Chapter 11

Chapter 11

Kayla’s POV

Alison was left tongue-tied last night and the family Jones became a laughingstock—though, there weren’t Jones. I am.

But it gave me a sense of satisfaction how people criticize them, something that they deserve but not enough for my liking. They deserve more than to be laughed at after the pain that they cost me, and the stolen name along with the stolen company that they don’t deserve.

So when Karen showed up at my workplace I was anything but surprise.

High cheek bones. bold lipstick. High ponytail. Karen was beautiful though her beauty was consuming. Enough to secure a husband but not enough to be respected. Grace wasn’t one of her characteristic, so when she married my father, she tried to hide her county side girl mannerism. She lack elegance something my mother possesses even in her sleep.

For years of managing my family business, she lacked the skills and character of a CEO. Despite the company’s standing in the industry due to her lack of knowledge cracks were evident even in the naked eye. I believe that the heart of the company belongs to the Jones, and it pains me to see how it’s standing at the moment.

No wonder she’s obsessed with the Hermoso, their standing in the industry will pull her out of the brick of bankruptcy.

“I have one word for you.” She crossed her legs along with her arms. Leaning against the coach, she’s confident for someone who forced her way in the building. “Leave Rowan.”

“That’s two words.” I mirror her, smirking smugly.

I wonder how my father see my mother’s similarity to the woman. The first time I saw her I almost thought my mother was alive but she was never my mother.

But my father was consumed by grief. He wasn’t in his right mind.

“Don’t be sarcastic now. You don’t get to talk to me that way,” she’s demanding respect for someone who don’t deserve it. “You’re the reason why Rowan is so distracted. You’re manipulating him. And I know you’re only using him for fame and money.”

I couldn’t contain my laugh that caught some passerby’s attention. “You seriously believe that? I have the money and the fame.” My arms wide open showing her my photos around the room. “You’re the one who needs his family. Aren’t your business going bankrupt?”

Her back straighten. Uncrossed her legs. Glaring at me. Her confidence nowhere to be found.

“Our business is thriving.”

 “I’m not so sure about that. I’ve been wondering where’s Mr. Jones while you’re handling all of your business dealings. You seem a need of a help. I haven’t heard of a single news about him.”

Her brows creased with my question. I was risking it but I had to ask. I initially thought my father was letting her run the business but somewhere along the lines I’ve became suspicious that made me question where he was.

“He’s a private person. Though, I didn’t know you were interested in our business that much.” Her eyes scanning my face.

“Well, facing someone that’s against with my relationship with Rowan…I needed to do some research.” I smiled, but inside I was screaming.

She nodded but dissatisfaction was written all over her face.

“Take my advice seriously, Honey. You need it.” Each word was said with emphasis. “And for the record we don’t need the Hermoso but my family take a great pleasure of following up to agreements. We can’t broke our promises.” She utter with gritted teeth.

“Rowan had already expressed his opinion in that matter. You aren’t breaking a promise. He is. Isn’t that enough?” I play with my lips, not acknowledging her threat.

My heart was thumping along with the veins of my temple. Karen has still this effect on me. Old wounds resurface but the I mastered the disguise I’ve practiced for years.

“Stay away from Rowan. This will be my last warning.” She stood up glaring at my direction. Her stilettos clicking the floor like a timebomb waiting to explode.

After my conversation with Karen I immediately called my investigator. I needed to see my father. I needed to know if he’s still alive and breathing. Thoughts running through my head as I continue me day.

Distracted and absentmindedly searching for Karen’s  crack at her interview. Every time she was asked about my father she would either dismiss the question or answered, “He’s a private person, he usually words at home. He sent me for the on-site operation of our business.”

But no matter how good of a liar she is, I could clearly see how her eyes twitched, her hands jitter, and how her body tensed, when asked about my father… even behind the camera, her lies were recognizable, especially for me who grew up with her lies and betrayals.

My phone buzz, a message from Felix—my investigator. “I found him.” I stiffened with his message. Attached was the location where my father is.

My heart ached and my tears drop seeing where he’s residing. In the east side of California, a home for vegetated patient and sick individual was located. He was there, he’s sick, or he’s in a brick of death.

He was only a couple of miles away, hiding under my radar. I hated myself for not checking how he was… because of my anger.

I didn’t know Karen was capable of such thing…but I have underestimated her for long. I won’t make that mistake twice.

I’m sure the only reason why Karen was keeping him alive was because I know that my father hadn’t change his inheritance.

I am the rightful heir…only there’s one obstacle I needed to face.

Reclaiming my name and my title.

My phone buzz again. It was a message from Rowan. “I have news. Meet my at my apartment.”

My hands run cold, with a shaking hand I replied. “I’ll be there.”

Whatever Rowan’s news is. I hope it’s good…I needed it to be good, especially in a day like this.