ADRIAN POINT OF VIEW.
"Adrian, when are you going to stop this character of changing girls every day?" My mother Aria yelled angrily at me, she had caught another one, this time it is a blond blue eyes, half naked girl running at of my room with tears in my eyes.
"Mother it isn't my fault, they all want me, and I'm giving them what they want." I replied sarcastically, glaring at the half naked girl still standing at the entrance, she looks scared and embarrassed.
"What are you still waiting for, I said you can go, to wherever you are coming from." I yelled at her watching her flinch and scurry in fear. I'm Adrian Vaughn, after all, and this was how my life had always been fast, easy, and without consequences, I thought inwardly.
"Adrain you are twenty eight now, you should be thinking of marriage now, not changing ladies like clothes." My mother half yelled. I know she's frustrated at me behaviour by now, but I can't help it.
"Don't forget you are starting your new Job tomorrow, and remember to behave well." My mother said before walking away leaving me with my taught.
I watched her leave, as I sank down on the chair next to me. My new job, huh? A driver for some wealthy family. I feel somehow about doing this. I know working as a driver for a wealthy family won't end well for me, considering how spoiled those rich kids usually are.
I don't want to do this work, I used to sitting at home all days and fucking around, with my parent feeding me, and giving me things. I know I'm very lazy, and I don't even have a plan for my life but I don't usually care about it.
But, I know I don't have a choice now, I have to work. I have to work as a driver for the ASTON family. I need to start building a life for myself, I need to prove myself worthy.
I stood up ready to pay my friend a visit in other to bid them goodbye, considering the fact that I won't see them, because I would be living in the Ashton mansion from tomorrow.
I called Thomas and Harvey, informing them to meet me at our usual club, I ended the call getting ready to meet them. Within thirty minutes, we were all in the club, drinking to stupor.
I informed them about my new job, and how my parents are reacting about my playboy lifestyle. "Adrian you did a great job, by finally finding a job, because you really need it." Thomas said, patting my back.
"What do you mean great job, you mean working as a driver is a great job, your father should have find a better job for you not a driver." Harvey replied, looking at both Thomas and I.
"Harvey, he would start from somewhere, he would start by building his life slowly." Thomas replies.
"Oh, cheers to Adrian being a driver!!" Harvey said, while we all raise our glass up, chuckling softly.
As we clinked our glasses together, I couldn't help but laugh along with them. Thomas and Harvey had been my friends for years, always there for the good times and the bad. Tonight, though, felt different. It was like a farewell party for a life I was leaving behind, even if I didn't quite know what lay ahead.
"Seriously, Adrian," Thomas continued, "working as a driver might not be glamorous, but it's a start. You can't just keep living off your parents forever."
"Yeah, yeah," I muttered, taking another sip of my drink. "It's just... I don't know. It's hard to imagine myself doing something like that."
Harvey leaned in, "Who knows, man? Maybe you'll meet some rich, hot chick who'll fall for the hot driver.
I chuckled, shaking my head. "I doubt that.
A few hours later, we bid our self goodbye. Immediately I got home, I met my father who sat in the living room, it look like he was waiting for me. "Welcome back son, I have been waiting for you" my father said before walking back into his room.
THE NEXT DAY.
Today is Monday and I would be starting my work today, I pack my clothes box, and some of the essentials thing, I pack an old photograph of my family. It was from happier times before I started disappointing them. As I looked at the picture, a guilty a bit, before shaking it off. Was this job a way to make up for all the mistakes I'd made?
I shook off the thought and zipped up my suitcase. I had to do this, not just for my parents, but for myself. I needed to prove that I could take responsibility and find some direction in my life.
I ordered taxi that would take me to my destination, I hugged my mum and dad bidding them goodbye before entering into the car. As the taxi pulled away from my parents' house, I couldn't help but feel different about this.
It was strange, leaving behind the comfort of my usual life for something so unfamiliar I stared out, lost in thought.
This was the beginning of something new, something I wasn't entirely sure I was ready for. But then again, had I ever really been ready for anything? My life had always been a series of impulsive decisions, one after the other, with little regard for the consequences. Maybe this job would finally force me to grow up, to take things more seriously.
The taxi ride felt like it took forever, but eventually, we arrived at the Ashton mansion. It was even look more better than the way I seen it on picture. It have a garden at a big swimming pool at the front yard, which means one of his children loves swimming.
I paid the driver and stepped out, suitcase in hand, feeling a little out of place in my casual clothes, because even the maid, and the gateway were looking classy and sophisticated.
I took a deep breath and approached the front door, trying to muster some confidence. Before I could knock, the door swung open, revealing a tall figure.
"Adrian Vaughn, I presume?" the man said, looking me up and down with a scrutinizing gaze.
"Yes, that's me," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.
"I'm James, the head of household staff. Welcome to the Ashton estate. Let me show you to your quarters," he said, gesturing for me to follow him inside.
As we walked through the grand halls, I couldn't help but feel a bit overwhelmed. The mansion was filled with expensive artwork, antique furniture, and the kind of opulence I'd only seen in movies. It was clear the Ashtons family is very wealthy, but I reminded myself not to get too caught up in appearances. My job was simple: drive the family wherever they needed to go, and keep a low profile.
James led me to a small but comfortable room in the servants' quarters. "This will be your room," he said, opening the door. "You'll find a uniform in the closet. Dinner is at seven sharp in the staff dining area. Make sure you're ready to start tomorrow morning, since you are just resuming today, you have today to have a good rest.
"Thank you," I said, setting my suitcase down and looking around the room. It was modest compared to the rest of the mansion, but it had everything I needed. A bed, a desk, and a small bathroom.
After unpacking, I decided to explore a bit before dinner. The estate was vast, with beautiful gardens and a pool. I found a quiet spot near the edge of the property and sat down, pulling out the photograph of my family. Looking at their smiling faces, I feel regretful. I knew I had disappointed them. I have been dependant on them, my whole life, without even planning for my future.
As I sat there, lost in thought, a voice broke the silence.
"Who are you, and what are you doing here?"
I looked up to see a young woman standing before me, she have this stern and annoyed expression on her face. She had long, dark hair and sharp blue eyes that seemed to pierce right through me. She wore a simple and elegant red gown, which hug her curvy perfectly. I kept staring at her body before her voice jerk my back to presence, I shouldn't be sexualizing the Ashton daughter, I won't want to embarrass and disgrace my parents again.
"I'm Adrian," I replied, standing up. "I'm the new driver. I was just... exploring this mansion, I feel if I'm going to be working here I show know the surrounding well." I said.
Her eyes narrowed slightly. "I'm Emily Ashton. My father mentioned hiring a new driver, but I wasn't expecting you to be... so young."
I felt a flush, feeling embarrassed by her blunrness. "I guess I am," I said, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "I hope to do a good job."
Emily studied me for a moment. "We'll see about that," she said sassily, before turning to leave.
As she walked away, I couldn't help but feel uneasy. Emily Ashton look clearly like someone who don't take it lightly on strangers, especially ones like me. I watched her disappear into the mansion, wondering what kind of challenges this new job would bring.
Just as I was about to head back to my room, I heard a noise from the garden. Curious, I walked over and saw a young girl, maybe in her late teens, sitting by the pool. She was scribbling furiously in a sketchbook, completely absorbed in her work. She looked up and noticed me, her eyes widening in surprise.
"Who are you?" she asked, her voice gentle and calm.
"I'm Adrian, the new driver," I replied, feeling like I was repeating myself a lot today. "And you are?"
"Elena," she said, closing her sketchbook and standing up. "You're the one living in the servants' quarters, right?"
I nodded, unsure of what to say next. She seemed friendlier than her sister, even though she's still somehow distant to me.
"Welcome to the estate," Elena said, giving me a small smile. "It's not as grand as it seems. There are... a lot of rules. Just be careful."
With that cryptic advice, she walked off, leaving me standing there, more confused than ever. What did she mean by "a lot of rules"?
As I made my way back to my room, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the Ashton family than just mere eye. Something about Emily's stern demeanor and Elena's warning made me think that this job would be far from ordinary.
I reached my room and sat on the bed, staring at the photograph of my family again. What had I gotten myself into? I knew this was supposed to be a fresh start, a chance to prove myself, but I already know this just wouldn't be as easy as it look and I would face many challenges.
As I lay back, trying to put together my thoughts, a knock on the door startled me. I opened it to find James standing there, he long more serious than earlier
"Mr. Ashton would like to see you in his study," James said, his voice low. "Now."
I swallowed hard, feeling nervous right now.
Why would Mr. Ashton want to see me so soon? Had I done something wrong already? Different thoughts run through my mind as I follow James to the mansion.
We stopped in front of a large door, and James knocked lightly before opening it. "Mr. Ashton, Adrian is here," he announced.
I stepped inside, my heart pounding. The room was filled with bookshelves and a large desk, behind which sat Mr. Damon Ashton. He looked up from his papers, his expression unreadable.
"Come in, Adrian," he said, his voice calm but firm. "We need to have a little chat about your duties here... and what I expect from you."
ADRIAN POINT OF VIEW
"Sit down, Adrian," Mr. Ashton gestured to a chair in front of the desk. His voice was calm but carried an undeniable authority. I took a seat, trying to maintain my composure.
He leaned back in his chair, studying me for a moment before speaking. "I trust you understand the importance of discretion and professionalism in this role," he began, his tone measured. "The Ashton family values its privacy highly. Your duties will go beyond simply driving. We're going to be sharing some personal stuff with you, so please remember what's okay to discuss publicly and what's not. Respect our privacy!"
He paused, then continued, "Here are some rules you must strictly adhere to while working for us, they are just seven, and they are very important, if you break any of the rule you will be severely punished." he said giving a folder where there rule is listed.
Rule one, Confidentiality is Paramount: You must never disclose any personal or private information about the Ashton family to anyone, under any circumstances. What you see and hear while working here stays within these walls.
Rule two, Professional Distance: While you may interact with members of the family, personal relationships beyond a professional boundary are strictly prohibited. This includes any kind of friendly relationship with family members or the staff.
Rule three, Adherence to Schedule: You are expected to be available and on call 24/7. The family's schedule is paramount, and you must be ready to accommodate any changes or demands, regardless of the time.
Rule four, Respect for Privacy: You are not to enter any private areas of the house, such as bedrooms, unless specifically instructed. Respecting the family's privacy is essential.
Rule five, Zero Tolerance for Substance Use: The use of alcohol or any other substances during work hours is strictly forbidden. You must always be sober and ready to perform your duties.
Rule six, No Outside Employment: You are not allowed to engage in any other employment or activities that could interfere with your responsibilities here. Your focus should be solely on serving the Ashton family.
Rule seven, Proper Conduct: You are expected to maintain a high standard of personal conduct, both on and off duty. Any behavior that could potentially reflect poorly on the family is unacceptable.
"These rules are non-negotiable, Adrian," Mr. Ashton said, his gaze intense. "Failure to comply with any of these, you know the consequence by now. Do you understand?"
I nodded, swallowing hard. I realized this job was going to be more demanding than I had anticipated. "Yes, sir, I understand," I replied trying to sound confident.
"Good," Mr. Ashton said, his tone softening slightly. "Remember, this is a serious role with significant responsibilities. But if you perform well, there could be opportunities for advancement. We reward loyalty and hard work."
He stood up, signaling the end of our meeting. "You can return to your room and rest for the evening. James will provide you with any additional details you need. Welcome to the Ashton family, Adrian."
"Thank you, Mr. Ashton," I said, before exiting the study. Immediately I got to my room, I landed on my bed before sleeping off.
The next morning, I woke up early, ready to start my first full day on the job. As I dressed in the uniform provided, I couldn't help but feel a bit excited and nervous.
The Ashtons' mansion was already filled with peop doing different activity, and I knew today would be a test, to see how capable I am.
My first task was to familiarize myself with the vehicles and the family's schedule. James, provided me with a detailed list of appointments and instructions. I took note of everything, determined not to make any mistakes, of not because of the Ashton, but because of myself and my family.
As I prepared the car for the day, I begin to remiscene on the rules Mr. Ashton had laid out for me yesterday. Each one seemed to emphasize the importance of maintaining a professional behaviour, and also not having close relationship with his family. It was clear they valued their privacy and expected complete loyalty from their staff.
Just as I finished checking the car, I saw Emily approaching. She was dressed in an office wear. Good morning, Adrian," she said, her tone neutral. "I'll need you to drive me to the office today. We leave in not less than ten minutes from now."
"Of course, Miss Ashton," I replied, opening the car door for her. She stepped in without another word.
The drive was mostly silent, expect for the occasional directions Emily gave. She spent most of the time on her phone, reviewing documents and making calls. I focused on the road, acutely aware of the importance of my first task.
As we reached her office, Emily finally spoke again. "Remember, Adrian, punctuality is crucial. I expect you to be here precisely at 5 PM to pick me up."
"Understood, Miss Ashton," I replied, nodding. She gave me a curt nod before exiting the vehicle and disappearing into the building.
As I drove back to the mansion, I couldn't help but feel accomplished, because my first task had gone smoothly, and I was determined to keep it that way.
Back at the mansion, I found Elena in the garden, her sketchbook in hand. She looked up as I approached, offering a friendly smile. "How was your first day driving Emily?" she asked, her tone light.
"Not too bad," I replied, smiling back.
Elena laughed softly. "That's good though. Just don't take her too seriously, because she can mean at time. She's always been the serious one."
I nodded, appreciating her friendly behaviour. "Thanks for the advice. I'll keep that in mind."
As we chatted, I noticed Ashley approaching. She seemed to be heading to the garden, she sway her hip seductively, giving me a hard time down there. I know I shouldn't be having conversations with their daughter because it was listed in the rule already, but I can't escape Ashley she has seen me already "Adrian," she called out, "I'll need you to drive me to a charity event this afternoon. Be ready by 3 PM."
"Of course, Miss Ashton," I replied, noting the time. She gave me a quick smile before turning to Elena, who was watching us curiously.
As I headed back to my room after the brief chat with Elena, I didn't want to be caught talking to her. As the clock approached 3 PM, I made my way to the garage to prepare the car for Ashley's charity event. I checked everything carefully, making sure the vehicle was in perfect condition. This was my second task of the day, and I couldn't afford any mistakes. Not just for the Ashtons, but for myself and my family.
Right on time, Ashley appeared, She wore a stunning dress that hugged her figure, her hair and makeup flawless. She moved with a confidence that was both alluring and intimidating. As she approached the car, she gave me a slutty look her eyes lingering on me a bit longer than I was comfortable with.
"Ready to go, Adrian?" she asked, her voice playful.
"Yes, Miss Ashton," I replied, opening the door for her. She slid into the back seat, her perfume filling the car. I took a deep breath, trying to focus as I got into the driver's seat.
As we pulled out of the driveway, Ashley leaned forward slightly, resting her arm on the back of my seat. "You know, Adrian," she began, her tone casual, "I have to say, you're quite the looker. Those muscles and that strong jawline... very impressive."
I felt a flush of heat creep up my neck. "Thank you, Miss Ashton," I said, keeping my eyes on the road. It was a struggle to maintain my composure, her compliment was against the rule given to me.
She didn't seem to notice my discomfort, or perhaps she chose to ignore it. "And those blue eyes of yours," she continued, her voice dropping to a more intimate tone, "they're so... captivating. It must be hard for the ladies to resist you."
I swallowed hard, gripping the steering wheel a bit tighter. "I just do my job, Miss Ashton," I said, trying to sound as professional as possible. "I'm here to serve your family."
Ashley chuckled softly, So serious, Adrian. But I like that. It shows dedication." She reached forward and lightly touched my arm, her fingers tracing a line down to my wrist. The contact sent a jolt through me, and I had to focus intently on the road to keep from reacting.
"You're very... disciplined," she murmured, her voice almost a purr. "But don't worry, your secret is safe with me."
I knew she was testing me, perhaps out of boredom or simply to see how far she could push the boundaries. The rules about maintaining professional distance flashed through my mind, and I knew I had to handle this situation carefully. "Thank you, Miss Ashton, but I'm just doing my job," I repeated, my voice steady.
Ashley withdrew her hand, leaning back in her seat. She let out a soft sigh, as if disappointed by my lack of response. "You know, Adrian, sometimes it's okay to relax a little. Life doesn't always have to be so serious."
I didn't respond, instead focus on the ride to our destination. My heart was beating fast, Her presence was having effect on I couldn't let her see that, though. I couldn't afford to slip up on my first day, I know it won't be easy resisting her considering the fact that I'm a playboy and a sleep with anything under skirt.
We arrived at the charity event, and I quickly got out to open the door for her. As she stepped out, she gave me look which I couldn't decode, "Thank you, Adrian," she said.
"I'll call you when I'm ready to leave. Don't be late."
"Of course, Miss Ashton," I replied, keeping my tone neutral. "
After dropping Ashley, I went back home to rest because I felt really tired. I close my eyes planning to rest a bit, I didn't know when I drifted into a deep sleep.
I joted up when I heard a cracking sound, The room was darker, and as I glanced at the clock my heart beat loudly within my chest, It was already past 5 PM. I began to panic as I grabbed my phone and saw several missed calls and messages from Emily.
"Adrian, it's 5:10 PM. Where are you?", "I thought you were competence enough I never know my father hire a lazy brat." she sent several messages that I didn't even have enough time to read.
My heart beat loudly as I quickly grabbed my jacket and rushed out of the room, cursing under my breath. I had never been late for anything, and this was not the impression I wanted to make, especially not on my first day.
As I hurried to the car, I can't shake off the feeling that this make will cost me everything. The Ashtons valued punctuality and professionalism, and I had already failed on both areas.
Starting the car, I sped towards Emily's office, I began to think of excuse to lay down for Emily that would make her forgive me or not report me to her father, but I couldn't think of any tangible excuse. After some hours, I got to the office. I saw Emily standing outside fuming with anger, I immediately get out of the car ready to apologise to her,for my lateness.
"I'm so sor...."she didn't let me finish my words before slapping me on the face angrily.
EMILY POINT OF VIEW.
When my Dad told me he would be employing another driver, because I sack the last driver two days ago I was so mad. Because I don't need a driver, I don't need to have a male driver, and if at all I want a driver, I prefer a female as my driver.
I also promise my father that if he employ another driver I would sack the driver, and also make him suffer. My family think I have suddenly become heartless, cold, uncaring and unapproachable, but they don't know what I've been through. They haven't lived my life yet. They were worried to know what happened to their once caring and understanding daughter.
Well they don't have to know what happened to me that make me like this, if I told them what happened, would they even believe me? Won't they think it's my fault it happened? It's almost laughable. They weren't there when I needed them most, they are always after their business and social status. When everything fell apart, they were too busy to see what was happening to me. Or maybe they just didn't care.
The truth is, I don't owe anyone an explanation. Especially not to people who are more concerned with maintaining appearances than with my well-being. They'd probably think I was exaggerating or, worse, that it was my fault. That's how it always goes, doesn't it? Blame the victim.
I shake off the thought. It's too early for this. Besides, I've got bigger problems to deal with like figuring out how to make this new driver quit. Because he's going to, one way or another. I can't let another man get close, not after what happened. I don't even need any man around my life now, either a driver, cook, or even in my office, I prefer employing a female, for reasons best know to me.
I quickly wipe the tears that threaten to drop from my eyes so quickly, I can't be vulnerable. I think I just need to rest. I check the time on my phone I was it was 5PM already, which means it time to close. I stood up already except the new driver to me here, to my utmost surprise he wasn't here yet.
Why the fuck, did he take long to come? I emphasis on 5PM, when he was about to leave, don't he know I cherish punctuality alot? I pulled my phone from my bag calling him, but he didn't respond, I send him serveral messages still no reply.
I began to fume, knowing this won't end well for him. By 5:10 PM, he wasn't still here yet . How dare he make me wait? I stood outside, my hands clenched into fists, feeling every eye on me. I don't like being kept waiting, and I certainly don't like being disrespected. This was just another reason why I don't trust men they're unreliable, careless, and they never take responsibility for their actions.
Finally, Adrian showed up, looking disheveled and breathless, like he'd just rolled out of bed. The sight of him add to my anger. He rushed out of the car, looking flustered and guilty. Good. He should feel guilty. But guilt isn't enough. I needed to make it clear that this kind of behavior is unacceptable.
"I'm so sor... " he started to apologize, but I cut him off with a hard slap to his face. Immediately my hand landed on his face he head swayed to the left, I saw he lone tear drop from his eyes, but he wipe that off immediately.
By the time he raise his head to look at me, his face and eyes were already blood shot red, which made me happy, because he deserve that.
"Didn't I made it clear enough that I hate to be left waiting, and I cherish punctuality more than anything?" I yelled angrily. "This job is not a joke! Do you even understand what punctuality means? Or do you just not care?"
I watched him struggle to maintain his steeze and composure, his clenched his jaw tightly as if trying to suppress his emotions.
"Now get me the fuck out of here." I yelled still angry at him. He nods, avoiding eye contact, and moves to open the car door for me. I slide into the backseat still feeling frustrated at what happen just minutes ago.
How dare he make me wait and then show up looking like a mess? This is just the beginning. If he thinks this slap was bad, he has no idea what's coming. I'll make sure he understands that he doesn't deserve this job or the right to be around me. I don't need anyone, especially not someone as pathetic as him.
The drive home was silent as a graveyard, none of say anything to each other, is not like there is anything to be said about. The only sound was the faint hum of the car engine.
After like an hour later we got home. Immediately I got home, I came out of the car without waiting for Adrian to open my side of the door. To my utmost surprise as soon as I open the door, I was greeted by my father, mother, Ashley and Elena. They were all sitted in the living room.
At that moment I could tell they had been waiting for me. I felt more annoyed that I was already. What now? Did they have another lecture prepared for me?
"Emily, we need to talk," my father said, his voice serious but gentle. He gestured for me to sit down, but I stayed standing, crossing my arms defensively.
I was about to ignore them and walk into my room, when I heard Ashley gasp and screamed. I stay rooted on they spot, and began to panic.
Yes, even though I don't really like my parent, I love my siblings so much. "What happen Ashley?" I asked worriedly, but she ignored me standing up and walking to Adrian direction. I have even forgotten that he followed me inside.
"Oh my God! Adrian, what happen to your face? Why did he look red and bruised?" Ashley asked, looking worried. I don't get why she's worried about him, he doesn't deserve that from her.
Adrian looked at me, but I glared at him. He kept his head down in shame. "Is nothing ma'am" Adrian replied.
"Common, Adrian, tell us what happened to you?" My father chipped in urging him to talk.
He finally race his head up. "I was hitted by Emily." He replied. Right now all my family eyes were on me glaring hard at me, including Elena, my youngest sister.