The Unknown Billionaire

Chapter 61

Yesterday was a momentous day for Vere as he finally achieved his lifelong dream of reclaiming his company. After years of struggle, betrayal, and relentless effort, Fuentes Company was finally his once again. However, as he sat on the couch in his luxurious mansion, instead of feeling overwhelming joy, his mind was burdened with concern. His heart was heavy, and his thoughts were consumed by Olivia’s condition.

Grabbing his mobile phone, he dialed Olivia’s number once more. Since yesterday, he had been desperately trying to reach her, eager to share the news about the successful acquisition of his beloved company. But each time, he was met with the same voicemail message: “I'm unavailable.” The robotic tone of her voice message only deepened his anxiety. He had called her multiple times the previous night, hoping she would pick up, but to no avail.

Although he had accomplished one of the greatest victories of his life, a shadow of sadness loomed over him. He knew that Olivia had been battling a severe illness, and now that he was unable to reach her, his fears began to grow. He ran a hand through his hair in frustration, his thoughts clouded by worst-case scenarios.

“Hey, I noticed you’ve been feeling down lately,” a familiar voice broke through his thoughts. It was Ronnie, who had just arrived at the mansion. He stood near the doorway, watching Vere with concern. “Aren’t you happy about buying Fuentes Company? It’s finally yours!”

Vere forced a faint smile. “Of course, I’m happy, Ronnie. This company means everything to me.” He paused before adding, “And I appreciate you for helping me achieve this. You're part of this victory.”

Ronnie nodded, pleased to hear that. “So, what’s making you so down, Mr. Wayne?”

Vere hesitated, letting out a deep sigh. “Do you think sadness follows happiness in life? Like, after achieving something so big, there's always something that pulls us back?”

Ronnie thought for a moment before answering. “I’d say yes. We need to accept it, Mr. Wayne. Life is about balance—happiness and sadness, success and failure. Nobody has a perfect life. We all experience ups and downs.”

“You’re right, Ronnie,” Vere murmured. “I've been thinking a lot about Olivia.”

“Olivia?” Ronnie asked, raising an eyebrow. “What about her?”

“She’s not feeling well,” Vere admitted, his voice low. “Yesterday, she called me to inform me that her condition has worsened. She’s in the late stage of cancer.”

Ronnie’s eyes widened in shock. “What? That’s terrible.”

Vere nodded, struggling to hold back his emotions. “Yes, Ronnie. It’s heartbreaking. She’s been so strong all this time, and now she’s fighting for her life.”

Tears welled up in Vere’s eyes. He wiped them away quickly, but his sorrow was evident. “I feel so helpless. I don't know what to do. I should be there for her, but I also have my company to take care of now.”

Ronnie placed a reassuring hand on Vere’s shoulder. “Listen, Mr. Wayne, the doctors in the U.S. are among the best. They will do everything they can to help Olivia. But she also needs you. I suggest you fly to California so you can be with her.”

Vere considered this for a moment. “You’re right, Ronnie. I should go. But what about the company? Now that I finally own it, I have responsibilities to handle.”

“Trust me, okay?” Ronnie reassured him. “I’ll take care of everything while you’re gone. I may not have much experience handling a company this big, but I’ll do my best.”

Vere looked at him with uncertainty. “Are you sure, Ronnie?” Vere became speechless for a moment, as thoughts raced through his mind. "God, help me," he thought. He didn’t want to make the same mistake again. He had trusted James once, and he had been betrayed.

Ronnie gave him a firm nod. “I understand your concerns, Mr. Wayne. But I promise you, I have your back. And right now, Olivia needs you more than anything.”

Vere sighed, his mind still battling between his responsibilities and his emotions. However, deep down, he knew the truth—Olivia needed him now, especially in such a difficult time.

“All right,” Vere finally said, determination in his voice. “I’ll go to California. Olivia is more important right now.”

Ronnie smiled. “That’s the right decision, Mr. Wayne. Everything will be fine.”

With his decision made, Vere felt a mix of emotions—relief, sadness, and hope. He would be there for Olivia, no matter what. And for now, he had to trust Ronnie to handle the business in his absence. The journey ahead wouldn’t be easy, but he was ready to face whatever came next.

He stood up, running a hand through his hair before pacing across the room. Memories of Olivia flashed through his mind—her laughter, her unwavering support, the way she had always believed in him when no one else did. She had been his rock during the darkest times of his life, and now, when she needed him the most, he refused to let her down.

“I’ll book the first flight out,” Vere said, glancing at his phone. He hesitated for a moment, then turned to Ronnie. “I need you to handle the upcoming meetings with our investors. Make sure everything stays on track.”

Ronnie gave him a reassuring nod. “Don’t worry, Mr. Wayne. I won’t let you down.”

Vere exhaled deeply. He needed to focus. He couldn’t afford to let his emotions get the best of him. And suddenly he turned to Ronnie and said, “Ronnie, can you do me a favor and book me the earliest flight to California?”

“Right away, Mr. Wayne,” Ronnie responded with full concern.

That night Vere packed his suitcase, quickly gathering essentials. His heart pounded in his chest. He didn’t know what awaited him in California, but he knew one thing for certain—Olivia needed him, and he would be there.

Early the next day at four a.m., the drive to the airport felt like an eternity. Every red light, every slow-moving car added to his growing impatience. By the time he arrived at the terminal, he barely noticed the people bustling around him. His only focus was getting to her.

As the plane soared into the sky, Vere leaned back in his seat, staring out the window. The city lights below gradually disappeared, leaving him alone with his thoughts. He closed his eyes, whispering a silent prayer for Olivia.

He wouldn’t let her fight this battle alone.