Home / Romance / The Tale Not Old As Time / 17 “Surrounded” 

Share

17 “Surrounded” 

Author: June Rimari
last update Last Updated: 2024-11-01 09:20:37

Seventeen

Within the exclusive world of the ultra-wealthy, three prominent families reigned supreme: the Frorths, the Spencers, and the Battenkurts. For centuries, these three powerful and wealthy families had consistently occupied the top three positions on the list of the world’s wealthiest dynasties.

So, in the realm of affluence, Zacchaeus “Chaos” Spencer Battenkurt, the playboy billionaire, belonged to a whole new and different kind of echelon, a level of wealth that transcended the ordinary. His wealth was completely unparalleled, placing him in a league of his own kind.

While most wealthy individuals were accustomed to the luxury of marble floors, Chaos walked on a different level entirely, surrounded by opulence and extravagance. His father, Edward Battenkurt, a former Vice President of the United States, and the one and only heir of the Battenkurts, hailed from a family of generational wealth, their influence deeply rooted in the political landscape and economic sphere.

His m
Locked Chapter
Continue Reading on GoodNovel
Scan code to download App

Related chapters

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   18 “In A Cruel World”

    18 “”EighteenAs the evening progressed, Florence’s boredom grew more, and she found herself mechanically stirring the remaining food on her plate. At the same table, Florence sat among the wives of the businessmen, who were engaged in discussions about high-end salons and luxury brands from Italy and other countries they could actually afford without a sweat. Florence, however, found these conversations uninteresting and struggled to pay attention.Startled by the sudden surge of loud music from the stage, Florence dropped her fork in pain. Her right ear was particularly sensitive to such sounds, a condition that her doctor had previously warned her about. An orchestra provided live music for the affluent attendees of the ballroom, but Florence found the noise overwhelming. She struggled to cope with the sound, instinctively holding and covering her hearing aid to alleviate the discomfort.“Babe,” Heath placed a gentle hand on Florence’s shoulder, rubbing her spine soothingly. “Are

    Last Updated : 2024-11-02
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   19 “A Humble Demeanor”

    NineteenFlorence’s gaze was fixed on the man, who appeared to be a humble hotel waiter with a generous smile on his face, a comparison to the wealthy people in the ballroom that she just escaped for a couple of seconds. Little did she know, he was the infamous Spencer-Battenkurt’s CEO playboy billionaire in disguise. His humble demeanor and casual attire disguised his true identity. Despite the expensive brands he wore, she knew nothing about it, and he hoped that she did not recognize him from his speech earlier. His overall appearance was unassuming, despite the fact that he possessed immense wealth and never encountered financial difficulties. His casual demeanor, reminiscent of the waiters in the ballroom who wore white dress shirts and colored dress pants of black, gray, and brown, led Florence to completely overlook his extraordinary wealth and influence. His unassuming presence, similar to the waiters in the ballroom, led Florence to completely overlook his extraordinary we

    Last Updated : 2024-11-03
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   20 “Meeting Chaos”

    Twenty Chaos smiled widely before letting her know, “They are absolutely divine. The pastry is flaky and buttery, and the filling is a perfect blend of creamy cheese and savory herbs.” He spoke slowly, but not too slow, but he spoke with care and consideration for her. “They are the perfect bite-sized treat to tantalize your taste buds.”As Chaos spoke, he gestured towards the tray of mini quiches, his eyes sparkling with excitement and care. He then pointed to one of the quiches for Florence to see. “Just look at that golden brown crust,” he said, “It is simply irresistible. Do you want to take a bite, miss?”Florence stared at mini quiches on the tray. “The filling is so flavorful,” He continued while smiling at her, “and the balance of saltiness and sweetness is just perfect. I highly recommend trying one.” He held out the tray to Florence, urging her to take one. “Trust me, you will not be disappointed.” He reassured her with a confident smile before adding, “For allergens, it h

    Last Updated : 2024-11-04
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   21 “Wedding”

    Twenty-OneThe day was bathed in bright sunlight, casting a warm glow over the attendees as everyone had doubted this wedding, but it was still happening after all. The women were elegantly dressed in long gowns, while the men exuded sophistication in their tailored suits and ties. The overall atmosphere was one of refinement and opulence.As the church doors swung open, Florence stood at the entrance, her presence captivating the attention of the photographers and wedding guests. She was a vision in a breathtaking wedding gown adorned with a flowing train and a stunning veil embellished with hand-sewn Swarovski crystals. At the end of the aisle, her soon-to-be husband awaited her with anticipation, but his anticipation was because of the fame that he was going to get.Florence was the epitome of bridal beauty, captivating the attention of every wedding guest. Her hair was styled in an elegant updo, while her makeup was flawlessly applied. Both her hair and makeup were the work of ski

    Last Updated : 2024-11-06
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   22 “Purely Transactional”

    Twenty-TwoAlmost a year had passed since their contractual marriage, Florence and Heath continued to reside under the same roof, yet their lives remained largely separate. Florence occupied her own bedroom which was downstairs in his flat, while Heath slept in his private quarters which was on the second floor. Despite their shared living space, their relationship was far from intimate. Their relationship is devoid of intimacy and affection. Heath would leave for work each day, returning home without acknowledging Florence’s presence. Their living arrangement was purely transactional, lacking any genuine emotional connection. They barely even talk with each other. While Heath was focused on his career and social standing, Florence was dedicated to her studies and maintaining their household. Their lives intersected only in the most basic and superficial ways, as they share a living space but rarely engage in meaningful conversation or interaction.Their coexistence was a purely prac

    Last Updated : 2024-11-07
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   23 “The Email”

    Twenty-Three“Chaos.” She muttered as she stared and scrutinized at the calling card intently before adding, “Who would name themselves as Chaos in a calling card? It is like a walking mass of destruction.” Her gaze lingered on the phone number printed on the calling card. Despite her hesitation, she decided to contact the person named Chaos using the provided email address.She grabbed her outdated laptop and began typing her email:From: florenceemry@gmail.comTo: eosb_zchaos@gmail.comSubject: Permission To Conduct Interview For College ProjectTo Whom It May Concern,I hope this email finds you well.My name is Florence Emry and I am a senior journalism student at the Abbey Springfield University. I found it absolutely absurd but I found your calling card in my phone case and I have no idea how long it has been in there but I just found it earlier so I am reaching out to you respectfully. I am currently working on a research project for my journalism class, and I would be honored

    Last Updated : 2024-11-09
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   24 “Luxury”

    Twenty-FourThe whole space was filled with custom-made furniture, each piece a work of art in itself and expensive as it had been there since his father’s time as previous CEO of this entire company. A massive mahogany desk dominated the center of the room, its surface littered with stacks of documents and high-end electronic gadgets. Behind the desk, a floor-to-ceiling window offered a stunning panoramic view of the city. The blinds were often drawn, shrouding the office in a sense of privacy and exclusivity whenever he needed to.The office was also filled with personal touches that reflected Chaos’ interests and personality. Furnished bookshelves lined the walls, filled with a diverse collection of literature which he loved reading. A large, ornate clock adorned the wall, ticking away the hours with a sense of timeless elegance. A few pieces of modern art were scattered throughout the room, adding a touch of contemporary flair to the traditional decor. Overall, his office was a re

    Last Updated : 2024-11-09
  • The Tale Not Old As Time   25 “The Vast Empire”

    Twenty-Five From: florenceemry@gmail.com To: eosb_zchaos@gmail.com Subject: Permission To Conduct Interview For College ProjectThank you so much for your prompt reply and for agreeing to an interview. I am truly grateful for your willingness to share your insights and experiences. I am available for an interview at one o’clock today. I am looking forward to the opportunity to speak with you and gain valuable knowledge from your expertise.Thank you again for your time and consideration.Respectfully, Florence EmryFlorence was completely unaware that she was communicating with the CEO of the renowned Empire of Spencer & Battenkurt. Chaos was diligently clearing his schedule to accommodate her interview for the rest of his afternoon even if it was packed with meetings for the new investors and so on, but he was going to clear them all for her. He knew that it was her and had been eagerly anticipating this moment for nearly a year, and here it was. It was actually happening now. H

    Last Updated : 2024-11-09

Latest chapter

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   105 “Afternoon Sun”

    One Hundred FiveThe afternoon sun streamed through the window inside Florence’s room, casting a warm glow on the worn leather armchair where Florence sat. Her eyes, though clouded by the fog of Alzheimer’s, still held a spark of recognition when Chaos entered the room.“Hello, my love,” he greeted her, his voice soft and gentle, despite his weakened knees and how his doctors had been telling him to stop walking distances for long hours since it has been bad for his health.Florence smiled, a fragile, fleeting smile that touched Chaos deeply. “Hello, I do not remember you, but I think you were the old guy who kept reading me about stories.” she replied, her voice a mere whisper.“I am.” He settled into the armchair beside her, taking her hand in his. “Shall I read to you?” he asked, his voice filled with a tenderness that never ceased to amaze her.Florence nodded, her eyes fluttering closed. Chaos picked up the worn leather-bound book from the side table. It was a collection of short

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   104 “Tale”

    One Hundred Four“Mama? Dada?” Rhys called out sleepily from the doorway of the kitchen, his eyes barely opened as he stumbled into the kitchen, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he yawned sleepily. “Look who just woken up.” Chaos called out as they smiled, staring at their sleepy looking son.Chaos pulled back slightly, his gaze lingering on Florence. The sound of their son’s voice, sleepy and sweet, filled the kitchen. Both parents turned towards the doorway, their hearts melting at the sight of their little boy, his eyes still heavy with sleep, rubbing his eyes with his tiny fists.“Good morning, sleepyhead,” Florence cooed, scooping him up in her arms. Chaos smiled as he walked towards Rhys and the little boy immediately snuggled into her neck, burying his face as he was sleepy while yawning which made Florence smile.Chaos chuckled, his eyes filled with a mixture of amusement and affection. “Looks like someone’s ready for breakfast,” he said, his voice soft.He walked over to

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   103 “Sunday Morning”

    One Hundred ThreeThe Sunday morning sun streamed through the kitchen window, painting stripes of light across the gleaming hardwood floor. Florence, with a smile on her pretty face, hummed happily as she stirred the pancake batter, the scent of cinnamon and butter filling the air. Her eyes, filled with a quiet contentment, glanced at the delicate band glimmering on her left ring finger. It was a symbol of the years they had spent together, a testament to their resilience and their unwavering love. Three years of marriage had been a challenging journey, a tapestry woven with threads of joy, sorrow, and the unwavering support they offered each other as they navigated life's ups and downs.Chaos, ever the early riser, was already outside, tending to the vegetable garden he had painstakingly cultivated in their backyard. Despite his status, he wanted to do the normal things with her. Cultivating their backyard garden had given him some sense of peace and calm.She glanced out the windo

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   102 “Mind”

    One Hundred Two “I am losing my mind!” Kamille yelled in frustration and anger, as she threw the letters towards Chaos’ office floor which caused shock from him and his secretary. These were letters that he had not known before. Letters that Theresa had never mentioned before. Letters that Kamille had never mentioned ever before. Kamille cried, as if she was having emotional breakdown, but she was calming herself down, “My mind, my guilt, every fucking thing is killing my mind! And you have no idea about the pain and… and the struggle that I had been through!” She shook her head as she stomped and left angrily as if she had been knowing something that she had been hiding for years.Kamille’s composure shattered. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she cried out, “My mind… my guilt, everything is killing me! You have no idea the pain, the struggle I have endured!”She shook her head violently, the words tumbling out in a torrent of raw emotion. It was as if a dam had broken, releasing y

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   101 “Captured”

    One Hundred OneA year had passed since that fateful day at the cemetery. Florence and Chaos, through open communication and unwavering support, had nurtured their relationship, allowing it to blossom into something truly beautiful. Florence had met his parents, their initial apprehension quickly melting away as they witnessed the profound love and respect that existed between their son and the woman who had captured his heart. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, Florence had seamlessly integrated into their lives, her warmth and kindness winning them over completely.The aroma of roasted chicken and Caroline’s famous apple pie filled the air as Florence settled into the worn-in armchair opposite Chaos’ parents. Edward, a man of few words but a kind heart and Chaos’ father, beamed at her from across the table. Caroline, however, was effusive in her praise.“You know, Florence,” Caroline began, a mischievous glint in her eyes, “Chaos has not stopped talking about you since th

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   100 “Profound”

    Hundred“I am so sorry.” Florence’s voice was soft, as if he could hear the hurt in her voice. She reached out and gently took his hand, offering him comfort. “But you could not have known,” she told him very softly, her voice filled with empathy. “These things… they happen. They happened because… because it was what she wanted.” “She did not even ask me what I wanted.” He answered and his words hurt her.“Guilt and self-blame can be incredibly powerful, especially when you are struggling.” She told him sincerely.She knew he blamed himself, but she also knew that blaming himself would not bring Theresa back. He needed to forgive himself, to find a way to move forward.“Hey,” She caressed his cheeks with her hands, “Let us not dwell on the past,” she said softly. “Let us focus on healing, on honoring her memory.”She looked at him, her eyes filled with a gentle understanding. “You can do this, Chaos,” she said, her voice filled with a quiet strength. “No one blamed you. And I do not

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   99 “Passion”

    Ninety-NineThe sun cast long shadows across the cemetery, the air thick with the scent of freshly cut grass and damp earth. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the ancient oak trees, creating a soothing, almost melancholic soundtrack.Florence and Chaos sat on the cool grass in front of Theresa’s headstone, a comfortable silence settling between them. Florence, her gaze fixed on the inscription, felt a strange sense of peace. The initial shock of the revelation had subsided, replaced by a quiet understanding, a profound sense of connection to the young woman whose heart now beat within her own chest.Chaos, sensing her quiet contemplation, reached out and gently took her hand. His touch was a silent affirmation of their shared grief, an unspoken acknowledgment of the profound connection they now shared.“What was she like?” Florence asked softly with curiosity.“Theresa… she was a whirlwind,” Chaos began, his voice thick with emotion. “She was a dancer. Ballet.”Florence nodded he

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   98 “Between You And Me”

    Ninety-Eight“I have been thinking lately about everything that has been happening between you and me.” Florence continued to speak as she was staring at her feet while they were walking.Chaos nodded his head gently, his heart pounding with a mixture of hope and dread. He waited, holding his breath, for her to continue. Florence continued, her voice barely a whisper, “Thinking about everything that is happening between us.”Chaos nodded again, his eyes fixed on her face, searching for any sign of emotion.Florence took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly. “And I realized… I realized that I have been selfish too.”Chaos shook his head, “No, do not say that. I was the one being selfish.”“No,” she said, her voice breaking. Tears were welling up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. “I was being selfish too. You have been through so much, Chaos. Just the same as me, you went through something too. And I… I was letting my anger and jealousy consume me.”She took a deep breath,

  • The Tale Not Old As Time   97 “Miss”

    Ninety-SevenAs Florence stepped out of the school, she spotted Chaos standing by his car. His shoulders slumped, and a look of weariness etched his face. He missed her, desperately. Florence’s heart ached as she saw him. She missed him too, the silence between them stretching on like an endless desert. They both knew that the longer they remained apart, the deeper the longing and the more painful the separation would become.He exhaled as soon as he saw her emerge from the school, her shoulders slumped slightly, and his heart ached. He wanted to reach for her, to pull her close and hold her until the pain subsided. He wanted to hug her and just feel her warmth once again after days of being away from each other.But he knew better. He had hurt her, deeply, and he had to earn back her trust, one small step at a time.He watched as she approached slowly and almost unsurely, her gaze fixed on the pavement, her footsteps heavy with unspoken emotions. He wanted to call out to her, to apol

Scan code to read on App
DMCA.com Protection Status