said and raised his glass for a toast. Our glasses clicked, and
Chapter Twenty threeVivian's pov.Collins bowed slightly as we got to the table and said "I'm sorry I got late, it was due to circumstances. I truly hope you understand", I scoffed and wanted to punch him in his face. Was I the circumstance? Rude jerk, I said inwardly, and frowned a little. I was still in this state when he added "Allow me to introduce my fiancée to you. Her name is Vivian" and pulled me close.I coughed and suddenly felt a dryness in my throat. "Sorry miss" the man at the table said and added "would you like some water," I nodded and muttered thank you as I gulped the water down my throat. "Such a beautiful woman you've got" the woman complimented, and I almost choked on my water. Collins cast me a glance that seemed to say "comport yourself, you fool."I looked away and muttered "thank you sir""You're welcome" he replied and flashed a smile. "So we were about to place our orders before you came in, now that you're here, shall we do it together?" He said in a wa
Collins pov.I tightened my fists on the wheel as I drove out angrily. I had expected to see Vivian in a sexy dress, just like Anne would have done, but she had stood there looking like an old maid. What the hell was that? I thought as I drove with no place in mind. All I care about right now is to get her an outfit that will match the occasion. She could go to hell after that, I thought, and glanced at her from the rear mirror. Our gazes met and I quickly averted mine. I sighted a boutique in front and pulled up, stepping out immediately. I checked my time, it was 6:40 already, and I have to meet the client by 7. How on earth am I supposed to get to the hotel before 7pm? I fumed as I roughly pulled Vivian out of the car. I grabbed her roughly and dragged her behind me, ignoring the stares as we entered the boutique."Good evening, how may I help you" a young lady asked, smiling at me. I hated the smile and frowned. "I need to get a dress for her" I said and heard Vivian scoff at me.
Vivian's pov."Ta da!" Cynthia exclaimed excitedly, walking me to the mirror. I stood in front of it and admired myself. The flared purple gown fitted me perfectly, and I nodded my head in approval. Cynthia had done justice to my face, and now I looked like a new bride with my stunning makeup. "Trust me Vivian, your man won't be able to take his eyes off you" she replied, sitting on the bed. I smiled and replied "My man? That sounds awkward, Cynthia. I'd rather you call him by his name", I said, winking at her.She rolled her eyes and chipped "Oh, whatever. I'm only jealous right now that you have to be with him while I stay here all by myself"I smiled and replied "It's not a problem dear. I definitely will abandon him and run back home if his nasty attitude pops up at dinner tonight". She gave me a knowing look and smiled. "How about you go to Lucy's place till I return" I suggested, reaching for the black bag Cynthia had selected for me. She laughed and I wondered what was funny
Vivian's povI came into the sitting-rooom, carrying plates and cups. "This is what you've refused to do, I'm done in a blink of an eye" I said, setting the table. I wiped my hands over the apron as I reached out for the plates. Helen hurriedly came to my side and had a sip from her teacup before rushing out. "Where are you off to? You haven't had your meal" I called after her.She hurriedly picked her bag and phone from the table and made for the door. "Sorry Vivian, I have to leave"I was startled. "What? Why? You just said you'd be having breakfast here". She paused at the door and said without turning "Something came up Vivian, can you be a little bit understanding? I'll see you later alright?" She added and stepped out hurriedly.Really? Is she joking? What could be so important that it can't wait till after breakfast? I wondered and poured myself some tea. I reached for the spoon and stirred gently. That was suddenly, I thought and blurted "she could have at least given me a re
Friday. Hours earlier.Collins pov"Are you sure about this?" I asked, spinning my chair round. Mark sat directly in front of me and nodded rapidly. "Sure. Listen, this is just the best thing to do."I hesitated, then sat upright. "Maybe I should do just that" I replied, taking out my phone.As soon as we got to my office, I deliberated the dinner with our client. It's really awkward for me to reach out to Helen, knowing she's interested in me, coupled with the fact that she's on suspension. Mark had suggested taking Vivian along and introducing her as my fiancée."This really sucks" I complained, as I typed the message. "Both women are so annoying that I don't even want to do this with either of them" I said, dropping my phone. Mark stood up and made to leave. "Where are you going Mark?" "To my office boss" he said, business-like. "I'm heading to my office, there are important business to attend to and this will surely boost the image of our company."I hissed and stood up. "What
Vivian's pov.I enjoyed the cool breeze as I walked home in the sun. I checked the time. It was 10:55am. The day is still young, I told myself and walked home smiling. My stomach grumbled and I squeezed it softly. Evelyn ma'am had offered me some snacks earlier, but I had declined the offer. I didn't want to seem like a nuisance to her. What was I thinking? I thought and deeply regretted not accepting the snacks. She must have understood that I meant the opposite of what I said because she displayed the snacks right under my nose as she chewed them all."She's being mean", I scoffed and pouted. I'll make something for breakfast when I get home, I resolved and bounced down the street. Just as I was about to turn to the next street, I heard a familiar voice call my name.Is that not Helen? I thought and glanced back to see her running towards me. I increased my pace and pretended as if I hadn't seen her. "Hey Vivian, you jerk. Why pretend you didn't see me? I've been screaming my lung
Vivian's povWhat was Collins' reaction about? I wondered as Fred drove out. I sat in the back seat and enjoyed the beautiful sight of flowers on the roadside, as he drove carefully. Now that the deal is done, it's time to make preparations for my wedding, I thought.My wedding? I scoffed. That sounded awful. I didn't see myself getting married in three years time, and now I'm about to get married in less than a month? "Oh" I said unconsciously.Fred glanced back at me and asked "Do you need something, ma'am?"I smiled and quickly shook my head. "Of course not. I'm sorry my thoughts were loud"He smiled and said "it's not a problem, ma'am. I'm glad you made this decision."I nodded. "Yeah, it's for the best. Thank you, Fred". He nodded slightly and focused on the road. I let my right hand wander to the place that I had pinned. I fondled the pin and admired the brightness. How sweet of him to have handed me that, I thought and smiled. It had seemed as if he wanted to grab my waist, l