HEALING THE SCARS

CHAPTER 6

PENELOPE

I curl up on the plush bed, wrapping the soft duvet around me, trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill. I can't let Dylan see how terrified I am. Sobbing quietly, I drift into troubled thoughts. This night feels endless. Glancing at my phone, it's well past midnight. Memories of my dear brother flood my mind, and I promise myself I'll find him when the time is right. Pulling the covers closer around me, I eventually succumb to sleep, my dreams restless and uneasy.

The next morning, sunlight filters through the curtains, waking me with a gnawing hunger. It's been almost a full day since I last ate. I get up quietly, tidy the bed with trembling hands, and sit, waiting anxiously. Remembering Dylan left without locking the door, I approach it cautiously. To my relief, it opens silently. I slip out, determined to find something to eat.

The mansion is a labyrinth of opulence as I navigate its grand corridors. The walls are adorned with expensive artwork, the floors carpeted with plush rugs—all a stark contrast to the modesty I'm accustomed to. I find rooms—bedrooms, a library, offices—all empty, adding to the eerie silence that pervades this vast place. Undeterred, I continue my search until a sudden collision with a woman nearly sends me sprawling. I look up to see a woman with warm eyes and a kind smile extending a hand to help me up. "You must be Penelope," she says gently, her voice filled with warmth and familiarity. She envelops me in an unexpected embrace. I'm taken aback. Who is this woman, and why is she being so affectionate?

"I'm Rose, the head housekeeper," she explains softly, still holding my hand in hers. "You're very welcome here. Mr. Campbell asked me to bring you to breakfast." Rose's touch is reassuring, her presence a contrast to the coldness I feel elsewhere in this mansion.

"It's nice to meet you, Rose. Please, call me P," I manage with a grateful smile. "Penelope feels too formal."

"What happened to your arm?" Rose asks, her concern genuine.

"I had a little fall," I reply evasively, unsure how much I can trust her. I can't afford to reveal too much to a stranger who might be loyal to Dylan.

Rose leads me towards an exit where a grand staircase descends into a magnificent living room. "Wow!" I exclaim, struck by the beauty and grandeur around me. "It's stunning."

"Yes, P, it's quite something," Rose agrees warmly. "I've been here for ten years; I've grown used to its beauty. I hope you like your room. Mr. Campbell picked it out himself and arranged for clothes and shoes to fit you."

My eyes widen in surprise. "All those clothes and shoes are for me?" I ask, incredulous. Rose nods, guiding me downstairs to a breakfast table laid out with a sumptuous spread—pastries, fruits, bacon, cheese, yogurt. My hunger overwhelms any lingering reservations, and I dig in gratefully.

Feeling more at ease after eating, I wait uncertainly for my next move when I hear laughter approaching. A stunning blonde girl enters the dining area, followed by Dylan, shirtless and in sweatpants. My heart sinks. Is this his girlfriend? The girl laughs as Dylan playfully interacts with her, completely ignoring my presence.

Clearing my throat to make myself noticed, I stand to leave, but Dylan's sharp command stops me in my tracks. "Sit!" he orders sternly. I obey without meeting his gaze, thankful at least that their intimacy has ceased.

The girl sits on Dylan's lap, nibbling on fruit as he addresses me. "As you know, the wedding is today. Be ready and punctual. You'll have assistance to ensure you look your best. I don't want anyone questioning why I'm marrying someone who isn't perfectly presentable," he remarks with a sneer, eliciting a laugh from the girl who leans in to kiss him.

"If you try anything," Dylan continues, his tone turning darker, "just remember your little brother. Surprised? I brought him back from Paris when you ran away. If you want to see him again, obey, and don't try anything foolish."

He smirks and resumes his breakfast, leaving me shaken. He has my brother. What kind of man am I about to marry? Feeling trapped and helpless, I realize I have no choice but to comply. "Go to your room!" he barks, and I scurry away, my heart heavy with fear and resignation.