The Baron and his Lady

Forty-four: Preposition

Penthurst Manor
Krista's pov

Dina stayed despite my Dad's efforts in sending her back home. She was obviously looking for excuses to remain. Like the lack of groceries, the tidying of the house, changing my bandages and other little things.

But I could see Dad wanted her to stay as well. Both have finally mended the rift between them and I was so happy. I was not wishing for a complete family again, as long as Dina and Patrick are happy then that's enough for me.

"How's your leg?"

I whirled my head around and saw a friendly smile.

"They're fine. In fact, I think I can walk without you guys helping me anymore."

Tristane sat down beside me. He brought me a glass of carrot juice, something my mom had concocted. I took the glass and gestured him to stay with me under the shade of the oak tree. It was old but it's leaves were still healthy. This tree could outlive anyone.

"So..." he began but then stopped.

"So?"

"So, what are your plans now? You've been here for sometime now. You missed several days at school and that tournament."

I stared at Tristane for a moment. One could say might be good for me, he was ambitious and determined. Selling the house left him wealthy and free. He can start a new life just as she was just spreading her wings to her upcoming separation. We were two individuals who sought independence. We matched a lot of things in life. Yet, I can't see Tristane being like that in my life. I don't love him.

I returned his smile, "I pretty much finished all my projects in time. No one knew this but the professor's gave us-athletes- the time ahead to take the exam, so by the time we had the competition, our minds are clear. We can focus."

"I see. You plan to stay then?"

For a second, I thought I saw sadness in his eyes before his usual gleeful side took over. I don't deserve this guy at all.

"That's a nice thought. My parents are getting back together and I want to support them. Plus, when I'm here, I feel peaceful. It's quiet, the air is fresh and there are no nosy Enzo Iglesias to annoy me."

"Who?"

"Oh, nothing. He's just a guy at school-"

"-I know that name." Tristane snapped, I stared at him. How would he know Enzo? They never met before. "Remember when I called your cell? You thought it was someone else."

My eyes widened. Fudge! I remember now. Enzo was bothering me that day and I hang up on him. My phone rang again and without looking at the caller ID, I just snapped at Tristane. "Oh my gosh. I recall now. I'm sorry Tristane, I didn't mean to."

He chuckled, "That's fine. But you got my curiosity now." He narrowed his eyes at me, a sparkle of mischief clearly behind those globes. "Come on, tell me what's the deal with him?"

"Tristane Mayer! You should be ashamed. You're like a gossip girl."

"Oh, I bet you like it babe."

Cripes. Who knew I could find such free spirit who mirrored my own?
***

"Lucian? Got a moment?"

"Yes Mr. Neville?"

"Just Patrick, please." He smiled at the handsome man before him.

"Then call me Gale, Patrick. Lucian is nothing but a title I no longer associate myself with."