More than the sum of my parts Chapter 2
Reese, fuelled by a simmering anger at the machinations of the headmaster, Sarah, and Lois, decided it was time to take a stand. With Elizabeth by his side, he walked into the assembly hall, her small hand clasped tightly in his. She looked up at him with a trusting smile, her presence a beacon of hope amidst the chaos.
As they entered, Reese could feel the weight of curious stares from the gathered students and faculty. The headmaster, perched at the front of the room, was in the middle of addressing the assembly. His eyes widened in shock as he caught sight of Reese and Elizabeth making their way to the section reserved for parents.
Reese, with a calm confidence that belied the turmoil within, guided Elizabeth to a seat among the parents, ignoring the murmurs that rippled through the crowd. The headmaster's face turned a shade of red that was almost comical, his composure slipping as he struggled to process the unexpected turn of events.
"Sir," Reese called out, his voice cutting through the din. "I am her legal guardian, and she is my niece."
The headmaster's expression shifted from disbelief to incredulity, his mind racing to catch up. He hadn't been informed of any of this—of Reese's sudden change in circumstances, of the newfound responsibility he had taken on. It was a blow to the carefully laid plans to undermine him, and Reese relished the momentary victory.
Elizabeth, sensing the tension in the room, squeezed Reese's hand reassuringly. Her presence was a grounding force, a reminder of the new path they were forging together. Reese met the headmaster's gaze with unwavering resolve, ready to confront whatever challenges lay ahead.
The headmaster's face contorted with disbelief and anger as Reese stood his ground, Elizabeth's small hand still clasped in his. "Sir," Reese repeated, his voice steady, "she is my niece, and I am legally her guardian, as I just said. Furthermore, I'm not surprised you can't just let it go. She is my niece, and I am her guardian, sir. Let it go."
With that, Reese produced the paperwork, one of the wills that clearly outlined his guardianship of Elizabeth. He handed it to the headmaster, who snatched it with a mix of disbelief and resentment. The headmaster's eyes scanned the document, his expression growing darker with each word.
Elizabeth, sensing the tension, hugged Reese tightly. "Leave Uncle Reese alone," she said defiantly, her voice carrying across the assembly hall. "He is the best uncle in the world, you poopy head."
The headmaster sneered at her; his anger barely contained as he turned his gaze back to Reese. The resentment in his eyes was palpable, a silent promise of continued hostility. But Reese stood firm, his resolve unshaken by the headmaster's reaction. He knew he had the law on his side, and more importantly, he had Elizabeth's trust and love.
The headmaster's face was a mask of barely contained fury as Reese stood his ground, refusing to be intimidated. "I have the right to be here, sir," Reese declared, his voice unwavering. "And I will talk to you after this about some decisions I have made. Yes, sir, I am the one making decisions now, not Lois."
As if on cue, Lois stormed into the assembly hall, her expression a mix of shock and anger. She had been summoned by the headmaster, and her eyes darted between Reese and Elizabeth, her mind struggling to process the situation.
"What is going on here?" Lois demanded, her voice rising above the murmurs of the crowd. "Reese, what have you done?"
Elizabeth, sensing the tension, clung to Reese's side. "Uncle Reese, why is she a poopy head?" she asked innocently, her eyes wide with confusion.
Reese knelt, hugging her tightly. "Some people, Liz, just don't like being told no," he replied gently, his words carrying a hint of defiance.
Lois's eyes narrowed, her anger simmering just beneath the surface. She was not used to being challenged, especially not by Reese, and the realization that he was now in a position of authority over Elizabeth was infuriating.
Reese met her gaze with a smirk, the satisfaction of his newfound independence clear in his expression. He was no longer the neglected and unwanted boy she had known; he was a guardian, responsible for Elizabeth, and he intended to fulfill that role with everything he had.
Lois's face twisted with disbelief and anger as the reality of Reese's new situation sank in. Her voice, usually so commanding, trembled with a mix of rage and incredulity. "Reese, how could this happen? You, a guardian? Emancipated? This is absurd!" She gestured wildly, as if trying to physically grasp the enormity of the situation.
The headmaster, still reeling from the earlier confrontation, seized the opportunity to add his own voice to the fray. "This is completely unacceptable," he spat, his tone dripping with resentment. "You think you can just walk in here and upend everything? You have no idea what you're doing."
Reese stood firm; his gaze steady as he faced the two authority figures who had so often been obstacles in his life. "I know exactly what I'm doing," he replied, his voice calm but resolute. "I'm taking responsibility for Elizabeth, and I'm making decisions for her future. Whether you like it or not, that's the reality now."
Elizabeth clung to Reese's side, her presence a reminder of the new life he was determined to build for them both. The chaos swirling around them only strengthened his resolve. He had fought too hard to let their anger and resentment derail his plans.
Reese stood in the superintendent's office, his resolve unyielding as he faced both Lois and the superintendent. Their expressions were a mix of disbelief and anger, but Reese was unfazed. He had come prepared, armed with the legal backing necessary to ensure Elizabeth's well-being and his own autonomy.
"I'm done," Reese declared, his voice steady and resolute. "I'm breaking contact, Lois. I'm taking Elizabeth, and I'm going to raise her the way she deserves to be raised."
The superintendent, caught off guard by Reese's determination, attempted to protest, but Reese cut him off. "I've already arranged for a homeschooling program," he continued. "Elizabeth will be educated by the best tutors I can find, and I'll come into the school three days a week for three hours to ensure everything is in order."
Faced with the threat of legal action, the superintendent reluctantly agreed to Reese's terms, his authority undermined by the young man's tenacity. Lois, unable to reconcile with the situation, stormed out, her anger echoing in the empty hallway.
Reese and Elizabeth settled into Sasha Manor, the sprawling estate a sanctuary from the chaos of their previous lives. As the days turned into weeks, Reese embraced his role as Elizabeth's guardian, determined to provide her with the stability and love he had longed for.
One evening, as Reese sat by the fire, sipping a Coke with ice, he found himself lost in thought. The crackling of the logs provided a comforting backdrop as he brooded over the changes in his life. Elizabeth was thriving, her laughter filling the halls of the manor, and Reese felt a sense of purpose he had never known before.
His reverie was interrupted by the buzz of his phone. A message from an old friend informed him of Malcolm's latest escapade—a giant party that had spiralled out of control. The news was accompanied by the surprising revelation that Lois, Hal, and Francis had been arrested in the aftermath.
Reese couldn't help but smirk at the irony. The family that had so often dismissed him was now embroiled in their own chaos. Yet, despite the schadenfreude, Reese felt a pang of concern for his brothers. Perhaps it was time to reach out, to offer them the support he had once craved.
A few days had passed, and Reese found himself once again by the fireplace, a glass of Coke in hand. The flickering flames cast dancing shadows across the room, mirroring the tumultuous thoughts swirling in his mind. He absentmindedly tossed the logs with a metal fork, lost in contemplation about his family and the chaos they seemed to perpetually attract.
His phone buzzed, drawing his attention to the screen. The news was startling: several southern states had declared independence, and the United States was spiralling into a civil war. The gravity of the situation settled heavily on his shoulders. Reese set down his glass, reaching for a prized, expensive bottle of Coke—a small comfort in the face of such overwhelming news.
"It's war, then," he murmured to himself, the words hanging in the air like a challenge. With a newfound sense of urgency, he made his way to the office where Sasha's will be stored. Among the documents, he found a detailed inventory of the weapons she had left him—an unexpected legacy that now seemed more relevant than ever.
Reese's footsteps echoed in the grand halls of the manor as he made his way to the Armory, a hidden part of the estate where Sasha had stored most of the weapons. As he entered the room, the sight of the neatly organized arsenal was both awe-inspiring and sobering. Rifles, pistols, and ammunition lined the walls, a testament to Sasha's foresight and preparedness.
Reese stood in the dim light of the Armory, contemplating his next move. The world outside was unravelling, and he felt the weight of responsibility pressing down on him. It was time to make decisions that would shape the future for both himself and Elizabeth.
Reese carefully inspected the weapons, cleaning them with meticulous care. The M4 rifle felt solid in his hands, a sense of power and responsibility coursing through him as he strapped on the Kevlar body Armor. He also secured the M1911 pistol at his side, ensuring he was prepared for whatever chaos might unfold outside the manor's walls. Keeping the weapons close by him at all times felt like the only rational decision in a world that was rapidly descending into turmoil.
With a determined stride, Reese made his way to the tutoring session Elizabeth was having with her teacher. He opened the door quietly, but the teacher's startled expression was unmistakable. Reese quickly raised a hand in apology, stepping into the room and ushering the teacher a few meters away from Liz.
"I'm sorry for interrupting," he said, his voice low but firm. "I just wanted to let you know what's been happening. With everything going on in the country, I've had to rethink Elizabeth's safety and future. For now, I'll be cancelling all tutoring sessions."
The teacher nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Of course, I understand," she replied, her expression softening.
Reese continued, "Her safety comes first. If this situation settles down, then we can reassess and see what we can do moving forward."
The teacher nodded again, her face reflecting both concern and respect for Reese's decision. He felt a sense of relief wash over him; he was doing what needed to be done to protect Elizabeth.
The teacher's face paled as she absorbed the weight of Reese's news. "I... I have to go," she stammered, her voice shaky. "My family is in some of those states." Without waiting for a response, she gathered her things in a hurry, the urgency of her situation clear.
Reese nodded, understanding the gravity of her decision. "I'll walk you to the front," he offered, glancing back at Elizabeth, who was watching with wide, innocent eyes. She followed closely; her small hand clasped tightly in his.
As they reached the front entrance of the manor, the teacher turned to Reese, her expression a mix of gratitude and worry. "Thank you for everything, Reese. I wish you both luck. Stay safe." With that, she hurried away, her figure disappearing down the driveway.
Elizabeth looked up at Reese, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Uncle Reese, why did the teacher go? Was she being a poopy head?"
Reese felt a lump form in his throat, tears welling in his eyes. He knelt, trying to muster a smile for her sake, but it faltered as he spoke. "Oh, Liz, I'm so sorry." His voice broke slightly, the reality of their situation crashing down on him. It hurt to see her so innocent, so unaware of the dangers that lurked in this crazy new world.
Elizabeth hugged his legs tightly, her small frame offering comfort in a moment that felt overwhelmingly heavy. Reese wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close as tears streamed down his cheeks. He was trying not to shed tears in front of her, but the weight of his worries for her future and the uncertainty of the world pressed down on him.
As the teacher left, Reese nodded, his heart heavy with concern for what lay ahead.
Reese held Elizabeth tightly, his heart aching as he explained the situation to her in a way that felt honest and direct. He didn't want to talk down to her or lie, as he had been treated by his own parents. "Liz, the world outside is changing, and it's not safe like it used to be. There are some really bad things happening, and I want you to know that I'm here to protect you."
As the reality of his words sank in, Elizabeth's eyes filled with tears. "But Uncle Reese, I don't want anything bad to happen!" she cried, her small body trembling against him.
Reese hugged her tighter, his heart breaking for her innocence. "I know, sweetheart. I know. I promise I'll do everything I can to keep you safe." They remained in that embrace for what felt like hours, the world outside fading away as they clung to each other in the warmth of their bond.
Eventually, he guided her to bed, tucking her in with care. As she settled down, he lay beside her, gently patting her head while she drifted off to sleep. The weight of the day's events pressed heavily on him, but he found solace in her presence.
Once Elizabeth was asleep, Reese quietly slipped out of her room and grabbed his phone. He dialled his lawyer, knowing it was late but feeling a sense of urgency. The phone rang until it was answered, the lawyer's groggy voice on the other end.
"Apologies for calling you at this hour," Reese said, trying to keep his voice steady. "But if anyone can get this done, I know you can. You know the country has gone to hell. I want you to bail out my older brother, Francis. I don't care how much the bail is—just get it done. I know he had nothing to do with that stupid party."
There was a pause on the other end, and Reese could hear the lawyer shifting in her seat. "Reese, are you sure about this? The situation is complicated, and—"
"I don't care," Reese interrupted, his voice firm. "He's my brother, and he needs help. Just do it, please."
"Alright, I'll see what I can do," the lawyer replied, her tone shifting to one of professionalism. "But it may take time. I'll keep you updated."
Reese hung up, a mixture of hope and anxiety swirling within him. He returned to Elizabeth's room, sitting quietly by her side as she slept, determined to protect her no matter what challenges lay ahead.
Reese's phone buzzed again, the lawyer's name flashing on the screen. He quickly answered, his heart racing with anticipation. "Hello?"
"I checked the evidence," the lawyer began, her voice serious. "The prosecutor informed me that with the country going to hell, they might declare martial law. This means only the most serious cases will be heard."
Reese's stomach dropped as he processed her words. "You know what that means, Reese. Your family could rot in jail waiting for a day in court. They may take years, especially with the new war. The courts will only bother to handle capital crimes like rape and murder."
A moment of silence hung between them, the weight of the situation pressing down on Reese. "But what about Francis?" he asked, his voice tinged with desperation.
"You're lucky, Reese. Francis is not stupid like the rest of your relatives," the lawyer continued. "The prosecutor said he is releasing most of his non-serious cases. Francis will be out free in no time."
Relief washed over Reese, but it was tinged with the understanding that this was just the beginning of a much larger struggle. He needed to prepare for whatever lay ahead, not just for himself, but for Elizabeth as well.
Reese listened intently as the lawyer continued, her tone a mix of caution and urgency. "Yeah, the prosecutor is having a fire sale, getting rid of most of his cases. He knows the military will be the new judge, jury, and executioner. And Reese, you know what this means."
The lawyer paused, and Reese could sense the gravity of her words. "I know your past—stop before you get angry. I know you have changed, but you now have a kid to look after. Reese, I know you've changed because if you were still that stupid hoodlum kid, under martial law, you would get shot by the police or the military. It gives them carte blanche to shoot you if you even look at them the wrong way. I can't tell you enough to not be stupid."
Reese nodded, the weight of her warning settling heavily on his shoulders. He understood the stakes were higher than ever, and the need to protect Elizabeth was paramount. The world outside was becoming increasingly dangerous, and he needed to navigate it with caution and foresight.
Reese took a deep breath, his mind racing with the implications of the lawyer's warning. "I promise not to be a dumbass," he said, his voice carrying a note of sincerity. "But what about you? Are you safe? Is your family alright? I'm asking because the tutor I dismissed yesterday had to run off because her family was in some of those states. It got me thinking."
There was a pause on the other end, and Reese could sense the lawyer's surprise at his concern. "I know you're not an accountant," he continued, "but I don't give a shit. You helped my brother out. Can you be my accountant and my PA on top of being my lawyer? I need someone I can trust, and I have a feeling your job under martial law won't be very busy. They'll execute anyone who commits a crime, not bother with you lawyer types. Do you agree with my prediction? Do you accept?"
The lawyer's voice softened, a hint of gratitude in her tone. "Reese, I appreciate your concern. My family is safe for now, but things are unpredictable. As for your offer, it's unexpected, but I can see the sense in it. I do agree that my workload might shift under martial law. Let me think it over, but I'm inclined to say yes."
Reese felt a sense of relief, knowing he might have someone reliable in his corner as they navigated this new world.
The lawyer, Alexis, took a moment to process Reese's proposal. "Alright, I accept," she said, her tone steady. "I'm 23, unmarried, and I don't have kids, so I can focus on this. As your PA and accountant, I can drop any non-critical clients. I understand the situation is urgent, and I appreciate the opportunity."
Reese nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. "Consider it done. Thanks for getting my brother out of the slammer. I know my request is unorthodox, or even a bit extreme, but you can imagine finding a new accountant or a PA would be almost impossible. Most of them are fleeing, closing shop, or caring for their families. Do you accept living here? I've made the choice to stay and fortify this place. This is my home now."
"I accept," Alexis replied, a hint of determination in her voice. "I'll help you however I can. We'll get through this together."
Reese felt a renewed sense of purpose, knowing he had someone he could trust by his side. He was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, ensuring Elizabeth's safety and fortifying their new home.
Thanks for accepting," Reese said, his voice steady and serious. "Now, with your salary, I will also include food, clothing, and utilities. I will ask you to perform tasks that a normal PA might scoff at, like helping me fortify this place, helping me farm the food here, and also assisting in protecting this property. I will need you to train with guns and weapons—like knives, swords—and you must wear Kevlar body Armor at all times and carry a sidearm."
He paused, gauging her reaction. "I know it sounds extreme, but think of the world we're now in. I know some people have problems with guns, but this is about protecting Elizabeth. Do you accept my terms and requirements?"
Alexis took a deep breath, considering the gravity of what Reese was asking. "I accept," she replied, her voice firm. "I understand the seriousness of the situation, and I'm committed to doing whatever it takes to keep you and Elizabeth safe."
Reese nodded, feeling a sense of solidarity forming between them. They were in this together, and he was grateful to have someone like Alexis by his side as they navigated the uncertainties of their new reality.
Thanks, Alexis. One last thing about your salary," Reese began, his tone serious. "You know and are aware that the economy has gone to absolute shit. I think you know where I'm going with this. With the way the economy is trending, your salary might be worthless. You thinking what I'm thinking? A complete collapse of the dollar, a currency collapse, and hyperinflation. I might still be a billionaire, but the money I pay you won't be worth shit if a loaf of bread costs a million dollars due to inflation."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "So, I might pay you in gold, or give you a ration of food, or just make sure your needs are met—like enough food, clothing, and medical supplies. I want to ensure you're taken care of, regardless of what happens with the economy."
Alexis nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I appreciate your honesty, Reese. I'm on board with whatever it takes to make this work."
Reese felt a sense of relief wash over him. They were forging a partnership based on mutual respect and understanding, ready to face the challenges ahead together.
I'm glad we're on the same page," Reese continued, his expression serious. "I will still pay you as long as it's worth something, but if we wake up tomorrow to a world without the dollar, I just don't want to have to worry about the people around me killing me or looting Sasha's manor. I don't want to have to worry about someone stabbing me in the back as soon as shit hits the fan."
He took a deep breath, reflecting on the world outside. "I've seen these other billionaires build doomsday bunkers and hire a whole team of mercenaries. They're stupid. The mercs aren't loyal to the billionaire; they just want his money. As the money goes to shit, they'll just kill him and take over his compound. I don't want to make that mistake."
Alexis nodded, her expression serious. "I understand, Reese. Loyalty and trust are going to be crucial in this new world. We need to build a solid foundation here, one that doesn't rely solely on money."
Reese felt a sense of camaraderie forming between them, a shared understanding of the challenges they would face. Together, they would navigate this uncertain landscape, ensuring their safety and Elizabeth's future.
"Okay, ground rules, Lex," Reese began, his tone firm and resolute. "1. My word is law. My property, my rules. My manor, my law. If someone commits a minor offense, I will give them three chances. Then, three strikes and they are out—either through banishment or me making them disappear, if you know what I mean."
He paused, letting the seriousness of his words sink in. "But if someone commits a serious offense, like looting, murder, or if they harm Liz in any way—or even look at her the wrong way or touch a hair on her head—I will put a bullet in their fucking eyes. Do you agree to my rules? This applies to you and everyone else."
Alexis nodded; her expression unwavering. "I agree, Reese. I understand the importance of these rules."
"Also," Reese continued, "everyone carries a gun, and they learn important skills like changing a tire and farming. We need to be self-sufficient and ready for anything."
With these ground rules established, Reese felt a sense of control over the chaotic world outside, determined to protect Elizabeth and those he trusted.
"You will have to be prepared to do things that you might hate me for—unforgivable things," Reese said, his voice heavy with the weight of the reality they faced. "I think you might have an idea, Lex. With the world going to shit and Liz's safety at risk, you have to be willing to kill. And yes, I am serious."
He paused, ensuring that his words sank in. "Like if a group of looters comes by looking for an easy score, and they come to steal my shit—or worse—you have to be prepared to help me end the threat. Lex, you're a woman, a good-looking woman in her 20s. You know what will happen if some men break in, whether it's rape or taking you hostage to get to me, or even killing. You must be prepared to kill to protect yourself and to protect Liz."
Alexis nodded slowly, her expression grim but resolute. "I understand, Reese. I will do what it takes to keep us safe."
Reese felt a sense of relief knowing that Alexis was on the same page. The world outside was unpredictable and dangerous, and they needed to be prepared for anything to ensure their survival and Elizabeth's safety.
Alright, good," Reese continued, a slight smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Also, if Liz calls you a poopy head at any point, you'll have to either go or stay in a certain part of the manor. You might chuckle, but I find Liz to be a good judge of character. Like my mother or that prick headmaster—Liz called him a poopy head too."
He paused, ensuring Alexis understood the gravity of his words. "I hope you're good with kids because getting along with Liz is a must for me. She comes first, before my brothers, before anyone. No offense, but if I had to save you or her, I would pick her every time. I hope you understand she comes first. I make no apologies for that."
Reese looked at Alexis, gauging her reaction. "Are you good with kids? Could you maybe help me teach her?"
Alexis nodded, her expression softening. "I understand, Reese. Liz's safety and happiness are paramount. I'll do my best to get along with her and help in any way I can."
Reese felt a sense of reassurance, knowing that Alexis was committed to the same priorities. Together, they would create a safe and nurturing environment for Elizabeth amidst the chaos of the outside world.
"I'm meant to be a billionaire," Reese said, frustration evident in his voice. "Unfortunately for me, most of my fucking wealth is scattered around the country in various companies and properties. Even two properties in those breakaway states that I never got to see once. I think you can agree with me—those two properties are gone. Everything in those two fucking properties is just gone. I think we can safely cut our losses with them."
He looked at Alexis, his expression serious. "Can you help me get most of my wealth out of the country? Like, put it in Swiss bank accounts or—fuck—just sell all the other properties to the highest bidder. I know it sounds drastic, but desperate times call for desperate measures."
Alexis nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I can help with that, Reese. We'll need to act quickly and strategically to minimize losses and secure your assets. I'll start researching options immediately."
Reese felt a surge of hope. With Alexis by his side, he knew they could navigate the complexities ahead.
Reese sat down with Alexis, determined to create a comprehensive list of all his properties and assets. Together, they worked through the details, categorizing each asset by its location, value, and whether it was salvageable given the current state of the country. The task was daunting, but Reese knew it was essential to secure his financial future and protect Elizabeth.
The list of assets, worth a staggering $10 billion, was divided into two categories: Salvageable and Not Salvageable.
Salvageable Assets*
1. *New York Penthouse*
- Location: New York, USA
- Estimated Worth: $50 million
2. *Swiss Chalet*
- Location: Switzerland
- Estimated Worth: $30 million
3. *London Townhouse*
- Location: London, UK
- Estimated Worth: $25 million
4. *Tech Startup Shares*
- Location: Silicon Valley, USA
- Estimated Worth: $200 million
5. *Art Collection*
- Location: Various Galleries, Worldwide
- Estimated Worth: $100 million
6. *Sasha Manor*
- Location: Undisclosed, USA
- Estimated Worth: Priceless
Not Salvageable Assets*
1. *Texas Ranch*
- Location: Texas, USA
- Estimated Worth: $15 million
2. *Florida Beach House*
- Location: Florida, USA
- Estimated Worth: $10 million
3. *Breakaway State Property 1*
- Location: Undisclosed Breakaway State
- Estimated Worth: $20 million
4. *Breakaway State Property 2*
- Location: Undisclosed Breakaway State
- Estimated Worth: $25 million
5. *Midwest Factory*
- Location: Midwest, USA
- Estimated Worth: $50 million
Reese and Alexis reviewed the list, considering the best course of action for each asset. The goal was to secure what they could and minimize losses where possible.
