𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐀 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐋. ( wmmap )

12. refreshing

There was something about the Alpheus Mansion that could calm you down in an instant. Maybe it was because the Alpheus Mansion was much more livelier compared to your own estate. 

Claude was taking up too much space in your mind ( in the non-professional way ), and you didn't like that so you decided to stop by your favorite cousin's home.

Thankfully, since Claude was usually too busy meeting magicians and ordering them to heal Athanasia, your meetings with him lessened as time passed. A week passed ever since your encounter with him in the fish pond, and Athanasia has been unconscious for around two weeks.

When Roger heard about it, he suggested bringing Jennette out and introducing her. 

You turned it down though. Doing that to a father worried about his daughter seemed like an asshole move — and he might take it out on Jennette.

Roger crossed his arms as he watched you make yourself at home in his office. He was busy doing paperwork, and you barged in with water ( weirdly enough, you didn't bring tea ) and snacks ( and you refused to share it ).

"Last I recall, you had an estate built so that your visits here would lessen," Roger spoke up as you had your third cookie, "It seems as though your trips here tripled ever since."

You gulped down the cookie and offered him a smile, "Can't I miss my cousin and visit now that we live close by?"

Roger didn't believe your bullshit, "We see each other often enough. Saying that you wanted to see Jennette or Ijekiel would've made your statement much more believable."

You sighed at the mention of Jennette's name. It was afternoon, so maybe she was having snacks and tea with Ijekiel in the garden by now. 

Years ago, you would always join them for afternoon tea, but ever since you dreamt of poisoning Jennette, you made sure to stay away from her during meal times. 

At some point in time, Jennette changed the way she referred to Roger. She used to call him uncle, but around months ago, she called him 'Ijekiel's father' and even 'Mister'. You didn't know what happened, since Roger said he didn't do anything, and Jennette was also telling you to think nothing of it.

But well, at least she still calls me auntie... Does this mean I'm the favorite?

"It's obvious you want to be with the child, so why don't you move along and join them outside?" Roger suggested upon hearing your deep sigh.