The Baron and his Lady

Forty-five: Picking plans

Penthurst Manor
Lucian sat dumbfounded and ecstatic at the same time. Patrick had just finished laying the preposition to him. He refused to respond, telling the man he was weighing things.

Patrick merely sat back and measured him. The man was older if they count the present but Lucian had way more years than he ever did. The amount of experience gap was huge. Yet, the idea he had spread for Lucian was something only a true grown man could think of. He knew Patrick planned the whole thing and he couldn't believe his luck.

"Would you need time to think about it?"

Lucian nodded, though he knew he would say yes eventually.

"Very well, I'll leave you to it. I do have work to catch up." Patrick said, dismissing him.

With that, Lucian showed himself outside. His eyes lingered at the knob longer than usual. Should he think about it? His heart knew he wanted the offer but his mind thought it was cheating. But why deprive himself the opportunity to prove his worth? This was his chance and he will take it.

Lucian stepped away from the door with renewed determination. Plans worked on his mind—of where to start and how he could accomplish them. Looking at the state of the Manor, he knew he ought to start outside. He was just offered to manage and provide for the Manor and it's properties. The vast lands behind was at his disposal and he knew just what to do it. With a smile, Lucian went to his room. He will give Patrick his answer by the morrow along with his plans. The man was in for a surprise.
***

Town
Krista's pov

Dina dragged me from one store to the other. It was tuesday so there wasn't a lot of people doing some shopping. We went to a neat looking shop by the gas station where three mannequins stared blankly and creepily, mind you—at me.

"Good morning!" Called a lilting voice.

I closed the door as Dina went and explained why we were there. I heard the bells jingle as the door slammed.

"And this is the girl?"

I turned my head at the voice. For some reason I knew I was the girl she was talking about. I mean, a genius could easily spot that. I gave the aged lady a smile as Dina continued her onslaught of demands.
 
I titled my head and whispered, "Why are you here again?"

Tristane leaned closer and whispered back, "I am here to make sure you don't escape Dina."

I rolled my eyes at him. Just when I thought I had my hands full, here comes Tristane trailing behind. He had volunteered to drive us around. Mom agreed, saying we needed his expertise at navigation.

"Why don't you distract my Mom and I'll go pick any dress while she's not looking?"

Tristane smiled, "Not happening Krista."

"Oh come on. This could take all day." I begged him. Surely, no man would wish to stay indoors all day.

"I don't have anything to do back home anyways. My suitcase is packed and ready. As soon the transfer of deed is done, I am out of here." He found a chair and sunk down, "But before that, I'd like to make sure I get you a proper dress."

"Ohhh, curse the day you were born Tristane!"

He chuckled, "I know babe, I know."
***

"Just show us your prettiest dresses and she'll try it on." Dina said, her hands flying up.

Gentle blue eyes stared at me, "I have just the thing for you dear." She reached out her hand, "Come on. Follow me."

After about five minutes of haggIing and discussing, the owner finally turned her attention to me. I threw my mom a worried look but she just shoved me directly to the lady's arms.