Chapter 2. Meeting Him

"You bet, baby girl. So how..." 

The door swung open and a sharply dressed man sauntered in. Clearly, he held some disdain toward me.

"Well, well, if it isn't the living Miss," he commented with a sneer.

"'Miss'?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, that's the title you demanded. I address you as 'Miss'," he replied coolly.

Did marrying Alexander turn Ashlyn into a complete airhead? I thought to myself.

"That title is null and void from today," I declared firmly.

"I'm sorry?" He seemed taken aback.

"Starting today, you address me as ma'am or mistress. I'm a married woman now."

Charles stared at me, mouth agape. I couldn't help but burst into laughter.

"Why the shocked face, Charles? I've come to my senses. A brush with death tends to do that. Now, can we go home, please?"

"Of course... Mistress or ma'am?"

"That will do," I smiled, turning to Izzy, who was struggling to suppress her laughter. "Thank you, doc. I'll call you later."

"Take care of yourself, darling," she said, hugging me tightly.

And with that, I nodded confidently, certain that I would indeed take care of myself.

***

As I settled in the backseat, I could feel Charles's eyes fixed on me in the rearview mirror.

"You know something, Charles?" I broke the silence.

"What is it, Mistress?" he inquired cautiously.

"I'd prefer if you asked me the question instead of staring as if you've seen a ghost. I'll answer you, but I hope you can focus on driving us safely."

"I apologize for staring so blatantly, Mistress."

"Oh, so now you'll stare furtively?" I teased.

"Haha, no Mistress. I apologize."

"What's on your mind, Charles?" I pressed.

He hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Are you sure you're alright, ma'am? You didn't hit your head or anything?"

"Pfft. I'm perfectly fine, Charles. No injuries."

"Well, you seem... different," he remarked.

"Perhaps a brush with death has given me a newfound perspective on my past behavior," I mused.

"Hmm," he replied, a hint of relief creeping into his gaze as a bit of the distrust seemed to melt away.

***

"Mistress?" 

My eyes snapped open at Charles's voice. Had we arrived?

"We're here," he announced, stepping out of the car to open the door for me. I gazed at the magnificent mansion before me, a mixture of ancient and contemporary design. It was an opulent sight to behold, and I was grateful for Ashlyn's memories and descriptions, which would surely help me navigate my way around this grand residence. This place was so vast, I could easily get lost.

"Shall I escort you to your room, Mistress?" Charles offered.

"No need. I can find my own way. Get some rest, Charles," I replied, stepping into the luxurious house.

As I entered the grand parlor, my mesmerized gasp echoed through the room. If the exterior was breathtaking, the interior was heaven itself. The space was adorned with large windows and elegant chandeliers, while a soothing sky blue color scheme added a cozy touch. Ashlyn had impeccable taste, which seemed to resonate with my own preferences.

Making my way to the bedroom, I plopped down on the bed, eager to escape the uncomfortable dress I was wearing. It was time for something more comfortable.

I opened the first closet, only to be greeted by a gaudy array of flashy clothes. It was a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, I knew Ashlyn had prepared a separate closet for whenever I resurfaced. I certainly wouldn't subject myself to wearing these extravagant garments. They were just too much.

Closing the door of the first closet, I moved to the second. A smile formed on my lips as I saw the collection of loose, black, and comfy clothes. This was more like it. I quickly changed into a tank top and shorts, relishing the freedom of being in a space devoid of Ashlyn's husband. I had the whole house to myself now.

I descended the stairs and made my way to the kitchen, contemplating a movie night with popcorn. But first, I needed to find the popcorn seeds.

"Miss?" 

Looking up, I saw a young maid staring at me in astonishment.

"Miss, what are you doing in the kitchen? Is there something you'd like to eat?" she asked, clearly flustered.

"Tina, right?" I inquired, studying her face.

"Yes, Miss."

"Mistress," I corrected with a smirk.

"Miss?"

"Please address me formally."

"Of course, Mistress. How can I assist you here?"

"Oh, don't worry. It's nothing. I just need to find the popcorn seeds," I replied casually.

"One moment, Mistress."

Tina hurried out of the kitchen, returning shortly with the desired seeds. Her behavior struck me as odd, but perhaps my suspicions were unfounded.

"Here they are. Should I prepare the popcorn for you?" she offered.

"Absolutely not, Tina. I can handle it myself. You're excused, unless you'd like to stay and enjoy the movie with me," I suggested.

"I'd love to stay, Mistress."

"Very well, then."

I prepared the popcorn, reveling in the simplicity and nostalgia of the task. Once finished, I retrieved a tin of milk, some honey, and sugar.

"Erm..." Tina hesitated.

"What is it, Tina?" I inquired.

"Oh, nothing, Miss. I thought you didn't like sweet things," she pointed out.

"Hehe, I must have been in a foul mood earlier. Sugar is life, Tina," I proclaimed, drizzling honey and milk over the popcorn before adding a sprinkle of sugar.

I made three bowls, offering one to Tina.

"Take one for yourself and give one to Charles," I instructed.

"For us, Mistress?" she questioned in surprise.

"Duh! Do you expect me to make a snack while you watch and not share it with you?" I retorted with a grin.

"Thank you so much!" Tina exclaimed, her excitement evident.

Food seemed to be her weakness, I observed.

"Taste it and tell me your thoughts on my popcorn special," I urged.

She eagerly took a bite and her eyes immediately lit up.

"It's delicious! I'm sure Mr. Charles will love it!" she exclaimed.

"Oh, really? He has a sweet tooth?" I inquired.

"Yes, Mistress."

"Well, you both can have one each. I'll make more another time," I offered.

"Thank you so much!" she gushed, taking the bowls and scurrying out of the kitchen.

Silly girl, I thought, realizing I had been suspicious for no reason. Now, it was time for a movie. 

***

"Boss, something's not right."

"What's the matter?" came the concerned reply.

"She woke up, and her behavior... it's strange. I suggest you get here as soon as possible and see for yourself."

"Any leads on who poisoned her?"

"None so far."

"I'm on my way."

I stood in my office, gazing out the window. What was this idiot trying to achieve now?

***

I sensed a tingling in my ears. Someone was talking about me. However, I brushed the thought aside and settled on the plush rug, facing the large television screen. Ah, blissful movie time.

Engrossed in the romantic plot unfolding before me, I failed to realize that someone had entered the room. My view of the screen was obstructed by a pair of feet. Irritated, I glanced up, ready to give Charles a piece of my mind.

"Charles, you could have at least called my name! I'm well aware that the popcorn was delicious. No need for a verbal thank you. Now, move!" I grumbled.

To my surprise, Charles remained stationary. Confusion turned to annoyance as I realized it wasn't Charles at all. It was Alexander Don, the man Ashlyn was forced to marry.

So, this was the man who tormented Ashlyn's life? Despite his undeniable good looks, I felt a surge of anger toward him. Who did he think he was? A bastard like him had no right to treat Ashlyn so poorly. I glared at him, my eyes colder than ice.

"Are you going to move out of my way, or are you going to continue squatting there like a rock?”

“Hmm. I heard you came back hale and hearty with an attitude. I wanted to check in and see for myself.”

“As you can see, I am doing just fine now. Would you please move?!” 

He stayed still. Just like a rock,deaf and impervious to what I said. 

“Dude, are you hard of hearing or something? Look, this is a really great part of the movie and I can't watch it because you're obstructing my view!” 

“I thought you'd rather sneakily look at me and vye for my attention. You always put up theatrics for that.”

Ok..I felt insulted. Damn Ashlyn for dragging down our reputation. He was so dead! Just who did the bastard think he is?

“Listen to me, Axel Don. You can either move or I will move you myself! What or who in the goddamn world gave you the audacity to interrupt my movie time? Scram!”

He looked shocked but then his expression changed to one of amusement. The moron thought I was joking huh? 

I grabbed his leg and pulled it forward. He slipped and landed hard in his butt. 

“Serves you right you bastard. Sigh… my precious movie time is ruined. I'll ask Charles to order a damn television and keep it in my room. I can't let your face ruin my good mood.” 

And with that, I walked out on him. Leaving him sprawled all over the rug.