VALERIE
I woke up alone. I'd half expected to wake up in Reed's arms. I sighed.
Last night's nightmare gave me a scare. I had only managed to sleep due to being in Reed's arms.
I got off the bed and took a bath. I walked into Reed's closet, draped only in a towel. He was probably at work.
Where's my luggage?
I glanced around in confusion. It had been here last night right? I walked out and walked into mine.
Oh.
I stared, amazed. My clothes including my jewelry, shoes and bags were organised and arranged perfectly.
I sighed and retrieved a matching bra and panties and flipflops. I discarded the towel and put them on quickly. I walked back into Reed's closet.
I picked out a long-sleeved, turtleneck shirt and wore it. Just like the crew neck sweater, it reached mid thigh. I slipped the flipflops onto my feet.
I felt comfortable in Reed's clothes. Yes, they seemed to swallow me up but I didn't mind. Perhaps I could swap closets with Reed.
I laughed quietly as an image of Reed wearing a skirt popped into my head. It was hilarious.
I made my way out of the room and went downstairs. I spotted Raquel giving instructions to a maid to bring food upstairs to me.
“Hurry up!” She warned as the poor maid scurried away. She turned and she looked surprised to see me.
“You’re awake.”
I nodded and she beamed, looking thrilled for whatever reason.
“Follow me.”
She led me to the dining room. It wasn't as large as the one back at home. Then again it was just Reed and Raquel in this mansion.
Raquel sat me down on one of the chairs as she sat next to me.
“You must be exhausted. It's almost twelve noon!" Raquel said, smiling at me as I stared at her in shock.
Twelve noon? Was that how long I'd slept? I never woke up late. How come?
Sleeping in Reed's arms must've brought me more comfort than I thought. I blushed at the thought as I remembered the kiss he'd given me on the forehead last night.
Just then, the maid appeared holding a tray laden with food.
“Come on. Eat to replenish the energy you've exhausted." The statement ended with a wink in my direction.
I was confused, finding her behaviour strange. I shrugged. She was probably trying hard to please her daughter-in-law.
I stared at the food in front of me. Why, this was meant for a glutton! I doubted even Skye would be able to finish it.
This is too much, I thought, helpless.
Raquel must've seen my horrified expression because she chuckled. My eyes snapped to hers.
“I know it's a bit too much but you've got to eat. You must be drained from last night.”
I frowned in confusion. I didn't recall having exerted myself last night at all. Yes, the nightmare had me drained but that's about it.
Did Raquel mean because of the wedding and party she'd hosted had taken a roll on me? Or did Reed tell her that I'd had a nightmare? Unlikely. The woman was staring at me as if she knew something I'm obviously supposed to have an idea about.
I began to eat and tried to ignore the mischievous and and knowing looks Raquel gave me. It was frustrating to say the least. I wish she'd say whatever she had in mind already. The suspense was killing me.
“I came in late last night but doesn't mean I don't know what happened between you and your husband.” She said, an amused smile playing on her lips as I stared at her.
I frowned. Whatever happened between me and Reed? What was she talking about?
Raquel laughed. “It's okay, don't fret. It's normal if you don't want to acknowledge whatever happened.”
What am I missing? What is she talking about? Acknowledge what?
She sighed as he proceeded to explain. “Most newlyweds are reluctant, shy, when it comes to the marriage bed. I understand.”
Oh.
I was sure my face resembled a ripened tomato as I nearly choked in horror.
Raquel handed me a glass of water and I downed it as she patted my back softly.
Raquel had thought we had consummated our marriage last night! Raquel urging me to finish every morsel on the tray made sense. I'd lost energy indeed!
I offered her a small smile as I got my breathing under control.
Oh my gosh! This is so humiliating!
I continued to eat through the embarrassment, trying as much as possible to avoid eye contact with Raquel.
“Skye had called. She'd be coming over.” Raquel announced suddenly.
My head snapped towards her. She laughed. “You were asleep.”
I nodded, excited. I missed everyone dreadfully. If she'd been back home I would've been hanging around them all day.
I pushed the tray away, unable to eat anymore. I turned to watch Raquel who watched me with amusement.
”You barely ate but it's okay. At least you ate something.” She said sadly.
I wondered what was wrong? Did I upset Raquel because I hadn't finished the food? I grabbed her hand and offered her what I thought was my best apology look.
She smiled but it didn't reach her eyes. “I’m not upset. With you anyway.”
She called the maid to clear the table. I smiled politely as the maid proceeded to take away the tray. She nodded.
“Go get ready.” Raquel said, looking at my choice of clothes as a smile formed on her beautiful face.
I blushed. I excused myself and made my way upstairs.
I was elated Skye was coming over. The Lanchester Mansion seemed so empty. I was glad for Raquel's company but I missed my little family.
I missed Reed. He was probably at work. I missed being with him.
