Roses are Red (MY ROSE)

The alarm went off startling Asher. Asher groaned and sat up. He rubbed his forehead and slowly opened his eyes. It was morning already. Asher's eyes scanned his room and his gaze fell on his bed and he realized that he had dozed off while he was attending to some files. He quickly gathered the files on the bed and kept them aside.p

Asher got out of his bed, sliding his feet in his flip-flop and made his way to the bathroom. He put on the sink tap and splashed some cold water on his face. Asher raised his head and looked into the mirror, he looked more like a ghost with the dark circles under his eyes. He grabbed his face towel and wiped his face.

Asher got out of his bathroom and went through his phone, five missed calls from his mum, probably calling to ask him to come over and spend the weekend with them. He dropped his phone on the bed and left the bedroom, with the face towel hanging around his neck.

"You startled me" Asher said pouring some water into the glass.

"Wow! You look like a ghost" replied his nanny who had brought some home made dishes prepared by Asher's mum.

"Who let you in?

"C'mon, Morgan your gate keeper did"

"Damn it. Let me guess. You brought food from home? I'm not starving"

"I already made breakfast. Honestly, I can bet that you don't eat healthy"

"Keep nagging me, just like mum"

"Breakfast" she placed his breakfast before him on the table inside the kitchen. "Eat here. You look like one who won't be able to make it to the dining room"

"Okay, thanks for the meal"

Nanny continued with what she was doing while Asher enjoyed his breakfast.

Asher is the finest gentleman in LA, founder and CEO of ASB game company, after successfully launching two games while in high school. He founded the game company after he turned twenty, his second year in the university and a lot of foreign and local investors.

Asher is usually the quiet type, with an emotionless face, not good at expressing his feelings. He is introverted in nature, hates the outside world, world of party and fun, loves being alone and indoors during holidays.

Asher is about 190cm tall, well built with broad shoulders, fine chiselled jaw, dark blue eyes, brown soft hair, long vein fingers and huge chest muscles and perfectly laid six packs, attractive bicep with very deep and hoarse masculine voice that could turn any lady on, married or single.

Long fingers that are enticing, leaving ladies lost in the world of imagination, red hot lips.

Despite having a messy morning hair, he looked hot in his black vest and white shorts.

Asher placed the plate in the sink and washed it off, placing it back on the plate rack.

"Such a perfect gentleman" His nanny flattered him.

"You love flattering me. Do get going

"You ain't going anywhere today?

"Yes, why?

"It is weekend"

"Yes, that's why I am not going anywhere and that's because I've got nowhere to go to"

"Maybe it is high time I hook you up..."

"I refuse. I'll pass"

"What's with you Asher? You'll be thirty soon and you are very single. I could have forced my way into your heart if I was your age. Unfortunately, I'm a granny now"

Asher laughed. "So unfortunate...granny nanny"

"C'mon Asher. Well, I'm done arranging everything. I'll be off now. I would love it if you could go out today and have fun with your friends"

Asher snickered touching his eye glass.

"I've got no friends, remember? Or did the granny thing do something to your memory?

"I still doubt that you've got no friends, such a fine gentleman. Oh yes! I almost forgot. My daughter will be having some simple party to officially welcome her new born baby. I would love it if you would attend, it is this evening"

"Wow! I'm honoured, such and early invitation"

"I apologise. You know her house right? I'll put down the address real quick!"

Asher smiled and left for the living room with a cup of coffee. He grabbed the tv remote, sat down and crossed his legs while he scanned the tv channels.

His nanny appeared with a piece of paper in her hand which she forced into his palm,

"That's address. Be there. I bid you goodbye." She lifted the basket and off she went.

Asher read the address on the and placed the paper in his short's pocket and leaned back, taking a sip from his coffee. "Let's see what's on tv today"

Asher finished up with his coffee and returned back to his bedroom. He had a quick look at some unfinished files from last night before leaving for the bathroom.

Asher stopped half way to the bathroom, contemplating whether to attend the event or bail out on it. He has always had a had time fitting in events like that. The events he only attends are family gatherings, yet likes being on his own.

Always a busy, known as the busy bee in the family. His life has always been that way, alone, lives alone in his mansion consisting of 1 master bedroom which could pass off a living room or more, quite spacious, decorated with brown drape curtains, painted white with floral 3D wallpaper on a side of the wall, his desk facing north, a large bathroom having a bathtub, a shower cubicle and the other door leading to his closet which is room of it's own, with different outfits if different colors, designer shoes and accessories, and the third door leading a room which no one dares goes into , which is his room, a nice balcony with two chairs and a table for nice morning and evening tea,four guest rooms, the large dining room, furnished with a long royal dining table, sets of royal chairs, decorates with drape curtains, a tall cabinet designed with art works, a sink by the side , the kitchen, an indoor jacuzzi, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, basketball court, a movie Cinema for himself, his study room, a huge library that could pass off as a highschool library, two living rooms, one downstairs and the other upstairs, and he lived all alone. He wasn't good at making and keeping friends, no love life, just him.

He's working days are always hectic for him as he always occupies himself with work, up early to work and back home late, exhausted and weekends, he spends alone unless he's being forced over to his family's mansion by his mum or his siblings decide to pay him a surprise visit. This weekend, he's received an invitation from his nanny to attend an event. Would he attend or just lie on his bed and stare at his celling, or probably bury himself with work and doze off on his work desk?

Asher finished up with his bath and walked out of his bathroom on towel. He's definitely every lady's dream man, tall fine perfect gentleman. He stared at himself in the mirror and smirked.

"I sure do look handsome just as Miss Dorothy said this morning" he smiled

Asher went into his closet and grabbed a black polo shirt and black joggers which he wore, grabbed his laptop from his bedroom and left for his study room. He was working on a project, a new game he was developing.

He walked into his study room which was as big as his bedroom, with books stacked in shelves one side, his work desk close to the window facing the garden, a game set at the other side of his room, toys placed in shelves, which often use to develop the characters of his games.

He placed his laptop on the desk and rolled out his yoga mat at the centre of the study room. He sat down and crossed his legs, getting into the meditation mood. After an hour of meditation and yoga, he returned back to his laptop and started off with work.

Asher was so buried in his work that he didn't notice the time fly. He decided to step out and get some water from the kitchen as he was thirsty when his phone rang, his nanny, Dorothy was calling to know if he would attend the event. After the call, Asher checked the time and realized that the time flew so fast. It was 4pm in the evening and the event starts by 4:30pn. He rushed back to his study room and tidied up his desk and hurried to his bedroom. He walked into his bedroom and stared at his clothes, confused.

"Now...what I do wear for the event? I should have selected an outfit before going to work to make things easier for me. Hmm" he stroke his chin with his right hand and the other hand on his hip.

For over three minutes, he stood still contemplating on what wear..

"Well... I'll wear what I'm comfortable in "

Asher picked out a Navy he short sleeve shirt, a plain black trouser and black brouges.

He got dressed quickly and wore his perfumes, a silvered colored designer watch costing three thousand dollars, gold bracelet of five hundred dollars, a simple pendant of three hundred dollars . Asher stood before the mirror and checked his handsome self out. As usual, he was looking so dashing. He quickly tucked in his shirt and smiled.

"That's more like me" he turned immediately to leave and paused. " Oh my, I didn't inform my driver. I guess Asher will be driving himself to the party" he shrugged." Man I hate parties"

Asher grabbed his car key and slipped some dollar bills into a white envelope and hurried downstairs. He got into his car and drove off. He let his favorite music play while he drove to Natasha's house. Few minutes later, he arrived at the place, parked his car and stepped out. He glanced at his wrist watch.

"4:45pm. Uh, not bad, not early, not so late" he quickly took a deep breath and exhaled. " You can do this"

Asher made his way to Natasha's house. Some guests were already at the party while some were just arriving just as Asher. He walked in and glanced at his wrist watch again, he was quite uncomfortable and almost regretted coming to the party. Dorothy appeared suddenly and called out to him. She rushed over to him as hugged him. Asher heaved a sigh of relief. Finally, someone he knows. Dorothy took him by his hand and led the way to Natasha and her husband.

Natasha was dressed in a white gown, sitting close to her good looking husband, Marshall who was carrying their little angel.

"Natasha, guess who we have here" Dorothy said excitedly.

"Who? Natasha asked.

"Tada! Dorothy took a step away from Asher.

Natasha gasped for air, shocked to see Asher at her party.

"Asher Brooks! With her mouth wide open she screamed his name.

"Hello Natasha" his deep voice echoed in the room.

"You're here? Natasha quickly stood up. "Wow! I'm honoured and surprised. Thanks for coming. I do appreciate it. I mean...you weren't able to make it to my wedding....but I understand" Natasha tittered.

"Yes. I was in China for an impact business meeting that yielded lot of money for the company, I couldn't trade that for your wedding, I hope you understand " Asher forced out a smile

"Ah, yes...I do. Mum said so and I received your gift very well. Thanks for the gift, the car"

"I did it for miss Dorothy. She really did a great job taking care of me. So... he's your husband?

"Huh? Uh! Yes, yes. Where are my manners? Baby.. do stand please" Natasha begged Marshall. Marshall quickly stood up, still carrying their baby. " Marshall dear...meet Asher Brooks, Asher....this is Marshall, my husband"

"Hi, good day Mr Asher Brooks. Nice to meet you "

"Pleasure is all mine " both shook hands.

"Hold on... you're the Asher Brooks of the famous game company...ASB games? Oh my world. I'm so glad to finally meet you in person. I'm a huge fan of yours and your games too. Thank you so much for releasing such lovely games, perfect for killing boredom and relaxing "

" I know and I'm glad that I made those games and you love them. Ah! I also forgot "

Asher dipped his hand in his trouser's pocket and took out the envelope containing the dollar bills and placed the envelope in Natasha's palm. "This isn't for you, it is for the princess you birthed"

"Uh! So sweet of you. Thank you very much..I do appreciate it " Natasha said smiling

"Thanks for the gift " Marshall added.

"It's nothing. Uh...I think I should head home now"

"Are you nuts Asher? You just got here..have sometimes to eat" Dorothy suggested.

"Mum... I'll take Asher and get him some food. Come with me Asher" Natasha request.

"Uh ..if you insist "

Natasha and Asher left to get some food.

" You still look handsome. No you look much handsome now than you did five years ago. Aged hotly" Natasha giggled making Asher uncomfortable.

Asher forced out a smile. "Thanks"

"Still single Huh?

"Yes, why?

"Still not interested in women? I could link you up with some of my friends. Well, I must confess, you missed out big time when you missed me"

"Natasha...." Asher stopped walking" I appreciate your gesture thanks, now let's forget about everything and you focus on your marriage. Maybe I shouldn't have come here. I'll get going "

"Hold on. You can't leave. Mum will be mad at me.. please stay for a while " Natasha begged with folded palms

Asher grinned" sure but don't bug me"

"I'll try"

"Not trying. Don't"

" I won't disturb you "

"Fine.. I'll stay"

Natasha exhaled immediately. " Thank you " she smiled. " Let's get something nice to it" Natasha said picking up a plate. " Let's fill up"

"Mmmhhh". Asher nodded.

Asher's phone rang nonstop, disrupting Asher's sleep. Asher stretched his hand, reaching out to his phone on the cabine cabinet beside his bed, his mum was the caller. Asher groaned and picked the call.

"Asher! Where are you? I've called you over and over and over...."

" Breath mum, breath. I'm alive. What is it?

"I miss you son. We all do. Want to come over for lunch? No... brunch."

"Mum..."

"C'mon Asher. So, see you soon and make sure you are here before 11am, got it? And...I sent someone to bring you the outfit you'll be wearing to the brunch "

"Huh? Outfit? Mum... I've got a lot of clothes in my closet. I do not lack any clothes. I'll wear one from my closet "

"Don't argue with the lady of the house. I've said it and it's final. Once your outfit arrives, wear it and start heading home "

"But I'm at my home already "

"Asher...home is where your family is and not that empty House of yours "

"Okay, okay. See you later mum"

"See you soon boo-boo bear "

"Hanging up " Asher hung up and dropped his phone. "Why wake me up so early. What's the time? Asher switched on the headlamp and checked the time on the little clock beside the bed. "Oh! It's 8am".

Asher got down from his bed and did a little stretching before going down to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for himself. He made a simple breakfast and had it in the kitchen. Did the dishes and left for the living room. Asher picked up the television remote and turned it on.

"Let's see what business is talking about"

Asher had his seat and sipped his coffee from the coffee mug he had in his hand and changed the TV channels and stopped at the news channel. Asher dropped the remote beside him and leaned back to enjoy the morning business news.

After his usual morning routine, Asher returned back to his bedroom for a nice relaxing bath. He finally got out of his bathroom and stared into his mirror for a while and smiled. He left for his closet to change into something comfortable when his door bell rang. Asher quickly changed into a blue vest and black shorts and hurried downstairs. He unlocked the door and opened and a pretty lady stood before him, Holding a a cloth bag.

"Hi mister"

"Uh....hi miss. How many I help you?

"You must be Asher Brooks. I'm here to deliver this outfit to you"

"My outfit? Right. Mum wasn't joking at all. May I have it?

"Sure sir." She said handing over the bag to Asher.

"Thanks. Kindly see yourself off to the gate. I appreciate this" Asher shut the door at her face and made his way back to his room.

Asher placed the bag on the bed and stared at it for a while, while he stroke his chin. He took a deep breath and exhaled immediately.

"Mum,...well... let's see what she got for me"

Asher unzipped the bag and took out a navy blue two piece suit and a black tie. Ashe held the outfit in both hands and stared at them confused.

"She said brunch. Who wears this to a brunch with family. More like I'll be attending some official function like wedding, company seminar and... Something's fishy. Wel, it's here , I guess I should get ready "

Asher placed the outfit on the bed and quickly changed into them. He wore a black brouges, wore his perfumes, a necklace and his favourite wrist watch. He stood before his mirror and wore his eyeglasses and stared at his mirror self.

"Glass or nah... I'm still hot. And I'm driving myself again"

Asher grabbed his car key and went downstairs. He paused for a second and glanced at his wrist watch before continuing to his car. He shut the door behind him and left for his car. He was quite surprised to see his driver standing beside his car. His driver bowed slightly and requested to drive him. Asher tossed the car key to his driver and got into the car.

Few minutes later, Asher Brooks arrived at the Brooks manor . Asher was stunned to see lots of cars parked outside.

"Is this really brunch or something else? Something's fishy, I can't place my head on it now but I'll figure it out soon"

Asher hurried into the house. The house seemed quite empty. He called out to everyone, his mum, dad and his siblings. One of the maids appeared before him giving him a scare. She requested to take Asher to meet everyone. Asher followed her to the ballroom. The doors were opened by the two guards outside. The maid stepped aside, letting Asher go in alone.

Asher stepped into the dark hall, dark and he felt disappointed.

"You're kidding me right? What the ...?

The lights came on immediately and everyone screamed surprise, startling Asher. Asher was surprised with the decor of the hall and the hall was filled with people.

"Okay, okay, let me through" His mum approached him and gave him a warm hug.

"Mum, what's this?

"Happy birthday son"

"Birthday? It's my birthday today?

"Yes brother. Your 30th birthday. We need a sister you know" Bella said

"That's why you have to get married soon son " Allison added touching his cheek.

"Okay that's enough. So this is the brunch mum? I knew it. I knew something was off when I saw the outfit you sent me. I mean who wears a two piece suit for brunch with his family, not even a date"

"Yeah yeah, smart ass. Happy birthday again " Allison hugged him.

"Save some hug for the old man " Morris said walking to Asher.

"Dad. Greetings dad"

"Happy birthday son"

"Thanks dad"

"So... let's cut the cake and get this party going " Henry suggested.

"Make a wish brother. Trust me, it will come true this time. Make it with your heart as though your life depends on it " Bella's smiled at Asher.

"Okay I will"

Bella and Mrs Allison took Asher to go cut the cake. Henry brought the cake in a trolley and placed it before Asher. Everyone sang the happy birthday song for Asher.

Asher bent over to the cake to blow off the candles when Bella stoppe him from doing so and quickly urged him to make a wish before blowing off the candles. Asher stood straight, took a deep breath and shut his eyes, exhaling softly, with his hands in his pocket.

"What do I wish for? He thought. He took a deep breath again and exhaled immediately. "Got it. I wish I could finally meet her, the one who would sweep me off my feet, light an unquenchable fire in my heart, make me hunger and thirst for her, make me go crazy for her, start a perfect journey with her and I wish she truly sweeps me off my feet and she reciprocates the love I will have for her. I wish"

Asher made his wish and blew off the candles, everyone clapped. Bella quickly linked arms with Asher.

"Tell me, what did you wish for?

"What I wished for? Well ..I can't tell but I hope it comes true"

"Let me guess... successful launching of your new game? So lame."

Asher chuckled. " I wish. Cake? Asher stuffed Bella's mouth with some cake and chuckled.

"Not fair" Bella muffled.

The next minute, a pop song began to play and some dancers appeared on the dancefloor. Asher's face gave him away as he showed he was not pleased and was uninterested with what was going on. He tried to leave when Bella held him back and forced him to watch the dancers perform.

The male dancers were dressed in black joggers, white sneakers and black polo shirt white the female dancers were dressed in red handles crop top, black leather shorts and white sneakers. Everyone clapped and cheered them while they danced.

One of the dancers left Asher dumbstruck. He approached Asher and took a bow before him. He was Asher's childhood friend, Leo.

"Leo, you're here? I can't believe my eyes. Am I day dreaming or what?

"Happy birthday world's best man" Leo hugged Asher and patted his back.

"When did you come into the country?

"Few days ago. I decided to pipe low and give you a lovely surprise. How do you see my surprise?

"Crazy as you"

"Why not unwind, party and have fun"

"What do you mean by that Leo?

"What I mean? Let's party! Leo grasped Asher's hand and dragged him to the dance floor. Leo forced Asher to dance. Asher refused to dance but Leo persuaded him to dance. Asher couldn't believe what Leo was doing to him. Asher danced for a few seconds and disappeared from the dance floor. Asher decided to decided to grab a glass of wine when Leo appeared before him with two glasses of wine. Leo handed over a glass to Asher. Asher refused to take the drink from Leo. He quickly recalled the last time he did this, he couldn't be himself and he messed up big time thanks to Leo's spiked drink, which Leo had given to him at that party. Leo smiled at him urging him to take the glass of wine.

"No thanks. I rather stay thirsty than drink from your hands Leo.

"Seems like you've got an unforgiven spirit bro"

"Yes and I'm proud I do have such spirit, if it would save me from falling prey to your tricks. No thanks " Asher signalled a waiter who handed over a glass of wine to Asher. "Cheers Leo" Asher said raising his glass to Leo.

"Cheers" Leo and Asher clinked their wine glasses.

"I'm glad to see you Leo it's been a while, years. How long?

"Sorry for not visiting"

"So tell me..." Asher paused and drank from his wine glass. "When are you leaving" he continued.

"I've moved back" Leo smiled and raised his glass at some damsel that walked past them saying hi.

"With your parents?

"No. Alone. I heard L.A girls are hot as hell" he lightly bit his lower lip and winked at Asher.

"Women ... again? Asher shrugged. "Hey, do you think women are some commodity to our, use at your disposal and then trash them?

"No..." Leo tittered.

Asher raised his left eye brow, staring at Leo. " Your voice says otherwise. Change that mindset bro"

"Yeah, yeah. You with the good mindset...how many girls have warmed up your cold bed and cold attitude?

"Again! Women! For the last time, women are not some product in the supermarket. Change Leo, change!

"Hi guys! A pretty young damsel stood before Leo and Asher, dressed in thigh high slit, silk red gown, looking gorgeous.

"My oh my! Asher! You've got a hot girlfriend! I'm amazed. Why didn't you tell me about her? Asher whispered to Asher. "Hello damsel.." Leo took few steps close to the young lady. " I'm Leonard Wilson, Asher's best friend". Leo said stretching his hand to her for a handshake.

"I'm Sylvia. Sylvia Manchester" Sylvia said shaking Leo's hand.

"You mean Manchester city?

"No. Just Manchester "

"Hi Sylvia, you're here"

"Hey bro! That's not the way to talk to a lady especially a hot pretty lady like her. Weren't you preaching about respecting women "

"But I didn't disrespect her. Did I? Asher glared at Leo.

"Your woman is pretty and joy. Wow!

"She isn't my woman. She's Sylvia Manchester, attended same university with me. A graduate of the medical department "

"Meaning?

"She's a doctor. A neurosurgeon"

"What the fuck! Really! Oh my goodness. Can you treat my brain cause it's filled with the images of your lovely face and lovely body, my lady"

"You flatter me" Sylvia said forcing out a smile .

"Please " Asher rolled his eyes.

"I'll leave you two to catch up bro. Later" Leo patted Asher's shoulder and quickly gave the two some privacy.

Asher and Sylvia were taking a walk at the poolside with their wine glasses in their hands. Asher stopped walking and stood still, staring at Sylvia. Sylvia noticed Asher not walking with her, turned back to see Asher staring at her. She quickly took a look at herself, wonderingly if something was off with her, maybe her makeup is terrible.

"What? Why are you staring at me in that way? Do I look horrible?

"No. You look different"

"Really? I changed?

"A little. You became prettier"

"Really? Sylvia blushed. "So I was pretty in the past and I became prettier now. You flatter me" she giggled.

"I do not flatter women. I say the truth. You look pretty tonight "

"So did I sweep you off your feet tonight?

Asher quickly recalled the wish he made before cutting the cake and smiled. "You wish" Asher smirked

"So rude. Don't laugh at me that way" Sylvia's tone showed she was hurt with what Asher just did.

"My apologies. So how have you been? It's been a while"

"Yes. I've been okay and you? How have you been all these while?

"I've been okay. Busy with work, launching new games, I've also been quite successful... running a successful company" Asher smiled and drank from his wine glass. "I can also see that you're successful too and have a successful career. Kudos" he raised his wine glass to her.

Sylvia smiled and said "yeah...but still single "

"Are you mocking me? Asher snapped.

"No. I was talking about myself. I'm successful, and still single, no boyfriend, no fiance, no husband and I'm 28" she laughed. "What a life. This is crazy" Sylvia tittered and drank from her wine glass.

" No. I'm single too. It's not a crime to be single, just be patient" Asher touched her head and she immediately looked at him, looked into his eyes. "You'll definitely find the right one. No, the right one will find you and that soon" Asher gave her a warm smile. "Enjoy the party. I'll be heading inside. Wanna come along with me?

"Yes sure" Sylvia quickly linked arms with him. "If you don't mind"

"I do but...let me ignore this. Don't repeat this next time, okay?

"See it as helping a damsel in distress"

"Indeed"

Asher and Sylvia returned back to the ballroom. Bella sighted them walking into the ballroom, linking arms. She smiled and rushed over to her mum.

"Mum, mum, mum"

"What Sylvia?

"Look... Ashraf and a pretty damsel"

"Is that what I think it is? Asher has a girlfriend? She's so beautiful. You know her?

"Yes I do. She's Sylvia Manchester. She did visit a few times back then when Asher was in college. She's become prettier"

"Yes right. I pray they last. Amen!

"Amen mum!

The party ended and the guests dispatched. Ashe saw Sylvia off to her car and both waved goodbye. Leo stayed back at the Brooks manor, Asher also had to sleep over.

Leo and Asher did some catching up after having their baths and eventually slept off.

Asher was the first to wake up. He sat up and did some stretching before getting off his bed. He wore his bedroom slippers and turned towards Leo who was still asleep on his bed. Asher chuckled upon seeing Leo's sleeping position.

"He's indeed crazy" Asher smiled and left for the bathroom, got in and shut the door.

His fingers ran through his soft and silky hair while he stared into the mirror. He bow his head and switched on the faucet, and splashed some cold water on his face Continuously. He felt relieved and relaxed. Asher lifted his head and looked into the mirror, no dark circles, he smiled.

Asher returned back to his room, drying his face with his face towel.

"Good creep. He's still sleeping by this time? He glanced at the clock on the wall. "Hmm ..8am. I'm hungry. I need to eat.

Asher dropped the towel on the chair and went downstairs. The maids were up and working.

"Good morning sir Asher" greeted a maid

"Are my parents awake?

"Yes. Ma'am is in the kitchen"

"Serve breakfast. I'll be in the dining room. Hurry. I'm hungry"

"Right away sir"

Asher left immediately for the dining room. Few minutes later, the maid walked in with his breakfast.

"Your breakfast sir".

"You may leave"

"Yes sir"

Asher had his breakfast and left for the kitchen with the plates.

"Pleasant morning mum"

"Oh my baby. You looking dashing this morning"

"Mum, you didn't wake me up on time. You know I've to be at the office, you know that. I wonder why I slept in. Mum did you do anything?

"Nothing, just added a little you know...to your juice last night"

"That's so evil mum "

"Good morning " Bella said yawning.

"You may go ahead and swallow mum and I. I permit you Bella "

"Sorry. Mum, breakfast please

"Already served. Go to the dining room"

"Okay, love you mum"

"Hold on, where is Henry? Asher asked holding Bella's hand

"Still sleeping I guess"

"Still sleeping? Okay. I'll let it slide today. Go have breakfast. Tell me mum, how's Henry's performance at dad's Tech company"

"He's doing well. He's a good computer technician "

"I see. That's good. I'll be in the living room " Asher grabbed his cup of coffee and left for the living room.

Asher picked up the television remote and switched on the TV, he had his seat and enjoyed the news, drinking his coffee. Leo walked in yawning.

"Up already? Leo asked fondling with his hair.

"Guess who is finally up. Good morning your royal Highness, Leonard"

"Don't mock me. I worked you party last night, at least I deserve a nice sleep "

"Go have breakfast "

"Of course I will. I'm wasn't planning to starve. Tell me, what are you watching so early in the morning. News? So boring "

"Go away, you lousy kid"

Leo turned and left for the dining room.

Later that day, Leo insisted they visit some fun places and do some catching up.

Asher got dressed in a white shirt sleeved shirt and green trouser with a pair of black loafers,while Leo dressed up in white vest and white shorts and a pair of black sneakers.

"Tsk, tsk tsk tsk, too formal" Leo commented on Asher's outfit.

"So what? I love it"

"And the glasses? Take them off"

"No thanks. I love it too. So shall we?.

Asher and Leo left for Asher's car. Leo did the driving. They arrived at some fancy restaurant. Bella had made a reservation for them. Asher and Leo were showed to their table and both had their seats. Both places their orders and sat back.

"Nice place. Nice decor. Hey, wanna go clubbing with me tonight?

"Clubbing? I'll pass"

"But...." Asher's phone rang interrupting Leo.

"One minute bro " Asher pulled out his phone from the trouser's pocket. "Excuse me, I'll take this call outside " Asher stood up and quickly stepped outside. "Asher Brooks speaking. Yes,yes... what? Okay. Prepare everything I'll be needing. Good. Thank you"

Asher returned back to Leo and had his seat.

" So who called? Let me guess, Sylvia?

"No. My secretary did. There's this workshop I was invited to give some lecture. I am to give that lecture on Wednesday, she called me to inform me that I'll be giving that lecture tomorrow morning. But then...I totally forgot I was to give some lecture, I can't believe it escaped my memory "

"Well, you're prepared for the workshop, ain't you?

"I am. Well, let's just eat"

"Yeah yeah.

After a long fun day, Asher and Leo returned back to the Brooks manor.

Asher informed everyone about the workshop and he was returning back to his house. Bella and Henry helped Asher pack up his gifts and placed them in his car. Asher thanked everyone and left for his car.

Asher and Leo hugged and promised to hang out some other time. Asher got into his car and drove off.

Asher drove into his house and, got out of his car and tossed his car key to his driver who was standing outside his house.

"Get the things from the car. Ah! Did Giselle come over today?

"Yes sir. She just left. She already made dinner, sir.

"Good. The laundry?

"She did them sir"

"Get the things real quick and yes, you're sleeping over tonight. We'll be leaving early for somewhere important, tomorrow morning. Got it?

"Yes sir"

Asher went into his house and hurried to his study room. He picked up his laptop and went through the lecture he had prepared for the workshop and did some proofreading and editing. He finished up with his last file and placed the laptop in his bag and left with the laptop for his bedroom.

Asher paused at the staircase, he pulled out his phone and called up his secretary and informed her to be at his house early. Asher hung up and continued to his bedroom. He shut the door behind him and placed the laptop on the couch and left to have a bath in his bathroom.