Game of Love - 16. Chapter 16: Danger is lurking in the shadows. Will the Alvarados survive without Eric?

One week later…

*

Giada and Jayden arrived at Alvarado Jewellers looking like the king and queen of the world. Both of them were dressed wonderfully, and sexily. Giada was wearing a red designer’s dress that had a long slit from her thigh down with red high heels. Her makeup was on point and she had her hair in curls. Jayden was wearing a black designer’s suit that fit him like a second skin with pitch-black shoes on his feet. He had his hands shoved in his pocket.

“Good morning, sir? Good morning, ma’am?” The assistant greeted, rushing to them. She couldn’t mask the fear in her voice.

Everyone else in that building was up, bowing to the new king and queen of the Alvarado jewelers just like they had been told if they wanted to keep their jobs. The environment at the company had changed and everyone lived in fear.

“What is so good about this morning?” Jayden rolled his eyes. “And even if you say it more than once, it still won’t make the morning good.”

“Sorry, sir!” She apologized. “The clients, the board of directors, and the media are already inside. I’ve arranged for coffee and tea.”

“Good!” Jayden was now ready for the full takeover. “What about the presentation?”

The assistant remained quiet, staring at him like a deer caught in the headlight.

“Sir… I… didn’t know about that. I’ll ask the IT department and inform you about that.”

“Everyone is already inside and you need time to ask?” Giada seethed, balling her fist. “What kind of assistant are you? Are you always this stupid?”

“But ma’am, you didn’t mention this to me.” She apologized.

“What do you mean?” Jayden’s voice sounded like a roaring wind. “It is your job to know everything. What the fuck are you getting paid for? If you don’t know how to do your job then resign. If Sergio had tolerated your nonsense then I feel so sorry for you because I am not Sergio. Use your brains, if not, grow some.” He stamped his foot on the floor, making everyone’s hearts hammer. “Before I reach that room, you better bring the presentation, otherwise, pack your stuff and get out of here.”

“Y-yes, sir!” She stuttered and began running as if there was a storm chasing after her.

Jayden shook his head and began heading to the conference room with Giada. In one week, they had managed to win over most of the board members with money and material things. No one was gonna stand in their way. Now it was time to make an official announcement about his takeover and start his reign.

The assistant managed to bring the pen drive before Jayden and Giada reached the conference room and hence her ass was saved. As soon as Giada and Jayden reached the conference room, cameras had already started rolling and almost everyone clapped. They were happy. Giada and Jayden waved at them and they told them to sit.

Jayden took the front seat and Giada side beside him.

“Thank you so very much, everyone,” Jayden said with a smile. “It is an honor to be seated in front of all of you wonderful people. I will not waste your time and will go straight to the point. As you know, it’s been a week since I returned and took over my father’s company. For the last week, I have been working with all of you, trying to find a place amongst all of you.

And I must say that I have found a place amongst all of you. You’re such wonderful people. When I was young….”

He began telling all of them how he always wanted to join his father’s company when he was young. He did all he could to get to their emotions and it worked. The media people were already catching a good story that was gonna boost their network.

“As you all know, I own about 60% of this company’s shares. My younger brother and my sister own the remaining 40%. And seeing that I am the biggest shareholder of this company, I believe that means I am the owner. For the last five years, Sergio Alvarado has been the president of this company and Laurel Alvarado, the vice president.” He chuckled, smiling at the cameras.

“I held this meeting to say that all that is gonna change. I am back now and I am taking over the position of presidency and Mrs. Giada Sandoval is gonna take over Vice-presidency effective immediately!”

The whole room went loud with cheers. Everyone was smiling even if some of them didn’t want to. Giada and Jayden glanced at each other, winking for they knew that it was done. Nothing was gonna stop their victory.

“Thank you so much!” Giada rose, waving at everyone. “As Mr. Alvarado has said, I will….”

“Just a minute!” Came a voice that made the whole room go quiet.

The people in the conference room had their eyes towards the entrance and saw him, Sergio, standing in the doorway with a stern look on his face. He was dressed smartly in a blood-red designer’s suit that fit him perfectly with bloody red shoes on his feet and a white shirt inside. His hair was combed to perfection, and his mood screamed business. He was with Steve who was equally dressed like a sexy maniac.

Sergio walked professionally to everyone, looking at them all. He glanced at Jayden who looked shocked though mad. He saw the shock register on Giada’s face before she could hide it. A small smile played on his lips before he looked at everyone and then he got stern again.

“I don’t remember calling for a meeting or telling any of you that I wasn’t capable of carrying out my duties.” He leaned on the table, staring at all of them. “I’ve been gone for a week and you all wanted to replace me with a stranger.”

“Mr. Alvarado is not a stranger.” The managing director spoke. “And besides, he owns 60% of this company and he’s got Alvarado blood flowing through his veins. In a week that he’s been here, he’s shown that he is far more capable of taking this company to greater heights. Aside from that, it is his right.”

Giada felt ecstatic when she heard the defense from one of the people she had bribed and promised a raise if he got to her side. She smiled orgasmically, biting her lip. There was no way Sergio was gonna win this one.

“It is his right?” He chuckled. “And who are you to tell me who’s got rights to this company and who doesn’t?” He was being rude but he didn’t care. “As far as I am concerned, I am still the owner and president of this company. Everyone answers to me.” He rammed his fist on the table.

“Is that so?” Giada interjected, chirping at him. “Looks like the death of your lover got to you. News flash…” She threw her fingers in the air. “…Jayden now owns…”

“I don’t remember asking you to talk, Mrs. Sandoval. You’re neither part of my family nor my company.” He argued. “And since you wanna bring legality in this matter I’ll play along.” He took a file from Steve and threw it on the table. “According to these documents, I own 51% of this company’s shares. And as such, I am still the owner of this company and that also means I am still president.”

“Impossible!” Giada lost the smile on her face. “We all know you’re lying. Jayden…”

“I don’t have to answer to you.” He huffed, eyeing her from head to toe. “The documents are right in front of you. Why don’t you go through them?”

Giada furiously took the file from the table and started reading it. She didn’t need to go further because she saw what she was looking for. There was a delicious moment where Giada’s face washed blank with confusion like her brain cogs couldn’t turn fast enough to take in the information from her wide eyes. She looked at Jayden and he just stared back at her with a blank face. He took the file and his expression wasn’t any different from hers.

“This is a lie!” He roared, ripping the documents to shreds. “These are all lies!”

“Go ahead. Be my guest,” He said with a chuckle. “You can rip them all you want. That was just a copy I made for you. If you still think I am lying, you can verify with my lawyer.”

He took a deep breath and looked at the board members that were now looking confused and scared.

“I don’t know what this man and this woman told you or what evidence they showed you. I don’t even care.” He hollered, hitting his fist on the table. “But I am back now and if anyone wants to challenge my authority, let them speak now. I was and still am the owner of this company. This man may still own 49% of the shares but all of us here know who’s boss here.

This company was started many years ago by my mother with the help of my father. Both of them worked their sweat off just to make this company the way it is today. I will not let some desperate people ruin it.”

Jayden felt like his heart had been ripped in half. All the cameras were rolling in his face, and he didn’t appreciate it. He got closer to Sergio, feeling the urge to murder him right in front of the press.

“This is not over, Sergio.” He warned, breathing in his face. “You’ll pay for this. I swear.”

He stormed out of there like the hounds of hell were after him. Giada followed him and the media followed them too. Sergio took his seat and stared at the board members. Some of them couldn’t even make eye contact with him. Those were the ones that had betrayed him.

“Ever since I took over this company, I have been nothing but good and loyal. I have been a friend to all of you and I have helped each of you on different occasions.” They all nodded. “Is this how you decide to repay me? You betrayed, but I thank those that remained loyal even though they could have betrayed me. You’ll be rewarded for it. As for those of you that chose to stab me in the back, I don’t wanna see you here ever again.”

“Sir…”

“I am sorry, but I can never trust you again.” He furiously rose. “This meeting is over.”

He got out of there as fast as he had come and could hear cries from some of the people that had remained in the conference room. But he didn’t care.

“Thank you so much,” Steve said, patting his back.

“I couldn’t allow my ship sink with those two.” He said harshly. “This is just the beginning. I will get back whatever they stole.”

Steve laughed, holding Sergio’s hand tightly. His friend was back, the fierce and gutsy businessman that feared no one.

***

‘Something happened at Alvarado Jewellers today, something that shocked everyone.’ The reporter said. He was standing right outside the building. ‘Just as Jayden, the mystery son of Mr. Alvarado was about to take over, Sergio arrived and saved the day. Right now, we’re standing outside the building and we can confirm that the sexy hunk is still the owner of the company. We tried to interview Mr. Jayden and Mrs. Alvarado but….’

Jayden screamed, throwing the tablet to the floor, breaking it into pieces. He wasn’t only mad, he wanted to kill someone, anyone to make him feel better. Everything had been going according to plan but it had been ruined.

“It’s everywhere!” Giada sighed, throwing her phone on the couch. “We need to find ways of bringing this information from social media, otherwise, it will be going viral soon.”

“He makes my blood boil!” Jayden groaned, screaming like he was going insane. “This can’t be happening. I was so close to achieving my dream of being the owner of that company and then… then… no!” He screamed at the top of his lungs, throwing the cushions from the couches.

“He’s got to be lying,” Giada muttered. “There’s no way he’d own 51% of the company. We checked and made sure that everything was in place. Kim signed the documents herself. Maybe… maybe…” She paused and looked at him. “…could they be forged?”

Jayden roared, clenching his fists. “That boy is playing with fire. If he thinks he can challenge me then he’s got another thing coming. I have come so far for a puny little man to ruin everything I have worked so hard for.”

He was about to storm out of the living room when he glanced towards the entrance and saw Sergio coming inside with a hand in his pocket, looking serious as ever. When their eyes met, the hatred that both men had for each other couldn’t be masked.

“What happened?” Sergio shrugged, getting closer to the two idiots. “Why is there no smile on your faces? Oh…” He gasped in mock astonishment. “Let me guess, you didn’t get what you wanted and now you’re planning on what to do.”

“Don’t think you’re so smart, Sergio.” Jayden barked, his jaws shaking uncontrollably. “What you did today was only a delay. Both of us know who the real owner of that company is.”

“Finally, something that we can both agree on.” He chuckled, opening his arms. “Even a low life like you knows I am the only true Alvarado here. I don’t give a hoot if your mother was once married to my father or if you’re his first child. You can bribe anyone you want but I have people that are loyal to me. That’s because they know who the true Alvarado is and who the bastard is.”

“Sergio!” Jayden balled his fist, swinging it in the air.

“Go ahead! I dare you!” Sergio challenged, getting even closer. “I dare you to swing your fist at me, and I’ll make sure I paint the floor with your blood.”

Jayden held his fist in the air, breathing like he was in labor. God knows he wanted to punch Sergio so much but he couldn’t do it. He had no idea why he stopped. He dropped his arm, groaning angrily.

“You might be older than me, Mr. whatever…” He eyed him from head to toe in disgust. “…but anybody that tries to ruin my family’s happiness will taste my wrath. I might seem alone, but I have the love and support of my family. That’s my strength. And most importantly, I have the love of my husband. Eric might not be with me today but his love still fuels me. And with that love, I shall be victorious.”

He walked past Jayden, but before he went any further, he turned back and faced the man again.

“One more thing, you might be owning some of our companies, but stay clear of everything that belongs to me.” He warned, snapping his fingers in Jayden’s face. “I have only gotten a part of Alvarado jewelers, but very soon, I’ll kick you completely out of that company, and this house. This is my promise to you.”

He laughed victoriously and walked past the two of them, heading towards the stairs. As soon as he reached there, he saw his sister rushing down with a brilliant smile on her face. She reached him and then jumped, wrapping her legs around him. After a week, he saw her happy and it made him happy too.

“Sergio, mom, and I saw the news.” She said excitedly. “Wow, I can’t believe you did that. I am so happy right now.”

“Yes, baby girl…” He held her tightly. “…you can go back to work anytime you are ready. No one will say or do anything to you. It is still our company.”

She got down and kissed her brother’s cheeks.

“You’re the best brother. No witches or warlocks will ever cast a spell on you.” She glanced at Giada who rolled her eyes. “And for this, I am going to prepare you a very special meal.”

“Can’t wait!” He smiled. “But that will be after I take a shower. I am very tired.”

“I bet you are.”

The brother and sister left upstairs hand in hand, forgetting about their sorrows.

“You may celebrate your victory today, Sergio.” Jayden groaned, glaring at him. “But I can guarantee that it will only be short-lived. You’ve played with the tail of a tiger and now watch and wait what I am gonna do to you.”

“What are you planning?” Giada sounded curious.

“My dear, Giada, just give it a day and you’re gonna find out.” An evil grin appeared on Jayden’s face. “It’s time I showed this boy just who he is messing with. I think I had underestimated him. I don’t care if we have the same blood running through our veins.”

Giada chuckled like an evil queen from a Disney cartoon. “Surprise me!”

She was more than ready to see Kim suffer even more before she begged for death. She was gonna ensure that she made her suffer.

***

“How is mother doing?” Sergio asked as he threw got out of the bathroom, toweling his hair.

‘I guess she’s better than she was a few days back.’ Derrick sighed on the other end. ‘But none of us are completely okay. Eric’s death…’

“He’s not dead!” Sergio said harshly. He threw the towel on the bed and sat there, rubbing on his head. “I am sorry for that. I didn’t mean to…”

‘It’s fine, Sergio, I understand you.’ He said softly. ‘Eric’s disappearance was sudden, and all your efforts to find him have been in vain. But I have to thank you because you gave all of us hope, especially, mom Laurel. She still holds on to that hope that you’ll find him and bring him back home.’

“And I will do that.”

‘By the way, congratulations. I heard the news. Anyway, goodnight!’

Sergio cut the call, throwing his phone onto the bed. He buried his head between his palms, feeling the pressure kick in. He was stressed, frustrated, and tired. But he couldn’t find rest or peace. It had been like that so many nights. He was longing for Eric although he was nowhere to be seen. He wanted to kiss his soft lips, kiss his whole body, and make crazy passionate love to him. God, just thinking about it made his heart begin to race.

He slowly closed his eyes, giving in to those fantasies that were messing with his mind. All of a sudden, he felt like all of them were real like Eric was with him in that room. He was slowly moving his hands down his shoulders to his nipples.

“Fuck!” Sergio moaned, biting his lips.

He felt a hand move down his tummy and circled.

“God…” His voice was barely above a whisper.

Then came the kisses on his neck, soft and sensual. Eric was kissing all over his neck and it felt so real. He could have bet his life Eric was there. He slowly raised his head, giving Eric access to that neck. God, the way he moaned was from out of this world.

“Please, don’t stop!” He muttered. “I miss you so much.”

“I miss you too,’ came a voice that made Sergio jump from the bed like he’d been sitting on hot coals.

When he glanced on the bed, his brain stuttered for a moment and his eyes took in more light than expected. Every part of him went on pause while his brain caught up with what he had seen. Trevor was on his bed, staring at him like he wanted to jump at him and fuck his brains. He was giving him the come fuck me look, literally undressing him with his eyes.

Trevor was wearing a fishnet robe with nothing but a tight white brief on him that didn’t hide his erection. It was clear the guy was horny as fuck from the pulsating member in his briefs. But instead of being excited, Sergio lost his cool. He could feel his rage at the edge ready to explode.

“What the fuck are you doing here?”

“I need you,” Trevor said as he slowly took off his robe, throwing it on the floor. He didn’t just look at the man, he looked into him as if he knew his desires. “My body yearns to be touched. I wanna feel you rocking inside of me.” He moaned like a pornstar. “I wanna feel your seed so deep inside of me, Sergio.”

“Stop it!” Sergio barked, closing his eyes in disgust. He angrily pointed towards the door. “Get up and get your shit out of here, Trevor. I am not joking. If you don’t wanna get hurt…”

Trevor burst into laughter when he heard that. He laughed so hard that if people had heard him, they’d have thought he was going insane.

“Both of us know that you can’t hurt me, Sergio.” He seductively got off the bed, jutting his hip. “I know you want me, I can feel it over here. No matter how much you try to deny it, I am your one true love. I am like a ghost that will follow you where you go. Ever since I came into this house last week, I’ve dreamed about you day, and night. Your muscular, sexy body… your beautiful hard cock inside me, and your lips on me.”

“I am not going to say it again.” He was breathing like an ancient dragon from its slumber. “Get the fuck out of here, otherwise, I will do something that you’ll regret.”

“What?” He shrugged, getting even closer. “You’ll fuck me senselessly and then make me regret it? Go ahead, Sergio, fuck my brains out right now.”

“Enough!” Sergio gripped Trevor’s arm, pulling him harshly. But to his surprise, the guy was just smiling.

“I like it when you pull me like that, Sergio.” He got even closer, feeling Sergio’s hot breaths on his face. “Most especially, when I feel your breaths on me, your lips closer to mine.”

“I feel so ashamed and disgusted when I think that I almost married you.” He said hoarsely. “People like you don’t deserve to live. You deserve to die. But, I won’t stain my hands with your dirty blood.”

He picked up Trevor’s robe from the floor and started dragging him out of there like a whore. Though Trevor was resisting, Sergio was just too powerful.

“You are mine, Sergio.” He laughed at the top of his lungs. “You’re only mine and whether you like it or not, we’re destined to be together. If I can’t have you, no one else will.”

“Keep dreaming.”

He opened the door and furiously threw Trevor outside. Trevor hit the floor with a thud, butt first. It hurt like hell, but he glanced at Sergio, still wearing that smile on his face. Sergio threw the robe at him, banging the door.

“No matter what you do, you belong to me.” Trevor hollered, laughing in the process. “You can never run from me, and very soon you’ll understand. I swear.”

He slowly got up, picked up his robe, and threw air kisses at the door. It wasn’t over. He was gonna be back, and this time he was gonna win.

***

“Hey, I told you to handle all my work, Mr. President.” Sergio teased, chuckling softly. “I don’t think I am ready to come back to work just yet.”

‘Is it always this stressful being president?’ Steve complained. ‘I can’t believe I am going home at 10.pm. You need to come back. There’s so much pressure that my head can take. And besides, Giada was causing trouble this afternoon.’

“I wouldn’t be worried about her.” He sighed, getting a cup of coffee and gesturing to the man thanks. “I know you can handle her.”

‘I did. Where are you anyway? Where did you go?’ He sounded a bit worried. ‘I called Adrianna a few minutes back and she told me you left in the morning.’

“Yeah,” He leaned on the car, losing the smile on his face. “I had visited my usual orphanage. Some supplies that Eric and I had ordered arrived, and I wanted to take them there myself. That is where I have been the whole day. Plus, I just wanted to be in a place that Eric loved. That way…” He couldn’t finish what he wanted to say. He could feel the pain arising deep inside of him.

‘You’re gonna find him.’ Steve’s voice sounded so reassuring on the phone.

“Thanks. I’ll talk to you later.”

He cut the call, slipping his phone into his pocket. Sergio’s heart was racing and he didn’t know why. He had a tingly feeling like Eric was near him though he couldn’t see him. He had stopped halfway to the city to take coffee on a roadside shop and it tasted so damn good.

As he slowly sipped his coffee, he started getting memories of him, and Eric.

***

A month ago…

*

‘What’s the name of our relationship? What will people say about our relationship? What will they name it?’ Sergio asked as he took Eric’s hand slowly, bringing him closer. “I was like a bird that forgot how to fly, but you not only helped me to gain love, and friendship, but you also made me regain my flight again. You showed me how to live again.

I know we met due to my cheating ways. It was meant to be a game, but I had no idea I was running into my destiny. I had no idea I was gonna meet my greatest love.’

Eric was getting emotional. He couldn’t mask the tears in his eyes or the smile on his face, a smile that blew Sergio away.

‘But even at that time when I was playing you, I had no idea why I used to feel like I got a new life, while I was taking my last breath. When you used to be around me, I used to feel calm, even while trying to deny my feelings.

And when I lost you, I couldn’t make sense of anything. I used to feel like I don’t even exist. As if there was no hope in life.’ He smiled as a tear rolled down his cheek. ‘Eric, I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. And if this is called insanity and not love, then I agree. I am insanely in love with you, Eric. And if this is called love, then I think I have never been in love before.’

The emotions were too much for both of them. Eric couldn’t help but laugh through his tears.

‘Eric, I feel like fighting this world for you. I feel like bringing all the happiness of this world for you. I feel like bringing the stars to you.’

He took both of Eric’s hands and kissed them. “Never feel that you separated me from my family, Eric. That is because you’re someone that turned me into a complete human. And now, if we separate for any reason…” He sniveled, staring at Eric’s beautiful face. “…then I’ll be shattered in such a way that I won’t be able to recover again.”

“No!” Eric shook his head, cupping his husband’s cheeks. “We’ll never be separated ever again. We’ll never separate again, because I’ll die before that, Sergio. My heart beats only for you.”

Sergio wrapped his arms around Eric and held him in a tight hug. Both of them were crying so hard that people would have thought there was a funeral procession. But they were happy, more than happy. And that happiness was gonna endure forever.

***

Present-day…

*

Sergio got back to reality and realized that there were streams of tears on his face. He hadn’t even realized he had been crying. He quickly rubbed his tears with his hands but only made a mess of himself. He didn’t want to show anyone his weakness so he opened his car door to get a handkerchief and wipe his face.

He wasn’t thinking straight and he was only concentrated on what he was looking for that he wasn’t aware of his environment. Unknown to him, there was a huge truck hurtling towards him. It was charging right at him without any intention of stopping for anything.

Its blinding lights were directed at him, but the man wasn’t even aware of it. He had his back to the hurtling truck.

Sergio got the handkerchief and suddenly someone shouting at him. He raised his head quickly, getting out of the car. However, when he turned and saw the truck that was only a few seconds away from him, his mind shut down completely. The flash of the truck was enough to blind him, and his body reacted like there was a gun to his head. His muscles were frozen in place and his heart hammered in his chest so hard that he felt like passing out.

Everyone that saw what was happening got very scared but none could do anything. All they did was watch in horror with their hands covering their mouth. One second… two seconds… three seconds… four seconds… five seconds… and then the truck hit the car with such an impact that it flipped severally times before the sound of the explosion came and then a terrible echo as if it was an anguished cry of God.

To everyone’s surprise, the truck didn’t stop but only added to its speed and left. Everyone cried out in horror, rushing to the site of the accident. There was nothing there. The car was destroyed. There was no way for anyone to survive.

Could this be the end for Sergio?

***

Adrianna tore her eyes away from the picture she was holding, staring at the men in front of her. She did too slowly to be normal.

“Yes, inspector.” When she spoke her voice trailed off slowly like her words were unwilling to fly. She had fear in her eyes. “This is my son’s car. But… but how the hell did this happen?”

Her heart was racing and she was only seconds away from crying.

“Is… is my brother okay?”

“We’ve got no idea as of now, ma’am.” The inspector spoke.

“What?” Kim gasped, shaking her head. “You don’t have them? What do you mean by that?” Her voice was so high it filled the entire mansion. “You’re the police, and you’re supposed to know everything. My son’s car couldn’t have just turned up like that, and you’ve got nothing. You can’t just come here to bring us such news. Don’t you have children?” A tear rolled down her cheeks.

“I am so sorry, ma’am. We’re doing everything we can.” He apologized, putting his hands together. “The accident happened on the outskirts of town near a sideroad shop. Somebody gave us details but when we reached there, we couldn’t find anyone. We have reason to believe that someone moved him or took him to a hospital. As we speak now, our men are working on it.”

“I don’t want any excuses!” Kim yelled, feeling her strength leave her. Everyone could see her pain. “I want my son back, unhurt.”

Jayden and Giada were on the mezzanine floor, watching the drama going on downstairs. They had evil grins on their faces, enjoying the pain Kim was going through. Both of them were dressed like they were on a date with Queen Elizabeth herself. They glanced at each other and grinned, giving each other evil looks.

“That my dear Kim is what happens when people decide to mess with me.” She said softly. “I don’t show them mercy, and not a second chance. He played with fire.”

“Haha…” Kim chirped, staring at Kim. “…poor Kimberly, she’s ordering them to bring back her son when all they will find will be his corpse. Very soon, she’ll lose all her children, and then we’ll see how she’s gonna survive after that.”

“But I did him a favor. He’ll now be united with Eric on the other side.” Jayden laughed. “I am such a generous man.”

Both of them continued watching.

“Find him!” She cried. “Find my son.”

“Mom, I am sure that Sergio is fine!” Adrianna held her. She was scared but she still believed he was okay. “He’s unhurt. That’s why he’s not in the car.”

“My son, Adrianna!” She sobbed. “I just want him home, safe and sound.”

“He will.” Trevor who had been quiet rushed to her, rubbing on her shoulders. However, she shrugged him off, giving him angry eyes. “Trust me, mother, Sergio will come back home safely.”

Trevor was scared but he was mad as well. He knew exactly that it was no accident. Jayden had tried to kill Sergio, and he didn’t appreciate it. He promised if anything happened to Sergio, he was gonna kill him.

“Inspector,” He said harshly. “Do all you possibly can to find my Sergio. I don’t care if you have to turn mountains upside down but find him, and bring him back to us.”

“We’ll do our best.” He assured. “But… did Mr. Alvarado have any enmity of which someone might try to take revenge on him, or kill him? I suspect that whoever did this targeted a car that was parked off-road. This was a hit, and run.”

Everyone became quiet when they heard that. There was only one thought running through each of their minds, but they didn’t know if it was true. Besides, they didn’t have evidence to lay such an accusation.

Trevor slowly glanced to the mezzanine, seeing that evil grin on Jayden’s face. He was sure the man had done it.

“Well, actually, inspector…”

“No!” Trevor chimed in before Adrianna could finish her sentence. “I don’t think he had enmity with anyone. My husband is a very generous man, and I don’t think anyone would try to kill him. Sergio doesn’t get himself involved in arguments or…” He paused and gave a fake cry. “…just find my husband, and bring him back home, please.”

“Yes, we will.” The inspector slightly bowed. “If you find out anything, you can call anytime.”

The police quickly left.

“Oh my God,” Kim cried, holding on tighter to her daughter. “My son, Adrianna. What am I gonna do if anything happens to him? It’s only been a week since Eric went missing and now…”

“Don’t worry about anything, mother,” Trevor assured. “I will do everything I can to find Sergio. I will bring him back home to you.”

“Oh, stop with your drama.” Adrianna snapped. “No one is buying your fake sympathy and we don’t need it. For all we know, you and your gang could be behind this.”

“Adrianna?” Trevor gasped in shock. “Why would I do that? Why would I want Sergio dead when I love him so much? Sergio is my life and his death would mean mine.”

Adrianna huffed. “You know the answer to that question. And get out of here before I do something to you.”

She led her mother to the couch and made her sit down. She then knelt in front of her, rubbing on her hands. The woman was visibly trembling. The last thing Adrianna wanted to do was scare her even more than she was.

“Mom, please, don’t cry. Sergio is fine. Though we can’t contact him, I’ll go and find him.” She said in an assuring voice. “I’ll call Steve and both of us will go find him. I know my brother. He’s very strong and nothing can kill him. I will find him.”

“Haha…” Giada laughed under her breath, crossing her arms on her chest. “… you can assure her all you want, Adrianna. Sergio is dead, so you better start planning his funeral.” She locked her eyes with Jayden. “Now watch how I add fuel to the fire. This is gonna be fun.”

She flipped her hair sexily and started cat-walking downstairs like a model on the runway. She was gonna make an unforgettable scene that was gonna give Kim a heart attack.

“Mom!” A voice echoed throughout the house.

Giada’s heart twisted and sunk with nerves as her brain tried to process that voice in her head. She stopped in her steps, standing there like a statue. Her eyes went straight to the entrance, and she tried to stay calm as her eyes met Sergio rushing inside the house. She felt numb when she saw him, looking unhurt and not even sign of him being in an accident.

She took a glance behind and her eyes met with Jayden who equally looked scared and amazed. They were experiencing the worst of their moments with the realization that nothing had happened to Sergio. He was okay.

“Sergio?”

Both Kim and Adrianna got to their feet as if they had just sat on a needle. They started rushing towards Sergio, rubbing their tears.

“Are you okay, baby?” Kim asked. “You were involved in an accident. Are you hurt?”

“I am alright, mommy. But…” He paused and gestured.

That was when they realized that Sergio wasn’t alone. He had someone in his arms, a boy. The boy was asleep peacefully in Sergio’s arms with his head on his chest, and Sergio was holding bridal style. They all had never seen him before and he looked very young.

He had pitch-black medium tousled curled hair and perfect golden skin. He wasn’t dressed fancy which meant he wasn’t rich. But, he had a bandage tied around his head and also had spectacles on. They were all staring at him, even Trevor that wanted to just strangle him. He was the one that was supposed to be in those strong, sexy arms.

“He’s hurt, mom.” He said as he led him to a couch.

He slowly, and carefully led him there, staring at him non-stop. There was no denying the boy was very cute.

“Who is he?” Adrianna asked with concern.

“He is Javier.” He sighed. “He… he is the boy that saved my life today, mommy. Without this boy, I don’t know if I would have survived today. Just when I thought it was over, he came out of nowhere and pushed me out of harm’s way. Unfortunately, he hit his head on a rock and got hurt instead. I owe my life to him.”

“Thank God for this boy.” Kim hugged her son, sobbing in his chest. “I don’t know what I would have done if I had lost you. I swear, I would have followed you, Sergio.” She raised her head, cupping his cheeks. “Don’t scare me like that ever again. You know I am no longer young.”

“I am not leaving anytime soon. What did I tell you, your love is always with me to guide and protect me?” He hugged her tightly, trying to make her calm. But the woman was trembling. He glanced to the staircase and once his gaze met with Giada, she quickly dropped her eyes to the floor and he immediately knew she was involved in what had happened. “Not even the devil will succeed in his plans to take me away.”

He pulled away from her and rubbed her tears. “Don’t cry anymore. I am here, and besides, I have already reported the matter to the police. They’ll do their investigations.”

She smiled and kissed his forehead.

“How bad is he?” Adrianna asked softly, holding the boy’s hand. “Should we call the doctor?”

“I have already seen a doctor. They attended to him.” He said, sitting closer to the boy. Trevor felt something move in him when Sergio held the boy’s hand. “He had woken up about an hour ago, we talked a bit but he complained of a headache, and passed out.”

“Poor boy,” Adrianna shook her head. “He doesn’t deserve all this.”

“You’re right, and when I find out who is responsible for this, I will make them pay.” He balled his fist, glaring at Jayden and Giada. “This boy was ready to risk his life to save mine. I will not just let it go like that.” He took a deep breath, getting up. “I will take him to rest in my room. I want to take care of him.”

“What?” Trev’s eyes widened and he got closer. “Your room? Wat the hell will he be doing in your room? There are a lot of other rooms in this house. You can put him there, and assign one of the maids to take care of him. You don’t…”

“And who the hell gave you the right to make suggestions?” Sergio barked, dropping his hands in frustration. “Who are you, huh? Who the hell are you?”

Trev held his rage, staring at Sergio with tears in pain. “Well, I was just… well, he’s a stranger, and it is not safe to be in your room. Besides, I… I… I don’t like it.”

“Whether you like it or not, it doesn’t mean anything to me, Trevor.” He said harshly. “It is my room and I alone choose who should be there and who shouldn’t be. And besides, you’re a guest in this house. Know your limits when you talk to me.”

“Forget about him.” Adrianna held her brother’s hand. “He’s not worth it. Just take care of him.”

Sergio hissed, carefully lifted the boy, and took him upstairs to his room. Adrianna gave Trevor a dirty look but she held her mother’s hand and they went upstairs. Trevor couldn’t stop his tears from flowing when they all left. He felt so much pain that Sergio had rejected him, and took someone he didn’t know to his room.

***

“Don’t you yell at me, boy!” Jayden warned, breathing like he was in labor. “What the hell do you take me for?”

“Do you think I am stupid?” Trevor snapped, eyeing the man from head to toe angrily. “Do you think I am dumb or something? I very well know that you were the one that tried to have Sergio killed. I can’t believe you’d go behind my back to try and kill Sergio, and you would think I wouldn’t find out about it. Jayden, I am warning you…”

“You’re warning me?” He chuckled, his voice sounding like thunder. “And who the hell do you think you are? Who are you? What value are you to my life?”

“Don’t think that just because I have been keeping quiet about everything you’ve been doing that you can do whatever you want.” He yelled. “I told you the only person I was interested in was Sergio and no harm should come to him. But what did you do, you went behind my back and tried to have him killed. Isn’t that called betrayal?”

“Are you questioning me?” Jayden couldn’t mask the annoyance in his voice. “Don’t forget that I am the reason you’re still rich today. Don’t also forget that I made you what you’re today.”

“I am not being ungrateful here,” Trevor argued. “I have thanked you severally. And the only reason I joined in on your plans was so that I could ensure Sergio’s safety and you could help me have him back. But you’re doing the opposite of that.”

“When someone steps on my tail, I always fight back with a vengeance.” He glowered. “Sergio dared me. And if you think I am gonna let someone take me for a fool simply because you’re obsessed with him, then you’re mistaken. Now listen to me…” He got closer, pointing angrily at Trevor. “Let this be the first and last time you’ll talk to me in this manner. You don’t want me to regret working with you, because I am not a man that takes regrets lightly.”

Trevor’s eyes widened, his mouth shaking. “Are… are you threatening me?”

“I don’t make threats. I make promises, and I deliver those promises.”

Trevor balled his fist, hitting the wall in anger. Giada who had been watching the whole drama rushed to him, holding him tightly. But he shrugged her off, glaring at her.

“Son, please….”

“And you mom, you couldn’t even tell me anything. You knew Sergio’s life was in danger and you pretended like nothing was going on. Don’t I mean anything to you?”

“No, honey!” She held his hands, kissing them both. “You mean the world to me. I can never do anything that would hurt you. I am so sorry this happened.”

“No, mom!” He said with tears in his eyes. “Because of all this, Sergio has brought home a stranger. A stranger is right in his room as we speak, probably sleeping closer to him. I am the one that is supposed to be with him in that room, mom. I am the one that was supposed to be in his arms. You don’t know how much it hurts.”

“I know… and very soon, that pain will go away.” She smiled, trying her best to assure him. “You’ll have your happy ever after with the man after your heart. I promise.”

Trevor sighed and then tried his best to smile. He couldn’t stay mad at his mother forever. After all, she was his best friend and ally. She might have messed up but she was still his mother.

“I know, I just… I just don’t know what to do anymore, mom. It’s been a week I’ve been here and Sergio’s hatred keeps on growing. What should I do?”

“Leave him!” Jayden said harshly, lighting a cigarette. He needed to smoke his stress out. “I don’t know what your obsession with that guy is anyway. There are a lot of guys out there that would kill to have you. Stop wasting your time on a man that doesn’t give a shit about you.”

Trevor glared at Jayden, rolling his eyes. “You’re the last person I would expect to understand. After all, you have no emotions. You don’t feel a thing.”

“That’s right.” Jayden didn’t care. “I don’t have feelings or emotions. They make you weak, and stupid. Just like you.”

Trevor groaned angrily, hissed, and stormed out of the room.

“And you, don’t make me regret having you as my partner.” He pointed at Giada with his cigarette. “Tell that son of yours to control his mouth, otherwise, I am gonna have to rectify my mistake.”

“You don’t have to worry about it.” She assured, getting closer. “But we’ve got more pressing matters than Trevor right now. Sergio escaped his planned accident unharmed. I am sure he’s suspecting we had something to do with it. He’s a very stubborn man, and he won’t rest until he finds out the truth.”

“Sergio wouldn’t have escaped from death today.” His hands tightened into fists, smashing the cigarette, not even minding that it was burning his hand. “There was no way for him to escape. I had planned it perfectly. But… this boy he came with home ruined my plans. If not for that stupid boy my plans would have worked.” He yelled, stamping his foot in rage. “Right now, it would have been a different story. But this boy meddled and I swear I’ll teach him to mind his business. I’ll make him regret ever saving Sergio’s life. I swear!”

Giada loved the attitude she was getting from Jayden. God, he was smoking hot. But she wouldn’t dare tell him that. She only wished Brice was half the man Jayden was. They would have been a power couple. They’d have ruled the world.

***

Sergio was seated on the couch in his room, busy on his laptop. It was morning already and he was dressed in black skinny jeans and a blue t-shirt with sandals on his feet. His hair was combed to perfection. He was responding to some of the emails that had been left for a week.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. It came quietly and then there was silence.

“Sergio?” A voice came from the other side. “Are you in?”

“Come in!” He announced.

The door opened and Adrianna rushed in with a smile, closing the door behind her. She was scanning the whole room as she walked to where Sergio was seated. He knew what she was looking for, but he was gonna wait until she asked.

“Where is he?” Adrianna asked, raising an eyebrow. “Don’t tell me he already left?”

Before Sergio could answer her question, the door to the bathroom opened and the boy came out. The moment he did, he stared at Adrianna and she couldn’t help but smile. He was quite handsome. He had icy grey eyes, and when he smiled sheepishly, Adrianna saw the braces on his teeth. He looked even younger than he did the previous night.

“Good morning?” Her voice was cheerful. “How are you and how’s your head? Sergio told me yesternight that you experienced a headache?”

“Err…” The boy stammered, feeling his muscles freeze. “… I am okay, now, ma’am.”

Wow! He had a sexy Spanish accent that Adrianna couldn’t help but chuckle when she heard him speak.

“Don’t call me, ma’am.” Adrianna walked to him and held his hand, helping him sit on the couch next to her. “You can call me, Adrianna.”

“Why?” He asked in a soft voice.

“Because I say so.” She was so calm. “Besides, you saved my brother’s life yesterday. We owe our thanks to you, Javier. By the way…” She rubbed on his hands sweetly. “… you’re a very handsome boy. You’re indeed an angel that was sent to come and save my brother from death.”

Javier felt a bit shy that he had to drop his eyes to the floor.

“I don’t think I deserve your praises, ma… Adrianna.” He took a deep breath. “I only did what I did because I couldn’t just watch and do nothing. I am glad I saved his life because he’s done a lot for the people in my community. Good people like him don’t deserve such a fate. By the way, thank you so much for the food. Mr. Sergio told me you were the one that made it.”

“You don’t have to thank me. I made the food as a token of my gratitude.”

Javier sat back and let the happiness soak right into his bones. It passed through him like a warm ocean wave, washing away the stress he had been feeling to leave him refreshed. He could tell from Adrianna’s words, her smile, and her gentle touch that she was a good woman just like her brother.

“Anyway, have you contacted your family?” Adrianna asked. “If you haven’t, I can help you talk to them. They must be worried about you.”

Adrianna watched as Javier’s smile began fading, replaced by worry, or was it confusion. Even Sergio looked at the boy.

“Did I say something wrong?” She shrugged. “I… I want to…”

“I think it would be best if Javier stayed here for a while.” Sergio hollered, staring at his sister. “He… he ran away from home.”

“What?” She gasped, her eyes widening. “He ran away from home?” She glanced at him and he couldn’t make eye contact with her. “Why?”

“His parents are dead and he was living with his aunt. She is a gambler, and she was in a lot of debt.” He said in between sighs. “Can you imagine she used him as a way to pay off her debt? He was to be a slave to one of her debtors for life. He ran away before the man could get ahold of him. That was how he ran into me and saved my life.”

Adrianna looked at Javier, getting even closer. “Oh, that is awful. I had no idea. You poor boy, no one deserves to go through that. But we’ve got her to thank because if not for what she did, Sergio’s life wouldn’t have been saved. And he’s right, you can stay here for as long as you want.”

Javier looked at Adrianna, tears welling in his eyes.

“Thank you so much, for that.” He put his hands together. “One day, I’ll repay your kindness.”

Adrianna had no idea what happened, but she gripped his hands and pulled him in a tight hug. She had no idea why she did it, but she didn’t regret it. When she hugged him, she felt so warm, so calm, and at peace. She’d never felt that way with anyone other than her brother and Eric.

Sergio watched with a smile on his face as the two hugged. His mood lightened, and quiet contentment spread through him. But the hug took longer than he expected. He had to clear his throat to get the attention of the two.

“Adrianna, can you take care of him for me?” He asked as he closed his laptop, getting up from the couch. “I have somewhere I have to be urgent.”

“What? No way!” Adrianna shook her head abruptly. “You expect me to agree to you going outside after you narrowly escaped death yesterday? I am so sorry, but I am not going to allow you.”

Sergio chuckled. “What happened yesterday will never repeat itself. I let my guard down, and I almost got killed. But staying indoors won’t solve anything for us. Our enemies are busy working on our downfall, and I can’t just leave it like that. I am just going to the police station to give a statement and after that, I am meeting Steve at the company. We’ve got a very important project coming up. And…” He paused and combed his hair with his fingers. “… I have to continue my search for Eric. The more I delay, the more scared I get.”

Adrianna couldn’t fight her brother on that. He had touched her weak point.

“Be very careful, and call me every two hours.” She rested his hand on his shoulder. “I need to know you are safe.”

Sergio hugged his sister tightly and then kissed her forehead. “You know I will. Take care.”

He took his phone, waved at Javier, and left. Adrianna watched as her brother left and she continued staring at the door, praying that he was gonna be safe. She felt a hand on her shoulder and almost jumped.

“I am sorry, Adrianna.” Javier apologized. “I believe he’s gonna be fine. Mr. Sergio is very strong and your love will protect him from all dangers.”

She smiled softly. “I guess so. Anyway, would you like to do anything or maybe eat something?”

Javier smiled genuinely. “I would love to cook for you if you don’t mind?”

“Of course, I don’t mind. And I think that would get my mind off some worries. Let’s go.”

The two left talking to each other, getting to know each other.

***

The kitchen was filled with laughter as the trio chatted, and enjoyed the food that Javier was cooking. It was so loud that one would have thought that it was Adrianna and her friends when in reality, it was Kim, Adrianna, and Javier. Javier’s cooking was perfect, and his sense of humor was on another level. Kim couldn’t remember the last time she laughed the way she did. She was happy after a long time, and it kinda made her emotional.

“Wow! Where did you learn how to cook like that?” Kim asked as she licked her fingers clean. “This food is so amazing, it can be easily served in a five-star restaurant.”

Javier’s mouth curved into a smile. “I wish I could say my mother taught me, but she was a bit lazy when it came to cooking.” His Spanish accent was so amazing that it spoke to their very souls. “I used to spend a lot of time with my grandmother in the kitchen. I can say I inherited her kitchen skills.”

“Bless her?” Kim gestured with her hands.

“Yeah, may her soul rest in peace.” Javier put his hands together. He lost his smile on his face and stared at the mother and daughter. “By the way, I am so sorry for the loss of your son-in-law. It must not have been easy saying goodbye to him.”

Kim’s face went blank as guilt filled her again. Her expression hardened and she tried to smile, but it failed horribly.

“My son still holds on to the hope that he is gonna be found.” Colour drained from her face as she spoke. “He’s never stopped searching since he went missing. It kills me every day to see him like that. I don’t know what I should say to him, or what I should do. I feel like helping him but… I don’t think I have the right.”

Kim felt her daughter’s hands rubbing her shoulders. Javier felt bad that he had brought up the topic. They’d been having so much fun.

“I am so sorry. I didn’t mean…”

“It’s okay.” She forced a smile. “I just wish I had been nicer to him while he was still alive. Every day, I kept on arguing with him on useless issues, but… he truly loved my son. He used to cook all the time, and would beg me to eat but… I never tried anything. Sometimes, I feel I am responsible for his disappearance.”

“Mom?” Adrianna whispered, holding her hand. “You don’t have to blame yourself for Eric not being here. All we can do now is pray that Sergio finds him, and brings him home. He is a very nice boy and he won’t think twice about forgiving you.”

Tears shone in Kim’s eyes and she tried her best to smile. She wanted to say something to her daughter but was interrupted by the vibration of her phone. She quickly opened the phone and once she saw the message, she lost the smile on her face.

“Excuse me, I have to do something.”

She smiled at both of them and left.

“She’s a good woman,” Javier commented. “I think I like her.”

“Yeah,” Adrianna sighed. “But aside from that, you need to make more of that food. My brother will be starving when he comes back from work today. Can you do that?”

“You think Mr. Sergio will love the food?” Javier asked with a raised eyebrow. “I think it would be better if you cooked his food. Your cooking is also wonderful.”

“Are you kidding?” She laughed. “Sergio will love it. Just do me this favor, okay?”

Javier smiled, dropping his eyes to the floor. Adrianna was in another universe. She was fun to be around.

***

“Why are you texting me?” Kim was annoyed as fuck. “The last time I checked, you and I are not friends. And our deal ended a long time ago so stop annoying me with your calls.”

“Haha…” Jayden laughed, crossing his legs. He was seated on the couch, staring at Kim with an evil grin on his face. “Kim, I don’t know why you still don’t get it. I run this game, and I get to say when it’s over, and if it’s not. Do you understand? By the way, how did you like my gift yesterday? It was a shocker, right?”

Kim’s forehead creased. “You like playing with people’s lives, don’t you? Do you think you’re a god or something? Don’t think for a second that just because I kept quiet yesterday when you tried to have my son killed that I will keep quiet again.”

“In this game, I am god, and I can control the turn out of events.” He snapped his finger, laughing even harder. “But, it all depends on your compliance, Kim. And don’t think that you’re gonna say anything because you won’t. From now on, I will dictate what you should do, and what you shouldn’t do.”

“I am not gonna be a pawn in your game anymore, Jayden.” She yelled. “You almost killed my son when you assured me he was gonna be safe. I signed those bloody documents to save his life. But I won’t keep quiet anymore. I am gonna tell him everything, and then we’ll see if you’ll still be laughing.”

“You won’t do such a thing, foolish woman!” He rose from the couch like a whirlwind, his chest rising and falling in rage. “Do you think I am playing here?”

He took some documents from the table and threw them at Kim. Kim slowly knelt, picked up the papers, and when she looked at them, she felt a shiver go down her spine. Her heart hammered in her chest so hard that she groaned in pain. She raised her head and glared at him.

“What the hell is this? And what am I supposed to do with it?”

“Oh, that’s our marriage certificate, sweet Kim.” He laughed for a second before his face became stern. “Aren’t you an educated woman? That’s the power of attorney papers.”

“Are you crazy? What else do you still want from me? I gave you everything I had.”

“Yes, but I want everything that this family owns.” He seethed. “I want you to make your son sign those papers. He’s gonna transfer everything he owns into my name, and you are gonna help me with that.”

Kim felt her heart pounding in her chest but she tried to ignore it and slow her breathing. She glared at Jayden as she silently gripped the paper, feeling adrenaline coursing through her veins. Just as she began to feel the sweat on her brow, she heard Jayden’s evil laugh.

“But, why do you look so shocked?” He teased, crossing his arms on his chest. “I had informed you before that I will destroy you.” His voice and his face were sinister. “Coming back to those papers, you’re gonna make him sign and I don’t care how. But I need them back in less than 48 hours. Am I understood?”

“No way!” Kim roared. “I will not do that. I am not a puppet who’s going to dance to your tunes.”

Before Jayden said anything, there was a sound of a rip as Kim pulled the document apart in half. She ripped the paper into bonny confetti and let it rain upon the floor. Jayden’s nostrils flared as he watched Kim rip the paper to shreds. Flames of anger licked through him and his hands started clenching into fists. His lips drew back in a snarl as he got closer to her, taking in a sharp breath.

“It seems you’ve forgotten who I am, Kim. Do you want me to remind you?” He gripped her arm, slamming her body onto the wall. Kim groaned in pain. “Don’t fucking mess with me, bitch! Do you know how long it took me to make those?”

Kim furiously released her arm, pushing him away from her. “You can do your worst. But, if you think I am gonna cheat my son into transferring those properties to your name, then you’ve got another thing coming. You can go ahead and kill me if you want, but I won’t let you win. You know my son is standing in your way and now you’re desperate. You can go ahead and kill me, but I can assure you that you won’t win. I am gonna tell Sergio everything today. I don’t fear you anymore.”

“Haha….” Jayden busts into laughter. “Haven’t you learned anything up to now? It seems I need to re-lecture you. I don’t care about your threats but if you open your mouth, then I am afraid…” He paused and a frown appeared on his face. “… you may not have time to bid farewell to your lovely daughter, and your son. You will be standing in the graveyard next to her coffin and regretting why you didn’t listen to me and do what I had ordered you.”

Kim shook her head in fear as tears decorated her face. “No, please…”

“Why are you begging me? Go!” He gestured towards the door. “Go and call your son. Tell him everything, but in the next minute expect to receive your daughter’s corpse at your doorstep. And Adrianna has such lovely skin, she’s very beautiful. I’d hate for it to be stained.”

Kim sobbed, feeling her strength leave her.

“I warned you. If you do anything that pisses me, I’d kill Adrianna mercilessly.” He laughed in a grim voice. “And then I would send her to you piece by piece. I wasn’t joking. So, it’s up to you to save your child or your husband’s illegitimate child. I would hate to kill my sister.”

Kim began to cry, she didn’t want to, didn’t want Jayden to see her weakness, didn’t want him to draw more strength from her weakness. She couldn’t help it, though. She felt so alone and helpless. She was standing in front of the devil.

“You don’t call the shots, Kim. I do.” He prodded. “You should know by now that I defeated you the very first day I called your phone. And that was inevitable.”

Kim dropped to her knees, shaking like a leaf.

“But I am such a generous man.” He added. “I am gonna spare Adrianna’s life for now. But seeing that you’ve pissed me off, just wait and watch how the next four days are gonna be hell for you. You could have avoided this by making that bastard sign those documents. Now I am forced to use my methods, and I never play fair. What next happens will only be your fault.”

He laughed at the top of his lungs, leaving Kim alone in the room.

The world turned into a blur, and so did all the sounds for her. She paused trying to hold back the strange feelings rumbling inside her, but she couldn’t do it. A lone tear traced down her cheek, and just like that, the flood gates opened. So many tears burst forth like water from a dam, spilling down her face. Her chin trembled as if she was a small child. She breathed in heavier than she had ever before. She was gasping for air that simply wasn’t there. She didn’t know what to do but weep.

***

Javier entered Sergio’s room, slowly closing the door behind him. He hadn’t even had the chance to look around the room. It was huge, beautiful, and had a lot of paintings on the wall. The color, the decorations, and the furniture all seemed expensive. There were pictures of Sergio, and in all those pictures, he was with the love of his life. They seemed so happy that it lifted Javier’s spirit, his lips curled up into a smile.

He slowly walked in and saw the pile of clothes that was on the floor near the bed. They were all Sergio’s clothes. He shook his head, knelt, and picked them all up. He started heading to the bathroom where he had seen a washing basket, but before he reached there, the door flung open.

“How dare you?”

Javier stopped in his tracks when he heard that voice. He slowly turned to find an angry-looking man rushing towards him with a scowl on his face. The man looked like he knew Javier from somewhere and they were kinda mortal enemies. He froze where he stood, staring at the man like he had seen a ghost.

“What are you doing here, and who gave you permission to enter this room?” He roared, glaring at Javier.

Trevor had never felt the way he did in a long time. Not only was the annoying guy in Sergio’s room and holding Sergio’s clothes, but he was also wearing Sergio’s clothes. They were probably clothes Sergio never won before, but he remembered them well enough. His face got red with anger and his hands began clenching.

“And what are you wearing? Who told you that you could wear Sergio’s clothes or even touch them?” He was acting like a mad man.

“Well…” Javier’s mouth was shaking. “… I… I came here to freshen up. I saw these clothes on the floor and… and I decided to put them in the washing basket, and wash them later.”

Those words only fuelled the fire that burned inside of Trevor. He exploded like a bomb, throwing his hands and pushing the clothes the boy was holding to the floor. The boy stood there stunned, with tears in his eyes.

“I am so sorry, sir… Did I… did I do anything wrong?”

“Get out!” He stamped his foot on the floor, gripping the boy’s hand painfully. “Get the fuck out of Sergio’s room.”

He started dragging him out of the room. A stunned Javier followed, trying to process what had happened. The man had come out of nowhere.

“No one is allowed in my husband’s room, do you understand?” He warned. “Just because he allowed you once doesn’t give you the fucking right to enter at will. You’re probably used to badging in other people’s bedrooms. It must be part of your character.”

“Look, let me go.” Javier pleaded, trying to release his hand but Trevor only hurt him. “You’re hurting me, sir.”

“Don’t try to act as if you’re very tender.” He chuckled bitterly. “For all we know, you’re probably here to steal from us.”

Trevor dragged the boy all the way downstairs. No matter what the boy, didn’t pay any attention.

“Sir, please, you’re mistaken.” Javier pleaded. “I am not that kind of person. I am sorry if I upset you in any way, but you’re hurting me. I have hurt already.”

Trevor threw the boy’s arm, watching him wince. “Don’t try to even bring that here, I am not stupid.” He warned, his voice echoing throughout the house. “Your pretense doesn’t work with me. You think that bandage on your head will save you? You saved my husband’s life, and I thank you for that. But now you’re no longer needed here. You need to get out of here. How much money do you want?” He asked.

“What?” Javier couldn’t mask the surprise in his voice. “Why would you…”

“Answer the question, damn it? Isn’t that the reason why you’re here? You saved a billionaire, and it is time to name your price.”

“Sir…” He couldn’t mask his tears. “… my kindness doesn’t have a price. I didn’t save his life because I wanted something in return. I only did that because… because…”

“Hmmmm….” Trevor chuckled, crossing his arms on his chest. He started passing round the boy, eyeing him from head to toe in disgust. “I see what’s going on here? So it isn’t just money you’re after. You’re also after my Sergio, you wanna seduce him. That’s why you’re here.”

“Sir, I wouldn’t…”

“Shut up!” He snapped. “You came here with your Latino body, and your Latino accent thinking that he was gonna look at you? Have you taken a very good look at yourself? Why would he choose that over this?”

He slowly turned, showing his sexy body to Javier.

“You don’t stand a chance.”

“Mr. Alvarado allowed me to stay here despite not knowing who I am,” Javier said, rubbing his tears. “He’s very kind, and nice. Why would I think of such an evil act?”

“You’re right. You’re too stupid.” He laughed. “But whether he allowed you to stay, or not. You’re leaving this house this instant.”

He gripped Javier’s arm even more painfully and started dragging him out.

“Get the fuck out of my house.” He yelled. “And if I ever see you…”

“Let go!” He tried to release his arm but Trevor’s grip only tightened. “I said, let go.” He seethed.

Out of the blue, Javier furiously released his arm and collided his backhand with Trevor’s cheekbone, flaying his neck backward like a willow caught in the wind. As he stumbled, he nearly fell to the floor, holding his cheek with his palm, but luckily, he held on to something. The boy’s action certainly took him by surprise.

Trevor paused where he was, landing his eyes on the boy that glared at him with such hatred. He couldn’t hide the incredulous look on his face. He slowly removed his hand, glancing at his palm. There was no blood, but it was certainly gonna leave a bruise.

“Did…. Did you just slap me?” He stuttered, rising to face the boy. “How dare….”

“Try that, and I’ll make sure I mop the floor with you.” Javier dared.

Trevor had his hand frozen mid-air, trembling like a leaf on a windy day. He wanted to kill the boy with slaps, but there was something in his voice that scared him. He couldn’t do it. He dropped his hand furiously, groaning like a child.

“Don’t think that just because I am a guest here means I don’t know about you.” He was so loud. “Who doesn’t know about the man Mr. Alvarado left on the altar to go and marry the love of his life. With this attitude, I now know the reason why he did what he did.”

Tears streamed down his cheeks, his whole face red in rage. “How dare you?” He screamed at the top of his lungs. Those who heard his voice could sense the pain in it. “Who do think you are to talk to me in that manner? Do you know who I am?”

“And I don’t care to know,” Javier said simply shrugging. “You did not bring me to this house, I came with Sergio. I was not in your room, I was in Sergio’s room. And from what I know, Sergio’s husband is still missing so which one are you married to? I don’t need to explain myself to you because this house belongs to Sergio. He’s the only one who’s got the right to throw me out.”

Trevor was so lost in anger that he felt like his brain was being tormented. It had been so long since he’d heard hurtful words from someone, let alone someone that shouldn’t have made him cry. His heart was bleeding and his anger was pulsating. He tried to rub his tears but no matter how much he did, more still came.

He tried to open his mouth, but to his surprise, no word came out.

“Trevor?” He suddenly heard his mother’s voice before hearing high heels. She held his hand, staring into his face. “Why are you crying? What’s wrong, honey? Did somebody die?”

But all he did was glare at Javier while his breaths quickened.

“Baby?” She diverted her eyes at the boy he was glaring and she felt like strangling him. “What the hell did you do to my son? Why is he crying?” The rational Giada was offline and the primitive Giada was in the room. “I am asking you a question!”

Javier’s mouth shook. Giada was a scary woman. “Well, ma’am, he was… he was the one that was trying to…”

“I don’t need your useless explanations. Nobody makes my son cry, certainly not some dirty-looking Spanish brat.” She shouted, her voice filling the living room. “By the way, who are you, and what are you even doing here? Isn’t the job you were brought to do here over? Get the fuck out before I kill you with my bare hands. I am not gonna repeat myself.”

“But ma’am…”

“Now!” She pointed to the door.

“What’s going on here?” Adrianna came rushing into the room. She was surprised to find Javier with the evil mother and son. “Why is there noise here?”

Javier was struggling to breathe from the anger. “Adrianna, I did what Sergio told me to. But before he sends anyone to his room, I think it’s better if he asks permission from his husband.” He sounded mad. “I am sorry if I have caused any trouble, but I am leaving.” He put his hands together. “Goodbye, Adrianna.”

He looked at the mother and son, shook his head, and began walking towards the entrance door.

“Javier, please wait!” Adrianna rushed to him and blocked him. “What do you mean you’re leaving? I thought Sergio told you to stay for as long as you wanted.”

“I think I have overstayed my welcome. I don’t want to cause trouble in this house. Mr. Alvarado is safe, and I am happy I saved his life.” He forced a smile. “But, I cannot stay here. I’ll find somewhere to stay and tell Mr. Alvarado that I said thanks for his hospitality. He’s a good man, but I have to leave.”

He took a step but….

“You’re not going anywhere.” Came a voice.

Both Adrianna and Javier looked in the direction of the voice and saw Sergio entering the house looking mad. Javier froze, dropping his eyes to the ground. He was scared that he might have spoken out of the boundary and he was in trouble.

“You’re staying here, and that’s final. You’re my guest here.” He seethed. “Unlike some people that forced their way into this house. Those are the ones that do not belong here, and they should leave.”

“I… I am so sorry.” Javier apologized. “It is just… just I…”

“You don’t have to explain yourself to me. No one should intimidate you in this house.” He assured, glaring at Giada and Trevor. “Feel free to do anything you want. I owe my life to you. And if anyone doesn’t like it, they can hug a transformer for all I care.”

Trevor slowly rubbed his tears. He felt like someone was trying to pull his heart out of his chest. It hurt like hell. Sergio was staring at him with so much anger.

“Why can’t you see it, Sergio?” Trevor muttered. “This boy has a motive in this house. He’s only here because he wants our money. He wants you.”

“Why do you always see the evil in everyone but don’t see it in yourself?” His voice sounded so raw, so painful. “There was a time when I used to be happy seeing you. But, I don’t know how to forget your face now. How can you still be here after everything that has happened?”

“Sergio, this boy is not worth your time,” Adrianna said harshly. “He doesn’t even deserve you looking at him. Please, go inside your room. I’ll bring your food there.”

He stared at Trevor for a long time, enjoying seeing his tears. He then gripped Javier’s hand sweetly and watched as Trevor’s eyes widened with the way he was holding the boy’s hand. He brought him closer and smiled brightly at him.

“Let’s go!”

The boy sheepishly nodded and followed Sergio upstairs to his room. Adrianna left too and Trevor burst into tears, dropping to the floor. His heart was on fire. It felt like someone was burning his very existence. Giada tried to soothe him but he was beyond that. He cried like there was no tomorrow. He couldn’t understand why he still loved Sergio despite being treated like garbage. He was supposed to be mad at him but he wasn’t.

After crying for what seemed like forever, Giada took him to his room and gave him a painkiller because he had a pulsating painful headache. He was mad… he wanted to vent but there was no one to vent out his anger on.

“Here you go, honey!” Giada said as she handed him a glass of cold water. “Take this. It will make you feel better.”

Trevor’s eyes were blood red and swollen. He looked pitiful.

“I want him dead.” He said simply. “Nobody has made me cry the way I did today, mommy. I want that boy wiped off the surface of the earth, and I want it as soon as possible.”

“Honey!” She sighed, rubbing his shoulders. “You’ve got to exercise some patience. We can’t afford to make any mistake right now. If we do anything to him, everyone will be suspecting us. As it is, Sergio has his eyes on us.”

“What are you telling me? You expect me to let it go after he humiliated in front of Sergio, and that bitch!” He rose from the bed as he’d sat on a needle. “I need to show him that….”

There was a scream from deep within that forced its way from his mouth, It was as if his terrified soul unleashed a demon. All he felt was anger, he was in murder mode. Only the death of Javier was gonna heal his sores.

“I thought I had gotten rid of that pest, Eric, that used to make my life a living hell. I will not let this new bitch take Sergio away from me.”

“Honey, we’ve got something big planned out. In a day or two, it will be executed.” She reassured, staring into his eyes. “After that, you can do whatever you want with him. I promise. Please, just a little bit more patience.”

Trevor groaned, stamping his foot on the floor. “Fine! But not more than that.”

“Yes,” She smiled. “Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. I promise you won’t regret it.”

‘I don’t care about anything.’ He thought as he slammed his fist on a table. ‘All I care about is murdering that son of a bitch, and getting back my husband. You’ll pay with your life for this slap. I swear.”

***

David was seated in a restaurant, enjoying a glass of wine. He was dressed beautifully in a green designer’s suit that fit him perfectly and made him look younger than he was. He seemed lost in thought, thinking about the turn out of events at his company since the disappearance of Eric. He had come to meet some important clients and they seemed to be taking longer than he had expected. He had been waiting for thirty minutes.

“Hello, David!” Came an excited voice.

He quickly raised his head and found Giada smiling at him like she wanted to fuck him right there. Giada was truly a beautiful woman, but only on the outside. She looked so seductively sexy that many in that restaurant thought she could have graced any billboard or magazine cover. The red sexy dress she was wearing showed off her killer curves and her cleavage was on view for anyone to admire. She had those seductress high heels and her hair was curled.

But, she wasn’t alone. She was with a man that could equally make any lady cream her panties. Seeing them, David got up and got a surprising perk on both his cheeks from Giada. She seemed too happy for a woman that was embarrassed by Eric the last they met.

“David, darling, you’ve got no idea how happy I am that we’re meeting.” She chuckled as both she and Jayden took seats. “This is Jayden Alvarado, my business partner. He is also a very close family friend.”

Both men shook their hands powerfully, smiling at each other.

“Yeah, Mr. Alvarado’s first son, and Sergio’s half-brother.” He spoke followed by a smile. “He is currently a hot topic. I have heard a lot about him from some of my friends.”

“Yeah, and we’re here for business, David.” Giada didn’t wanna beat around the bush. “My offer still stands, and I can assure you that you’ll not regret doing business with us.”

David chuckled softly. “I must confess that I was kinda surprised when I received your call. I never thought I’d hear from you any time soon after what happened the last time.”

Her lips curled into a smile. “I am not known to hold grudges, David, especially over petty things like that.” She laughed inwardly. “I am a businesswoman and nothing comes easy. Let bygones be bygones.”

David sighed, taking a sip of his wine. She was still as spirited as ever, he had to give her that.

“Giada has told me everything about you, and your company.” Jayden finally spoke. “I have always admired your work, Mr. Smith, and honestly when Giada told me about her plan, I knew I wanted in. I have got a lot to offer to you, and your company. I want a partnership with both D&E and Liberty shoes, and in turn, I want you in my companies.”

David laughed. “I don’t think I can run your type of business.”

“Don’t worry. You’re very smart, successful, and influential. You’ll do just fine.”

“And besides, everything that I promised you still stands if you accept my offer.” Giada winked. She was highly practiced at seduction. She knew she could get to him.

“Honestly, since the death of Eric…” He paused and lost the smile on his face. “…things at the company haven’t been the same. I have lost millions in just a week, and I don’t know how to run the company without him. I just realized that he was the heart of the company.”

Giada was raging inside, but she had to keep herself in check. She didn’t want to lose such an opportunity.

“I am sorry for your loss.” She took his hand and started rubbing on it seductively. “I am sure he was an asset to you and the company. But that’s the more reason you need me. Eric might have been good, but I have been successfully running a fashion house for years. They don’t call me the queen of the city for nothing.”

David glanced at Giada, then he smiled. His smile was one of happiness growing, much as a spring flower opens. She could see that it came from deep inside to light his eyes and spread into every part of him.

“I guess you’re right, Giada. At first, I didn’t want to consider your offer.” He said softly. “But after careful thinking, there’s no harm.”

“What?” She gasped, covering her mouth in shock. “You mean… you’re finally accepting my offer?”

“Yes!”

“Oh my God!” She screamed. “Wow! I… I have no words right now, David. I Mean… finally, you made the right choice. I promise that you’ll never regret this decision you’ve made today.”

“I know I won’t.” He grinned, getting some documents from his bag. He handed them to both Giada and Jayden, and the two didn’t even waste any more time. They signed the documents in the blink of an eye without bothering to read. “Welcome to Liberty shoes and D&E.” He greeted both of them as they handed him the documents.

“Thanks!” They both said at the same time.

“Let us celebrate this new partnership,” David suggested.

They all agreed and ordered lots of champagne, wine, and food. It was time to celebrate another victory. Giada was so excited that she bought everyone in the restaurant food and wine.

***

“Derrick, please calm down,” Sergio spoke as he rushed down the stairs. “I cannot get you.”

“Sergio, I can’t calm down.” He sounded mad. “This is a pressing matter, and I just can’t leave it hanging.”

“Okay, just take a deep breath and explain to me what happened.”

Sergio could hear Derrick’s harsh breaths on the other end. ‘I went to the company today this afternoon, and the news I found was that Giada managed to make a deal with Mr. Smith. She’s now a part of both D&E and Liberty companies. Do you know what that means?’

“What?” Sergio couldn’t mask the surprise in his voice. He stopped in his tracks and stood still like he was frozen in place. “That can’t be. I am sure they just met and she offered him a deal just like she always does. It’s a rumor.”

‘I know what I am saying.’ He said hoarsely. ‘I am Eric’s lawyer at the company, and this news came from a reliable source. And I am not only his lawyer but his brother as well. Knowing Giada, she probably has plans of getting her hands on his shares. And…’ He paused and sighed. ‘…it’s not only Giada but that Jayden guy as well. Both of them are part of both companies.’

Sergio was dumbstruck. He knew how shady both of them were.

‘Sergio, I am worried. As Eric’s lawyer, I will try and protect his assets, but I don’t think I have the power to do that alone. I need your help, Sergio.’ He pleaded. ‘For now, you need to take control of Eric’s position and his shares as well. That’s the only way.’

“What can I do?” He sighed. “I am not part of the company, and besides…”

‘Eric made mom, and I as sole heirs to his wealth if anything happened to him.’ Derrick said abruptly. ‘But after your marriage, you were included in it. He never told you this but I knew about it and so did mom. For this reason, you have every right to manage his assets. I don’t think I have the skills to manage his wealth, but you can. You’re one of the toughest businessmen in the country. You’re the only hope of making sure that Eric’s assets are not touched. I don’t trust Giada, please!’

“Okay.” He nodded. “I will talk to David, and see what’s going on. If he confirms that this is true, I will take up your offer. I won’t let them tarnish his image.”

‘Thank you!’ Derrick chuckled on the other end. ‘And I’ll see you later to talk. Bye!’

Sergio cut the call and continued rushing downstairs. He was about to start dialing David’s number when he saw Jayden entering the house with a grin on his face. He had one hand in his pocket, walking like a king. And when he saw Sergio, the grin on his face brightened.

Sergio walked harshly to him.

“What are you up to?” He asked with a crease on his brow. “What the hell are you after?”

Jayden raised his shoulder in a half shrug. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“I know where you’re coming from. You came from meeting David, didn’t you? I also know that you’re trying to enter D&E and Liberty powers company. What are you up to?”

“Wow, you’ve been doing your homework.” He raised his chin. “Is it that your life is so boring that you can’t just focus on yourself, and you have to keep a tab on me? Why do you like poking your nose in affairs that do not concern you.”

“Oh, this concerns me,” Sergio said harshly. “This is my husband’s company that you want to mess with, and if you think that I am gonna let you tarnish his name then you’ve got another thing coming.”

Jayden laughed, shaking his head. “Sometimes I feel like you like causing trouble. Why do you love following me like a shadow?”

“You’re one to talk.” He rolled his eyes. “You’re the one that barged into this house like a criminal. You’re also the one that barged into my company like a criminal, and now you’re barging into my husband’s company, and I won’t let you destroy what he’s built with his blood and sweat.”

Jayden brushed his palms together, losing the smile on his face. “You know, when I came here I thought we were gonna be like long lost brothers. I honestly got a little excited coming here, and even with all those insults you rained down on me, I forgave them because you’re my little brother. But right now…” He chirped, prodding on Sergio’s chest. “… you’re starting to piss me off, and I don’t like it.

You don’t want to get on my wrong side, otherwise, you might just find out I am a monster. I think I have tolerated you enough. Don’t think that just because I have been quiet on everything that you’ve been doing means I will remain so. My patience can run out you know.”

Sergio grinned. “Oh, I don’t think you’ve been quiet, big bro.” He said disrespectfully. “I got your message clearly two days ago. And just because I haven’t said or done anything yet means I won’t.”

Jayden wrapped his arms around himself. “Whoa, I am shaking my boots. I am so scared, he’s gonna have me arrested.” Then he held out his arms, shaking his head. “If I wanted you dead, you’d be dead by now so don’t taste my patience. And stay out of my lane.” He warned.

He walked past Sergio, pushing him out of the way rudely.

“You know, karma is a bad bitch.” He chuckled, making Jayden stop and turn. “Whatever we do shall return to us tenfold, so I wouldn’t be as confident as you are right now. Who knows?” He shrugged, smirking. “An enemy might be lurking in the shadows slowly planning your downfall.”

“Lucky for me, I don’t have enemies strong enough to bring me down.” He drew in a long breath through his breath, it sounded like he was moaning during sex. “I have never been defeated before.”

He gave a long satisfying laugh and then turned to head upstairs. He had only taken about two steps when his phone began ringing. Excitedly, he took it out of his pocket and winked at Sergio before answering.

“Hello!”

One, two, three seconds, and Jayden stood still like he was frozen in place. Sergio watched as the color drained from his face and he became white as a ghost. His eyes widened and Sergio could have sworn he saw him tremble. And just like that, the man went out the door like the hounds of hell were after him. Sergio shrugged, wondering what had happened. But he didn’t care so he went his way.

***

“A toast to riches, influence, power, and godship!” Giada hollered, raising her wine glass in the air.

“And to love!” Trevor clinked his glass with his mother’s. “No more begging or sorrow. It is time men started begging at our feet.”

Giada was paralyzed with happiness and she could barely conceal her delight. Her final plan was now in place. She was the new partner of the two biggest companies on the continent. She had been upgraded to a goddess of fashion. Now people were gonna kiss her feet and admire her. It was all that she wanted.

They were in Giada’s room celebrating their accomplishment and only one person was missing to complete the package, Jayden.

“My dear son, our mission is accomplished. Now we’ve got the power to do anything we want with no one standing in our way. Anyone that tries shall taste death.”

“I am already ahead of you.” Joy had engulfed him like a fire in a cornfield. “It is time I stopped begging Sergio and made him understand that he has no choice but to be with me. And it is time I taught this Latino asshole a lesson that he won’t forget even in his next life. I have got a perfect plan to finally get rid of my problems.”

Both mother and son laughed sinisterly, enjoying the wine. The mood in the room was bright. The door opened and Jayden slowly walked in, looking like he had just escaped from death. His face was pale… his eyes were red, and he looked a mess.

“There he is, our main man.” Giada hollered, rushing to him.

She was so happy that she didn’t even notice how Jayden was looking like. All she saw was a happy, and satisfied man.

“You know, Jayden, I was starting to wonder where you were.” She coiled her arm with his, leading him to the table. “I am so happy today that I just want to celebrate the whole night. This is the best day of my life. I have got what I have always wanted and it’s all because of you.”

She made him sit down and started pouring wine in a glass.

“When I met you, I had no idea that you would bring me so much luck.” She giggled like a teenager on her prom date. “But now I know that signing that contract with you is the best decision of my life. You’re my lucky charm. I got my first victory almost two weeks ago and now…” She handed him the glass. “… now I just got my happy ending. You’re the best. Here!”

She handed the glass to him, but he just stared at her without saying a word.

“Come on, celebrate with me, Jayden. This is gonna…”

“It burnt to ashes!” Jayden muttered, dropping his eyes to the floor.

Giada frowned, glancing at her son. “What are you talking about? What burnt to ashes?”

Jayden sighed, feeling like someone had stabbed him in the chest. “The… warehouses, Giada. Our warehouses got burnt to ashes this evening.”

Giada let go of the glass she was holding and it dropped to the floor, breaking into shards. She stared at Jayden like he’s just grown another head.

“What warehouse?” She spurt.

Jayden sniveled, rubbing the sweat off his brow.

“Our warehouses!”

Pure terror surged through her veins, icy daggers straight to the heart. Fear curled inside her and clung to her ribs, settling uncomfortably in her chest. Already her heart rate was accelerating and her mind replayed what Jayden had just said to her. Tears welled in her eyes and she didn’t even bother to hide.

“You must be joking. How did that happen?”

Jayden opened his mouth and closed it again. He couldn’t utter a word.

“Jayden?” Trevor felt sick with the terror that engulfed him. “What are you talking about? This has got to be a joke. If it is then it is very expensive.”

“Jayden?” Giada shook him. “You’re making me shitty scared. What’s going on?”

He looked at her as a tear rolled down his cheek. “I received a call this afternoon that my warehouse was in flames. I rushed there as fast as I could, and… I couldn’t do anything to stop the fire. Everything was burnt to ashes. All the goods, the boats, and…” He couldn’t finish his sentence before he started hyperventilating. “… I… I couldn’t do anything to save it. I thought nothing worse could happen but I received word that my two other warehouses were also in flames. Nothing survived. Everything was burnt to ashes.”

Giada’s watery eyes enlarged and the hairs on the nape of her neck bristled. A gaggle of goose pimples laminated her frigid, naked skin. Slow and deliberate, she sat on the cold floor, trembling like someone had poured freezing water on her.

“That’s impossible!” Trevor muttered. “There’s… no way all our warehouses would be in flames at the same time. What happened?”

“Someone attacked my men at the warehouses. There was gunfire, and most of my men are dead. Bombs were planted there, and…” He cried like a baby, gripping his hair. “…fuck, I don’t know what to do. I am done for. They’ve killed me.”

“Who could have done this? Your enemies, or maybe…”

“No, if they’re my enemies then it must be someone new. None of them would dare do this.” He said, furiously rubbing his tears. “Besides, I don’t have many enemies in this country. What I have are allies. I… I don’t know what to do.”

There was a silence for several minutes inside the room that it felt like there was no one. Each of them was in deep thought. They were sweaty and looked pale. The atmosphere that had once been happy made a 360-degree turn. Sorrow had hit all of them.

“Do you think maybe… maybe Sergio did this?” Giada asked softly. “Maybe… maybe…”

“No!” Jayden shook his head. “I… I don’t think he knows the businesses I run. This has to be somebody that has probably been observing me for a long time, someone that knows my moves. Maybe… perhaps it is someone who followed me from here. Someone that knows the heart of my company.”

“But… but who would do this?” Giada was so confused. “Maybe we can…”

“There is nothing we can do, Giada. By burning all the warehouses, whoever did this has crippled me.” He yelled. “Where am I gonna get the money to build it all, to replace all the goods and assets. Where am I going to get the money to pay all the loans I took? I am screwed?” He pulled his hair hard, rising from the couch.

“Maybe I can…”

“You cannot do anything.” He snapped. “In case you don’t understand what’s going on if I have gone down so have you. Our companies are linked together now. No more Sandoval fashion house, and no more Sandoval group of hotels. It’s all going down. No more D&E or Liberty powers.”

“No!” Giada rose, screaming like a madwoman. “You lie, Jayden. I cannot lose everything just like that. I cannot lose Liberty powers or D&E before I even have my hands on it. We made a contract.”

“And you think he’s still gonna want to partner with us after finding out?” Jayden shouted. “In a few hours, the news will be everywhere like wildfire if it’s not out there yet. And then we’ll lose our business partners, our investors, and creditors will come from everywhere.”

“No!” Giada cried, breathing like she was in labor. “It cannot end like that. You need to do something. We cannot lose like this Jayden.”

Jayden sniveled. “Our only hope is Alvarado jewelers. We need to get ahold of that company somehow. We need full ownership fast, otherwise, this will be an opportunity for Sergio to take us down if we’re not careful. He’s probably been waiting for an opportunity like this.”

Trevor stood there, staring at Jayden nonstop. “But how are we supposed to do that? You know Sergio won’t agree to that. He is not stupid, you know.”

Giada got up quickly. “We need to think of something quick, otherwise, it will all be in vain. We need to find a way of making Sergio sign off his properties without having second thoughts. And we need to do it fast before we find ourselves falling. We’ve come a long way to just let it go like that.”

They all stood quiet, each of them thinking of a way to steal the entire Alvarado wealth now that the situation was complicated. They couldn’t risk being defeated after coming a long way. But, what were they gonna do?

Stay tuned...