Perfection Redefined

Chapter 4

Her hair flew wildly in the wind and she sucked in lungfuls of the crisp country air, unsure of when she'd get an opportunity like this again. When they finally arrived at the gates of the estate, Colette was mildly disappointed that the ride was over. Atticus spoke into the intercom and the gates swung open to a long winding driveway decorated on either side with big, manicured trees.

The road finally opened to reveal a huge, red brick house with flower vines slithering in between the saturated stones, contrasting prettily. The windows were large to let in as much sunlight as possible, and to provide a clear view of the expansive gardens. The architecture itself seemed like the revival of antiquity, with ionic columns and a sculptural pediment.

"Oh my, what a beautiful house!" Colette gasped, getting out of the car immediately to take in its imposing beauty. She noticed a lovely rose garden and a fountain and even a swing a little ways away.

Atticus laughed at her enthusiasm.

"I'm glad you like it. It is the result of my mother's unending toil and love. I'll give you a tour later." He said, much to Colette's delight. They were about to walk to the door when Atticus suddenly stopped her, holding on to her elbow gently. Then he proceeded to run his strong fingers through her chocolate hair, smoothening them from the car ride. Colette blushed so hard, she was sure she resembled the roses in the garden.

Atticus reasoned that his actions were to save face and not because he desperately wanted to run his hair through her silky locks that few wildly around her face, making her look unabashed and wild.

"I'm so sorry, I should have minded my appearance. I could quickly run to the restroom before we see your mother." Colette rambled, mistaking his actions as chastising.

"Don't worry at all. You look lovely. Now remember, my mother doesn't know about anything so we must pretend like we are in love." Atticus said, his eyes hardening as he remembered the previous day's events.

Colette nodded, also recalling what this was really about. She was the enemy, the offered daughter and nothing else. Her life was going to be short and painful and there was no reason to get attached.

Her own eyes steeled as she collected herself, and Atticus almost regretted bringing up the terms of their union.

As they walked inside, they were greeted by Arnold the house butler and Greta, the head of household and Mrs. Emsworth's personal caretaker.

Colette took a second to take in her beautiful surrounds- everything was extremely modern and well designed- following a color scheme easy on the eye. Colette noted some paintings by extremely famous people that must have cost a fortune, but blended into the room like they were made for there.

Colette was quickly offered a refreshment- some chilled fruit juice, that she courteously accepted. Greta handed a glass to Atticus, who thanked her, embracing her.

"Do you mind waiting a moment, it takes her a minute to get up and come downstairs." Atticus said, referring to his mother, the pain evident in his voice.

Colette's heart ached for him. She knew more than anyone, the importance of a mother, the pain of her loss...

"Why don't we just go up to her instead?" Colette asked timidly, wringing her fingers. She wasn't used to speaking when not spoken to.

Atticus immediately looked up, shocked at her offer. He thought Colette, the perfect society woman would be one to look down on breaking etiquette, not offering to herself!