Chapter 3 The Dontonio Family

The Dontonio family were among the top five strongest families in the world. Their main base was unknown to people but they had lots of businesses which needed daily handling so the Dontonio family members in charge lived in the capital. They had a big family estate there where most of them lived so as to go on with their daily lives without exposing their base and other secrets.

The whirling of an helicopter was heard as it landed on the helipad in Golden Avenue. Several cars drove inside and the new arrivals stepped out from their respective vehicles.

Heading into the mansion was Matthew Dontonio, Calhoun's father. His mother, Clarice and his sister, Anabelle.

Matthew was the current head to the Outer Dontonio business empire. The Dontonio business was divided into the Outer and Inner Division. Although he had influence in the Inner Division, it was still being managed by Calhoun's grandfather and the other elders of the family.

Matthew was a middle aged man, he was handsome and strong. He was tall and muscular, having a perfect physique. His hair was dark brown and he was always wearing a suit. When he arrived, he immediately walked towards Calhoun and kissed him on the cheek, "Good to see you, son".

Clarice was the other important member of the family. She was beautiful and slim. She was also in charge of the outer family business second only to her husband. She wore a dress and hair band. Her hair was blonde and curly; she too was very elegant in appearance. Matthew grabbed her hand as she walked closer to Calhoun.

"You've grown taller, honey," Clarice said. She smiled and kissed him on the cheek. She had indeed missed her son.

Anabelle was the youngest of the three kids. She was pretty and petite. Once again, she was her mother's spitting image. She was wearing a red dress with heels while carrying a large bouquet of flowers.

Calhoun had an older brother, James. Although he was strong and talented, he didn't want to face the pressures of being the family heir. Wealthy and powerful families had a lot of complications from deceptions to infighting and much more. As such, he passed on the position to Calhoun and chose to join the army and fight wars instead of working for the family. Now, he was stationed overseas. Calhoun hadn't seen him in years.

As soon as everyone was seated, they began to have a meal while talking about Calhoun's experience.

"Calhoun, eat more, look how thin you are", his mother said, trying to feed him some cake.

Calhoun laughed and said, "I can't afford to gain weight. We might need money later."

His dad chuckled, "I guess being poor for years has made you forget that the money will have will last for generations"

Anabelle looked at him with a question, "When will you be introducing me to my sister-in-law". When she said that, his parents looked up at him.

"Not yet, but you'll meet her soon enough," he replied.

"I've checked on her, I know she's a nice girl", his mother, Clarice added.

"I just hope you don't forget your lovely sister because of her." Anabelle said with a sad face and they all laughed.

Calhoun asked as he took a sip of wine, "Have you heard from James recently?"

"Yes, he sent me an email saying he's fine and he'll come home for Christmas. He's currently stationed in the Middle East," Matthew explained.

Calhoun frowned, "How long has he been there?"

"About a year. He's planning to stay there for another few years. He's fighting in the war against some terrorists", Clarice added.

"He prefers the dangers in battle than the stress of the family." Calhoun asked.

"It's indeed dangerous, but he loves it. I miss him so much," Clarice said, wiping tiny droplets of tears from her eyes.

Matthew immediately comforter, "Don't worry, he'll come back to us safe and sound. He's a good boy."

"I'm sure he is. But if anything happens to him, I'll kill you!" Clarice threatened.

Matthew laughed and patted her hand as he said, "That's okay, i'll die happy knowing you'll be happy."

They all laughed.

"Calhoun, you've really grown up. You're becoming a man now, not a child anymore," Matthew said.

"Dad, you're embarrassing me." Calhoun said with a smile and they all laughed.

Matthew continued, "We will be organising a banquet soon to tell the world of your return"

"Dad, must you?" Calhoun asked and continued, "I just want a calm, normal and quiet life for now."

"But you're not a normal person, Calhoun. You're a special one. You're the heir to our family fortune. That means you have to live like royalty," Matthew said.

"I'm not asking for any special treatment. I just want to live a simple life," Calhoun said.

Matthew replied, "Well, unless you want to give up your position, then Anabelle will take over"

"Dad!" Anabelle shouted anxiously.

Calhoun knew the training process and the stress of being an heir wasn't easy which was one of the reasons his brother gave up his position and if he gave up as well, he knew his sister would not have an easy life having to bear all the stress.

"Calhoun, you can't run away from this forever. If you want to keep your sister safe, you have to do it," Clarice said.

"Fine, I'll do it. I'll make sure I don't embarrass myself or the family," Calhou said.

After dinner, Calhoun went upstairs and took a shower. He changed into his pajamas and lay on his bed. He thought about the Bella, the upcoming ceremony and the many things he had to do. He was exhausted and he desperately wanted to sleep.