Chapter 3 Homecoming

Kendra began to pray let it not be what she was thinking. It can't be. Not now. She waved off the thought, convincing herself that everything was cool.

She took a deep breath and made her way out of the car as she observed the home she left for a long time now. She quickly made her into the mansion, flipping her eyes around the environment.

For four years, she turned her back on them and followed Philip. She cut off all links and connections with her family because she didn't want any of them to know her whereabouts with Philip.

Kendra didn't make this decision to run after Philip because she despised her family.

She did what she did because of her father's persuasion to marry James Donovon – one of the youngest and wealthiest men in the city of New York and take over the family's business.

She knew this was based on business arrangement but she wanted something else – she wanted to marry for love and that could only be found with Philip.

But now, she realized she'd made the biggest mistake of her life.

Maids lined up in their numbers to welcome her as she made her way through the door. She walked past them with her head held high.

She could feel the glory around her, solidified by the decision to take control of her life and never be threatened by anyone anymore.

"Welcome back, Kendra," Allison greeted as she hugged her friend. "You've really lost a lot of weight. Your father won't be happy to see you like this."

"You think so?" Kendra asked with worry on her face. Well, I don't think I want to go see Dad like this either."

"Speaking of that, I already had the maids prepare your bath and special clothes for you. Let's go," Allison held her hand and led her to her room, as both reeled with smiles.

She realized Allison hadn't changed a bit. Even though they were friends, she cared for her like she was her sister.

In a few minutes, Kendra had undergone a professional makeover. She observed herself in the mirror and saw a beauty she didn't realize she had until now.

With a sigh, in the company of Allison, Kendra made her way to the living room, gathering the courage to face her father after ditching him for four years.

Her father – Mr. Hawthone Winchester was seated on the couch with his legs crossed and holding a glass of wine in his hand. He had a plain expression on his face which made Kendra's heart skip a bit.

Beside him, was her mother – Anna Winchester, looking as young as ever.

Kendra moved towards her father, her knees drew to the ground.

"So, you finally came to your senses after four whole years, Kendra?" her father asked, his baritone voice sending shivers down her spine.

"I am sorry, father. I regret my actions and decisions. Please, accept my apology. I realized I was being foolish." Kendra pleaded with her head down, and fingers clasped together.

The sudden prolonged silence among them frightened Kendra as she thought her father had got angry and chased her away. And then, she saw her father's hand reaching hers and he held them together.

Kendra looked up at him, he was beaming a smile. "Welcome back, my daughter. I have been waiting for this day. I knew it would come and here you are. I know that gold digger wouldn't know the value of what he had."

Kendra blinked, trying to understand her father. This wasn't what she expected.

"Your father has been keeping watch over you, Kendra," her mother came in, observing her shock. "He knew all you were going through and even though it did hurt all of us, he didn't lift a finger because you said you didn't want our help. You don't need to apologize, my daughter. We are just happy you're here now."

"Now that you are back, prepare yourself to take over the company as the new CEO and of course marry James Donovan," she informed.

"Dad – "

"Hey! I won't take that from you this time, Kendra," her dad cut her off. "Marrying Mr. Donovan is a strategy to solidify our both companies and relationships. You've neglected your duties for four years; it's time for you to face them."

"But Dad, I don't even know who this man is. I can't just marry a stranger." Kendra stood to her feet, looking away.

"You knew about Philip and still went through hell in his hand. Donovan is a different man, daughter. I'm sure things will work out well between you two. Don't disappoint me the second time." Her father warned with finality and sighed.

Assuring herself the marriage wasn't going to be a forever one as it was to be a contract marriage, Kendra agreed to do it.

"Very well, Dad." She said, forcing a smile and he clapped his father.

"That's my daughter. I already sent a message to Mr. Donovan. He's on his way."

Though this arrangement wasn't comfortable for Kendra, she had to accept her fate, so long it had afforded her the privilege to enact her revenge against Philip.

A few minutes later, the entrance door to the living room flew open, ushering in the mighty James Donovan. Everyone stood to their feet.

"He's here," Allison announced.

Kendra glanced at him, wondering who this Donovan of a guy was that commanded so much respect. And just immediately, she felt a chill and a tall guy walked into the room.

She could swear she got goose bumps.

He was like the most beautiful man who ever existed, dressed in a black suit that fitted him confidently. He had ocean-blue eyes and striking, thick eyebrows.

He walked towards Kendra and stretched out his hand for a handshake. "We finally meet, dear wife."