Mind Games

Trust Issues

“Madame Redd! It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“As yours.” I smile, not really knowing whom the woman in green is. “My, your hair is absolutely gorgeous.”

“Thank you, Madame!” the woman beams.

“How do you manage to keep it in such perfect ringlets?” I banter, trying to hide my boredom. This casual small talk is beginning to irritate me. We came here at the request of a Sir Liam Custard to investigate this strange house. Apparently, my intelligence and perception were of such a level that Sir Custard deemed I was required. I almost declined, though my curiosity overtook my disinterest, and so here I am.

“Madame Redd?”

I turn at the sound of the familiar voice. A real smile curves my lips at the sight of the man who spoke.

“Mayor Fischbach, how wonderful to see you.” I say with genuine enthusiasm. Mayor Fischbach reaches out to take my hand, which I pull away quickly. I smile at him as I pull off my glove and offer him my bare hand. Mark returns the smile as he takes my hand and lightly kisses the back of it.

“The pleasure is all mine,” he says as he lets go of my hand. I slide my glove back into place.

“Modest as ever.” I murmur. I turn to the whispering pair behind me, giving them a very cold stare.

“What the glove is to a stranger, the hand is to a friend.” I state monotonously. The man and woman both flinch a little under my gaze.

“And you’re still as caustic as ever, a quality matched only by your beauty.”

“Mayor Fischbach, I may disappear into my collar!” I exclaim, touching my cheek to test for a blush.

“Madame Redd, in all the time I’ve known you, none have made you even turn pink.” Mark chuckles. “Clearly, the epithet is for your clothing and your nature.”

I lower my head, gazing at the elegant patterns of red and black on my skirt.

“Now that we have all arrived,” Sir Custard begins. “Everyone, find yourself a partner. In teams of two, we will investigate the manor here. Be wary, we do not know what form danger may take within, which is why I asked you to bring some form of protection.”

I pull up the small back tied to my wrist, letting its contents settle in my palm.

“Well, Madame?” Mark offers as we enter the manor.

“Who am I to refuse such an offer?” I smile. “Where will we go?”

“You and I are probably the only ones who would brave the basement floors.” Mark says. “Shall we?”

He offers me his arm; such a gentleman. I slip my hand into the crook of his elbow, allowing him to lead me through the hallway and down the stairs. The dark and quiet is equal parts soothing and chilling. The warmth of Mark’s presence is entirely calming.

I trip on the last step. Stupid klutz! My heels serve to make regaining my footing nearly impossible as I topple forward.

Mark’s arms catch around my corset, holding me up. He doesn’t let go until it’s clear I have my balance back.

“Thank you, Mayor Fischbach.” I say with embarrassment.

“Don’t worry about appearances.” Mark chuckles. “It’s just the two of us down here. Feel free to call me Mark.”

I take a quick step away from Mark, looking down. I can feel the hurt rolling off him, but I cut in before he can say anything.

“Of course. Call me Marlene.”