Chapter 8

Chapter 8

It was a message from Fiona. I forgot all about what I had just heard and hurriedly typed back to ask what the problem was.

“Kelan was at the coffee shop today and asked after you. I told him you were not around, and he demanded to know where you were. I refused to tell him, but he started causing a scene, saying I hid you somewhere..”

I waited for her to continue what she was typing, but nothing else popped up for five minutes. I knew she wanted me to ask, typical of Fiona.

I rolled my eyes like she could see me and typed back, “So what did you do with him?”

“I had to tell him you were married and I don't know where you live. He didn't believe me but left anyway saying he would find you and kill the man who dared take you away from him.” Her response came almost immediately like she had been waiting to send that once I dropped a question.

I sighed in frustration, the last thing I wanted was to cause harm to Earl. It didn't matter if he was annoying; I just couldn't let anyone get hurt because of me.

Kelan had been after me since I moved in with Fiona, he lived across the street and had always stalked me. He never ceased to tell me how I would be his wife and no one would change that. He was obsessed and I tried avoiding him after seeing how he had chased other boys away from me by threatening them.

If he finds out that I'm truly married, he might harm Earl and that would be ugly. Earl had enough problems of his own and I can't afford to add mine to it. I knew I had to find a way to meet Kelan and talk to him.

*******

*Earl POV*

“The last time we handled the construction of Stone Refineries, it was due to the influence of Mr Williams, I suggest we leave this in his hands to bring us this deal again. We cannot afford to mess things up knowing we have so many competitors right now”

“That's right, we shouldn't play gambles with this”

“I support Mr Pere, I think it's the best option because Mr Williams already has a relationship with the Stones. It's only wise to bank on that and get the contract.”

I watched as many threw their support behind Williams as the best person to discuss business with Edward Stones. I could tell Williams was enjoying the show, I wouldn't be surprised if he made them say this just to limit my relevance in the company.

While the murmurings and debate continued, I glanced at Williams and he was looking at me with a satisfied smirk playing at the corner of his lips.

I had just a few of the high ranking staff on my side which I believe was because Williams brought in majority of the workers while I was away. Father had trusted him too much with so many things and now he was using his influence to win sides.

It was no use playing into his hands, all I had to do was win Stone over without giving a hint. The thought of that sounded soothing and I smiled at Williams knowingly.

“Gentlemen, I don't think it's fair to give the whole credit to me, I mean, I know I have made huge contributions to the company, but I would want us to play it fair,” Williams spoke, looking around the room to make sure he had everyone's attention.

I raised my brow, waiting to know what he was aiming at.

“What are you trying to say, Mr Williams?” Pere asked.

“Well..” he took a pause and smiled sarcastically at me again “I propose that Mr White Junior and I try our best to get Edward Stone to sign a deal with us. I believe that would help us know who is capable of leading the company to greatness.”

“That's a brilliant idea”

“That's so kind of you, Mr Williams

“Yes, he keeps giving Mr White chances to prove himself”

The chatter went on, and I locked gaze with Williams, who felt fulfilled with his suggestion. He probably couldn't wait to make fun of me.

I noticed the concern stares from those who had been supporting me. I cleared my throat and said, “I take the bet.”

Everyone focused on me, their eyes holding different reactions. I directed my eyes back to Williams and repeated, “I take the bet.”

His smile broadened, happy to have achieved his aim.

*******

“Is there something I need to know?” I asked Ben right after he entered the driver's seat.

“The madam asked how long Williams has been in the company” he replied, turning to face me before starting the car.

“She did? And what did you tell her?”

“The truth, Sir, told her he's been part of the company from inception, and she should avoid him because he is dangerous.”

I looked out the window, fixing my gaze on nothing in particular. Williams sure has a way of getting people to be scared of him. I knew I had to do everything within my power to protect her family, that is the only way she would be able to act as my wife without worry.

“How is the documentation going?” I asked, looking into the rearview mirror to meet Ben's eyes briefly.

“It's all on track sir. We initially changed Madam's background story on how she got into the state, but I have informed the team to erase every trace she has with her family in Srindad, that way, Williams won't be able to trace the family. At least, not so soon.”

I nodded and closed my eyes briefly. I wished I could erase Williams from the surface of the earth, but that would be too cowardly, and all fingers would point at me. I needed a better plan to deal with the situation.