RYAN POV
I let out a frustrated groan as my mum ended the call. I pinched the tip of my nose, releasing the breath I felt I had been holding for a while now.
I can't believe a viral video is on with the kiss from last week at the photoshoot. There could only be one person who might have taken and posted that video. None other than Eva.
I took my phone to call her, and she picked up the second ring.
"Hello brother. How are you doing?" She asked.
"Are you playing a game, Eva? What is with that video you released online? You know how much I detest the world seeing me." She snorted, and I could imagine her doing an eye roll.
"You should calm down bro. I was looking out for you." I gritted my teeth.
Those were the exact words Nick used. Was I getting too old now? I hissed.
"Now, everyone knows you are not gay. Ariel's face isn't that obvious. After all, you initiated the kiss. You should have been more careful, not to kiss in the open that way." She started mumbling.
I tightened my fist, before gently releasing it. She was quite quick-witted with words. She should be a lawyer instead.
My brows creased, realizing her point. Now, I could be free from the stakeholder's hold on getting married, and the paparazzi trouble chasing after my life. I never wished for a life like this, but it is what it is.
"Okay, whatever. Just inform me next time you will be doing this. You know how much I like a low-key life. Popularity is not my thing."
"Okies. I deserve a raise though. So send me something."I chuckled at her statement.
This girl loves money.
"Sure. You deserve a raise,dearest sister."She screamed as I removed the phone from my ear, before placing it back to hear what she had to say.
"Thank you. Anyways, my sister-in-law is on her way to your office. She missed you and..." A smile crept to my lips at the thought of Ariel missing me.
"Speak up. I have work to do."
Eva snickered, and I knew she was intentionally keeping me in suspense.
"Well, she made pies for you and wanted you to taste them. I must confess her cooking and baking skills are great." My stomach growled at the thought of food.
I needed the pie.
"Alright. I have a lot of work to catch up with. If possible, delete the video off the internet." She giggled, and dropped the call, not giving a response.
Way to go Eva!
My curiosity only led me back to the video, as I looked deeply at the kissing scene. I could still remember how we kissed until we were almost out of breath.
I still find it difficult to decipher why I was drawn to Ariel in the first place. The urge to make her angry, to see her beautiful face was kinda stupid on my part.
And her lips were like a gateway to seduction. I facepalmed. I needed to get a grip on myself. It is just an attraction. It will surely fade away.
But what if Ariel succeeds in winning my heart? I could not help but wonder about that question. That means after 5 years of our marriage, I can finally hand over the companies I am running over back to my younger brother, and enjoy what I always wanted. A simple life.
The intercom rang, and I picked it up.
"Yes, Chloe," I answered.
"Mrs. Samantha is here to see you. Should I allow her in?" She asked.
My brows arched, surprise on my face. I wasn't expecting her.
"Yes, let her in."
I dropped the call, dropping my signature on the file, as I put it aside. That is done and dusted.
A knock came on the door, and I requested for the person to come in.
Mrs. Samantha walked in her graceful sight. With an emerald green gown flowing down to the floor, she looked elegant.
"It is so nice to see you today. Please sit." She smiled warmly, nodding before taking a seat.
"So nice to see you too Mr. Ryan." Her eyes scanned the office for a while, before landing on me.
"Yes, ma'am. So what brings you here?" I asked as she adjusted herself on the seat, gently placing her hands on the table.
"I never knew you were engaged to one of my daughters." I furrowed my brows wondering what she was talking about.
I thought she only had a daughter of twenty-four years who was rumored to be in a relationship with Daniel Holloway, a popular merchant, and businessman. And her name was Deleroza and not Peterson.
My eyes caught hers and I found her watching me with a peculiar kind of focus. My eyes widened, as my mouth dropped open. I was sure dismay was painted all over my features.
"Figured it out yet son in law?” I shook my head.
"Not yet ma'am. Your name stated is Samantha Deleroza. What can prove you are her mother." I said, trying not to reveal too much.
She pressed her lips together, before exhaling. Picking some things from her bag, she dropped them on the table.
Curiosity clouded my innermost, prompting me to check it. I was blown away seeing childhood and other lovely pictures of Mrs. Samantha and Ariel. They looked so close.
My mind flashed back to the night I ran into Ariel. She was running as if someone or some people were chasing her. It was even late into the night.
"But why did you let her leave? She had an accident. Don't tell me she was living alone."
So much for my investigator. He is yet to get back to me about Ariel.
"Ariel had always wanted an independent life. But when she realized she might head over a company, she ran away that night." She spoke, her voice getting heavy.
"I loved her, but she left. We have been looking for her since then. Not until I realize she is to be married to you."
I held my breath for a while before exhaling. I never thought Ariel could be that kind of person. Running from responsibilities. I peeked at her, trying to search for the truth in her eyes. But I wasn't a psychologist. I couldn't help but feel something was wrong somewhere.
My phone rang, jolting me out of my displaced thoughts. Ariel's number is on the screen. I picked it up immediately.
"Honey, Your secretary won't allow me in." Her small voice ran through my ears.
I felt irritation spread across my face.
"Put it on speaker."
"Okay."
"Chloe, let her in. She is my future wife. So, in future cases, avoid stopping her, no matter what." I ordered.
"Okay, sir.” She replied and I ended the call.
My eyes met with Mrs. Samantha, who still maintained her composure.
"She is here," I announced and she gave out a small smile.
The door opened and Ariel walked in. My lips curled into a smile, as I winked at her. She lowered her gaze, as she sauntered towards my side.
The urge to pull her came in, but I needed to clarify the issue of Ariel and her assumed mum.
"Good afternoon honey." She smiled before her gaze landed on Mrs. Samantha.
I smiled, standing, wanting to hug her, but something went off.
I noticed her smile off, as the small basket in her hand fell out of her hand. Her face went pale immediately.
"Ariel, my daughter." Mrs. Samantha stated, but that did not help as Ariel swayed slightly where she was standing.
I took a few steps towards her, as I held her hand, which had become sweaty. She flinched back, as she wrapped her arms around herself.
"Ariel. Are you okay?" My brows furrowed, as my gaze went from Ariel to Mrs. Samantha.
She stepped back and her eyelids started closing. Mrs. Samantha stood up, but I was quicker. Ariel fell, as I grasped her closer, her body on mine.
I stared at her pale face, as she drifted into unconsciousness