by Tia Siren
Brooks laughed. "There's probably a picture of her here somewhere, if you'd like to see it. Our families often went on vacations together."
Cambry nodded eagerly so Brooks pulled a few photo albums from the book shelf in the room. He sat down on the couch with her and flipped through the first album without finding anything. The second album was much thicker and it took a moment to find a picture. "Ah, there she is," he said, pointing to a blonde-haired woman standing next to him in front of a cabin.
Cambry leaned in studying the picture. Brooks' parents were also in the picture, along with two other people that she assumed were Ashley's parents. Her eyes skimmed across them and then back to Ashley. However, she realized she recognized the man and quickly looked at him again. "Who is that?" she asked, pointing to him.
"Oh that's Ashley's Dad, Peter," Brooks told her.
Cambry's stomach dropped. She had stopped at a gas station the morning before on her way to work. She knew she had seen that man at the gas station, because when she came out with her coffee she thought she saw him quickly moving away from her car. She had assumed she was wrong and moved on, but now she wasn't so certain.
"What?" Brooks asked. He had seen her face turn pale white and was concerned.
"I saw him yesterday morning at the gas station," she said quietly. "I thought he was hanging around my car, but he moved away when I came out so I decided I was imagining things."
Brooks inhaled quickly. "Are you sure?" he asked.
Cambry nodded. "Yes. He stuck out to me because of the way he reacted."
They stared at the picture for a moment before Brooks set his jaw. "If he tried to kill you, I will kill him," he said.
Placing a hand on Brooks' shoulder, Cambry said, "Honey, calm down. You don't know that he did. And even if it was him that cut my brake line, we need to let the law take care of it. I'd rather have you around for the future of our child."
Grimly, Brooks nodded. "Okay. I'm going to call the officer we talked to in the hospital and let him know what you've just realized."
Two days after that, Cambry and Brooks heard from the policeman. "We've arrested Peter. After we questioned him, we felt like he was acting suspiciously. A judge gave us a court order to check the security cameras at the gas station that Cambry had seen him at. After reviewing the tapes, it was clear that Peter was the one who cut her brake lines. We've arrested him and charged him with attempted homicide."
"Well that's a relief," Cambry said, placing her hand on her heart. "Did he say why he wanted to get rid of me?"
She heard the policeman sigh. "These cases are always difficult, but yes, he did. He told us that he needed his daughter to marry your fiancé in order to save his family. I guess they are broke and he was hoping that her marriage to Brooks would save them. When he found out that Brooks was engaged, he thought up the plan to kill you off. Then he was going to send in his daughter to comfort Brooks and get in good with him."
Cambry almost laughed out loud. She couldn't believe how outrageous Peter's motive was. There were tons of other ways that he could have made money, besides marrying his daughter off to Brooks! When she told him what the officer had told her, he did laugh out loud. "I would never have married Ashley. Your death would ruin me."
She smiled. "I can't wait to start our lives together."
Placing his hand on her stomach, Brooks said, "And bring this one in the world together." He pressed his lips against hers and she happily wrapped her arms around his neck, feeling her love for Brooks sweep across her body.
****
THE END
The Billionaire’s Secret Love Child: Nia’s Story
A BWWM Secret Baby Billionaire Romance
I knew there was the possibility that I would have to manage personal matters for Mr. Ellis, but this was becoming a daily chore of which I had no interest.
“Ahem…” I coughed.
This woman was pretty, a tall leggy blonde with gorgeous skin. Her full figure was sprawled out over the rich silk bedspread, and I couldn’t help but compare her likeness to the girl from the previous night. Mr. Ellis seemed to have a thing for tall blondes. But, then again, there was the redhead last week that stayed for the weekend.
The girl in the bed stirred and snapped awake after noticing me at the end of the bed.
“It’s 10:30 am and Mr. Ellis has left for business. Breakfast is available whenever you’d like it and a car is ready to take you wherever you need to go,” I said.
“Thank you, but I think I’ll stay here until he returns,” she responded condescendingly.
I picked up a few of her things from the floor and tossed them to the bed.
“Unfortunately, that won’t be possible as Mr. Ellis will be busy the remainder of the day. We have your number should he fancy your company again.”
I couldn’t help but feel disdainful of the woman lying comfortably on the bed. She probably hadn’t done much with her life outside of looking attractive. It seemed that she wasn’t enjoying my ogling.
“Give me a minute to get dressed, and keep your tongue in your mouth. I only prefer men … most of the time.” She said while biting her lip.
The idea of sleeping with a woman like that seemed reprehensible.
“Whatever the case, I have business that needs attending. I’ll take my leave.”
She gave me a snarl while picking up her things. I paid her no mind and left the room.
The rich marble walls reflected the light passing through the skylight in the main lobby and illuminated the vast entry space. Brent, my driver for the day, stood by the front door with his crisp black suit and driving gloves at the ready.
I can’t say that I’m incredibly used to being driven around just yet, but it’s something I could grow to enjoy.
I snatched my briefcase from the entryway table, and Brent threw open the front doors for my exit.
“Thank you,” I muttered.
He ushered me into the black sedan, and I took a moment to look at today’s schedule on my phone. I was running a little late and was hoping that Mr. Ellis wouldn’t be too upset over my tardiness.
Brent was a safe driver and quite quick as well. Before long. we had left the grand estate of Mr. Ellis’ and were downtown. Perhaps I wouldn’t be late after all.
We arrived at a new dig site that was to be christened today. It was a notably large site in the downtown area and currently a parking lot. However, the location was excellent for what he was planning to build.
After exiting the car, I walked with purpose to meet with my newest employer. He stood beside a reasonably large stage where several members of the media were setting up for today’s announcement. I could tell he wasn’t nervous in the slightest and actually looked more excited than anything else.
If only people knew what his nightlife was like.
“Good Morning, Mr. Ellis,” I said as I approached.
He waved and continued to talk on his phone. I couldn’t tell incredibly well, but it sounded like he was speaking Italian. He held up a hand for silence as I approached and I waited for a moment taking the small amount of time I had to look over the day’s schedule.
I couldn’t help but look up from the schedule a couple times to admire the man who gave me such an auspicious position. He was quite handsome, if you’re into tall, clean shaven men. His short, cropped hairstyle eschewed his professional businessman persona, but his slightly unkempt tie and unbuttoned white dress shirt belayed what little professionalism he tried to exude. His dark brown eyes were piercing when he looked at me as I looked at him. And, as I distracted him he finished his call, and I produced a portfolio with some particulars he needed to look over.
“Mr. Ellis, this was faxed over from legal this morning. They need you to look it over before they make final arrangements.”
He looked down at the folder, opened it for a moment and folded it closed.
“What do you think, Nia?” he asked.
<
br /> I made it a point to look over all legal documents; it was good practice for my business degree.
“They want to close it out at 15%, a 4% increase from the last proposal. You’d make an estimated 4 million from signing, and that’s before ground is struck,” I said confidently.
He opened it back up and sifted through a few of the papers. “What do you think? I want your opinion.”
I paused and thought. I couldn’t help but wonder if he was testing me, or if he really did just value my opinion. I considered a lie and thought I should agree with the numbers on the page but had a distinct feeling he wouldn’t enjoy his personal aide lying to him.
“The numbers are a little rough, but it’s a good deal. I think we could come up 3% on the back end but it’ll be a good investment either way, Mr. Ellis.”
He handed back the portfolio, and I stuffed it inside my briefcase. “Tell them to come up 3% or I won’t sign.”
I couldn’t help but feel a little giddy that he’d taken my advice and I also couldn’t help the shallow feeling that I may be wrong and might have cost him the deal.
“Mr. Ell-“
“Nia, I know you haven’t been working here long, but, after a month, you’d think that you’d get over the formalities with me. Just call me Tom like everyone else does.”
“Of course Mr. El-.” He shot me a look and I realized my mistake again. “Tom”
Another well-dressed man approached from the other side of the stage. “We’re just about ready for you. Another five minutes and we’ll be set.”
“Good, good. I have to get back to the office as soon as possible,” Tom replied.
The stranger disappeared into the small crowd that began to swell.
“Tom,” I said, feeling a little more personal, “come a little closer.”
He leaned in, smiling, and I took the opportunity to straighten up his collar. I couldn’t avoid the amazing smell that wafted from him; the cologne he wore must have cost more than my old apartment. He seemed not to be paying much attention to his clothing as he lingered a little longer than was needed.
“You’re all set,” I said. “I’ll have the documents drawn up again for the meeting later.”
“Nia, what would I do without you?” he asked with a smile.
“You’d find another personal assistant capable of making a slob like you look good.” I said with a wink.
He couldn’t help but laugh for a moment. His laughter was stopped by the man from before tapping him on the shoulder. Tom nodded, flashed me another smile, turned around and joined the rest of the suits on stage.
I took a moment to send an e-mail to the lawyers to draw up the new documentation, and, before long there was applause on stage as Tom stood behind the podium.
“Today, we are here for an historic occasion. What used to be an open parking lot will soon become low-rent housing for so many citizens that need it.
“I wish I could provide a home for every man, woman, and child in need, but one man can only do so much. I would like everyone to know that this will not be the last development project in this area as I am in the process of creating new places for people both young and old to relax and play.
“We are building a new park and a new community center that will be free for anyone and everyone to enjoy.
“Today is the dawn of a beautiful and bright future for us all. Thank you.”
The crowd cheered at his comments, and I felt proud of my boss. So much money in the world sat in banks, but he wasn’t afraid to spend it to improve the city in which he lived.
I knew this area well as I had grown up not far away. I can remember staying indoors to study while avoiding the gangs. I couldn’t forget playing on the street during the summer with my friends and wishing I had a real place nearby to play. To be honest, it really did make me into the person I am today and I wouldn’t have changed a thing when I look back.
Tom stepped off the stage and shook a few hands. There were a few people that I recognized in the crowd, but I didn’t try to presume that they’d want to sit around and talk. I had no time for reminiscing anyway.
I sent Brent a message to start the car and joined up with Tom once again. He had finally managed to clear himself from the crowd of people.
He took a novelty shovel from another fellow and walked to the middle of the parking lot where a patch of dirt had already been cleared. He shoved the shovel into the loose dirt and paused waiting for all the photo’s to be taken before ripping the dirt from its rest.
After more hand shaking had finished, we made for the nearby waiting car. Brent held the door as the two of us entered.
“I find it odd, Tom. You could probably take a helicopter instead of waiting in downtown traffic.”
“I like being driven,” he replied before taking a moment to think. He continued, “Flying makes me feel like I’m looking down on people, driving makes me feel like one of the people.”
I enjoyed that sentiment; feeling like a normal person and not looking down your nose at everyone else. I felt attracted to his honesty and tried to push back any romantic feelings I had. It was easier to do this morning as I knew what his previous night was like.
It wasn’t long before we reached his corporate headquarters in the heart of the city. The massive glass structure loomed over most of downtown and housed nearly all of his employees.
It was quite intimidating to look at every time we came.
Exiting the car, I was greeted by a courier holding a small stack of papers. The lawyers had already redrawn the agreement and I briefly checked for the changes which appeared in order.
“Here you are, sir. The new agreement, as requested,” I said, handing him the stack of papers.
He glanced over them as we walked through the lobby to be joined by many other finely dressed men ready to petition Tom for business approvals.
As we entered the elevator, I shooed the incoming crowd away and was met with harsh stares of disappointment. It honestly made me feel a little important.
We zoomed to the top of the tower. I had to break the silence. “Your private box is being readied for the game later today, sir. Any special requests?”
He pondered briefly before replying. “It would be nice if my assistant could come as well.” A coy smile crossed his lips.
I stifled a laugh and continued. “It’s supposed to be a private event with your brother and his family.”
“What’s the name of his youngest son?” he asked.
“Jonathan, sir. He’ll be two years old in March. Their oldest is a girl named Isabel she just turned five last month. His wife, if you can’t remember her name, is Lydia.”
“Oh, I remember her name. I was just testing you, is all. Send my brother an e-mail and let him know I’m excited to see him and his family again. And request to have some toys brought there as well. I don’t know what kids like anymore.”
I couldn’t picture him around kids and what I could imagine made me fear for his future wife.
“I’ll send a runner to make a selection.” The elevator shimmied open and he went on ahead while I fussed about sending more messages here and there.
I tried my best to look professional, but, in a world full of old men, it was hard being a young woman.
Tom entered a glass walled meeting room and sat at the head as he always had. I got a lot of rough looks from one of elder statesman in the room; it was easy to see he didn’t like me at all. I didn’t have the heart to ask whether it was my sex or my race that angered him the most. Racial diversity nearly seemed an afterthought in the office building.
I plucked the water carafe from the stand and poured Tom some water while he finished looking over all the papers.
“Tom, why the devil did you bring that sales mark up 3%? You’re making them nervous; it’s going to blow the whole thing!” chimed in the elder statesman.
“George, I did it because the deal wasn’t solid enough as
they offered. On the will of my personal assistant I increased the price and I trust her judgement.”
“You trust her judgement,” he restated. “I wouldn’t trust her with a serving tray let alone a multi-million dollar deal. You should’ve left this one where you found her.”
My anger was tugging at me and draining what little patience I had.
“If I cared for your point-of-view I’d ask for it, Mr. Dibney. But, your opinion is worth about as much as the dirt I stepped in on the way over.”
Mr. Dibney looked obviously distraught having his opinion so carelessly negated. “Listen here, Tom. Your dad and I were running this company before you were in diapers! My opinion should be the only one that matters!”
Tom sat in his chair with his face resting in his hand and listened. “You know, you used to run this company before I bought it, Mr. Dibney. I only kept you around out of respect for my father that helped build it. And, let me emphasize that I bought it. I didn’t have it handed to me on a platter like many sons do. I didn’t spend my days doing nothing but driving fast cars and meeting loose women. I spent them studying and investing so that I could one day make something of myself.” Tom paused and grinned. “If you’d like, I would happily give you Nia’s job. She could take yours.”
Mr. Dibney sat back in his chair and didn’t pursue his thought any further. But it was obvious that he had a lot more he wanted to say.
I grew a bit more fascinated by my boss when he talked like that. He was shrewd when he needed to be and never minded using the stick instead of the carrot. His powerful words gave me a new sense of accomplishment and I wanted to live up to them.
“Mr. Dibney, you’ve given me a great idea. I’m going to add a provision that any money accrued on the 3% figure, that you so obviously hate, will be deposited in a trust for my personal assistant to do with as she pleases,” Tom said.
I quickly did the math in my head and nearly fainted thinking about the numbers. The amount of money would be nearly 1.2 million dollars.
“Now see here, Tom. Throwing money around doesn’t do any good for this company. You’re going to cost a lot of jobs if this deal doesn’t go through. Are you prepared to deal with that?” Mr. Dibney spouted.