The life and death of Nicolae Roman

Chapter 22: Homecoming

By the time Nicolae returned to Cluj, it was already September.  The trees were changing color from green to every shade of yellow, orange and red.  The air was crisp and cool, as autumn announced its presence in Transylvania. Usually, this time of year was Nicolae's favorite.  However, his heart felt heavy as his carriage stopped in front of the Roman estate.  He looked at Ion who was seated across from him.  His valet obviously shared his concerns because he was unusually silent and glum.

"Time to face the music," Nicolae muttered as he exited the carriage and took the steps up to the front door.

A surprised maid greeted him inside the manor.

"Master Nicolae... you're back," she exclaimed.

Nicolae nodded and walked past her.  "Where is my father?"

The maid rushed behind him to take his hat and coat.  "In his study, Master."

"And my mother?"  Nicolae had neither the time nor the inclination for pleasantries and small talk.

"I believe she is in her room, Master." 

"Thank you," Nicolae said, striding toward his father's study.

Nicolae hesitated for a second before knocking.  He heard his father's deep voice from behind the door.

"Yes.  Come in."

Nicolae opened the door.  Count Rudolf was seated in his usual spot, behind his heavy mahogany desk.  He was perusing some documents.  He looked up when he heard the door open, and froze as he saw Nicolae standing there.

"Son..."  Count Rudolf muttered.  "You're back..."

"Hello, Father," Nicolae greeted him, but remained standing in the same spot.

"Come closer, Nicolae," his father prompted him, as he stood up and walked around his desk.

Nicolae obeyed quietly.  When he was right in front of him, Count Rudolf placed both of his hands on Nicolae's shoulders. 

"It's good to see you, son."

"You too, Papa," Nicolae said softly.

"I gather you received my letter," his father said.  Nicolae nodded 'yes.'  "Thank you for returning so quickly," Count Rudolf continued, as he gestured toward a chair.  "Please... sit down... There is much we need to talk about."

Nicolae sat, as Count Rudolf walked back to his chair behind the desk.

"How is Mamma?"  Nicolae asked once his father was also seated.

"Your mother...Ileana, is... weak," Count Rudolf answered.  "I'm sure the fact that you are here will be a great help in her... recovery."

Nicolae nodded.  "And Irina?  Is she home?"

"No," Count Rudolf said.  "She went to Bucharest to visit your aunt Amelia.  She won't be back for another month or so."

The two men sat in awkward silence.  Neither one knew what to say.  Finally, Count Rudolf spoke.

"How was London?  Did you enjoy yourself?"

"London was... wonderful," Nicolae answered.

"Good.  I'm glad you had some time to think things through," his father gave him a meaningful glance.

"Not nearly enough time," Nicolae muttered under his breath.

"What was that you said?  I didn't quite catch it."  His father raised his bushy eyebrows.

"Nothing important, Father," Nicolae said dejectedly.  He then decided to get to the heart of the matter without any further delay.  "So... You wrote that you and Mamma found me a bride."