Cassandra couldn't tell for how long she had slept but was suddenly woken up when something heavy dropped on her. She immediately sat up at once thinking that she was back at the old abandoned home that constantly had things drop off from the loosely hanging roof.
Her expression softened immediately seeing her little boy wrapped around her neck as he supported himself to the bed. She could hear him sniffing his nose, his chest vibrating against her body. He had probably been crying seeing that she was indeed alive." I really missed you my son, I longed to see you every day," Cassandra said as she tightened her hold on him. Her little son was all grown up now. It was as though in the one year she had been away his size suddenly doubled." Mother......I thought I had lost you for ever," Cai cried in a loud voice, tears running wild on his face, the first time he ever cried as a grown man." I'm right here my child, I won't ever leave you, not again my child,"Cai suddenly felt like a small child who needed his mother and clung to her, afraid that the moment they broke the embrace it would all be a dream. He won't let her go this time, not when he had longed for her for so long." Calm down my child, I'm really here with you. I'm alive, not even injured, so don't feel sad anymore. I won't leave you again," Cassandra consoled him, gently rubbing his back till his hiccups subsided and his tears dried.The two sat on the bed facing each other, holding hands." I never thought I could see you again mother, I'm so happy that you are back with us,"" I know my child, and this new opportunity I'm given I'll make sure to make it up to both of you, you won't loose a mother again,"Cai suddenly sat up when Zia's image flashed in his mind. He shouldn't be this happy when Zia was all alone, thinking that she had no one in this life." And Zia...."" Not now Cai, Zichi already told me everything. For once let me enjoy being in the company of my children. I've missed you so much for her to spoil this day for me,"" Don't you miss her at all mother, she's your flesh and blood," Cai felt his heart breaking into a thousand pieces seeing his mother avoid his eyes and get up from the bed and head for the window.She drew the curtains which let in the bright midday sun that hit her face, forcing her to close them up before adjusting to the blinding light coming in." Cai, why don't you let me freshen up and then we can catch up after that. I'm sure you are tired too from the long flight. Now go on, I'll be down in a minute,"Cai flinched, Cassandra had never let go of her coldness towards Zia. She didn't even bothered to find out how Zia was doing after going through all that she had experienced. What mother would leave her child, the youngest one of them in the cold. Was Zia truly her daughter.Cai let go of this thought. He had been there when his mother returned from the hospital with his little sister. But he had failed to understand how she never loved Zia at all when she was all so beautiful and adorable. Cai walked to the door and held the door hinges before glancing back inside." I'm really glad that you are back with us mother. Whatever it was that you went through, I'm sure with us around you'll be able to overcome it. I love you much mother,"Cai closed the door behind him not waiting for his mother's response. As much as he had been happy, his heart was all out for Zia, all alone and unloved in this world.Cassandra went back and sat on the bed. The mere mention of Zia's name brought anger into her happy soul. Soon she'll have to deal with that little brat to spare herself more headache.As much as she was happy getting reunited with her children, the act was just too much for her. Cassandra wanted her life back as soon as possible, and she would get it back.Back at Konza, Zia suddenly stretched from the bed after a long and peaceful sleep. She felt exhausted, and she knew that she must have overslept. She picked up her mobile to check the time, ten in the morning.She kicked away her blanket, a habit she had tried so much to stop with no avail. She made her bed though the sheet were spread unevenly on the bed. She didn't fancy at all her bed, but it could do.She entered the bathroom for a nice warm bath to waken her muscles. She made calculations in her mind. She had to head back into town to find a job, and today she wouldn't leave without getting one, no matter how much they agreed to pay her.With everything done, she headed into the kitchen, hoping that Cai had been able to prepare breakfast for her rumbling stomach. She had gotten used to his special treatment every morning that she had almost forgotten that she was the lady here. The fact that she hadn't eaten much last night added to her anger that she immediately entered the kitchen.Zia found it strange that the kitchen was cold and quiet at such an hour. Everything was in it's place just like she had left them last night. The bowl filled with food still on the counter.Cai can't possibly be asleep at this time when he was the first to sleep.Zia shouted Cai's name but there was no response. She made to head for his room when something caught her attention from behind the bowl on the table. Several dollar notes were lying on the table and a note under the bowl." I'm really sorry Zia that I had to leave on short notice. I had an emergency to take care of, but don't worry yourself, everything is fine.I might not return in a week's time. I hope the money will serve you till I return, but there are more in my closet, you can pick any amount you need. I also left the car for your use. I'm sure you'll want to find a job, so don't hesitate to use the car.See you soon, take care. "The text ended . Zia let out a long breath she had been holding for a long time now. She felt so lonely and empty. With Cai gone it was as though a part of her was gone too. He had for the past week made her feel human again, making her discover things about herself that were still new to her.Zia dropped the note on the table and retrieved a cold water bottle from the fridge which she gobbled up immediately. As much as she felt sad, she had to find herself a goal and purpose in life. She couldn't depend on him forever, and this just showed her that he had a life outside of her. Zia hoped that it wasn't because of her that he might have missed certain things and he now had to make up for it.Pangs of hunger hit her once more as the cold water slithered down her empty stomach. She picked up the bowl of food to heat up. As much as she lacked appetite, she had to regain her energy, not with the hectic job hunt that awaited her.Seating by the kitchen counter, she immediately gobbled up her food before she dropped the used utensils in the sink. She glanced back at the dirty dishes and flinched. Zia couldn't understand why she hated doing the dishes so much. She decided that she would clean them back when she returned.Zia picked a few notes and stuffed them into her sling bag. She remembered to pick the car keys. Earlier on she tried driving and found that she had actually been good at it. In her previous life she must have drove a lot.Getting out of the apartment and driving through the streets, she noticed a black range rover parked by the roadside. How strange. In her short time there she hadn't spotted one. She brushed aside these thoughts as she focused ahead, her eyes on the road careful not to miss a sign.Zia had driven for close to twenty minutes when suddenly she spotted the same car from earlier trailing behind her. At first she didn't think so much about it, but after making several turns and still behind her, she felt alarmed and drove fast and pulled up in front of a hotel by the roadside and immediately parked. She stayed in the car and saw the same car pull up by the road for a brief second before speeding off.Zia suddenly felt fear grip her heart, why would someone trail after her, did she have some kind of enemies that were back for her.A knock on the car window startled her that she threw up the phone she had in her hand, falling back on her thighs. She glanced out frightened, only to see the hotel staff probably talking to her. She immediately rolled down the window." I'm sorry miss, but couldn't you please move your car a little bit further ahead," the man said respectfully.Zia had her car parked and decided to get into the hotel to buy some time just incase her stalker was still waiting for her.The hotel seemed luxurious compared to the rest that she had sought for a job before. She glanced around at the busy attendants who were moving up and about. The entire room seemed filled with guests at such an odd hour. Surely it had to be a very popular joint.A girl probably in her thirties approached Zia with a menu in her hand, but before she could hand over the menu to her, the girl suddenly became dizzy and fell at Zia's feet which caught her off guard. Zia watched helplessly as the girl hit her head on a chair before she hit the ground.Two other ladies rushed forward and helped her up. The girl was conscious, but blood was oozing out of her head." I'm so sorry , I couldn't help her at all, it was so sudden ," Zia finally found her voice as she helped the two ladies hold her steadily." It wasn't your fault miss, Jeddah wasn't feeling well and couldn't leave due to the parked work. She was bound to black out sooner or later," one of the girls said as they led her out.At the hotel entrance, a car was pulled up ready to take her to the hospital. The commotion had alerted the management and the assistant manager had hurried to the scene.One of the girls boarded the car to accompany Jeddah to the hospital." Great, that was just great. What am I do to with all the guests," The woman lamented.Zia who was still glancing at the departing car was brought to the present and chanced on the opportunity that just presented itself." Excuse me ma'am, I'm actually looking for a job. Could you take me in to assist?" Zia said crossing her heart.The woman glanced up and down at her, as though her eyes could see through to her bones before she resigned." What are you waiting for? If you are sure you can do the job then hop right in and get to work," the woman said and made a turn back into the building." Yes?" Zia jumped with joy before she collected herself and followed after the girl." I'm Zia,"" Great to meet you Zia, but we don't have much time, you better get ready to work. I'm Zippy. You can head over there to get an apron," Zippy said and was off, not caring whether Zia heard her or not.Zia swallowed hard before she turned to the counter, her first day would surely be a busy one.Asriel was late for an appointment, but he just couldn't let go of this urge to see her, especially when he was back in this country. With Cai gone, she had to be all alone. Asriel waited by the apartment, one that Cai had refused to disclose to him, but that was as easy as a press of the button. He waited in the car, he had almost given up when she finally showed up, looking all fresh and beautiful. Her pale skin clearly showed the ordeal she had gone through.She might have spotted his car when she glanced at his car for a few minutes, but that would not prevent him from trailing after her. He had to know the kind of life she led. As much as it wasn't part of his plans, his body acted on it's own and here he was, trailing after her.He could tell she was frightened when she increased her speed, this only earned a chuckle from him, she was still a little scared cat. He watched as she stopped by a hotel before driving off.Asriel couldn't tell how he had gotten there, but he was in a
Asriel rolled drowsily on the bed before something hard brought him to a stop. His head was throbbing in pain. Slowly he opened his lazy eyes and blinked constantly adjusting to the dim light of the room. He got from bed and stumbled on something, making him glance around.Asriel froze.Three naked bodies lying on the bed, one almost falling by the side of the bed. He subconsciously glanced down at his naked self before he cursed out loud and picked a towel to cover himself.He opened his mouth and a deep and heavy growl reverberated through his chest, sending the three jumping helter-skelter from the bed, picking themselves from the ground.The three stood up with sleep filled eyes, confused and filled with terror seeing the obscure dark eyes burning with anger gawking down at them.Veins popped out of Asriel's forehead, little sweats formed all over his body. He turned to the three and threw heavy punches at them. The three tried to duck, but not it was useless against the angry w
Asriel was in the air yet the business world was already burning up with chaos. MNG company was almost at the brink of bankruptcy. Several investors had pulled out their investments suddenly.A crisis meeting had been called by the company CEO, yet the manager couldn't be found. It only meant one thing. He was involved in whatever woe that had struck the company." Cam someone find me that bastard for goodness sake," The CEO threw his hands helplessly in the air.The chopper had finally descended in the area swarmed with journalists. Several onlookers were on sight, the police keeping them a safe distance off.Seeing Asriel walk out out the chopper, Drusilla got out of her car." Where have you been Asriel? And whatever it is that happened here you have to find out," Asriel stopped abruptly seeing the worried look in Drusilla's eyes. Maybe thinks had began disintegrating, the ones she had put her entire life into before acquiring." I suggest you should head back home grandmother. D
At Salem family villa, Cassandra and Zichi were getting ready to receive the guests. They had organised an exquisite party to welcome Cassandra back home. This, to Cassandra would be her special way of stepping out into the society once again. Not as Salem's family, but as the owner of Globe company. Gaining control of her late husband's company meant her social status had risen. She couldn't wait to finally get her rightful place." Zichi dear, don't you think it's high time you got married. Look, you are rich, the CEO to your father's company. With all the power you got, I'm sure you'll find the man of your dreams," Cassandra started as the two had their make up done." Not now mother, a step at a time. It's barely a year since I took control of everything. I'm yet to establish lasting connections. Don't tell me you are planning to do away with me now that you are back. I hope you aren't dreaming of controlling the company," " Zichi why would you talk like that. I'm only looking ou
The next morning early in the morning, Asriel made ready to head off to work. It was a weekend, but he had to oversee the construction of the hotel building.Getting down to the living room, Drusilla was having breakfast." Asriel please join me for breakfast, there's plenty here," Asriel joined his grandmother. He hadn't eaten the previous night, obviously disturbed with whatever transpired last night. His mother was back, he couldn't promise he'll be good to her.At the same time Connie descended the stairs majestically just as Asriel took his seat. Seeing this, Asriel made to stand up to leave, but Drusilla held him back." Hello son, how have you been. I can see your grandmother has clearly taken good care of you," Connie said as she made haste and joined them, taking her seat opposite her son, glancing directly into each other." I can take care of myself mom. Like I said, I don't want you here," " Why not my son? Anyways, I'm here for my daughter in law, the last time we spoke,
Zia woke up early for woke. She felt exhausted, especially after she had been forced to a double shift to compensate for the previous day's occurance. No one said it would be easy. She had to pick herself up,her body slowly getting used to this.The previous night and the nights before she had tried to reach out to Cai, but she couldn't find him. Not a word since he left. Zia was left wondering if anything went wrong with him. Till now she had failed to know how she went back home on that day. But since no one had showed up at her door, she chose to forget this.Getting to work, Zia registered for her shift. She had to be careful, never to let anything in her way. That early in the morning a lot of changes had occurred. The building suddenly had different colours, a shade of olive and white, bright and beautiful. A new name had been written all over, Empire Hotels.Everything had been changed, even the seats were new. Zia wondered how everything could happen overnight, but this was
Three weeks had passed, Zia barely held on at work. Her entire body hurt like hell, her fingers filled with blisters from the many accidents she had with the utensils. She had never been good at this, yet she had been forced to clean everything, all alone.Her kitchen staff hadn't been good enough with her, especially when her star had gone off. She had often been ridiculed by everyone in the kitchen, as the desperate princess but she could only work in silence.Back at home things weren't going on so well. Cai had recently gotten a job, but his salary added with that of Zia couldn't support them for an entire month. The two had thus been forced to the limit to earn anything.On one occasion Cai had returned home, his face swollen, maybe from a beating. But he could never tell Zia what the problem was. Zia had thought of moving out, but she couldn't leave him like that, she had to assist him with the bills.Zia had tried everything possible,but it seemed every door had been closed, o
At the army base, a soldier had gone into the commander's chamber to report the new arrival. " General, sorry to disturb you this late at night, but a frail woman suddenly showed up at the gate, she's currently asleep. What would you have us do with her? "" Why would you ask me that, you should do away with her as soon as yesterday, you know we don't accept women here " the general replied, his eyes glued to a map in his hands. " I would have done that straight away General, only that she got this, " the soldier took out the card they had retrieved from the woman. The General wasn't shocked at all, the woman would not waste any time, but he never thought she would pick a woman, worse of all, a frail girl. " You should do the necessary, "The General tossed aside the card before he got up from his chair. He began removing his shirt, revealing several healed-up scars on his back, the scars that could only tell the tale of his life. The soldier looked away at once. " What are you