Planned Baby

Chapter 16 ULIE’S PROTECTION

“Great because I have now the lead.”

My eyes widen. They got the lead this fast! LHI is a company you can’t easily beat.

“Did you know RV Engineering and Architectural Services?” He asked in a serious voice.

I smirked. I knew it. They are behind this.

“Of course, I know them. They are the leading company in the architecture and engineering industry here in the country.” I said.

“Okay. But did you have any issue or conflict with them?”

“Are they the one behind all these?”

He nodded. I saw his jaw clenched.

I sighed aloud. “My hint is right.”

His forehead creased. “What do you mean?”

“Who was your Architect and Engineer in your existing hotels here in the country?” I asked instead.

His eyes widen. He got my point.

“Oh yeah! Why didn’t I think about that? I don't care if they are the leading company in this industry. I will make them pay for what they did to you.” He said in a menacing voice.

“But our priority is to clear my name in this issue,” I said.

He looks at me with gentleness. “I know, Ellie. I will definitely clear your name.”

“Thank you, Ulie. I don't want the CIC name to be tarnished because of me. And also, I don't want our kids to think that they exist because I want to get this project.” I said almost in a whisper.

I don’t mind them attacking me. But not CIC because that is my parent's legacy. And also not my kids. I don't want them to question their existence. It will break my heart.

“Yes, Ellie, I understand. These people knew nothing about us. They don't have any right to judge or even to comment on us. I will protect you and the kids. Trust me, Ellie.”

I smiled and nodded at him.

This is my first time to experience being protected after seven years. I have always dealt with things alone since my parents died. I almost forgot how it feels to be protected.

I suddenly want to be with the kids.

“Where are you going?” Ulie asked when he saw me stand and was about to leave.

“I want to see our twins,” I said in a gentle voice.

I saw him smile. He also got up and held my hand.

“Let’s go together.”

I nodded and smile at him.

I am getting used to Ulie’s presence, not just in this house but in my life. I don't know if it's okay to feel this way.

I don't want to get used to his presence because I might hold onto him and never want to let him go.

But we both know why we are together. It is only because of the kids and the freedom that he received because of my plan.

When we reached the twin's nursery, I saw Amelia wake up from her sleep. She smiles, though I know that she can’t see yet. But I guess she felt the presence of her parents.

Then, Alistair woke up too. Ulie and I held the twins

We did not utter any words. We savor this moment as we cuddle with our children.

My children. My treasures.

***

The following day, I heard noises when I went out of my bed.

I saw Ulie’s family in my living room. His parents were holding my children.

“I am glad you are awake. Sis, are you okay?” Kaela said while hugging me.

I smile at her.

“I’m okay. Don’t worry about me. I am not a weakling.” I said to lift the mood.

They look at me with worries. It's uncomfortable because, for the past seven years, I am used to dealing with my problems alone.

I already forgot the feeling of being protected and being the concern of people.

Escarrer is a loving family. I can see how affectionate they are with one another.

I am now glad that half of my twin's blood is from them.

“I heard you already knew who is the person behind this issue?” Kaela asks to confirm.

“It's the RV company, right? They became greedy when they experience being the leading company here. They forgot that it was all thanks to us. Big bro, makes sure that you make them pay for what they did with my sister-in-law.”

“I am not your sister-in-law. Ulie and I were just friends.” I corrected her, but she ignores me.

I just shook my head.

I look at Ulie, and he just smiled at me. He mouthed, ‘just let her be.’

I shrugged.

***

After a week, I instructed my team to announce that we will be having a press conference.

We were quiet despite all the noise from media and social media regarding this issue.

I told Ellie to wait for the perfect timing. I am sure that ruining Ellie and CIC’s reputation is just the first step to their primary plan.

If my suspicion is correct, they want to get the resort project.

I smirked. As if I will let them have it. I will give them the dose of their own medicine.

And true enough, while the issue is in the hot topic, their CEO set a meeting with me.

“Mr. Ventura of RV Engineering and Architectural Services wanted to set a meeting with you.” Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

Great! They already proceeded with their plan.

I nodded. “Tell them to meet me tomorrow at 10 am.”

It's payback time.