Behind Closed Doors [In Production]

Five: New Findings

I sat on the couch as Daniel paced in front of me, quizzing me. “So, you’re good in the kitchen?”

“Very good, I’ve been cooking and baking since I was eight years old.” I smiled

“Lovely,” he grew a smile and motioned to the picture behind him “how are you with dogs?”

I looked at the painting of Daniel and a large Doberman that was mounted on the wall across from me in a gold frame. The dog looked old but had young, loyal, playful eyes. “I’m okay I suppose.” I answered, turning back to him.

“His name is Phantom. I’ve had him since he was just a pup” he smiled at the picture

I looked at it once again “Yes, he is a very handsome dog Mr. Grey…Daniel.”

He walked back up to me “Would you like a tour of my home Sophia?”

“Yes please” I nodded and smiled

He took my hand and led me to the door “Right this way then.” He smiled

We walked back out into the long red hallway, “So…this is the family hall.” He said, pointing to the paintings on the wall “all of these people are my ancestors. Every single one of them grew up in this house after one of my grandfathers built it in 1753.”

“Wow…”

“I know, it’s very amazing isn’t it.” He admired the portraits as he slipped a strong arm around my waist.

I shivered a little “Oh um, I couldn’t help but notice the staircase. It’s quite lovely.” I said, turning to face him.

“Yes,” he let go of my waist to open the door to the foyer “my great great grandfather remodeled it after the fire demolished the original wooden one.”

I looked at the marble staircase “It’s beautiful” I smiled at him

“And over here is the parlor, where I spend quite a bit of my free time.” He beamed. The parlor also had marble flooring with a large blue and white rug in the center of it. There was also a huge bay window that overlooked the front garden.

“Oh my God, this is amazing.” I walked over to the large, white brick, fireplace that was adorned with beautiful gold cherubs on the mantel.  

Daniel nodded and rubbed one of the cherubs with his index finger “Yes, this is the original fireplace. I’ve always been quite fond of it.”

“I love it!” I said admiringly

“Come on now, you haven’t even seen the rest of the house yet.” Daniel smiled at me and led me out and across the hall towards the kitchen.

I walked in behind him with wide eyes “It’s huge!” I whisper yelled. The kitchen was like a celebrity kitchen. All modern with black and chrome appliances, mahogany fixtures, and granite countertops. I figured I would enjoy cooking in it.

“I’m glad you like it.” He said

I heard the door open and close behind us “Excuse me, Daniel?”

Daniel and I turned to face the voice immediately only to find it was Bianca. “Miss. Clay, you know better than to interrupt me while I have guests.” He said sharply.

“Yes Mr. Grey I know, but a man called, and he kept calling until I agreed to come find you. He’s on the line now.” She said softly, looking down.

Daniel put his hand on my shoulder “If you’ll just excuse me for a moment Sophia. Bianca, why don’t you finish the tour?” he said, and began to back away.