Red String Of Fate

Chapter 13

Chapter 13

For the fourth day in a row, I was up late in the office, pulling another all nighter, with the candles flickering. I know, candles are so old fashioned but it gives me the inspiration and atmosphere I need to draw. I glance past the flickering light and see the exhausted expression on Jay’s face even though he was asleep. He managed to stay with me every single night. I twirled the pencil around my thumb subconsciously and studied my draft.

It was breathtaking – to me at least. I was planning on visiting Madame Agnés when morning came. In fact, that was in a few minutes. Running my pencil along the outline of the dress, I attempted to fix bits and pieces. The wedding dress was strapless with a gather top, the same beaded vine idea, a hitched front of the bottom and a silky train for the back. Smiling affectionately at the draft, I filed it carefully back into the special sleek black file I had been keeping it in. I shifted in the seat as I blew out the candles before resting my head on the table and drifting to sleep, for the first time in four days.

I woke up a few hours later and stretched. Something fell off my shoulder and I spun around in surprise.

Jay’s blazer.

I picked it up daintily and felt the material, feeling the smoothness.

“You’re awake. Finally.” Jayson walked in with a hot chocolate and steaming lasagne. My stomach grumbled at the sight and he laughed. “You’re favourite hot chocolate from Gloria Jeans and a lasagne for your hard work the past few days.”

“You’re amazing. Thank you.” I eyed the food greedily and he laughed again.

“Gobble it down. No-one’s stopping you.” I smiled and picked up the fork and knife. I cut into the lasagne but stopped short when I realised I haven’t brushed my teeth yet.

“I haven’t brushed my teeth yet.” I voiced my problem.

He pointed towards the bathroom in our office. “I went home and bought your spare set over.”

“Oh! Thanks, you’re a life saver.” I got out of my seat and headed in to do my morning things.

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“And do you have an appointment with Madame Agnés?” The bored tone of her secretary irked me.

“No but –”

“Please come back another with an appointment.”Her secretary cut me off without a second thought.

“Madame A –” Her secretary rolled her eyes at me.

“Please. I’m speaking English. Madame Agnés is not that free of a person. I’m sure if you know of her upcoming wedding and fashion show.”

“Serenity Taylor.” I spoke quickly so it was impossible for her to cut me off. Her secretary’s eyes widened in shock and then fear crept into her eyes. She rearranged her posture, expression and tone.

“I’m terribly sorry, Miss Taylor. Many fans and overzealous people have attempted to see Madame Agnés during the past few weeks.” She hung her head in apology and didn’t dare look into my eyes.

“Can you just take me to see her?” My patience was wearing thin. I had spent the past five minutes trying to say something only to be cut off before the third syllable.

“Absolutely. This way.” She held up her hand and gestured towards the huge double doors behind her. She knocked three times before she received a response.

“Julianne?” Madame Agnés familiar thickly accented voice came through from the other side of the door.

“Miss Serenity Taylor is here to see you.” At once, the doors opened to reveal the lady herself, dressed in all her glamour.