Tyler rushed to the hospital, determined to beg the doctor for more time to raise the funds for Mrs. Flora's operation. But as he arrived at her ward, he was met with an empty bed.
Confused and worried, Tyler approached the nurse at the counter. "Excuse me, where is Mrs. Flora? I was told she was in this ward."
The nurse checked her records, a puzzled expression on her face.
"I apologize, sir. But Mrs. Flora is no longer here. A strange man came in earlier today and paid half the deposit for her treatment bill - $50,000. He also arranged for her to be transferred to Washington DC, where she'll receive treatment from the best doctors in the country."
Tyler's eyes widened in shock. "What? Who was this man? And why did he do this?"
The nurse shrugged. "I don't know, sir. He didn't leave his name or contact information. But he seemed...familiar. Like someone from your past."
Tyler's mind raced as he tried to process this new information. Who could this mysterious benefactor be? And why would they help Mrs. Flora, of all people?
As he left the hospital, Tyler couldn't shake off the feeling that his past was coming back to haunt him. Little did he know, this was only the beginning of a chain of events that would change his life forever.
As Tyler rushed out of the hospital, lost in thought, he collided with a man standing at the entrance. "Oh, I'm so sorry!" Tyler exclaimed, as he reached out to steady the man.
But as he looked into the man's face, his apology froze on his lips. There was something familiar about the man's features, something that stirred a long-forgotten memory.
And then it hit him - the man's face was etched in his childhood memories. He was Jenkins, his father's butler from their estate in DC. The same Jenkins who had been loyal to his family, but had also been a witness to the events that had driven them into hiding.
Tyler's eyes narrowed as he took a step back, his mind racing with questions. What was Jenkins doing here? Again did he know about Mrs. Flora? And what did he want from Tyler?
The warmth in Tyler's eyes turned to ice as he gazed at Jenkins, his voice cold and detached.
"Jenkins. It's been a long time."
Jenkins bowed slightly, a hint of a smile on his face.
"Young Master Tyler, it's an honor to see you again. I've been sent to fetch you, as your presence is required in Washington DC."
Tyler's eyes narrowed, his grip on his bag tightening.
"What's going on, Jenkins? Why do I need to go back to DC?"
Jenkins' expression turned serious.
"Old Master Wales, your grandfather, is ill. The family is in disarray, as the male heirs are vying for control. Old Master Wales has specifically requested your presence, Tyler. He wants you to return to the family and take your rightful place."
Tyler's mind reeled as he processed the information. He had thought he'd left that life behind, but it seemed his past was catching up with him.
"What makes you think I'd be interested in getting involved in family politics?" Tyler asked, his tone cautious.
Jenkins' eyes locked onto Tyler's. "Because, Young Master, you are the only one who can bring stability to the family. Your grandfather believes you have the potential to lead, to unite the warring factions and restore the family's honor."
Tyler's expression turned cold, his voice firm. "I'm not interested, Jenkins. I won't help my grandfather, not after what he did to my family. He abandoned us, drove us away from DC, and left us to fend for ourselves. Why should I care about his dying wish?"
Jenkins' face fell, but he pressed on.
"But, Young Master, surely you can find it in your heart to grant your grandfather's final request? He's an old man, and he's asking for your help."
Tyler's eyes flashed with anger. "My grandfather can die, burn, and go to ashes for all I care. He's shown me no love, no compassion, and no support. Why should I show him any now?"
Jenkins took a step back, his eyes wide with shock. "Tyler, I...I didn't expect you to feel so strongly."
Tyler's voice rose. "You didn't expect me to remember, either. But I do. I remember everything. And I won't forgive him, Jenkins. Not ever."
The air was thick with tension as Tyler turned to leave, leaving Jenkins standing alone, his mission failed.
"Well old master Wales was right, you would never come back home because of the hatred between both of you.He was right in his prediction"
Tyler stopped and turned to answer Jenkins
"At least his brain still works perfectly fine in his reasoning of judgements"
"But he is sorry for all his actions" Jenkins pleaded on his master's behalf.
Tyler's voice cracked with emotion. "My grandfather is the reason I'm an orphan, Jenkins. He's the reason my parents are dead. And now you want me to go back to him? To help him?"
Jenkins' expression softened. " I know how you feel but pls all I ask of you is that you please, come home, young master even if it's not for your grandfather's sake, but for the people around you. The staff, the family's loyal servants...and above all for tye sake of your late parents....they all need you."
Tyler's confusion was evident. "What do you mean? Why do they need me?"
Jenkins' eyes pleaded with him. "Because, Tyler, you are the only one who can bring hope back to the family. Your presence can change things, can make a difference."
Tyler's gaze narrowed, and then understanding dawned on him. "Wait a minute...you're saying that my presence can change the family's dynamics, can help the people I care about?"
Jenkins nodded. "Yes, Tyler. That's exactly what I'm saying."
Tyler's eyes locked onto Jenkins'. "And was it you who paid for Mrs. Flora's medical treatment? Was it you who tried to help me without me even knowing?"
Jenkins' face remained impassive, but a hint of a smile played on his lips. "Perhaps, Tyler. Perhaps it was me."
Jenkins pressed on, his voice persuasive. "Tyler, come home. You have a legacy to claim, a family to lead. And to help you get started, I'm authorized to offer you this."
Jenkins handed Tyler a sleek black card with the logo of a Swiss bank. Tyler's eyes widened as he recognized the Black Diamond card, limited to only a select few.
"I don't want your money," Tyler said, trying to hand the card back.
Jenkins insisted. "You'd better take it, Tyler. You still have an outstanding deposit to pay for Mrs. Flora's treatment. This will cover it and more."
Tyler hesitated, then took the card for Mrs. Flora's sake. "How much is in here?" he asked gruffly.
Jenkins smiled. "Twenty billion dollars. A little pocket money from your grandfather."
Tyler's eyes nearly popped out of his head. "Twenty billion?!"
Jenkins nodded. "Yes, Tyler. And this is just the beginning."
Jenkins handed Tyler another card, then turned to leave. "Call me anytime you need anything, Tyler. I'll be here to guide you."
With that, Jenkins disappeared into the crowd, leaving Tyler stunned and holding a card with unimaginable wealth.He found it hard to believe.Like did his life just change in
a few minutes.He looked at the black diamond bank card in his hand and wondered if Jenkins was lying to him as everything still looked too good to be true.
"But there is only one way to find out" Tyler said in his mind and walked towards the direction of the counter.
Tyler approached the counter, card in hand, and paid off the remaining deposit balance for Mrs. Flora's treatment. The staff confirmed that the payment was successful, and Tyler felt a mix of relief and surprise. Could his life really be taking a new turn?
As he left the hospital, Tyler's mind wandered back to his conversation with Jenkins. He thought about the humiliation he'd faced from the Jackson family since marrying Madison three years ago. The snide comments, the condescending attitude, the constant reminder that he wasn't good enough.
But most of all, he thought about Madison - her kindness, her support, her unwavering belief in him. She'd sacrificed so much for his well-being, and he wanted to give her a better life.
Tyler pulled out the complimentary card Jenkins gave to him and imputed the phone number details on his phone.He then dialed Jenkins' number. It rang twice before Jenkins answered.
"Hello Jenkins this is Tyler"
"Ah young master it's you.How can I be of help to you?"
"Jenkins, it's Tyler. I've been thinking...I'm willing to come home and claim my legacy. But I want to make one thing clear: I'm doing this for my wife, Madison. I want to give her the life she deserves."
Jenkins' voice was warm and approving. "I knew you'd see it, Tyler. Welcome back to the family. We'll arrange for your return to DC immediately."
"No I'm not ready to go home yet, Jenkins. But I want to discuss some things with you further."
Jenkins replied, "Very well, young master turn to your left and enter the white Maybach at the corner."
Tyler looked around, spotting the sleek car. He walked towards it and got in, finding Jenkins already seated inside.
Jenkins instructed the driver, "Take us to the Presidential Hotel, please."
As the car glided smoothly through the streets, Tyler asked, "Why the Presidential Hotel?"
Jenkins smiled. "Because, Tyler, we need a neutral ground for our discussion. And the Presidential Hotel is one of the best in Orange County. We can have a comfortable and private conversation there."
The Maybach pulled up to the hotel's entrance, and Tyler followed Jenkins into the luxurious lobby. They were escorted to a private suite, where Jenkins gestured for Tyler to take a seat.
"Now, Tyler, let's discuss the details of your return to the family. And the future that awaits you."
Tyler said, "Jenkins, like I said earlier am ready to return back to the family but I'm not ready to return back to DC yet, so I was thinking, can you help me arrange a suitable small business here in Orange County?"
Jenkins smiled knowingly.
"Actually, Tyler, I have some surprising news. Do you know the biggest company in Orange County, Ace Co-operation?"
Tyler nodded. "Yes, I do."
Jenkins continued. "And are you aware that it was recently bought over by a rich tycoon from DC?"
Tyler's eyes widened. "Yes, I heard that."
Jenkins then dropped the bombshell.
"Well, Tyler, your grandfather bought it for you. He wants you to use it as a training ground, to practice your skills and get a feel for the business world."
Tyler's jaw dropped. "What? Why would he do that?"
Jenkins leaned forward. "Because, Tyler, he knows you're stubborn and difficult to persuade. He wants to give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose here in Orange County, hoping that eventually, you'll be willing to return home and take your rightful place in the family business."
Tyler's eyes lit up with excitement. "That's amazing, Jenkins! Thank you!"
Jenkins smiled. "The handover will be on Monday morning, Tyler. I'll make sure everything is in place."
Tyler nodded. "Okay Jenkins but pls make it a private affair, Jenkins. I want to keep a low profile."
Jenkins agreed. "Of course, Tyler. I'll arrange for a discreet handover."
As they sat in the luxurious suite, Jenkins asked, "Are you hungry, Tyler? I can order something for you."
Tyler nodded, and Jenkins picked up the phone. "I'll have the chef prepare the Pan-Seared Scallops with Truffle Risotto and Caviar, accompanied by a bottle of 2015 Chateau Lafite Rothschild."
Tyler's eyes widened as Jenkins ordered the luxurious meal. They feasted in silence, savoring the exquisite flavors.
After finishing the meal, Tyler leaned back in his chair. "Jenkins, thank you for everything. I think it's time for me to head home."
Jenkins nodded. "Of course, Tyler. I'll have the driver take you home."
Jenkins then escorted Tyler downstairs and into the vehicle and under Tyler's directions headed towards his house.
As the Maybach pulled up to the entrance of the gates of the estate where Tyler's downtown house was, Tyler asked the driver to stop.He turned to Jenkins and said, "Thank you again, Jenkins for everything. Please take good care of Mrs. Flora for me."
Jenkins nodded. "Of course, Tyler. I'll ensure she receives the best care."
Tyler stepped out of the car and onto the winding path leading to his house. The house, a cozy downtown bungalow, was home to Tyler, his wife Maddie, and her parents, who had been banished from the Jackson family manor three years ago by Old Lady Jackson.
As he entered the house, Tyler found Maddie pacing in the living room, her brow furrowed with worry. She was soliloquizing, "Where could he be? He's been gone for hours...I hope he's okay..."
The living room was warm and inviting, with family photos adorning the walls. A fireplace crackled in the corner, casting a cozy glow over the room.
Maddie's eyes lit up as she saw Tyler enter. "Tyler! Oh, thank goodness you're home! I was worried sick!"
Tyler smiled, relief washing over him. "I'm sorry, Maddie. I got held up with some unexpected news."
Maddie's curiosity was piqued. "What news?"
Tyler took a deep breath, knowing that his life was about to change forever. "Let's talk about it inside."
Maddie's eyes sparkled with excitement, but before she could press Tyler for more information, her parents burst into the room.
"Tyler, what were you thinking, causing a scene at Old Lady Jackson's birthday party?" his mother-in-law demanded, her voice shrill with worry. "Do you know how humiliating it was for us? For Madison?"
Tyler's father-in-law chimed in, his voice stern. "And what was that nonsense about asking Old Lady Jackson for support? You know her character, Tyler. She's not someone to be trifled with."
Maddie's mother continued, her concerns centered on material security. "What if she fires Madison from the company? How will we survive? We can't afford to lose that income."
Tyler's father-in-law scolded, "You're reckless and irresponsible, Tyler. You're putting our entire family at risk with your behavior."
Maddie tried to intervene, but her parents' words cut her off, leaving Tyler feeling defensive and frustrated. The excitement and hope he had felt just moments before began to fade, replaced by the familiar weight of his in-laws' disapproval.
Elena's expression turned cold and calculating. "Madison, it's time to face reality. Tyler is a liability. He's going to ruin your life and our family's reputation. You need to divorce him and accept Perry Wendell's proposal."
Maddie's eyes flashed with defiance. "Nothing in this life would make me divorce Tyler, Mother. He's my husband, and I love him. And if Grandma fires me from the company, I'll find another job. I won't sacrifice my happiness for material security."
Elena's face twisted in disgust. "You're being foolish and naive, Madison. Perry Wendell is a catch. He's wealthy, influential, and can provide for you in ways Tyler never could. You're throwing away a golden opportunity for a man who's only going to drag you down."
Maddie stood firm, her voice steady. "I won't do it, Mother. I won't leave Tyler for anyone, especially not for someone like Perry Wendell, who only wants me for my family's connections."
Tyler, who had been watching the exchange, felt a surge of love and admiration for his wife's courage and conviction. He knew that he had to find a way to prove himself, to show Maddie and her family that he was worthy of their trust and support.
Maddie grabbed Tyler's hand and pulled him into the bedroom, shutting the door behind them. She apologized, "I'm so sorry about my mom's behavior. I'm embarrassed."
Tyler shrugged. "It's nothing, Maddie. I'm used to it."
Maddie's curiosity got the better of her. "You said you had good news? What is it?"
Tyler smiled, "A good Samaritan helped with Mrs. Flora's treatment. I don't know who it was, but they paid off the remaining balance. I'm just relieved she's going to be okay." Tyler said making up a story for what actually transpired between him and Jenkins at the hospital as he knew that there was no way his wife or anyone would believe him of he just tells her the truth and reveal his true identity just like that.
Maddie's eyes widened in surprise. "That's amazing! I'm so glad to hear that."
Tyler's expression turned thoughtful. "Yeah, me too. It's just...sometimes good things happen, and you don't know why or how. You just have to be grateful."
Maddie nodded, snuggling into his side. "I'm grateful for you, Tyler. And I'm glad we have each other."
Tyler wrapped his arms around her, feeling content. "Me too, Maddie. Me too."
As they settled into bed, Maddie and Tyler began to chat about the latest gossip in town.
"Hey, have you heard about the new family that just moved into the old Johnson house?" Maddie asked, her voice filled with curiosity.
Tyler shook his head, "No, what's the scoop?"
Maddie grinned mischievously. "Well, apparently, they're from the city and have a daughter who's a famous social media influencer. I heard she's already causing a stir at her school."
Tyler chuckled. "Sounds like drama waiting to happen. What's her name?"
"Brittany something. I don't know, but I've seen her posts online. She's always flaunting her designer clothes and luxury cars."
Tyler raised an eyebrow. "Sounds like a typical rich kid. I'm sure she'll fit right in with the Orange County crowd."
Maddie giggled. "Yeah, probably. Oh, and have you heard about the new restaurant that just opened downtown?"
Tyler shook his head again, and Maddie continued, "Apparently, it's owned by a celebrity chef and serves the most expensive sushi in town. I heard the waitlist is already weeks long."
Tyler whistled. "Wow, that's crazy. I'm sure your mom is already trying to get a reservation."
Maddie laughed. "You know it. She's always trying to keep up with the latest trends. Speaking of which, have you seen the new designer boutique that just opened on Main Street?"
As they continued to gossip and chat, their conversation flowed easily, covering everything from the latest town scandals to their favorite TV shows. It was moments like these that Tyler cherished, just relaxing and being himself with the person he loved most.
As the night wore on, their eyelids grew heavy, and they drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's arms, the stresses of the day forgotten in the comfort of their own little world.