Forever Yours

By Rity K Heart

Evie is the only daughter of the Andersons. Her parents are well known A list celebrities. Evie is spoilt and as an only child is cherished by her parents and often gets what she wants. Evie is used to getting her on way that when Alex comes her way Evie is taken by surprise and sees him as a rival. However, after experiencing an epiphanic moment that nearly cost her life, fate smiles on her as she and Alex form a bond becoming friends and much more. Over the years their relationship develops and matures as they become lovers.

Alex comes from a background much different from Evie, living with a single mother and living in impoverished conditions, surviving paycheck to paycheck.
However, despite coming from a poor background, Alex is a survivor and encounters Evie who lives in a different world from his. They do not see eye to eye at first but they soon hit it off. Alex is very intelligent, geeky, handsome and good with computers. His relationship with Evie is challenging as he faces a string of struggles and trials especially from Evie’s mother who wants the best for Evie.

Can their love, trust and friendship overcome these battles and will love win in the end?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rity K Heart
• Release date: May 21, 2020
• ISBN: 9781370668595

Book preview

FOREVER YOURS

By

RITY K HEART

Copyright © 2020 by Rity K Heart

All rights reserved. You have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read this e-book on screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reserve engineered, stored in or introduced into any storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known hereinafter invented, without the express permission of the publishers or the copyright author

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER ONE

--EVIE--

Evie! What did your mother say? You know you are not allowed outside the house. You can scream and shout because those are your mother’s orders and that is final.

Evie blinked disbelievingly at Lisa as she thought that she was dreaming. She was hoping that the young lady would smile any moment from then and to tell her that she was only pulling her leg. She was hoping against hope that it was all in her head.

Unfortunately for Evie, Lisa was very defiant and a sucker for obeying rules. She stood her ground, blocking Evie’s way. Evie had to think for a minute. There was no way Evie could shove her out of the way. Lisa was not old enough to be her mother, but she was also twice her size. The veins in Evie’s neck strained as she shrieked about in the room.

She stomped her feet as many times as she could, hoping she would leave enough dent on the German concrete floor to attract her mother’s attention to her rant.

Are you seriously going to keep me indoors, away from everyone? she barked at Lisa, dismayed.

Lisa was usually calm, enjoying every bit of the scene that Evie was making. Yes. I have to.

The duo had no love lost between them. They never saw eye to eye on anything. Lisa always sided with her mother. And Evie thought she was above the law and her mother’s demands. She had always thought she could countermand whatever anyone said in the house. She was astonished as she breathed heavily, almost exhausted from throwing her usual tantrums.

She kept hoping she was dreaming. Evie loved going out and she loved to swim especially. It was the only time she felt free and relaxed. Swimming calmed her and it was her go to place when she needed to let loose.

How could she possibly order her around, telling her how she should spend her time? How very dare she?

She was foaming at the mouth and her tiny nostrils delated, frustration fueling her anger. She felt she was betrayed by the only human who was always supposed to look out for her and her desires. Lisa should have been more tactful to bend over backwards to make her happy. But here she was denying her the only happiness that she had in the whole house and that is spending time outside in the fresh air.

Once it dawned on her that she wasn’t having her way, she sank onto her buttocks and sobbed silently.

This is so bad. Freaking bad!

***

Evie stared absent mindedly at the pool as she gazed upon the blissful spread of the formless waters. She was attracted to the glow of the water in the morning sun and gazed at a couple of dragonflies that were lapping at the water not far from where she stood. She crouched and reached down into it, creating silent ripples with her tender fingers as she dipped her hand through the water. By doing that, she splashed some water on her mother, unknowingly.

Evie, come take your seat right now, a non-amused Sheleen commanded. Evie glared at her father that she loved dearly. Her father was reading his morning paper.

Come on, leave the girl be, he said. You did worse at her age, I’m sure. Her father commented.

Sheleen glared and half smiled at her husband, clearly displeased by his remark.

The couple sat opposite each other on the patio while they watched their daughter by the pool. Their attention was drawn briefly to the sound of approaching feet. Susan carried a diamond-coated tray on which were served toast and omelettes. She quietly set it on the wide tray-table between the couple.

Her mother turned her attention on Evie. Come on now, Evie baby. Get yourself here it is time to eat.

The girl bolted to her feet and ran towards her parents and sat at the table. Sheleen served her daughter two slices of toast while she placed some omelette on the side. Evie grimaced as soon as she saw the contents of the menu.

Susan, why is Mary not serving any meals this morning? Where’s she?Sheleen asked.

I’m afraid she’s still unwell and has to take some time off work, she replied.

Sheleen sighed, both concerned and unsettled by the Mary’s sickness. Her fever is taking too long to break. Please can you inform her to call me as I would like to speak with her later in the day Susan?

"Yes I will MsSheleen. Is there anything else you would like before I go, she asked?

No thank you very much for bringing breakfast that is all for now Susan. Sheleen turned to her daughter who didn’t seem too pleased with the meal. She was definitely unhappy with it, for sure.

And what is it this time, sweetie? her mother asked, unamused.

The girl pushed her food around her plate, squinting her brown eyes in her mothers’ direction.

I hate toast and I do not like omelet, she grunted. Everyone knows this she said.

Sheleen sighed and turned to her husband for help. Her father smiled and held her hand. Evie sat back in her chair whilst observing her father touching her hand.

Here we go again, Evie muttered to herself, getting readying for some lecture.

Darling her father began; some children don’t have food to eat today. You should be grateful for what you have honey.

Damien’s words often worked the needed magic on the brat but Evie was devious and could play the game, her face soon softened like wool soaked in oil as he spoke to her.

Damien knew he had got her; it was best he wrapped his fingers around her now before she regained her senses and slipped out of his hold.

He cleared his throat, shifting noiselessly in his large cane chair.

You do remember how I told you about my…

Evie wouldn’t let him finish, cutting in abruptly, even abrasively. She rolled her eyes at her father – she knew what was coming and she was gutted by the story that he had told her, over and over again.

…childhood and how Grandpa and Grandma had little money. The fact that you are so lucky to enjoy the life that I have now. Am I right, again? Living in now etc

Damien glanced in the direction of his wife. They both smiled. Evie was growing faster than either of them would acknowledge. That was the truth and they were so ever protective and proud of her. They could not believe that this was the same girl, that is, the one that had been staring them in the face for a while now. In parts, the two were responsible for the precocious girl. Her rich, dark skin glowed in the morning sun as she absentmindedly fiddled with her breakfast. Damien liked the fact that she had her mother’s long legs. He knew she would be a stunner once she grows up. It didn’t matter that she could be a handful at times. Evie had too many different shades to her character like a lizard sometimes but she would always remain their little girl. She was naturally beautiful too, no one disputed that. They couldn’t afford to get her to have a fit. She had to be reasoned with or all hell would surely break lose before they got a chance to get a grip of the situation. Evie could be a handful and demanding.

Sheleen reached for her daughter and threw her slender arms around her tinier frame. She scooted over to her side and kissed her forehead just before she gathered her head into her bosom. She smoothened the stubborn afro curls on her daughter’s head with her hand, beaming on both sides of her face, just to get Evie to forget her brunt with the breakfast.

It’s okay honey. You do know your dad’s right.

Evie shrugged her shoulders, not wanting to be pacified with sweet words or hugs she was not a baby. She was twelve years old. Evie had to remind her mother.

How about I promise you a treat today? Your favorite. Your choices too.

A smile spread across Evie’s face as she gazed at her mother. She downed the meal as fast as she could. Between mouthfuls, she swiveled around just in time to notice their driver taking a step toward the patio. She bolted out of her chair, ready to go.

Good morning Ma’am, Mr. Damien! Austin greeted her parents.

How are you this morning? they asked in unison.

I’m fine. Thank you, for asking. Just wanted to know if our Angel is ready to start her day.

Before her parents could reply, Evie spoke up. Yes just in time. I’m all set, if you are. She was so eager to escape her parents.They were great parents but Evie thought that at times they tried too hard.

Austin smiled cheekily. Of course, I am, Angel.

Good. After you please.

Austin was used to Evie’s barking orders.

As she made to turn away, Sheleen jerked at her arm. Evie scowled. Mom, that hurt.

Her mother squeezed her face at her, ignoring her complaint. Don’t you think you’re forgetting something?

She managed to rush to her parents’ side and she gave them a peck on the cheeks.

There you go. I have to go mother, or I will be late for class.

She jogged down the stairs only to halt a few feet away from the car. Susan, was standing close to the glistening Mercedes Benz, the trendy limited model series, that her father had recently acquired just for the sole purpose of her transport to and from school. Susan clutched Evie’s school bag and lunch pack tightly. Evie’s face melted into a discomforting grimace. She gently began to tap her foot on the ground. Susan knew that something was terribly wrong immediately.

What is the matter Evie? a worried Austin asked.

Why this Benz? Can we not use one of dad’s sports cars, she uttered vehemently. Her voice echoed with utter annoyance.

Austin sighed at the girl’s shifty character and inconsistent demands. Only yesterday, she had, with unwavering conviction, insisted that she would be riding in the Mercedes Benz. She had eyes for just one of the sports cars – it was her father’s favorite as well. And there was no way in hell her father was going to let her near it. Everyone including Sheleen knew better than to mess with that car.

Evie knew it too and he did not understand why she had to be difficult. But a day wouldn’t be complete without the girl throwing an outburst. It was just classic Evie to pull incredible stunts, just like a rabbit out of a hat.

The girl was adamant.But…

You’re running late for school. You don’t want to be late. Do you? Susan cut in before Evie could defend her stance. Evie dropped the topic instantly and walked towards the waiting car. That was the only move left for Susan to use. And it often worked like magic. Everyone knew Evie abhorred lateness more than anything.

Austin winked at Susan and knew he had to thank her later. He nodded in her direction, smiling. She smiled back before handing him Evie’s school staff. During the drive the girl was quiet all the way, which worked perfectly for Austin because he could not handle another outburst.

***

Sheleen lounged lazily on one of the couches in the living room. She donned a red outer neck gown and a pair of red flip-flops designed by her favorite designer, Jimmy Choo. She sat with her legs crossed while she flipped through a Cosmopolitan magazine. Damien had his gaze fixated on the TV as his attention was on a soccer match. He loved to watch sports as he was a former footballer himself.

Mary ambled towards Sheleen, her arms behind her back.You were asking for me, MsSheelen.

Sheleen’s attention was drawn away for a moment. She raised her head, her mind a bit cast from Mary’s presence.

Yes, I did.

She waved her to a seat on the chair next to her.I wanted to know how you were managing since breakfast was served by Susan.

Her face sank at the statement. Well, that’s partly why I wanted to see you too.

Sheleen frowned not sure she really wanted to hear what she thought was coming but she put the magazine that she was reading onto the coffee table and sat up, preparing herself for the unknown. I’m all ears.

Mary’s face was clouded with sadness. I’m afraid my health has not improved and I can no longer work with you any longer.

Sheleen’s brows furrowed with surprise. Is there something else you’re not telling me Mary? Have we hurt you in anyway? Did my husband upset you or is it Evie?

She kept bombarding her with questions like pelts of stones.

Her words soon left Mary speechless and worried. She loved working for MsSheleen and her family.

"Not at all, MsSheleen. I’d have loved to continue. But I feel someone else could do the job better than I can now. I know this is hard for me and would have loved to continue working for your family but I am no longer young and wish to retire to spend time with my own family.

Even though Sheleen knew and kind of guessed that this day would come she felt like she had been dealt a blow. But she told herself that she had to pull herself together and do the needful and right thing to do. I’d like you to know that we’ll always be in your debt, Mary. You’ve served our family well over the last 10 years. Surely your health comes first and your family. If there’s any way that I could help, do let me know. I will always be here, for you. Sheleen could not hide her sadness as she hated to see people leave. She trusted and loved Mary like she was her own family and seeing her leave would be devastating and the thought of trying to find a replacement nearly made her faint.

Mary’s face lit up at the compliments. She would really miss working for the Andersons. Her health notwithstanding, she was becoming frail and senile. She knew she had to step aside. But she could do one better – get them someone else because she knew that MsSheleen hated recruiting for staff. Mary thought she could help her there as she has someone on her mind already that would fit perfectly.

I was thinking I could help with a replacement before I’d leave, MsSheleen. I have a good friend of mine that I think will be good for this job however, the only flipside is, she’s got a son.

Sheleen glared in her husband’s direction. Damien hadn’t caught a whiff of the whole mushy discussion between the two. His eyes were fixated on the screen just like a robot. She scoffed. There was no drawing his attention away from the TV once soccer was on she could get him to do anything she pleased.

Honey? What do you think? She chanced it.

He nodded and smiled, merely acknowledging that she had his vote when it came to home management. She shook her head. Unbelievable, she muttered, appearing a tad displeased.

She turned to Mary, a smile on her face. All right Mary. I believe we can set you up for you to arrange this for yourself as I trust you completely. You have never let me down before and everyone you have employed has been good for our family.

Mary couldn’t believe her ears. She gasped, overexcited. Thank you so much, Mrs. Anderson. You will not regret this

Sheleen was becoming a bit mortified by her display of gratitude. When will the new lady be starting? I trust you will stay for a while until she this lady gets the hang of how we do things around here.

I’ll inform her, right away. She should be here by Monday.

Just before you leave though. Please make arrangements for a small dinner party that we discussed this Saturday. Susan can oversee this while you make sure you rest.

Okay MsSheleen. Thank you again.

Sheleen watched her leave. She would surely miss her. Heck! Why do things change? Sheleen hated change more than anything.

She was such a wonderful and kind woman, she thought, picking up her magazine.

***

Sheleen had given Lisa strict instructions about looking after Evie that evening. No matter what she wanted, she must not be let out of her sight. Evie had tried her best to persuade her mother into letting