CHAPTER 4
My eyes teared up as I stared into the eyes of my helpless child, clutched in Vera’s merciless grasp.
“Please,” I choked, tears streaming down my face, “I will return the money. Just give me back my son.”
Vera hissed, her voice laced with venom. “You have two days to return every last penny. Until then, your child stays with me, Leave!”
I ran out and with hands trembling from fear and rage, I booked a ride that would take me to the bank. Of course, I would do whatever it takes to ensure the safety of my son, even if it meant giving up all my fortune.
Standing on the walkway, frustrated and sad, waiting for my ride, a black limousine stopped in front of me. Without a second guess, I stepped into the dark interior of the limousine.
“Starlight Bank, please,” I managed to say, my voice hoarse and dry.
The driver’s eyes widened. “That’s not… That was not the deal,” He hesitated, clearly trying to make sense of the situation. “The deal was I would come and pick you up and take you to dinner where I would brief you on our fake engagement plans for Thanksgiving dinner with my pack.”
My mouth went dry as I realized my mistake. “I’m sorry, I must have gotten into the wrong limo.”
“Oh?” the driver murmured, his eyes lingering on me for a brief moment. “Really? That’s a shame. I was hoping it was you. You are beautiful enough.” He winked.
At that moment, a plan came to my mind, and my eyes lit up. “I have an idea,” I said. “I’m proposing we strike a deal.”
The driver smiled. “It depends on what you’re asking for.”
“My child has been taken from me, and I’m being blamed for stealing my own money. If I do this for you, if I pretend to be your fiancée and go to this thanksgiving dinner, you will use my fake name and pretend to be the owner of my shares.” I said, my eyes meeting the driver’s eyes.
The driver thought for a moment and let out a deep sigh, “Very well,” he said, his voice steady. “I’ll help you.”
“Thank you so much. I am Andrea Silverstone.” I said and extended my hand for a handshake.
“I am Nathan Dan, and I am a lawyer.” He replied and shook my hand.
“let’s go to dinner and then we can discuss our plan.” I suggested.
And so he drove us off to a fine restaurant tucked away in a secluded part of the city.
The morning of the deadline dawned, and with the plan in motion, Nathan arrived at the mansion in his limousine and pulled up to the grand entrance.
With a beating heart, I hid somewhere in the mansion so I could watch the scene.
Dimitri, flanked by two bodyguards, strode out to greet the visitor.
“Who are you?” he asked, his voice dripping with authority.
Nathan stepped out of the limo, his expression unreadable.
“I am an investor in your company and I am here on account of a recent problem with the shares in your company.” he said, his eyes locked onto Dimitri’s. “Can I know the problem?”
“Well, A major investor under the name ‘Charles Peter’ sold shares and our stocks crashed after that, But, I have traced the funds to Miss Andrea.” Dimitri admitted.
Nathan shook his head, his gaze unwavering. “I’m Charles Peter,” he confirmed. “I sold my shares from your company, and sent the money to Andrea’s account.”
Dimitri’s expression darkened. “Mr Peter?, So you sold your shares and sent Andrea the money?”
“Yes,” Nathan said, offering Dimitri a document. “This is proof of the share withdrawal, in my name. And this,” he added, producing a second document, “is proof of the transfer to Miss Andrea’s account.”
Dimitri accepted the documents, his eyes rapidly scanning the text. “Why did you send her the money?”
“The reason is confidential, and not your concern, so I have filed a lawsuit that will hold you accountable if you harass or question Miss Andrea about the money,” Nathan’s voice was firm, his eyes drilling into Dimitri’s.
“I promise never to ask her about the money again, But, Mr Peter, please, we need to strike a deal.” Dimitri suggested. “Immediately you sold your shares our stocks crashed. What can I do to make you buy back your shares?”
“You have to return her child to her.” Nathan replied, his face mean and focused.
Dimitri couldn't hide his shock. “What? So she reported me to you?” He asked. “Mr Peter, the child is mine too and it is none of your business. What does that have to do with the shares?”
“It has everything to do with the shares. She didn't steal your money, And if you do not return her child to her this instant, I will add kidnapping and child trafficking charges to the suit.”
Dimitri’s face drained color in shock. “Alright,” Dimitri said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I will return the child. But you still have to buy back your shares please. Our stocks crashed.” He begged.
I have never seen Dimitri this humbled.
Nathan nodded, satisfied. “You will do so within an hour,” he replied, his tone making it clear that this was an order. “Then we will discuss the shares.” He turned and left.
From where I was hiding, I couldn’t help but feel a swell of gratitude and happiness for this stranger who had come to my aid when I needed it most. I was very thankful to Nathan for standing up for me. And I felt happy for the first time in a long time.
