Benedict was genuinely kind when he chose to be. Upon arriving at the house, his first act was to reward Anthony and Vagatha for their diligent care of Charlotte. He insisted on raising their pay and offered them his late mother's guest cottage to live in, rather than the servants' quarters. For Charlotte, he prepared the most exquisite room in the entire house—her very own suite.
The suite was adorned with soft, pastel colors, featuring delicate shades of light pink, blue, and green, complemented by charming floral patterns. The walls were either graced with elegant wallpaper or painted in a gentle hue. The furniture was ornate, crafted from rich woods like mahogany and walnut. At the center of the room stood a magnificent four-poster bed, draped in luxurious fabrics beneath a graceful canopy. Porcelain vases, framed portraits, and a small collection of books on a shelf added a personal touch to the suite.
Inside the wardrobe hung beautifully tailored gowns made from silk and brocade. Each gown featured fitted bodices with low necklines, intricately adorned with lace and embroidery. Silk sashes and ribbons, delicate lace shawls, gloves, linen chemises, corsets, fine petticoats, and dainty satin slippers with a slight heel completed the collection. At the dressing table, mirrors reflected the soft light, while perfumes, blushes, rouges, lavender water, powders, and an array of jewelry awaited Charlotte's touch.
As Charlotte stepped into her new suite, her eyes widened in awe. The room was like something out of a fairy tale, and she felt a rush of emotions—excitement, confusion, and a hint of anxiety. This was a world so different from the one she had known with Vagatha, and it was overwhelming.
"Do you like it?" Benedict asked, standing at the doorway with a hopeful smile.
"It's... it's beautiful!" Charlotte exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder. She took a few tentative steps into the room, running her fingers over the soft fabrics and admiring the delicate details of the decor.
Benedict stepped inside, allowing the door to close behind him.
"You deserve every bit of it, Charlotte. This is your home now, and I want you to feel comfortable and happy here."
Charlotte turned to him, her expression shifting from joy to uncertainty.
"But what if I don't fit in? What if I can't live up to all of this?"
Benedict knelt down to her level, his gaze earnest.
"You don't have to worry about fitting in or living up to anything. Just be yourself. You have a fresh start here, and I'll be by your side to help you navigate this new life."
Charlotte nodded slowly, still processing everything.
"What will I do? I mean, I've just started learning about work and responsibility. I don't want to be a burden."
"You won't be a burden." He reassured her. "We'll figure things out together. You can help me with various tasks around the house, and I'll introduce you to the people in our community. You'll find your place, I promise."
As Charlotte explored her suite further, she noticed the collection of gowns hanging in the wardrobe.
"These are so lovely! But I don't know how to wear them properly."
Benedict chuckled softly.
"Don't worry. I have a wonderful seamstress who can help you with that. And I'm sure Vagatha will have plenty of tips to share as well. You'll learn in no time."
He opened the wardrobe and pulled out a dress.
"Here, why don't you try this one on?"
It was black with delicate lace trim and a fitted bodice that flared out into a wide skirt.
YOU ARE READING
The Modern Adam and Eve
Mystery / Thriller"No one need ever die. I will stop this." "No! You can't cheat death!" "We won't know unless we try." "I warn you, what you are suggesting is not only illegal, it is immoral." "Did you ever consider the consequences of your actions?" "Who am I? Wher...
