Kingsley's Bride

Chapter 10: The Whisper of Autumn Leaves

The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow over my room as I awoke to the sound of birds chirping outside. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I stretched and yawned, feeling a sense of anticipation stirring within me. Today was the day I would finally meet Edward, the elusive detective who held the key to unlocking the mystery of Meredith's disappearance. I couldn't forget Julian's words from two days ago.

"Father is back in town," Julian announced, his voice filled with excitement. "And I've already taken an appointment for you to meet with him after two days."

An amalgam of excitement and nervousness churned within me as I embarked on the journey to Edward's residence. With each step, anticipation coursed through my veins, fueling my determination to uncover the truth about Meredith's disappearance. As I traversed the familiar streets, I encountered Julian, whose encouraging gesture and well wishes served as a reassuring beacon amidst the whirlwind of emotions.

At journey's end, I stood before a weathered abode, its weary façade a testament to the passage of time and the weight of untold stories held within its walls. A hushed reverence enveloped me as I approached, my hand poised to knock upon the door, each heartbeat echoing the anticipation that thrummed within my chest.

The door creaked open, revealing a small, dimly lit room filled with stacks of books and piles of papers. And there, sitting behind a cluttered desk, was Edward—a short, wiry man with a twinkle in his eye and a smirk on his lips.

"Ah, You must be Scarlett," he greeted me with a grin. "I've been expecting you."

I couldn't help but feel a sense of nervousness as I stepped into the room, my eyes darting around at the cluttered surroundings.

"Yes, indeed," I responded.

"Please, have a seat," Edward said, gesturing towards a worn-out armchair in the corner of the room. "Now, let's get down to business. I assume you're here about your sister's disappearance?"

I nodded eagerly, my heart racing with anticipation as I waited for him to continue.

"Excellent," Edward said with a smirk and gestured me to tell him everything from the beginning. As I sat there and told him about Meredith he looked anything but interested in the story. However, much to my disappointment, his demeanor revealed a palpable lack of interest in my case. Recognizing his disengagement, I prudently chose to withhold any mention of my husband's name or my familial lineage.

As I ended the story he looked up at me, finally exhibiting a semblance of attentiveness, and bestowed upon me a smile.

"Understood! How distressing. I lament the disappearance of your sister, especially in light of the apathy surrounding her search. Nevertheless, rest assured, whether the heavens enshroud her or the depths engulf her, I, Sir Edward Hughes, shall unearth her," he declared resolutely.

"Now, I must warn you, my services don't come cheap. If you want me to take on your case, it's going to cost you a significant sum of money."

My heart sank at his words, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment wash over me. I knew he would charge me money, I had saved up some money and the payment from Mr. Sinclair was the only source of money I had.

"What sum do you require?" I inquired.

"The same as the Royals once provided," he responded flatly and any hope I had broke within me. That amount of money is just impossible for me.

"I understand," I replied, endeavoring to veil the disappointment in my tone. "But could we not negotiate the fee? I'm prepared to take any necessary steps to locate my sister."