The Billionaires Crush

Episode 5

As the group settled into the lively atmosphere of the bar, the ambient sounds of laughter and music created a backdrop for the unfolding drama. Ernest, now surrounded by his friends, couldn't escape the weight of the situation. The banter and camaraderie felt like a momentary distraction from the enigma that Zelia's reappearance presented.

Duffie, always the life of the party, proposed a toast. "To unexpected reunions and the mysteries they bring!" The friends clinked their glasses, and the atmosphere lightened for a moment. The clinking of glasses merged with the pulsating beats of the music, creating a rhythm that resonated with the complexity of emotions in the air.

Adrian, couldn't resist a playful jab at Ernest. "So, spill the beans, mate! How did you manage to find her after all these years? Was it some grand romantic gesture?"

Ernest chuckled, "No grand gesture, my friend. Fate seems to have its own plans. I bumped into her after I left the art gallery today, of all places." right... it's got to be faith, Ernest said within... Ernest loathed going to the Art gallery but had to occasionally when there was an art exhibition because of his family. Suddenly he became interested in Arrt but hated going there on behalf of his family and not his own accord. Today was one of those days when he had to check on the Art gallery and incorporate new methods to sell the pieces for their Business to build their image.

The friends exchanged curious glances, sensing there was more to the story than Ernest was letting on. Adrain leaned forward "Sometimes, life has a way of bringing people together, unveiling the threads that connect us in unexpected ways." They all chuckled.

The conversation drifted between topics, with occasional glances exchanged between the friends, all eager to hear more about the mysterious reunion. As they shared anecdotes and laughter, Ernest couldn't shake off the tension building within him. He excused himself from the table, feigning the need for some fresh air.

Outside, away from the lively ambience of the bar, Ernest took a moment to collect his thoughts. He dialled Mark's number to get an update on the hair sample testing. Mark's voice came through the phone, "Sir, the results are ready. The DNA test... It confirms a biological connection. That little girl is your daughter."

Ernest felt a surge of emotions — shock, disbelief, and an unexpected warmth. The revelation brought a mix of joy and apprehension. He leaned against the building, taking a moment to process the profound change in his life.

Mark continued, "I've also sent some discreet surveillance to keep an eye on them as you instructed. They are currently having dinner at the hotel's dining hall."

Ernest, still absorbing the news, replied, "Thanks, Mark. Keep me updated. I need some time to figure out how to approach this. Oh and Mark, I want you to look into what happened at the graduation party." "Yes sir." Mark said and after hung up the call.

Back inside the bar, the friends noticed the change in Ernest's demeanour as he rejoined the table. Duffie, perceptive as always, sensed something amiss. "Everything alright, Ernest?"

Ernest forced a smile, "Yeah, just got caught up in my thoughts for a moment. Let's enjoy the evening." "You sure? We are and will always be here for you. I hope you know that." he tapped his back in comfort.

The night wore on with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses, but for Ernest, the newfound revelation cast a shadow over the festivities. As the friends revelled in each other's company, Ernest couldn't escape the gravity of the situation — the daughter or children he never knew he had and the mysteries that awaited him.

Waking up the next morning with a spinning headache Ernest is met straight facing his father who had come to his apartment which was not far from the family estate. He had not moved to the family estate after his return and thanks to his grandmother, he had escaped his father's wrath and nagging of getting married but it didn't stop him from showing up unannounced at times like this.

He blinked and went to take a shower ignoring him and went ahead with his normal routine pretending as though his father was non-existent. Mark came over as usual to inform him of his duties for the day but stopped when he saw his father. He greeted and bowed. "Good morning sir." "At least I am visible seeing you saw me well enough to greet," he responded.

"Ernest. What is wrong with you? As if not coming home is not enough, you have been ignoring your mother's calls and you are refusing to meet up with Julia Smith. The wedding preparations are in progress and you haven't met her once. What is going on with you son?"

Ernest, attempting to maintain composure, replied calmly, "Dad, I have a lot on my plate right now. I need some time to sort things out. And regarding the wedding, I never agreed to it. I won't marry someone just for the sake of it. Definitely not her."

His father's face contorted with frustration. "Ernest, you can't keep avoiding your responsibilities. The Anderson name carries weight, and we have certain expectations. You need to think about the family legacy."

Ernest, feeling the weight of the conversation, retorted, "I am well aware of our family's legacy, but that doesn't mean I have to sacrifice my happiness. I won't let you dictate my life."

The tension in the room escalated, and Mark discreetly excused himself, sensing the brewing storm between father and son.

"Ernest, we've already made arrangements with the Smiths. The merger will strengthen our position in the business world. Your personal feelings shouldn't jeopardize the family's future," his father asserted.

Ernest, firm in his stance, replied, "I won't go through with a marriage I don't believe in. I have said it and I will say it again. If the merger is so important, find another way. I won't be part of this arrangement."

His father, angered by the defiance, warned, "You're playing with fire, Ernest. Don't forget your responsibilities and the consequences of your actions."

The conversation ended in an impasse, and Ernest left for work, leaving his father fuming. The revelations about Zelia and the children weighed heavily on his mind, making it challenging to focus on the day's tasks. In the car, Mark updated him on the wearabout of the kids and Zelia for the day. What he did not know was the kids had already spotted their tails and had lost them.

In the office, Mark came to inform him of his upcoming meeting. Not in the mod he asked. "Do we really have to invite this PR company or whatever? We have already arrested the security personnel who laid his hands on the customer and measures have been put in place."

"But public opinion is still bad and, looking at the location, the branch has been affected. This company being invited on board will help improve the image of the company, since they are trusted all over the country and that town especially." sighing Ernest asked,

"So what is the name of the company and what are they good at?"

"LEE PR Consultancy. They manage various aspects of PR, showcasing their versatility and the diverse range of challenges they can handle. That is one of their strengths. The consultancy is a one-stop-shop for clients with multifaceted PR needs like us. Your brother arranged this."

"Where will the meeting be?"

"The conference room."

"Let's go. We don't want to be late and give an impression."

They enter the conference room taking their seats. Ernest sat at the head of the table and, raising his head, his eyes met his. HER! What was she doing here? And who was he? They seemed quite comfortable with each other.

Just in the span of a day, I'm seeing her in my face. Is this a sign?

Raising her head from the papers to face him, she began by Introducing herself. "I am Zelia Koomson, In Charge of your brand's current reputation management, Crisis and other PR-related activities for the next two months. Thus, until the launch of your new branch. Nice to meet you all." She said, facing them.

Ernest, managing to conceal his surprise, greeted her with a nod. "It's the same voice," he said within. The room felt charged with an unexpected tension as Zelia continued to address the team. Throughout the meeting, Zelia demonstrated a profound understanding of public relations, proposing innovative campaigns and crisis management tactics. This concealed her internal turmoil.