CRUEL WORLD

My name is Evelyn, I live in a single apartment not the most idle place for anyone to live in. You wouldn't even believe if I told you how I ended up here, no need going down that awful memory lane.

It's already 6:30AM "Shit I am late for my shift."

Well that is Evelyn, a beautiful girl from a rich family. Wondering how she ended up living in the slums? I'll tell you that later.

Evelyn ran into an establishment where food is served (restaurant).

She works at coffee stands in the mornings and serves as a receptionist in the evenings.

"Hey you, its 7:20 you are late. The restaurant wouldn't wait for you, you know. You best get out of my sight and get those coffees ready and brewing. Don't get cocky, you may have worked here for years that doesn't mean you can't get fired" her boss queried

"I am really sorry, it won't happen again ma'am" Evelyn replied

"Hey what really happened that made you come late today honey, you know how Mrs Anders can be, but don't take it to heart." Britney said

"Thanks love, you know me I never do" Evelyn replied

That's how she works day and night relentlessly everyday and she has been doing this for years.

How did she end up there?

~~~~

MILL'S MANSION

Fifteen years ago, little Evelyn whom was eight years old was playing in the playground with her little brother Dan whom was just five. They played different types of games and on the last game called hide and seek, little did they realize that was the last time they will set eyes on each other.. Or is it?

We'll leave that for fate to decide.

While on their various hideouts, Dan heard some gunshots and ran out to look for his dad and mum and that was where he was shot. He was presumed dead by the assassins because he fell down in his own pool of blood alongside his parents.

Meanwhile the killers were sent by their parent's competitors in business.

They were slaughtering and killing every living thing they could find in the Mill's mansion.

In her little hideout, Evelyn heard one of the men say,

"This isn't time to get sentimental, the Aragon's wants all of the Mills dead, we can't leave any traces behind. So do your job and kill everyone you can find, including all the servants at the Mills mansion, Is that clear?."

"Okay boss, it is done."

Hearing this Evelyn had no choice but to stay hidden where she was, hoping and praying her parents and little brother were safe.

While praying, the door to her hideout was opened and she flinched, she saw her mom's personal maid drag her out and said.

"Listen little angel, shh stay quiet. There is no time, listen. Your mom, dad and little brother are no more. Do not forget to avenge them, follow this hidden wall, it will take you to the lake behind the mountain. It is up to you now, you are the only one who can avenge them."

"Godmother Erica, no don't leave me alone please" Little Evelyn pleaded amidst tears

"Go they are coming I can hear footsteps. Go, run, Evelyn run" Erica whispered silently into her ears.

"No no no I can't do this on my own please, don't leave me alone" Evelyn cried

"Take care little angel"

With that said, Erica quickly pushed her through the hidden wall and locked the passage door. Just then gunshots were heard, she turned back and saw Erica fall. So she ran with all her might, Even Erica died as well? Tears welled up in her eyes while running.

~~~~~

Evelyn woke up to a bright new day, she got up, stretched her body and walked into the kitchen to make breakfast that consists of fried eggs and beacon, which she ate before going into the bathroom after all today is the only day of freedom from her wicked and ungrateful employer Miss Anders.

After taking her bath she brought out a hidden box and was going through, it is the only property she stumbled across on her way out of the mill's mansion. Its a portrait of her family.

She was looking at it and the painful memories of that unfaithful day came back. She cried for hours. She vowed to avenge her family.

After hours of staring and crying she stood up took her bath again, this time it was 3:00 PM. She took her bag and headed down to the gym. Ever since she lost her family, she decided never to be weak. She goes to gyms on sundays to strengthen her fists and when it was 5:00PM, she enrolls in Karate so she could be strong enough to avenge her family when the time is right.

"Hey Lee, what's happening why is the dojo silent tonight?"

"Because Eve, its time you upgraded to a black belt. So I will train with you personally today"

"Awn... Lee you are such a sweetheart"

She hugs him affectionately.

LEE'S POV

Evelyn is a very beautiful lady I met her five years ago. She was so broken at the time, I had to be her knight in shiny armour at least that's what she calls me. We've become inseparable since then, Also one thing we both have in common was we have both been wronged one way or another by the Aragons.

They are a dreadful and cold group. They destroy everything they view as threats to their businesses and family.

They've seized lots of companies, destroyed families and unfortunately I and Evelyn were victims of such cruelty.

"Hey Lee, what are you thinking about? I have been calling out to you" Eve said jolting him back from his thoughts

"Nothing, come on let's go practice"

And so they fought, did a lot of training till 8:00PM, and then decided to call it a day. Lee locked his dojo and they both went to eat in an eatery after which they went home.

Evelyn got home by 10:30PM and went straight to bed. She woke up by 5:00AM the next day and went to work as usual.

Since she came early, no nagging from her awful boss, Mrs Anders.

One reason she chose to work here was because the restaurant she works in was somewhat connected to the Aragons. She plans to take revenge from the inside against them and somehow her plans were beginning to fall in place. She had plans of using the only son of the Aragon's against them and to infiltrate their home, businesses and make them all pay for all they've done to her family. She went on with her job by serving coffee to her customers.

Just then one of her regular customers named John came, so she went to serve him.

"One cappuccino please" John said

"One cappuccino it is, coming right up" Evelyn replied with a broad smile.

Few minutes later...

"Here you go John" Evelyn said

"Oh thank you dear" John replied

And so Evelyn went on with her normal and everyday routine, which was being friendly to everyone she crosses path with, and hoping she gets the opportunity to meet her enemies.

THE ARAGON'S VILLA

Just an hour drive away from Evelyn's work place, situated there is the Aragon's Villa. A beautiful and well decorated house, from the environs even a blind man could tell how expensive it is. A water fountain is placed in the middle of the villa. The gates well guarded inside out, there were men all clothed in black moving up and down with riffle guns, pacing and guarding each entrance that even a fallen pin won't go unnoticed by them. And this is where the Aragons resides.

Edmund Aragon the founder of Aragon's holdings is an old man with grey hair and beards, he is sighted sitting with his family in their living room. His wife and only son were with him along with his trusted guards and acquaintances. He began telling them what next they needed to do in order to gain more wealth.

"You have our undying loyalty." Everyone present in the meeting chorused

"I expect nothing less, more wins cheers"

"Che...ee..rr..ss" they chorused

An hour later the meeting was adjourned.

Wendy Aragon kisses her son and said,

"Oh my cute baby boy, congratulations on your succession and promotion son. You did good conquering the Zhou's years ago, they were a pain to our company. Even at a young age, you conquered that great empire and now it is ours. Sleep well honey, tomorrow you get to sit on your new seat in a very spacious office"

"Come on mom, don't tease me too much you and dad just relax and I will make you two proud."

"Oh honey, I know you will. I better go meet your dad, I have been gone for too long, you know how he can be. Goodnight son... kisses"

Wendy kisses her son goodnight and left

~~~~~~

Eric Aragon is a fine young man, a quite dashing one if I say so myself. He is the only son and heir. He has two sisters an elder one named Camilla now married and a younger one named Riley. We'll talk about them later.

His blue eyes are captivating and not just that, he is very tall and would make a perfect husband as the ladies in his company would say but they keep their voices low so as not to be heard, cause it could cost them their jobs.

Eric has a domineering and cold personality that when he walks into a place, everyone around gets cold feet. He has that power to make everyone around him shudder. He is a very rude and spoilt child, what do you expect from an over pampered only son and heir from an affluent family?

It's his first day as CEO in his new company in Ohio branch in USA.

He woke up, got dressed and went down from his room for breakfast.

Miss Betty whom was Eric's nanny came to the dining holding a tray with his breakfast, and placed it on the table.

"Morning Betty" Eric greeted the older woman

"Morning hon, your parents told me to tell you they left for Japan and this means you are in charge. Miss Wendy didn't want to disturb your sleep that's why they left without waking you up, you know how they are, always traveling."

Eric sighs and says

"Yeah am used to it, they always leave me to deal with new companies."

"Come on Eric, they are your parents they want the best for you son. Now eat up, its your first day in the company as the CEO am sure you will do just fine, like you've always done" Betty said

"You are the best Betty you know that" Eric replied

"Now eat up boy, your guards and driver are ready"

Eric ate his breakfast and went outside, a limousine was waiting for him, he sighs feeling frustrated and walked back inside and called out to Miss Betty

"Betty, why is a limousine outside? Why not an SUV or Lamborghini? You know very much how I hate limos"

"Eric those were your father's orders, you know how dictating he can be. He may be on his way to Japan cuddling his wife, but that doesn't mean his eyes aren't here. He knows and sees everything. You don't want to get on his bad side on your first day as CEO do you? Come on now be an obedient child for once and stop nagging, love you"

"Ugh!!" Eric grunts and left for the company.

As soon as he stepped his feet through the door way, a female employee mistakenly spilled half of her coffee if not all of it on Eric.

What happened next was unfathomable, before the guards could get to the spot, Eric landed a hot slap on the poor lady that she fell to the ground.

"How dare you, you filthy thing get out of my sight. You are fired. Why are there incompetent fools in this company? Good heavens"

He walked into the elevator to his new office and everyone who saw him quickly bowed and ran away from his presence, so that they will not get on his bad side.

He went into his office, took off his suit that was stained earlier and relaxed on a chair then took a deep breath.

'Why is everything set to piss me off today?' He thought.

While he was yet thinking, there was a knock on the door.

"Who on earth is that?" Eric barked

A lady with a long blonde hair walked in with some files Eric almost snapped.

"And what on earth are you doing?"

"Your files sir" The lady replied while sweating profusely

"Drop it and get out of my sight you ugly thing" Eric yelled

"She dropped the files and ran out. Before he could say another word, she was out of sight.

Eric sighed and went on with his daily activities as a CEO of a new company.

"Eve you better take a breather, this is becoming too much for you to bear" Britney said while holding on to Evelyn at the restaurant due to her feeling a little bit, wussy.

"Britney, its just a little headache, nothing more. I can still manage just fine." Evelyn replied

She then went to the counter picked up a tray of coffee to serve one of her regular customers and as she was about to hand out the coffee, she fainted.

She opened her eyes slowly and couldn't recognize where she was. She slowly asked with a low voice,

"Where am I?"

A doctor replied

"You are in a hospital, a man brought you here"

"What happened?"

"You passed out, but its nothing to worry about. You are in safe hands"

"Thank you doc"

"I am Kennedy just call me Ken, and you are?" He asked smiling

"Evelyn... Evelyn Morse" Eve replied smiling back.

While they were getting acquainted, Lee came in worried.

"Eve, thank goodness you are okay. Oh what would I do if something bad happened to you?" He said hugging her affectionately.

The Doctor ken was about to leave when Lee stopped him with a question.

"Doc, is she going to be okay, is there anything wrong?"

"She is fine, she just needs rest, and lots of it."

"Thanks Doc." Lee said

He then left them to themselves.

"Eve what happened to you? If not for Britney I wouldn't have known you were in a hospital"

"I am so sorry Lee, for making you worried. Wait are those tears? Oh my! I didn't mean to... Come here." They both hugged each other

After some minutes Lee decided to go get dinner for both of them since he will be spending the night in the hospital with her.

LEE'S POV

EVELYN'S POV

Seeing Lee like that really hurts my feelings, never thought he'd get scared. He has always been like a pillar, my strong pillar. But seeing him that way made me sad, I have always known he has great affection for me. But with him being this frantic, shows he loves me and doesn't want to lose me. I am really sorry I made him tear up. I would try my hardest so that it doesn't happen again.

While she was in her thoughts, the door to her ward opened. It was Kennedy, he came back in to check on her.

"Hey, someone is feeling better now, I can see that. But take my advice as a doctor to a patient. Don't work too hard, this happened only because of stress. It is because your body has been overly stressed out for a long time, that is why you ended up here. Please Evelyn, take very good care of yourself okay?"

"I will, thanks Ken."

"Sure, get some rest. By tomorrow you can go home and remember do not exert yourself"

With that said he turned to leave, then Lee showed up with dinner and was quite surprised to see the doctor again in her ward.

"Doc, is everything okay? Did something happen?" Lee asked with all seriousness

"Not really, she is fine. Goodnight" he smiled and left.

"Hey Eve, what did he say to you?"

"Nothing just that I needed to rest" Eve replied him

"I just don't like that Doc, he looks at you differently" Lee grumbled

"Quit being jealous and serve me food, I am starving" Eve queried while rolling her eyes.

So they ate and teased each other for a while, he then left to his car to bring a change of cloth for Evelyn, so that they can leave the hospital as soon as possible. Being in such a space makes him feel uncomfortable.

~~~~~~

After a week of rest, Evelyn decided to resume her awful job hoping she gets to meet her prey soon. She woke up, took her bath and made noodles for breakfast, and then she was ready to get to her place of work.

Evelyn arrived at the restaurant early so as to escape Mrs Anders wrath,

"Speaking of the devil" Evelyn muttered to herself

"Hey you, you look quite agile for a weak girl. You have a lot to do don't just stand there, get to work." Mrs Anders yelled immediately she set her eyes on Evelyn.

"Good to see you too, Mrs Anders" Eve replied

As her shift was almost over, she received a text from Lee saying he will be picking her up when she was done for the day, that they needed to go somewhere really important tonight.

She kept looking at the clock so that she gets off work.

'Lee sounded desperate' She thought.

At long last its 9:30PM, she took her bag and went outside the building, as expected Lee was waiting for her and they drove off to an old building (hideout) where all their evidence are kept. Evidence and every detail there is to know about their enemies and where each of them could be found were plastered on the four corners of the wall.

Lee told Eve about the news he received, that the Aragon's are not very far from them, and that his source told him they recently traveled to Japan, leaving their son in the States to stay in charge of the company here in Ohio. So they began taking measures and steps, drawing up plans on how to get back on them that evening.

Lee swore to get Eric killed and make him pay for his crimes, while Evelyn vowed to take all their assets away from them and set them(The Aragon's buildings) ablaze like they did her family's years ago.

Since it was already late, they decided to spend the night there.

While holding on to Evelyn tightly who was sleeping peacefully, in his arms he whispers.

"I'll never let anyone hurt you, no one can take you away from me, you are the only one I have left" Evelyn subconsciously snuggled more into Lee's arms after a while Lee drifted to sleep as well.

'Evelyn is a hardworking girl. She always makes the customers happy even though I have been somewhat rude to her, I do value her part in this restaurant. She works day and night relentlessly unlike the others.'

Mrs Anders thought while in her office staring down at Evelyn through her window as she works diligently.

'I better increase her pay before she finds work elsewhere.'

She picked up the phone (landline) and called for Evelyn into her office.

"Good afternoon ma'am" Evelyn greeted as she walked into her office.

"Have a seat" Mrs Anders beckoned

So she sat down feeling nervous because the last time she was in this office was when she newly applied for the job and over the years, she never had to enter in there. But here she was in the very place she never thought she'll be.

Confusion was written all over her face.

"Take a breather dear" Mrs Anders said after noticing how confused and nervous she was.

"Okay ma'am" Evelyn replied taking a deep breath.

Evelyn's POV

While I was busy giving out coffee to the customers and taking orders, the landline rang and I was taken aback for a moment because that particular one doesn't ring for any reason. So I picked up, what I heard was shocking. Mrs Anders wanted me in her office. I immediately dropped the phone and headed for her office, feeling nervous.

I walked into her office, hoping and praying that she doesn't fire me because this is the only place I have planned to take my revenge and if I lose my job it will take a whole lot of time if not years before I can be this close to Aragon's holdings.

But it turns out my plans were far from failing, its even the very thing I have always wanted since I applied for a job here, which is being a receptionist full time. That way, I can see all the rich bastards that works for the Aragons. Who knows one of these days I might even get to meet the heir of Aragon's holdings himself.

Rumor has it that he comes to one of the suites in the VIP session during the day, while I work as a receptionist at night.

"Wow Mrs Anders, thank you so much I appreciate your generous gesture. I promise to make sure I work even more than I used to" I replied

"Okay enough, off you go" she said

I got out of her office feeling great, can't wait to break the news to Lee later.

While changing into official wears to continue her job as a receptionist, Britney came into the dressing room and said

"I heard our dear Mrs Anders called you into her office, that's strange. What was that all about?"

"Oh love, I have been promoted and I won't be serving coffees anymore. Will be a receptionist full time" Evelyn said happily

"Oh my! Congratulations I will miss you down here. Who will I gossip about her with now?" Britney whined like some ten year old, and they both laughed and left the changing room for their various duties for the day.

Evelyn's joy knows no bound, she was grinning nonstop.

She was somewhat convinced that the heavens are in support of her mission.

~~~~

His manager got to that instantly so as not to lose his job as well.

With that said, Eric stormed out of his office and left the building his guards went after him.

After entering the car, he told the driver to take him to the place he goes usually to cool off.

The driver known to be Cole took him to Mrs Anders restaurant. He came down from his car, guards ran to open the door for him in other to avoid what happened few days back from repeating itself. He went inside and he was led by the driver to the exclusive(VIP) session. As he approached the VIP session, he saw an angel in human form smiling to welcome him, he just stopped on his tracks and kept looking at her.

ERIC'S POV

EVELYN'S POV

While receiving visitors into the suites, heard some cleaners murmuring amongst themselves and I overheard one telling her fellow colleague

"The heir of the Aragon's wealth is in town"

"Are you serious?"

"Yes I am"

"Oh I wish I could just touch is pants or even his shoe lace"

"You bet girl, he is so handsome"

Hearing this I kept my fingers crossed, hoping he comes in here some day soon.

Hours later, I saw guards trooping into the VIP session lo and behold, it's none other than Eric Aragon the one I have been waiting for. Am quite good at hiding and controlling my emotions and feelings, cause I felt the urge to kill him right there. But being rash isn't the best thing to do at the moment, so I bowed and then smiled the best way I know how. I then looked up only to see him staring at me, I knew right then and there, that he was deeply affected by my appearance.

Thank heavens, I won't need to put in much efforts in seducing him, he just stood there staring at me until I greeted again.

"Welcome sir"

I then handed the key of the executive suite to one of his men and they all left.

As much as I am hellbent on taking my revenge, I need him alive, and since I could see that I have an effect on him, that's one point for me. So I better calm down my nerves, keep it all in and just blend in.

It was at this moment she was truly convinced that the heavens had her back in this mission of hers .

'But come to think of it, he is quite cute. No way what on earth has gotten over me?

I better not allow my eyes get the better of me.'

So she went on with her job for the rest of the day.

Its been two months, can't get my mind off her. Who is she to make me this uneasy? It's like am losing my wits(senses). Why can't I just forget about her? Since like forever I have always hated the ladies, why is this one so different?

Come to think of it, she is so beautiful, her grey eyes captivating, her lips as red as crimson, her eye lashes so long, her posture perfect. Her hair long and dark, gosh! She is my ideal woman. Won't let her slip through my fingers, hell I won't let her out of my sight, even though I know nothing about her, I don't care. Even if she turns out to be married, I will have her husband killed and take her for myself. She better be single, cause no one has made me this obsessed.

Eric picked up his phone and called his private investigator Lance, to find out all that can be found about the lady in question. Eric got off work early and went home, he was about to go up to his room when Betty stopped him by saying,

"You better come down here for lunch and tell me what's bothering you my boy."

Reluctantly, he turned towards the dining which was close to the kitchen and said,

"Betty, am losing my mind, there is this lady I saw few weeks back. I can't seem to get my mind off her"

While placing his hand on his face feeling lost.

Betty was surprised and came close to him sat down and placed her hand on his neck and asked

"Are you sure you are okay? You seem to be burning up."

"I am fine, very okay except the fact that I can't seem to forget that girl"

"Hm... I am very shocked to hear this from you Eric, I mean you've never looked at girls before. This individual must be an interesting soul, I want to meet her"

"What? I have never even spoken to her yet, I don't even know her name. I can't even confront her, I am afraid I may scare her away with my attitude"

"Hm... That's new, since when did you start paying attention to your attitude pushing someone away? Ahh I see what's going on here, someone is in love finally. Betty said while chuckling.

" In love? No way, I'll never fall in love.." He said grumbling, took a glass of juice and ran up the stairs to his room.

Seeing him acting like a kid, Betty couldn't help but smile.

~~~~~~~

"For some days now I have a feeling I am being followed " Evelyn told Lee when they met at their secret hideout.

"What do you mean you are being followed? Lee asked getting more concerned and alarmed.

"Did you attract someone bad or what exactly?" Lee asked again.

"I don't think so, I think its Eric sending someone to watch me else I see no reason why am being followed stealthily. And this only happened after our encounter the day he came to the restaurant. When he was about to exit the VIP session he turned back to take a look at me once more before entering the elevator" Eve replied.

'I better be on the lookout and make sure nothing goes wrong' Lee thought.

~~~~~~

"Speak to me Lance, what have you found?" Eric asked over the phone while in his study at home.

"I found out her name, age, her status everything there is to know about her, even to her favorite colour" Lance boasted

"Are you going to tell me about them anytime soon?" Eric asked sounding impatient.

Lance laughed hysterically and said,

"Everything has been sent to you, check you Em..."

Eric hung up before Lance could complete his sentence , he hurriedly took his laptop and logged into his email.

Her picture appeared and he looked longingly at it, he couldn't take his eyes off his screen.

"Evelyn Morse... Evelyn Morse" He just kept mentioning her name many times subconsciously, he then scrolled down he saw her age, she was in his age group.

'She is just 24 while I am 26, perfect match' He continued scrolling down for more details like her marital status she wasn't married he then gave out a sigh of relief, not that it mattered to him since he was ready to kill her Fiance if she were to be engaged, but somehow he was thankful he didn't have to get his hand dirty, just to get her. He kept looking at her picture all night until he slept off.

I would say he was overly obsessed.

~~~~~~~

Evelyn went to work as usual, she could be seen at the receptionist desk. She was working diligently and arranging files and record books which was her daily routine when a bunch of flowers came for her.

It was delivered by a delivery man.

She was quite surprised to be sent that much roses, so she signed that she had received it after which the delivery man left.

While she was looking for the card attached to the roses, Eric and his guards came in through the elevator. So she had to bow and smile to welcome them, after all that was part of her job.

Eric saw the flowers on her desk and a faint feeling of jealousy aroused in his heart. So he ignored her and entered the suite.

'Who on earth gave her those flowers? Who has the guts to send her such affection? I won't spare them' he kept thinking to the point he went berserk.

He got angry took a glass cup and threw it against the wall it shattered making a loud noise.

A bodyguard and Elvis his Secretary and personal assistant, came in with worries written over their faces when they heard the noise.

He then told Elvis to call the receptionist for him, better still

"Tell her to get me a cup of coffee and bring it in here herself"

They were surprised at this but then it was an order, so they went to call on the receptionist.

Evelyn's POV

While I was busy with my job a delivery man came in with a bouquet of roses and a gift card and said,

"Hi ma'am am looking for a certain Evelyn Morse"

"Oh well, I am she"

"Okay ma'am this is for you, was told to deliver this"

"Thank you"

"Please sign here ma'am"

"Sure"

After signing he left, I was about to open the card when the elevator opened and he (Eric) walked in.

I bowed and smiled as usual, instead of him to look at me. His gaze moved from my face to the flowers on the counter, I could feel some burning anger from him.

He immediately walked past me, into his suite.

I then opened the card attached to the side of the roses and it reads

"HEY BEAUTIFUL, THIS IS FOR YOU TO MAKE

YOUR DAY A PLEASANT ONE.

I HOPE YOUR DAY IS FILLED WITH LAUGHTER

AND JOY."

Your secret admirer.

So while wondering whom could have sent these, someone disrupted my thoughts by saying,

"The boss wants you to go get a cup of coffee for him and bring it to him yourself."

I was dumbfounded for a minute, I mean come on am a receptionist now, not just that am Mrs Anders personal assistant. Why would I need to get him coffee, who does he think he is?

Before I could protest, he had already left. I then have no choice but to do his bidding. So I went downstairs to get the coffee.

While waiting for the cup of coffee I was getting impatient, to the point I was nagging at Elvis if he actually did deliver the message or not. He said he did

"Then what's taking her forever to come in here?" I was about to lose it when I heard a knock on the door, then I comported myself, took a deep breath. After which I told her to come in and then dismissed the guards as well as Elvis.

They were all astonished at the fact that I had them dismissed while a stranger was in there, but they had no choice but to comply, it was an order after all.

When they left I gave out my cold and domineering aura but she wasn't at all affected by it. She just stood there with the tray of coffee, I was somewhat glad. So I decided to break the silence by telling her to come closer and hand over the cup of coffee herself, that was when I saw she was holding a tray filled with three cups of coffee.

So I was kinda perplexed at the view before me, she must have noticed how confused I was. That she spoke,

"You sent a receptionist to make a cup of coffee which isn't appropriate, I've left my post empty for too long, will you be responsible if I lost my job?"

She then took a deep breath and then smiled showing off a dimple and placed the tray of coffee on the desk and then said, "I don't know the flavour which you would prefer, so here are three varieties you can make your choice"

She turned to leave when Eric stopped her by holding her wrist. Her skin was so soft but then he had to let go. Eric then said

"Come sit and drink a cup with me" Evelyn declined politely by saying

"I am sorry I can't do that, its unprofessional, I have left my post for far too long sire"

Eric became agitated

'Doesn't she know who I am? Who is she to decline an opportunity to spend some minutes with me?'

Evelyn then bowed and was about to get to the door, then Eric pressed a button and the door was locked this gesture made it impossible for her to go out.

When she figured the door was locked Evelyn then turned around and walked majestically back and sat down opposite Eric, took a cup of coffee and started drinking, It was an unexpected move so this made Eric even more amazed.

Then she looked at him and said,

"You wanted a coffee partner isn't it? Well get on with it, so I can get back to work"

Eric then nodded

Evelyn's POV

When I came upstairs to his suite, I was somewhat happy that my plans of getting close to him has finally began, I decided not to let my happiness show. So I chose to act pissed.

So I knocked on the door, a bold but nice and pleasant voice said "come in," immediately I came in he dismissed his guards, since we were alone thoughts of killing him flooded my mind. But then I had to put them off. It wasn't time for that yet, I told my self and stood there until he told me to come closer and when I did, he was surprised there were three cups of coffee on the tray. I then started to act mad so I said,

"You sent a receptionist to make you a cup of coffee which wasn't appropriate, I've left my post empty for too long will you be responsible if I lost my job" After which I smiled and told him "I don't know the flavour which you would prefer so here are three Varieties you can make your choice"

"You wanted a coffee partner isn't it? Well let's get on with it, so I can get back to work"

he only nodded

'He must be really affected by my presence which was good for my plans. This is so cool'

While drinking the coffee in silence, Eric decided to ask her for her name. She then smiled and said

"I am Evelyn, but my friends call me Eve. What about you, what's yours sir?"

Eric was kind of impressed by her boldness so he took a sip of coffee and then replied

"Eric"

"Hm...sir Eric thanks for the coffee but I really have to go now, wouldn't want to lose my job, I love it here" Evelyn said

"Okay I had a great time Eve, thanks for the company"

"Well I didn't have much of a choice, but it was worth it sir Eric"

So she stood up to leave and bowed slightly, he then said to her.

"Its Eric"

Evelyn's facial expression displayed uncertainty so he said again. "To you, its just Eric no need for formalities please"

So she smiled and said,

"Do have a great day today Eric" with that she left to her post to continue with her duties.

Eric stayed back for a while and kept recalling the good moment he just had with her, her lovely voice which he felt was like that of an Angel. He loved her composure and the way she behaved for a second there he felt she acted like some rich snub because of the way she spoke and behaved even though she was from the low class.

Yes Eric, was more of a devil incarnate than he realizes but that moment he thought he found his Angel. Getting up he walked towards the door to leave, his guards escorted him out and then he saw her beautiful face again.

"Eve" he muttered out subconsciously.

Eve noticed his presence and bowed slightly to him he just kept staring at her. Eve loved the way he is affected by her presence. So she then smiled at him. What happened next was quite surprising, he actually smiled back at her then walked towards the elevator.

The cold and arrogant Eric smiled at a girl? That took the guards by surprise yet again. He entered into the elevator and his guards went in with him, he was just grinning nonstop all through the ride back to his company. Even when he alighted down from the car all through the way into his office he just wouldn't stop. That even his employees were astonished by this new behavior he was exhibiting.

"Hello mum am coming home tonight I want a home cooked meal, you know very much my favourites and please make some braised chicken. I miss your cookings, love you mom see you tonight" Ethan said to his mother over the phone.

He couldn't wait to see his grumpy friend and to tease him for being a loner and also to make fun of him for being single for all these years. All these thoughts excited him, as he made plans for his flight to Ohio.

Mrs BETTY POV

While I was busy making breakfast for Ella, before I head out to the next street to the Aragons home, A call came in and I picked up, it was Ethan my son. He told me he would be coming home tonight I can't wait to see him. He must have grown so much, Ethan reminds me of his father, I miss that man so much, but whenever I see Ethan I am grateful and comforted. It been years since he left, my joy knows no bound, knowing I'll be seeing him tonight.

After making breakfast for Ella while she got ready for school, Betty headed to the next street to make breakfast for Eric. When she arrived at the villa she made way to the kitchen as usual and began boiling water. While she was doing this, Eric came downstairs to take water and was surprised to see Mrs Betty. So he called out to her

"Betty, what are you doing here so early? What about Ella has she been fed? Its quite early I won't be leaving for work in the next two hours"

"Eric if you were used to waking up at first light and aren't such a deep sleeper, you would've known that I always come here early so you can eat your breakfast on time for work"

"Fine Betty thank you, you are always the best and you know I can't do without your cooking"

With that said Eric went back up to his room to get ready for work.

After entering his room he took his bath and wore his outfit for the day, he took longer than usual to get ready because he wanted to look good for someone, I believe you already know whom that is. After what seemed like forever, he eventually came down for breakfast putting on a white suit and black trousers with matching shoes.

Miss Betty teased him a lot and he was just blushing all over.

Seeing him like that Betty had to, so she said

"Whoa! Hon, you look like you are going out for a date rather than to work. Cause you look quite different and more handsome sweetie"

Eric couldn't say much he was just smiling sheepishly at her words. After eating breakfast he hugged Mrs Betty and whispered into her ears

"I am going to make my move today wish me luck"

"Good luck Honeybunch bring her home" Betty replied smiling at the fact that Eric has really grown up.

Then he left and entered his car, while on his way his phone beeped and he saw a message from Ethan saying that he will be showing up tonight. The text further lightened his mood, he was going to surprise Ethan that he has someone he liked. He couldn't wait to show her off to him while hoping and wishing she accepts him even as a friend.

EVELYN'S POV

It was a surprise that Lee offered to take me to work today, I am only used to him taking me home cause its late but yesterday he called me to let me know he will be accompanying me today. So I got up made breakfast for two and he joined me and we both ate before he took me to work, at least I won't have to transport today, then he dropped me off saying he will come take me home later and then left. I quickly went upstairs to my duty post and began with my Job.

That was how she (Evelyn) welcomed guests smiling all through till it was noon, when she decided to take a break and drink coffee.

While she was busy drinking coffee, he came and gave her a rose, it was surprising but she just had to play along. Then he said,

"I would like us to go somewhere quiet tonight, would you be willing to go somewhere with me?" Eric gently asked. Evelyn on the other hand was taken aback by the sudden invitation, so she was quiet I guess she was trying to process everything he just said. They stared at each other for five minutes in silence. He then called out to her softly and said in a more subtle way,

"Evelyn would you like to go somewhere with me tonight please"

Evelyn stuttered and said "I would... um... be through with work by 9:30 pm and it would be too late to go out since I would need to get up early tomorrow morning" She tried to reject the offer as mildly as she could because this invitation took her by surprise.

But Eric wasn't going to give up that easily so he further said

"No worries, I have spoken to your boss you'll take the rest of the day off. So will you?"

She had no choice but to agree to it, somehow she was delighted.

The guards were dumbfounded at this, they just couldn't believe they heard him say "please." They just stood there dumbfounded.

"Evelyn, do take care" She smiled and felt some warmth inside so she went out to her desk, took her bag and rose then headed home.

ERIC'S POV

Evelyn got home then took a nap, heaven knows she needed that rest. She was grateful to be having the rest of the day off. She dozed off and woke up by 2:00 PM and then decided to text Lee saying she was at home already, so no need to come pick her up.

Then she went into the bathroom took her bath very elated that her plans to befriend Eric is already in place, and it's first stage was kicking off tonight.

ERIC'S POV

I couldn't wait for tonight, after I left the suite I went straight home. Thank goodness Betty wasn't home because she will so tease me, so I went straight to my closet and began looking for something intriguing to wear after minutes of searching through. I ended up choosing a turtle neck long sleeve and a black jacket, cause it would be very cold today and I then found matching shoes.

I looked at the mirror and while doing that I imagined being smiled at by her. Gosh I wish I get to see that smile everyday.

After hours of day dreaming he then walked into the bathroom and cleaned up, permed his hair backwards and he looked even more ravishing, yes and he knew this.

I bet you could say he was showing off but he is quite handsome, he knows that deep down. He then called on Cole to go pick her up from the meeting place which was few buildings away from her work place.

Its not that he doesn't know where she lives, but he doesn't want to be perceived as a stalker nor scare her off like that. So he needed to be smart cause he couldn't lose her. After the phone call he hung up and then began dressing up after which he left for his date.

~~~~

It was a beautiful and well decorated sight and it was close to a body of water. The place is really a beautiful sight to behold, Eric was already seated waiting desperately to see her, while waiting he received a text from Ethan that he was at the airport.

This made Eric so excited, but he couldn't possibly go pick him up cause he has his hand full at the moment. His mind was elsewhere, so he replied and told him that his driver will come pick him up. Immediately he was through texting, a car pulled up a mile away and he was already feeling nervous. Since his back was turned to them, no one would suspect it. So he took a deep breath and turned. What he saw made him gasp for breath.

'She is truly an angel, I mean my guardian angel.' Eric thought.

Evelyn's POV

When the car pulled up, I could see a faint light a mile away seems I will have to walk there, its a good thing am used to high heels. So I alighted from the car and began walking as slowly as I can, I needed to show I have a wealthy blood in me. So I saw him from afar he couldn't take his eyes off me and seeing him standing there all looking handsome, I couldn't help but have a slight feeling of ownership. 'What am I thinking of again this time?'

While battling with my feelings and inner thoughts, Eric walked up to me and what he said made my heart stop for a moment right there.

"Evelyn Morse you look gorgeous"

While saying that he held my hands and led me to a table filled with candles, it is more like a romantic view, the rose petals on the table and the chairs decorated with flowers you would think it was a wedding anniversary occasion or a proposal site. He finally let go off my hand and pulled out a chair for me which I sat and then he poured me a glass of wine, then he sat down staring at me.

While they were busy staring at each other, a waiter arrived and served them food. So Eric beckoned her to eat and since she was starving no hesitations.

So while eating, Evelyn decided to speak up.

"Eric this is a beautiful scenery, I love the view it's lovely"

Eric was loss of words cause her beauty surely made him tongue tied. So he just nodded and said,

"I am glad you like it"

So they ate silently, and after eating they decided to get acquainted with each other.

"So Evelyn Morse, tell me what you think of me"

"Well you sure look like a gentleman and the way you pulled out the chair for me earlier confirmed it"

So they both laughed and talked all through the night.

~~~~~~~~~

He loudly called out

"Mom, little sis I am home"

Hearing his voice, Ella yelled

"Mom, its Ethan"

So Betty and Ella dropped the utensils they were holding and ran to him as fast as their legs could, they group hugged and held onto each other neither wanting to let go.

So Eric said amidst tears "I have missed you both so much"

Betty was the most happiest, she hugged him so tight that he could hardly breath, but no complains from him. He actually missed his family, now he is back to fill the void his dad left. After disengaging from each others arms, Betty went back into the kitchen to continue with dinner, it was a welcome party for her son after all. So she had to make a sumptuous meal.

Ella took her brother by the hand and they went to her room, Ethan couldn't believe how much his little sister has grown into a cute lady. He just kept looking at her, they talked a lot until Betty called out that dinner was ready. Ethan and Ella both raced down, Ethan couldn't wait to indulge himself into his mom's cookings. He was so tired of eating pizzas and barbecues. It was time to eat to his fill. So he ate until he couldn't anymore. After which they talked all night long.

~~~~~~

"Evelyn you are the most beautiful girl I have ever seen and I feel like I have always known you, can we be friends? I know am a cold and arrogant person but please be my friend, you are the only lady I have ever been this close to except for my mum, Nanny and sisters, so please you'll be doing me a great favour by being my friend"

Evelyn smiles and held his hands tightly and then replied

"We are already friends remember? That's why I agreed to come here with you in the first place"

Hearing this Eric grinned and they both laughed, he then brought out a rose and she inhaled it and said,

"Thanks Eric, its so beautiful and it smells nice"

"I am glad you love it"

That's how time flew by and when he checked his wrist watch, it was already 11:50 almost midnight. So they called it a day and he walked her to the car, they drove her home. After which Eric opened the door for her and walked her to her doorstep and what happened next was shocking even to me not to talk of Eric who was actually there.

Evelyn hugged Eric and gave him a peck on his cheek and then said

"Goodnight Eric I loved dinner"

With that she went inside, while Eric stood at her doorstep confused, elated and bewildered all at the same time, to the point that it was a bodyguard of his that walked up to him and tapped him, that actually brought him back to reality and he left with him and entered into the car and they drove him home. At that moment Eric was the most happiest man on earth that night.

The next morning Evelyn woke up and got ready for work, she decided to walk to her workplace and on her way she kept reminiscing about last night's date with Eric. It was so beautiful and perfect, somewhere along the line she was falling for Eric even without knowing. She just kept smiling all through on her way, when she got to work, she went straight up to her post and continued her job.

Eric woke up by 12:00 midday and decided right there not to go to the office today, so while he was trying to get up from bed, he felt someone's eyes were boring holes through him, so he quickly sat up only to see an angry face.

It was Ethan's.

"Hey buddy" Eric said but got no response from Ethan. Then he got down from the bed and walked up to Ethan and said

"Hey Ethan I am so sorry for last night's incide...." Before he could finish his statement Ethan pounced on him and they began struggling with each other for five whole minutes.

Ethan finally spoke out when they were out of breath and grumpily said,

"Why did you leave me at the airport, I was seriously waiting for you, you know"

Eric got up from the floor and began laughing out loud excitedly, he surely missed how they both act. Onlookers would think they were really fighting when they are like that.

He was really laughing hysterically that Ethan couldn't stop himself from laughing as well. Eric then ran into the bathroom and shut the door from within, before Ethan could get in there. So Ethan kept banging on the door while Eric was inside laughing his heart out. After laughing to his heart's content he finally spoke up saying

"Relax Ethan I'll explain once I've had my bath just chill."

"Fine it better be a good reason, else I won't let this go that easily"

So Ethan went to sit at the balcony waiting for his childhood friend, he has really missed him.

Eric came out of the bathroom and dressed up putting on a short and a Tshirt then walked over to Ethan and sat down and they both began discussing. Ethan then asked

"So tell me what happened that made you leave me stranded at the airport last night Eric I waited for you."

"I am so sorry Ethan I actually forgot to send Cole to pick you up last night, I thought I did but I was too distracted"

"Distracted by what exactly?"

"I am sure you meant to say who" Eric said making Ethan rather curious so the latter asked

"What do you mean by that Eric, who on earth will distract you that would make you leave your best friend alone and stranded in an airport for over an hour?"

Eric then took a deep breath and started explaining how he met Evelyn and how he couldn't get his mind off her, he then asked her out last night so that was why he forgot to bring him home.

After much pleadings with Ethan, he then decided to let it go.

"Whoa!! So Eric you finally found someone who takes your breath away? This is really unbelievable"

"Trust me I can hardly believe it myself, you know I dislike the female gender. Remember that time we were termed as gay back in high school?"

"How could I possibly forget that? I couldn't look up straight for a month in school. But you walked around proudly. I even took time to protect your good name, and kept telling you to find a girl but you said never. Now look who is falling helplessly in love, how time has flown. Eric Aragon is finally in love"

"Just shut up, so tell me how is London? What have I missed so far?"

And that was how they both teased each other and spoke to catch up on every little details of each other all day until Betty came to make dinner and they all ate to their fill.

~~~~~~

"Mom, I have to go home now, you know for the deal"

She told Wendy's friend Cecilia. She then smiled at her and left, Wendy had no choice but to turn back to look at the well cultured lady as she walked away.

After which she turned to her friend and held on to her friend's arms and said,

"Who was that? She just called you mom, Cecil. Don't tell me"

Cecilia laughed and said,

"Yeah, that's my daughter Monica who finished studying political science and intends to go into politics and she already has a degree in law"

Wendy was in awe after hearing this.

"She is so young and determined" she liked her the instant she set her eyes on her, she reminds her of her younger self, and since she can see she is very ambitious, she will make a perfect daughter inlaw to the Aragons.

So after the party she made sure she could contact Cecilia the next day cause she was the key to getting in touch with Monica.

On their way home he told her husband about Monica and that she is going to make the best daughter inlaw and perfect wife for their son Eric.

Edmund trusts his wife's judgement so he didn't reject it after all their son wasn't getting any younger, it was high time he got engaged.

So the next day, Wendy contacted Cecilia and they met up and she then told her of her interest in her daughter for her son.

Cecilia laughed out and agreed that it was time Monica got a fiance, so she said

"I believe so my dear Wendy, these kids can be very stubborn you see. Its time they got serious with their lives. I believe it's high time my daughter got a fiance and since you will be my inlaw there is nothing more to discuss"

"You flatter me Cecil"

"I should invite my daughter to come join us don't you think? so you'll get acquainted with her."

"Oh I would love that, I was about to ask you to, glad we think alike" Wendy said and they giggled

Since they were on the same page, Cecilia called Monica to join them and when she arrived, they sat her down and the two women began discussing the issue, after a lot of persuasion from the two older women she decided to give it a try.

Monica never had time for love, she viewed it as a distraction. While she was schooling, and after a heartbreak she decided not to even take a glance at guys, but now she could give it a chance and see how it turns out. So Wendy went home happily and fulfilled that day, and then told her husband that they've accepted and that it was time they returned home. So in a week's time, they will be heading home to introduce Monica to Eric as her fiancee, this thought made Wendy happy.

~~~~~

They couldn't question him even if they wanted to but one thing they all had were various thoughts and perplexing facial expressions. For one thing they were shocked to see him not acting cold and arrogant for once in his life and was actually smiling publicly and in front of a girl.

The guards bowed down while they walked past them into the Villa. Mrs Betty came and welcomed her and then left to set the table for dinner, Eve wanted to accompany her but Eric held her back and said,

"No dear, come with me to my room, I want to show you something"

After Evelyn thought for a while, she then said "Yes"

It was at this moment that Ethan came in and said,

"Guys, time for dinner"

So they all went downstairs to eat. Eric's Joy at that moment knows no bounds. He was so elated that Evelyn accepted to go out with him.

So officially, Evelyn is now his girlfriend.