The Royal Contract

When she told the name of the person she was meeting at the front desk, the elegantly dressed woman immediately escorted her inside. She could only surmise that he was a valued guest in this posh place.

She could tell that only those with reservations and fat wallets could afford to eat in a place like this. Then, her eyes finally caught the man she wished she did not have to see, waiting at the corner table by the window with the beautiful view of the garden outside.

“Ria, thank you for joining me tonight.” He politely greeted her, quickly standing up to help her to a chair beside him.

She did not like one bit the idea he had in mind, seeing the romantic setup of the table and the ambiance. Did he think that they were going on a date?

Did he believe that dining with her with all this crap would make things better between them? That was not happening. She only came here to end what should be already over long ago.

If she only thought of herself, she would shout to the media what a monster he was. But, of course, she still had to think of what was best for Edison. She did not want him to get caught in the media frenzy and ruin his life before it even began.

“Ryan,” She acknowledged him as she took a seat, not wanting to cause a scene unless necessary.

The last thing she wanted was for the paparazzi to take notice of them and for them to end up in a tabloid with a quote, Lover’s Quarrel. She would not underestimate his ex-boyfriend for performing some dirty tricks.

.....

Still, she would be cautious not to fall for his traps. She would not let him win because, to him, this was just a game. To her, this was not just her life but her son’s too.

“You certainly looked ravishing tonight.” He commented as his eyes ablaze with fire, not from passion or love but from an unadulterated lust.

She could see that he had not changed. He probably bedded every available woman in a skirt who was foolish enough to believe his lies since she last saw him.

She would not be surprised if he fathered several firstborn children from his irresponsible behavior. Eventually, he abandoned them and denied their existence, just like he did with her.

“I did not wear this for you.” She blatantly answered him, not wanting him to get any ideas. She would have worn tattered clothes if she knew he would force her to see him.

Then, a waiter showed up, carrying two sets of food, putting a plate before her that she did not order. She never intended to dine with him, but apparently, he took the liberty of ordering for her.

“I still got to see them, and I like it on you.” He responded maliciously as his eyes wandered around her chest area. “I hope you like what I ordered for you.”

She did not feel anything for him except for repulsion. She knew she would be sick to her stomach if she kept hearing his voice and looking at his face.

He could have ordered everything on the menu, but still, she would never like any of it. She believed just being with him was already enough for her to want to throw up.

“Enough of your nonsense. I want you to cut the bullshit and stop harassing my son and me.” She hissed at him angrily, but she still maintained a low voice, not wanting to attract attention.

“I think what you mean to say is our son.” He calmly corrected her as he started eating the first course. “And I am not harassing you. I am merely taking my claim back. After all, he has my blood.”

He chewed his food and watched her like she was an interesting specimen. Then, he grabbed his wine and drank half of it before putting it down and staring at her.

“You are not taking my son. Over my dead body.” She said threateningly, hoping she could stop this man’s madness.

But the smirk that crossed his face implied that her warning did not even affect him one bit. He was not furious but more amused with her action. Then, he grabbed his wine again and leaned on his chair, appearing more comfortable than ever.

“I was hoping that we would not have to resort to that. You know I hate violence.” Ryan responded as he narrowed his eyes, gazing directly at her face. “Such a beautiful face deserves a wedding, not a funeral.”

Suddenly, cold chills ran through her body, sending shocking shivers down her spine. She did not want to believe that Ryan could do such heinous things. But what did she know about him and his family?

Was he capable of committing a crime? Maybe. He had abandoned his son before. Therefore, she did not doubt that he might be competent of more terrible things.

“You already have everything you need. You don’t need us.” She tried to reason with him, hoping that he would finally listen. At least she had to try.

“I don’t have you and our son. I need you both in my life.” He insisted as he refilled his glass with the wine.

“But we don’t need you anymore. I moved on. Your son...” He cut her off before she could end her statement.

“Because you already have a lover. Do you think your lover would love our son? How much do you know about your so-called lover? What if I tell you that Zachary Andrews will leave you once he is tired of playing house with you?” Ryan changed his demeanor, looking stoic this time.

She was not surprised that he already knew the name of her current boyfriend. It must have shown up in his investigation. But she wondered if he knew Zach or if Ryan was only trying to create a rift between them.

But she guessed she would choose the latter. Knowing Ryan, he was always up to no good. He was probably only saying that so that he could ruin her relationship with a great man, unlike him.

“Zach loves me. He also loves Zach. He had been a father to him more than you ever did.” She told him, trying to stay calm and relaxed as possible. “So, nothing you say would even matter to me.”

“Ok. Then, answer me this. Why is your precious Zach out on a date with her ex-fiance?” He suddenly pointed behind her.

She did not want to believe him, thinking this was just another of his ploy to trick her. She stayed in place and did not look back. “Come on, just look.” He insisted, but she refused to play his game.

“If I am lying, then I will stop pursuing you,” Ryan said, even swearing to her. “Just look.”

But could he ever trust his words since, as far as she knew, he was not an honorable man?