𝑨 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘 𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒔𝒕

🔎𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝙸𝙸: 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙿𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚢 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙿𝚘𝚒𝚛𝚘𝚝'𝚜 𝙽𝚎𝚠 𝙸𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝💘

NARRATOR'S POINT OF VIEW:

In the elegant surroundings of the Bouc mansion in London, a grand celebration was underway to honor the life of Madame Euphemia Bouc's beloved son. Madame Bouc, a renowned painter, found solace in commemorating her dear Bouc's adventures and mischief, cherishing the memories that brought both joy and sorrow to her heart.

Among the esteemed guests were Rosalie and Salomé Otterbourne. Rosalie held a special place in Bouc's heart, and he had hoped to marry her. Salomé, Rosalie's aunt, shared in the grief of losing Bouc at such a tender age. The third invitee was Charlotte Beaufort de Bethencourt, a young Frenchwoman from an aristocratic family who had found sanctuary in Madame Bouc's home while working at a London library.

Little was known about Charlotte's past, hidden behind the veils of mystery. At just eight years old, she had left her hometown of Bordeaux, France, seeking refuge with Madame Bouc while her father tended to family business. But there was more to her story, a poignant tale of loss and friendship.

Madame Bouc had taken Charlotte under her wing, becoming both caregiver and confidante while the young woman pursued her studies in London. Tragically, Charlotte had lost her mother at a tender age, leaving her in need of maternal guidance. It was her father's friendship with the Bouc family that brought her into their care, and with a heavy heart, her father bid her farewell to continue her education in London when she turned twelve.

During her stay at the Bouc residence, Charlotte and Monsieur Bouc had formed a bond that transcended friendship. Like two halves of a whole, they grew up together, planning their futures with shared dreams and aspirations. Known affectionately as Katherine to Bouc, Charlotte represented the rational and sensible side of their dynamic, while Bouc embraced the playful and mischievous nature.

As the years passed, Charlotte was obliged to return to France, Bouc struggled with her absence. The two friends maintained their connection through heartfelt letters, sharing their experiences and emotions. Bouc regaled her with tales of his adventures alongside the charismatic Monsieur Poirot, a Belgian detective living in London. Charlotte, in turn, provided insights into her studies and work at her town's library.

Despite their diverging paths, one constant thread ran through their lives—their shared pursuit of love. Bouc, the gallant, effortlessly captured the hearts of girls with a mere glance. On the other hand, Charlotte retained an innocent belief in true love, a quality that set her apart and earned her the moniker of the "Femme Fatale" among the enamored young men who crossed her path.

Yet, despite the attention and adoration she received, Charlotte remained elusive, guarding her personal life with great discretion. Suitors found themselves rejected, as she sought a partner who mirrored her reasoning, ideas, and passion for Charles Dickens' literature, her favorite. In this regard, she and Bouc found common ground, both drawn to the allure of mysteries and investigations.

Upon hearing about Bouc's detective friend, Monsieur Poirot, Charlotte's curiosity was piqued. She inquired about him with genuine interest, drawn to his rationality and shared love for literature. However, unbeknownst to Bouc, her interest was not solely driven by curiosity but by the beginning of a deeper fascination and perhaps even a love interest.

As the unfolding of their tale continued, the stage was set for the arrival of Monsieur Poirot at Madame Bouc's mansion. The world of mystery and intrigue awaited, where shadows concealed secrets, and hearts beat with untold emotions. Madame Bouc herself, gracious and welcoming, received the esteemed detective, their conversation touching upon the events that had shaped their lives.

Madame Bouc: "Well, Monsieur Poirot, I see you've accepted my invitation. Bouc would be delighted if you joined us at the party, although I am aware of your aversion to such gatherings. Nonetheless, tonight is about celebrating every aspect of my son's life, even those I may not fully approve of, as they brought him happiness. Ah, there is someone I must introduce you to, I am certain you two will find much to discuss." Madame Bouc said to Poirot, leading him gracefully through the bustling hall to a table.