Amanda watched him as he left. She let out a sigh of relief. "At least I still have my job and I have no reason to run. I am not Mabel", she thought. The thought of Mabel crossed her mind. It's been five years since she last saw her. She remembers how she vanished into thin air after that morning. Amanda let out another sigh. This time it was from memory lane. The moment she stepped into the hallway, she could feel the eyes of the employees passing on her. Whispers and hushed conversations buzzed around the office, speculating about her unexpected interaction with the boss."What a first impression" Amanda mumbled under her breath. She decided to keep her head up high and pretend as if nothing happened. She walked straight to the reception. She didn't know her office and she needed to ask. Just a few steps away from the receptionist, Amanda sights Miss Kira walking towards her direction. Her heart leaped with joy. Kira is her fan after all and she is so happy to see her again. "Hi
>>>>>>"Hey," Rowan called out. "Don't greet me. Is this a playback or what? I have been here for more than half an hour", Jack retorted. "Cut the cr*p. I am here for a serious talk". Rowan pulled out his chair and sat down. "When have you never been serious?" Jack frowned. "Wait, are you seriously angry? Rowan asked, confused. Jack is not the type to get offended easily. "No, I am not. I just want you to believe I am." Jack said, grinning. "Stop messing with me, man. I've got a very serious issue here." Rowan yelled. "Okay. You don't have to bully me into listening. What is it? Let the cat out of the bag." He said, relaxing in his seat. Rowan leaned in closer, his expression serious. "Do you remember the bitch at my house? "The one you raped? Jack asked, sipping his drink. "Don't put it that way", Rowan frowned. "That is what it is," Jack rolled his eyes. "Jack!" Rowan yelled. "Easy man. You are too tense for this conversation. But continue, I
"Good morning, Amanda," Rowan greeted her with a warm smile, motioning for her to take a seat in front of his desk.Surprised, Amanda reluctantly positioned herself in the chair across from him. Rowan took a deep breath and leaned back in his chair. He cleared his throat, feeling a mix of nervousness and seriousness. "I'm sorry about my approach the other day at work and the club," he said, shifting in his seat. Amanda's brows furrowed slightly, but she maintained her composure. Rowan continued. "I would like you to answer some questions to clear the air about this issue." Amanda's expression remained guarded, but she nodded, giving him the consent to continue.Not sure where to start from, Rowan cleared his throat again. "Have we met before? He asked, not sure the question was a good start. Amanda remained calm, ensuring the conversation remained as calm as it started. She prefers this version of Rowan to the one she met on her first day at work. "Yes, I met you and your brot
Mr. Kenny leaned forward. She could feel his breath on her cheeks. "You don't get it, do you? From the moment I saw your profile, I wanted you. I have waited 3 years, thinking you would pick my clues and come to me, but you haven't and I can not wait anymore." "But sir, you are married," Amanda exclaimed. Mr. Kenny seemed undeterred. "Come on, Amanda, don't be so uptight. We could have a lot of fun together, you know." He tried to kiss her. Pushing him away, her frustration grew and she held her ground immediately. "Mr. Kenny, I won't entertain this conversation any further. I expect our interactions to be strictly work-related." She said firmly as she stood on her feet. Dismissing her anger, Mr. Kenny continued in a sexual tone, "Oh! Amanda" "Miss Amanda!" She corrected him. She attempted to leave, but Mr. Kenny grabbed her hand, preventing her from going. His grip was firm, and Amanda felt trapped, her back to the table. "Not that quick". He tightened his grip around her hand
The following morning, Amanda resumed work with enthusiasm. She is no longer worried about Mr. Kenny as she now has a plan. All she needed to do was get Mr Kenny's wife's contact. Amanda's excitement knew no bounds when she received a message from Rowan that he would be coming to the hotel. She is always extra energetic on the days he visits because she gets to spend time with him. She is the only one at the hotel who knows when Rowan will be visiting the hotel. Alex noticed Amnada's enthusiasm. "I guess the boss will be coming today." "How did you know that?" Amanda asked. "Why else would you be this happy? It is written all over you," Alex said. "Yes. He should be here soon", Amanda replied. Alex is the only one she trusts at the company. She can freely talk about her feelings for Rowan with Alex. "I hope this ends well for you though," Alex said before saying goodbye. He is done with his shift and is ready to go. "Bye Alex. And learn to mind your business." Amanda said, jo
All the kids had slept and Mrs Roberts was already dozing off. Amanda stayed awake, her anticipation building. She glanced at her phone repeatedly, checking for messages from Mrs Laura. Mr. Kenny too didn't call her. The silence was deafening and anxiety began to creep in. She could no longer hold it in. She woke her mother. "Mother!" Mrs Roberts woke up at once. She had intended to see the plan through before sleep took control. "Yes, what is it? "Are you sure this was a good plan?" She questioned her mother, doubt gnawed at her. "Why do you ask? Mrs. Roberts responded questioning, still trying to rescue her eyes from the sleep. "I was wondering if this is the right way to deal with Mr. Kenny". Amanda's mind raced as she considered the possible outcomes and consequences of her actions."How else would you have dealt with it? And you can't say it's a bad idea yet." Mrs. Roberts answered. "I have not gotten any message from them, both the husband and wife. I am worried someth
"Mr. Kenny has been hitting on me," Amanda responded. "What! What did you say?" Rowan asked, confused. Tension mounting in the room. "He has been harassing me. He wanted us to have an affair and when I refused, it became a threat. "So you killed him?" Asked the detective. "No, I didn't," Amanda responded. "I was only trying to handle the situation discreetly." Amanda continued, her voice shivering. "What did you do, Amanda?" Rowan asked, impatiently. "Rowan, I didn't kill Mr. Kenny, I promise. His inappropriate advances had reached its peak, and the solicited text…" Amanda wiped the tears gushing down her cheeks before she continued."He wanted to forcefully have his way with me at his office. So I tricked him, I told him we should fix a place, which I did but didn't show up." "You didn't show up?" The detective asked. "No, I didn't. I texted his wife instead. I informed Mrs. Laura of her husband's inappropriate behavior and sent her the address of the hotel for confirmation.
At home, her mother was already waiting for her to return. "Why were you not answering your phone? I have been worried. "Mother, it's been a hectic day" Amanda responded, collapsing onto the sofa. "Where are the kids?" "Adora is sleeping, others are not back from school." Mrs Roberts responded. "By this time?" Amanda asked, looking at her time. "It's just noon. You are home early" Mrs Roberts answered, finding her place beside Amanda. "I didn't plan for any of this to happen, mother," Amanda said. "I can imagine. What is the situation now?" Mrs Roberts asked. "Am being investigated for his death," Amanda answered, her voice quivering slightly. Mrs Roberts froze in her seat, concern etched on her face. "What!" Amanda continued. "As we speak, the police do not know who killed him, the hotel called the police when they found his body. The source of death is unknown yet""My goodness! What has that got to do with you?" Mrs. Roberts asked, confused. "I booked the hotel room, mo
It's Amanda's birthday, Rowan didn't mention anything to her. The children only greeted her casually, not wanting to get her suspicious.That evening, Mrs. Roberts came into her room with a nice dress, insisting she put it on.“Why do you want me to wear this mother? I am not going anywhere.” Amanda protested.“Because I bought it for you and it's your birthday. I want you to dress nice. Show Rowan that you've still got it.” Mrs. Roberts said, helping her get dressed.“How many times have I told you that we are taking things slow. I have nothing to show.” Amanda snapped.“You are the one taking things slow, not him. We all know that. Just cheer up already and start having
Two days passed and everything seemed to be going on well. Although Amanda is still reluctant around the house, especially with Rowan's parents around, the tension has died down. The other staff had also returned, lifting Amanda's mood. The children were also finding their ways around Rowan and the house. That afternoon, they were planning Amanda's surprise birthday, huddled together, trying to conceal their plans when Rowan walked in on them. Rowan raised an eyebrow, feigning ignorance."What's going on here?" he asked with a playful grin.Adora, attempting to act casual, replied, "Oh, nothing. Just talking about, you know, stuff."Rowan chuckled, "Stuff, huh? Seems like some secret stuff. Should I be worried?"Tyler stepped forward, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "No worries, Dad. Just some top-secret mission planning. You'll find out soon enough."Rowan raised an amused eyebrow, "Top-secret mission, eh? Well, I won't pry. Just remember, I'm good with surprises too."“Not our kin
“What is going on here?’ she asked, trying to understand the situation. Mason tried to explain but Rowan stopped him, lying. “Nothing, just having a conversation with the kids.” “I see,” Amanda responded. “Go and get your stuff. The cab will be here in a few minutes” she had finished her statement before she noticed the expression on the kids’ faces. “What is it?” Adora spoke up, “I thought you broke up with mom because she lied. Now you are doing the same. Amanda's expression changed, concern overtaking her expression. “Lied about what?”Rowan hesitated, unsure of how to explain. "I had a bit of an accident, hit my head on the wall. I'm okay, just a little dizzy."'What?” Amanda exclaimed, rushing toward him. “Let me have a look” Tyler returned to the room, followed by Mrs. Roberts with a cold compress. "Here, Put this on your head. How did this happen?’ she asked. “How bad is it? Do we need to get you to the hospital?” Amanda asked. “No, I will be fine,” Rowan responded, placing
Two hours later, Rowan returned to the house. He had taken a walk after separating from Amanda to get hold of himself. By the time he entered the house, the lingering tension seemed to have dissipated. “That's a good thing” he said before heading to his room. He had almost walked past when he noticed Tyler sitting in a corner right under the stairs. Rowan approached him. “Hey buddy” Tyler looked at him and looked away immediately. “Can I sit?” “If you are asking because you want me to say no, you don't need to, it's your house.” Tyler said, playing with his fingers. “No..I am asking because I am about to intrude on your solitude, your personal time.” Rowan responded, careful with his words. “May I?” Tyler nodded. “Watch your head” he said to Rowan as he tried to fit in under the stairs. “How are you holding up?" Rowan asked, not sure of how to start. Tyler glanced up, his eyes revealing a mix of uncertainty and vulnerability. “Holding up with what? Your parents being mean to my
Rowan, frantic and torn, ran after Amanda, calling her name in an attempt to catch up.Madam Xi, now feeling awkward, said, "you don't have to leave. I guess Amanda is still angry.""You have no right to tell us what to do." Mrs. Roberts snapped. "One moment, we are liars and manipulators that you want out of your son's home and another moment, we are perfect strangers for your home.""I understand your anger." Mr. Xi retorted. "But if what our children just said is true then we have to help them.""The only help I can give to my daughter is to support whatever she wants." Mrs. Roberts snapped. "If she says she leaves, then we leave. I won't have her stay with the godforsaken people she called in-laws.""I see we are already on the wrong side here. But this anger of yours won't hel
"Mom! Dad?" You didn't tell me you were coming" Rowan said, sensing the escalating tension."Yes darling. We felt we can stay here with you for now instead of stalking you with calls. And your dad is not perfectly well yet." Madam Xi responded. "And you didn't inform me?" Rowan exclaimed. Without waiting for a response, he continued. "That's okay, I can work with that but what is going on here?" Madam Xi pointed accusatory fingers. "Look at what you've brought into your home, Rowan! Strangers! Your ex-girlfriend, her mother, and their children!""Mom," Rowan said softly but Madam Xi didn't listen. "Amanda and her family have invaded your home! I won't allow this. They need to leave immediately!""Invaded?" Mrs. Roberts snapped. "We are just here temporarily not to stay."Mr. Xi, angered, retorted, "Temporary or not, I won't have strangers, especially those associated with this unfortunate situation, invading my son's home. This is unacceptable.""Stop saying we have invaded" Mrs. Ro
The tension in the room died down immediately and silence took over. Mr. Wills walked up to Rowan and said, "How could you still defend this woman despite the damage she had caused to your family? How could you even choose to be with a woman with such baggage?" "To begin with, she has done no bad to my family and I do not think anyone should dictate how I treat my family or get angry when I treat whom I love right. Mr. Wills scoffed, embarrassed by his response. "You should not have left them to be my son's responsibility in the first place." "You are totally right. They wouldn't have been subjected to insults from irresponsible people." Rowan responded. "Lesson learnt. It won't happen again." He turned back to Amanda, "go and pack your stuff. My men will help you. Without hesitation, they started packing. Wills's parents were obviously displeased by the situation but they stepped aside quietly, watching as Rowan's men helped with their luggage. Rowan came with his escort so it
Jack and Johnny exchanged glances, unsure of how to diffuse the news. "Oh sorry, young men. We haven't seen him either since we got here. Jack answered. "Thanks." Mason said. He turned to Tyler. "Let's go. I want to be by mom's side when she wakes up." They watched the kids walk away before they exclaimed simultaneously. "Wow" "Creation has favored you man. I think you should go claim your children right away." Johnny said smiling. "They are smart" "And the same reason it will be difficult for him to win them over." Jack chimed in. "They know too much for their age. 10 year olds don't…" "Eight!" Rowan interrupted, correcting Jack. "They are eight." Jack grinned mischievously at Rowan, "he deserves the Mr. Father of the Year award for at least knowing the age of his kids." Johnny joined in, "Looks like fatherhood came knocking sooner than expected, Rowan. How are you planning to handle this genius squad?""You will definitely have to brush up on your astrophysics and medical jar
"Where is my daughter? Where is Amanda? Mrs. Roberts demanded, her voice echoing through the hospital reception. Her eyes darted around, searching for any sign of her daughter. The kids surrounded her like police officers. "Hold on ma'am. This is a hospital, the noise isn't necessary." The nurse at the reception responded to her. "Is that…? Jack asked but didn't finish the statement since he got the answer he was looking for. "Amanda's mother? Yes" Rowan responded, his eyes fixated on the kids. "And they should be her kids," Jack said softly, almost a murmur. "Obviously," Johnny added. "I think Rowan should be prepared to double his security because that little girl is fine as fuck." Rowan and Jack gave him uneasy glances, "Sorry man" he said. "But the boys sure look like you." He mumbled. "My daughter is Amanda Roberts. I was told she was brought in here." Mrs. Roberts answered the nurse. "Oh, then you should talk to Mr. Xi." The nurse said, pointing to Rowan down the hall at