Chapter 4 THE GIFT

Richard's point of view

"Wait, wait, Richard, you like her? You really like her?" Jonathan's shocking voice came through the phone loud and clear. "This is rich coming from you. And you don't even know her well. Don't you think it's a risk?"

I chuckled, shaking my head. "You know what I mean, Jonathan. It's just... different this time. She's in my bed right now, and it's a risk I am willing to take. She's Just what I need after almost embarrassing myself." I pause, allowing Jonathan to process what I had just said.

I haven't really been lucky with women. I was about to marry because of the pressure I was getting, not because I actually loved her. But this particular girl, she's just bold. Just when I thought she was trying to console me. Boom! The proposal.

"Yes, Jonathan. I like this girl."

"Whoa," Jonathan paused, processing. "And you're just going to let her stay there? This is serious, man."

"Actually," I said, leaning back in my chair, "I want to make her the president of Sparkle & Shine."

There was silence on the other end, and I could almost hear the gears turning in Jonathan's mind. "Hold on a second. You really think that's a good idea? You're letting a woman you barely know take charge?"

"She has potential," I defended, trying to explain. "I can feel it. And honestly, I think I can trust her. But the position is to get her revenge from her enemies."

"Enemies? Richard, is this about what you told me about? The ones you said wanted to take her down?"

"Yes, and I need to handle this delicately," I replied, enjoying the way this conversation was going. "This is about more than just business. It's personal."

Jonathan paused again, clearly weighing his words. "You think making her president is a way to help her get revenge? Is that why you're really doing this?"

I took a deep breath, knowing how it sounded. "Look, Jonathan. I need her reputation protected, and I want to destroy those families in three months. That's my plan."

The silence stretched between us. I could feel Jonathan's skepticism. "Richard, this isn't just some game. But I hope it works out well."

"Yeah, me too. And I trust you can't handle it. She deserves a chance, and I'm going to give it to her."

"Alright," Jonathan finally said, in a steadier voice. "But I want you to think this through. I'll get things done. Give me thirty minutes, I'll get you everything you want."

I ended the call, feeling some type of fulfilment and excitement. This was actually going to surprise her, I sighed, got up from my chair, and walked to my room, where Ashlyn was sleeping soundly.

I stood by the door, watching her chest rise and fall. There was something so peaceful about her, and I couldn't help but feel protective of her. She had been through so much already, and now she was here with me. I'll protect her.

I stood there, for almost ten minutes admiring her until I realized I had something to attempt to back in my study. Jonathan might be waiting for me too.

I rushed back to work.

Almost an hour later, I heard a soft knock at the door. "Come in," I called without looking up from my work.

Jonathan entered, giving me a friendly nod as we shook hands. He dropped a file on the table, and I could tell from his expression that he had something to say.

"Everything you wanted is in here," he said, sitting down. "But you need to walk carefully, Richard. You're dealing with strong people."

"I know," I replied, in a nonchalant way. "You worry too much. Trust me, everything is good."

Jonathan raised an eyebrow. "And your wife? How's she going to handle this?"

"Trust me," I said, leaning forward. "I believe she can handle it. I just need you to make sure I support her in the best way I can."

After discussing a few other things for a while, Jonathan stood up. "I'll be in touch. Just remember what we talked about. Don't let your emotions cloud your judgment."

"Thanks, Jonathan." I watched him leave, then turned my attention to the file, I didn't feel like looking at it. I stood up and walked back to my room.

When I entered, Ashlyn was just stirring awake. Her eyes fluttered open, and I greeted her with a warm smile. "Good morning, sleepyhead."

"Good morning," she replied, her voice still thick with sleep. She stretched, and I couldn't help but admire the way the sunlight caught her face.

"I wanted to give you something important," I began, staring at her curious face. " I'd like to offer you the presidency of Sparkle & Shine."

Her eyes widened in surprise, and a smile spread across her face. "Really? You'd do that for me?"

"Of course," I said, feeling a swell of pride. "I believe this will help you start up your revenge journey."

She sat up and looked at the file. "That's amazing, but... I want to go and prepare a dowry too. I'll be leaving."

The words hit me like a punch. "Leave?" I echoed, and my heart sank. But I didn't say anything. Even though it hurt me to see her go when I was already getting comfortable around her.

I just sat there, watching her do her stuff, and arrange herself, and was now ready to leave.

"I'll be going now, thank you for the position. I'm truly grateful."

I couldn't stop her so all I had to do was just nod and smile. As if I was okay with this whole plan of her leaving. But then, we barely knew each other and I didn't expect her to just start acting like a wife immediately.

"Let my driver drop you off," I suggested looking at her face. She hesitated for a few seconds before complying. "Alright, that would be nice. Thank you again."

Then she left.