Chapter four

“I know you've being waiting for this moment to bring me out into the spotlight for the world to be aware of my return. But, hold your horses Butler, Theo.” Richard was most certain that coming out in public, at this time, had to be considered a stupid decision. He would decide when it was appropriate to announce his presence. Butler Theo AKA The famous Mr. Theo Romane obviously did not accept his response, but had no choice but to adapt to his decision.

“Why, if I may ask?” Butler Theo inquired from Richard, who had a thousand and one reasons to give. “As the only son of the Escrow dynasty, coming out into the limelight might be too dangerous for anyone who is affiliated with me. Especially when I do that in a high-profile manner.” Richard learned first hand how intoxicating wealth and power could be to those who had a taste of it. Putting his loved ones at risk by a recent discovery that people in their diverse spectrum of enemies and foes grovelled for, required loads of strategic planning.

Butler Theo based on what he spewed out earlier, had in his custody the wealth of Richard's parents handed down to him. Instead of concentrating on Richard's sudden return and abrupt takeover, securing his assets to avoid unforeseen occurrences held a more feasible chance for him at the moment. “What is more important, are the assets in your position, Butler Theo. There is no smoke without a fire, and no Judas without an Iscariot.” Richard interjected, his words filled the quiet space as Butler Theo listened attentively.

“What do you suggest should be done?” Butler Theo listened raptly to what Richard had to say. Richard, according to his birth name which he had no idea climbed above the hierarchy of the rich and famous in the city, had to secure his assets. “Once bitten, twice shy.” Became his mantra after hearing how his late parents were betrayed and sent down the lane of bankruptcy by a so-called friend.  Butler Lee proved himself to be trustworthy. But, that much money was best disbursed in other accounts.

“Fund disbursement. This much liquid and feasible cash, assets, and deed of land occupancy and ownership should not be solely fixed in a predictable location. A few large companies that are undervalued should be transferred under my name. Furthermore, a few million dollars should be sent to a secret account under my name for rainy days.” Richard viewed his decision right, the butler seemed to agree as well.

Richard knew three generations could not run the source of his family's wealth dry, but money, and its value appreciated overtime and depreciated based on its economical value. He never wanted to have a taste of poverty ever again. Saving for the rainy days was a mentality he had become acquainted with. “As you wish, young master.” Butler, Theo responded. The hue of the setting sun had turned a pinkish orange, which signified it was time for him to take his leave. “Let's have lunch this weekend, son, we have a lot to catch up on. I would have suggested you take that time as well to have a tour of one of the numerous Escrow ventures.” Butler Theo, was on a mission to tempt him into having a change of heart. But Richard's mind, was made up.

“I'll think about it.” The old man, unsatisfied by his reply, hit his walking on the granite floor, a disappointed look on his face. In due time, he was going to understand the reason why. But for now, all criticisms were welcomed. The hefty looking men that hijacked him earlier, all positioned at different corners of the miniscule house, awaiting orders. “I'll take my leave, Butler, Theo.” The butler gave him a warm hug, void of hate or envy. It felt good to be appreciated by someone who held genuine interests towards him. He headed outside after the pleasantries, two bodyguards right behind him.

The Lincoln Limousine stood radiantly, its creamy color made it hard to miss on the street. He needed a low profile, entering his dilapidated estate with a car of this nature would only attract questions. “Take me to the nearest bus stop, I'll find my way from there.” He told the driver who resembled a former boxer in the WWE championship. He replied with a nod and zoomed off on the highway. Richard was dropped at the nearest bus stop as he made his way to the available seat on the bus.

As his spouse, Sierra was expected to be informed by him on the spontaneous change in his life. But on a second thought, it was best to leave her in the dark for now. It would be dangerous to get her involved. Truth be told, Richard was overwhelmed by the radical change in his life and the new path that laid out before him. He had moved from the dejected and job seeking lad earlier in the day to a business owner, company CEO and a rich billionaire. It was all happening so fast. He knew the moment words were out on the street, Sierra would be used as leverage against him.

The fact that her family cut her off from the family tree, thereby depriving her of her position, simply because she got married to him, caused him to stir in his seat. He was going to help her recover all that was ripped away from her. The Limousine as predicted on arrival garnered public attention. It was hard not to give it a complete stare down at least twice. Richard had a face cap on which went in contrast with his worn out suit and shoes as he headed to the bus station. The ride home gave him time to ponder on his next move. He needed a feasible lie to give his wife. Richard already concocted the best lie recipe before the bus's final stop.

The foyer lights were out and the inside of the house dimly lit. Richard checked his time, it was way past Sierra's bedtime. Careful not to wake her up, he opened the door lightly as he tiptoed upstairs, the creaking sound of the wooden staircase all out to blow his cover-up. Sierra was most definitely going to poke and pry at him for questions on his whereabouts and how his job hunting went. Their marriage was built on trust, loyalty, and love. He inhaled sharply, the guilt of what he was about to do, eating at his conscience.

Richard was halfway to his bedroom when the familiar, authoritative voice of his stepmother that percolated the air caused him to freeze in his steps. Sierra, to his disadvantage, was wide awake and on a video call with his nemesis. Lady Carolina was not alone, Humphrey's annoying laughter and side remarks seemed to fuel Lady Carolina's grievances. Sierra was far from been asleep. Sierra's hair was packed into a loose bun, and her glasses made her face look so fragile and delicate. She was a beauty to behold.

“Sierra, the family needs you now more than ever. We are plunging into debts day by day. I can't even afford an ordinary Chanel bag without paying in advance. There is a deliberating contract at hand, our chances of getting it are barely feasible. Do you hear me, child?!.” Lady Carolina's shrill voice scolded through the phone. His wife might have dozed off and was barely listening to the Lady's whining.

“Can you see how blotted you look already when you are barely two months gone? Get rid of that thing in your womb before it becomes a full-blown disaster. Tell me, child, how do you intend to take care of this child when he or she is born into this cruel world where the father is a nobody with barely enough to feed himself and YOU.” She jabbed at Sierra, who he noticed was in full mode attack mood. Richard deeply hurt by what was said, his rage at this point could boil an entire barrel of water.

“That's enough, mother, Richard is my husband and this child is a product of your love. You have no right to say such horrid things about him.” She angrily replied, silencing her mother, at least for the moment. “For the sake of the family, Mr. Durrel Stance, is willing to take you in; irrespective of your previous marital status. He has enough cash inflow to keep us afloat for now.” It has to be her guts for Richard. The effrontery and nonexistent right she believed to have on Sierra had Richard giving his decision a reconsideration.

“Bigger sons tech, just placed a big contract in the market. Anyone who wins it over to the Devon's that includes you Humphrey, will be appointed as the company's CEO. Sierra, I want you to have a goodnight rest and give me a positive decision at the crack of dawn.” With that, Lady Carolina put an end to the video call. 

Sierra turned to her side and was shocked to find her husband standing at the entrance of the door, his expression unreadable and body language the same. “Babe, I did not hear you come in...” She was at loss for words, completely drained from the ended video call, and pregnancy cravings choked her up. Sierra was a bubble of un satiated needs.

“So when did you intend to tell me you are pregnant?"