Chapter 17

Chapter 17: Be My Wife

The black limo finally pulled into the driveway to Leon’s villa. When the gigantic black iron gate with a fascinating design automatically opened, they drove in. Ella was overwhelmed by the luxury, elegance, and captivating villa before her.

The villa had a luxurious waterfront with a private jetty to the captivating blue waters of the sea. The outdoor porch and pool took full advantage of the view, giving it a paradise on earth scenery.

The icing on the cake was the private sea access. You could cruise on a yacht or go for a deep sea dive. Steps led down from a mini garden, across a path, and then further steps cut into the cliff side. The cliff side is cloaked by beautifully mapped olive trees which led down to sunbathing platforms set into the rocks. The sunbathing platform was equipped with sun beds, sun shades, and scatter cushions for relaxation.

Ella closed her eyes and painted an image of herself sunbathing out there in the open. Her face shone brightly under the morning sun as she breathed in the fresh and humid air of the sea. When she opened her eyes, still appreciating the glorious scenery of the sea, her body slightly twitched. She didn’t know how long she had been standing in the same spot. Also, she was surprised to see John standing in front of her, mumbling something.

“Wake up Ella!” she jolted her memory back to reality. And this time, she could hear John loud and clear.

“Miss Ella, Mr. Leon is waiting for you,” John smiled and signaled her towards the entrance. At the entrance, another house staff of the villa was already stationed and awaiting her to come forward.

“Oh... thank you so much, John,” Ella smiled at his politeness and calmness. “I truly appreciate what you did for me and my friend.”

.....

“You are most welcome anytime, Miss Ariella.” John was intrigued by her beauty, simplicity, and charm. This was the first lady their boss had ever brought home.

In all his years working for Leon Treshvire, John had come across different ladies; most of them had been impertinent and presumptuous. Some treated him like he was nothing but a mere chauffeur with no aspirations or future. He had never judged his boss’s lifestyle rather he admired his personality and how he treated the household staff.

When Mr. Leon had addressed everyone to be on their best behavior this morning, they had all been excited. Especially when he informed them that he would be having an important female guest. He further instructed them to make sure everything was in order.

They all became very anxious to meet this special person that has got their boss seeking perfection. They had never been privileged to encounter a girlfriend or lover of their boss. The only people that had ever visited Leon at his villa were his family members.

John secretly prayed in his heart that Mr. Leon would never let go of Ariella as he watched her walk delicately towards the villa entrance.

“Good morning, Miss Ariella,” a middle-aged man also dressed elegantly in a black suit, white shirt, and black tie welcomed her and led her into the villa. “I am Paul, and I will be attending to all your needs.”

“Good morning Paul,” Ella felt uneasy at the hospitality of this middle-aged man who was old enough to be her father. “Thank you so much,” she politely smiled at him.

“Mr. Leon is waiting for you in the dining room,” Paul informed her with a smile.

“Okay, thank you” Ella smiled back and continued admiring the inside part of the villa as they walked towards the dining room.

Inside the villa, there were displays of elegant types of furniture, artwork, and appliances. There were also breathtaking views from virtually everywhere thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that acted as walls. She found herself gazing out across the deep blue sea. She imagined what it would be like to watch the sunset from inside the house and a magical fantasy appeared in her mind.

They finally entered the dining room, and Ella was enthralled by its classic design and unique qualities. This is indeed a palace standard dining room, she thought within. How could one person own all this?

The dining room was a combination of grey white and gold interior designs. From the high-quality customized furniture and decorations to the modern and classic dishwares. It created an ambiance for an extraordinary dining experience.

The dining table displayed different mouth-watering cuisine that Ella mostly read about or watched on the television. This made her wonder if one of those great and high-profile chefs worked for Leon.

She looked again at the transparent floor-to-ceiling window that covered half of the dining room and appreciated the enchanting sea horizon as it made her feel tranquil within.

When Leon saw Ella from afar, he couldn’t help but admire her. He also appreciated her choice of outfit. Not only did it make her stand out, but the color choice also complimented her personality.

“I’m so glad you made it,” Leon’s husky voice blended with the tranquility of the surrounding.

Leon was captivated by her floral perfume when he came close to her. He wanted to hug her but cautioned himself.

Ella almost jumped out of her skin as she turned around sharply. She had not noticed Paul exiting the dining room or Leon walking up to her and standing that close.

“Huh!” Ella blinked twice as she took in the handsome man before her.

She had never seen him in a casual outfit. He wore grey sweatpants and a short sleeve white T-shirt which revealed his well-built athletic physique.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you,” he half smiled revealing his perfect set of white teeth.

“It’s okay, I guess I was lost in admiring your home. It has such a great view,” Ella’s directed her gaze to the sea horizon again and her stomach growled.

“Thank you. Why don’t we eat something first,” Leon gestured towards the dining table. “I wasn’t sure of what you would like to eat, so I instructed my chef to prepare different dishes,” he looked at her briefly and observed her glowing eyes. “I hope you find one of the meals appealing.”

“Are you for real!” Ella’s eyes sparkled as she couldn’t hide her astonishment. “When I saw the served banquet, I thought you were having some guests over for a feast.”

“The feast is for you, Miss Ariella,” Leon smirked, “let’s tame that growling stomach of yours, shall we?”

“Sure, Mr. Leon,” she teased back and smiled revealing her beautiful dimples.

Leon took in the beauty before him, before pulling out a chair for her to sit on. Then he pulled out an opposite chair to continue watching her every expression.

At first, Ella was too shy to eat but when her stomach growled for the second time, she selected a fancy dish and dived right in.

After breakfast, Leon led Ella to the spacious shady courtyard with a perfect view of the waterfront.

The cool, upland air seeped through the lively branches of the trees, causing the leaves to whisper melodious tunes as the trees cast a vague shadow on the beautifully tiled floor.

They sat down and relaxed drinking wine while enjoying the captivating scenery before them.

Ella had never felt this peaceful in a long time and when Leon asked her some questions about her work, she was very open to him.

She told him about her bad experiences at F & K fashion home, which happened to be the first time they met. She narrated the incident with Chloe and how she lost her job because of that. she talked about the Cherry Gala and how she and Denise had intentions of attending but now that dream was crushed. She also revealed to him how she intended to start up her brand with the little capital she had.

While Ella was talking, Leon listened intently. At some point, when she shared her painful experiences, he felt her pain and wished he could wrap her up in his arms.

Ella was so taken by Leon’s show of affection and how he listened keenly to her. He didn’t interrupt her while she spoke. This made her feel vulnerable, as she was willing to disclose all her secrets.

Leon on the other hand, took note of all Chloe had done to this angel before him and his hatred for her quadrupled. He pledged within himself that he was going to make her pay dearly for it.

“Ella,” Leon said after she was done talking, I want you to know that you are very special. F&K fashion had lost their star by letting go of you.” His face hardened and his tone was deep. His voice and gestures conveyed every atom of seriousness.

Ella’s heart softened at his remark. “Thanks for those kind words,” she smiled.

“As a friend, I want to help you to start your brand in a big way.” He gazed into her eyes and could see a puzzled and curious glint in them.

“But, I’ll like to ask a huge favor of you. I promise you would benefit from it tremendously. Anything you ask that is financially related will be granted.” He paused for a while to give her room to say something but when she stared on and didn’t, he continued.

Leon explained to her about his father’s intention for him to get married and the ultimatum his father had given him. He also stressed how he wasn’t ready to settle down yet with anyone but he intends on honoring his father’s wish.

Ella felt struck by his story as she remembered how bittered her mum was when she broke up with Richard.

Leon gazed into her eyes and asked “Ella, can you be my wife for six months?”

Ella gawked at him in disbelief with her mouth opened wide. She was too stunned to say anything.

“If you agree to be my wife for six months, and abide by the conditions I’ll give, then we’ll both sign a contract to make it official. Also, in that six months, whatever it takes of me to grow your fashion brand, I will give it to you wholeheartedly and more.” Leon’s gentle stares felt as though he was pleading with her.

“I promise you this would be a favorable proposal that you will never regret.”

When Leon saw Ella’s alarmed expression did not change, he added. “You don’t have to answer right away, just take your time and think about it. And even when you say no, it’s ok. I’ll look for another lady. Although, I hope you say yes...”