It was impulsive, maybe stupid, but it felt right. If Clara couldn't be there for Cade, someone else should. Someone who had the power to make sure he is cared for.
The following day she walked to the Ashford Corporation building, an enormous glass structure which was a symbol of wealth and power. She didn't even know if anyone would want to see her, listen to her, but she had to try.
At the entrance, she couldn't be let in, but she did not give up. She lingered by the parking area, clutching the strap of her worn bag. Hours passed, and she almost gave up when the sun began to sink, but finally, a black car pulled up next to her.
A tall middle aged man in a tailored suit stepped out of the car, his presence so commanding that she regretted coming.
The intimidating man whispered to the younger man beside him, as if he was instructing him on something, then the younger man approached her.
"Our security team says you have been here since morning. Mr Ashford wants to know what you are doing here" he asked.
"I need to speak with Mr. Ashford," Sofia said, her voice shaking. "It's about Ethan. It's very important."
The man, who she assumed was Mr. Ashford's assistant studied her, then returned to his boss. To Sofia's surprise, Mr. Ashford didn't dismiss her. He came, walking toward her with big steps.
"Do I know you?" he asked, his voice deep and smooth.
Sofia hesitated. "No… but my sister Clara Torres and your son Ethan dated..not really dated but they....." She didn't know how to explain their relationship.
His eyes picked with interest. "Clara," he said slowly, a small smile tugged at his lips. "Ah. The girl who broke my son's heart and drove him to Paris." He chuckled softly, almost amused. "Ethan spoke of her often, though not fondly at first."
Sofia's throat tightened. "She… she had a baby. A boy. Three months ago."