“Markian, is everything…” I started but Markian didn’t even notice me and brushes right pass me in a hurry.
He looked furious like he’s been pissed off by someone or something. I know that look, I recognize that look.
Oh sh’t, Markian is about to create a scene.
Markian
I can’t seem to shake off the feeling that something was off on my way to Heather’s mansion. I heard Livy’ svvoice before I got on my jet from Denver back to Minnesota, so what could be wrong?
The police have not been able to locate Sophia for the past 2months. It’s almost as if she just disappeared without a trace.
After the press conference 2months ago, Livy’s mental condition worsened, so we seeked professional help for her. She’s been undergoing series of treatments and therapy, so she’s now able to distinguish between reality and dreams.
She had gotten a lot better before I went on this business trip to Denver, both she and the baby are doing very well.
But Sophia is still out there somewhere, and I have to find her before she comes after my family again.
I smiled as I saw Heather’s face light up when she saw me at the entrance. She quickly walked up to greet me with Daniel and Jeffery by her side.
“Thank you so much for coming Markian, I know you must be stressed out but you still made it.” Heather stated in appreciation as she hugged me.
“C’mon Heather, I wouldn’t have missed this for the world. Congratulations on your sweet 30. I got this for you on my way back from Denver, I hope you like it.” I replied, handing her a small gift box wrapped nicely.
“You didn’t have to Markian, your presence is more than enough.” She said as she accepted it with a bright smile.
I really like the smile on her face, it suits her. I soon turned my eyes to Daniel who stood by her side.
“Hey Bro.” he greeted me a hug.
“Sorry I wasn’t here to welcome you home when you arrived. Denver got me tied down a little, but I’m glad you’re back.” I apologized candidly.
He had told me he would be arriving at Minnesota yesterday morning and I really thought I would be done with Denver by then to welcome him home. But there was a last minute delay.
“Yeah, don’t worry about that. And it’s equally nice to see you again man.” Daniel replied casually.
I can’t thank him enough for not being in cohort with his father’s plan to buy off my shares in Castlehill after the press release of Sophia’s return.
“Hey man.” Jeffery greeted as he hugged me, “… it’s nice to finally have you back.” He added behind my shoulder.
“It was a lot easier since you’re always here.” I replied with a hint of sarcasm which made both him and Daniel let out a chuckle.
Heather just stood there staring at us baffled for a moment before she said, “If y’all are done kissing each other’s asses, I need your help inside to keep my guests entertained while I handle last minute alterations in the kitchen. Ok?” She requested and we nodded.
But as she was about to leave us, I held her back gentle to ask about Livy.
“Have you seen my wife? I wonder if she has arrived yet.” I asked curiously.
“I haven’t seen her either. I’ve been waiting here but no sign of her yet, neither she nor Judy. But I’m sure they’re on their way.” Heather replied cautiously in an attempt not to get me worried.
She walked away while Daniel, Jeffery and I walked into the crowded room to greet her guests.
Minutes later, my attention went to Heather coming down the stairs with her father- Tion Winfrey, by her side.
I looked at Daniel’s face and he was not happy about this recent development.
“Heather what the hell?” Daniel asked immediately she walk over to us.
“Hey brother, hold your horses. At least ask me what happened first before you crucify me.” She requested, taken aback by Daniel’s outburst.
“Ok? What happened?” Daniel then asked barely calmly.
“A wise person once told me that ‘anyone who forgives has a big heart’ and I agree…” she stated taking a glance at Jeffery.
Of course that’s the kind of thing Jeffery would say.
“Well, that wise person must not have met our father now, has he?” Daniel asked sarcastically.
Ok, he must really really be upset for him to have just thrown a shade at Jeffery. It’s no secret that Heather and Uncle Tion have being at heads-lock since she refused to step down and let Daniel manage S. Group.
I understand her trying to let go of the past and reconciling with her father, but what I didn’t know was just how mad Daniel was at him.
As a matter of fact I have. I extended him and invitation to the party today.” Jeffery stated and that upset Daniel the more.
“You shouldn’t have done that. You have no idea what he has done and what he might still be planning to do.” Daniel stated sternly.
“… well, dad came to meet me in the kitchen and asked to speak with me. I was reluctant at first but he insisted it would only take a minute, so I listened to what he had to say…” Heather interrupted, “… He said he wanted us to know how proud he was of the both of us, and that he’s sorry for how he had treated me all these years. He said he wants a chance to get to know me, and I really feel like he’s changed. Maybe it’s time to put everything behind us once and for all.” she added calmly.
“And you think that’s a bright idea, even after the stunt he pulled 2 months ago? Our father would never change. He knows exactly what to say in a minute to get you hopeful and excited all over again, don’t you see that? I’m pretty sure he has an ulterior motive for approaching you now.” Daniel spoke with so much contempt.
“C’mon man, he’s still your father. If he wants to make amends then he deserves that little at least.” I advised, butting in.
“He deserves nothing from any of us! After what he did to you, you’re the last person I expect to support him, Markian” Daniel countered with gritted teeth.
He was upset but soon got a hold of himself and cleared his throat. This is the most open he has ever been about matters that concerns his father.
His outburst must be as a result of his bottled up anger towards his father.
“I don’t hold any grudge against your father…” I stated calmly, “… honestly, if the old me were in his shoes I would have done exactly what he did. But family is blood bro, and blood sticks together no matter what.” I added.
What I said must have ease the tension between the 4 of us because, because Daniel seemed to calm down a bit.
“Thank you for that Markian…” Heather said to me before facing Daniel, “… now, if you don’t mind I’ll like to step away of your negative aura and go greet my guests. I suggest you do the same.” She said to him before she left us to join the crowd.
I couldn’t hold back my laughter as to how coy Heather’s last statement was. It also seemed to have amazed Jeffery equally and I noticed a smile slowly making it way on Daniel’s lips.
It’s been almost 45mins since I arrived here and still no sign of Livy nor Judy. So, I stepped out for few minutes to try to call them both, but I got no response.
I’m starting to have a gut feeling that something isn’t right. I went back inside to tell Daniel that I might need to go over to the Luthel mansion to know what’s going on and why Livy and Judy haven’t arrived yet.