She may have unmasked herself right now, but she has been anticipating Raymond's reaction.
'Allen Reed,' Raymond repeats. It is more of a statement; he is struggling to figure out why the name sounds so familiar.
'Honey, are you okay?' Julia asks worriedly.
He breaks out of the trance and shakes his head, 'Yeah, don't worry, I'm fine. I just need some fresh air,' he whispers and gets up, 'Sorry for this, I will be back.' He abruptly stands from his seat and walks out of the dining room. Everyone is instantly puzzled by the unexpected shift of events.
'My apologies for Raymond's behaviour, let's finish off dinner. The cooks have also prepared desserts,' Julia says, she signals to the cooks to bring the desserts in and remove the old plates. 'There are tarts, red velvet cake, and much more,' Julia declares.
Sebastian and Isabella take a slice of the red velvet cake whilst Vivian takes a piece of the tart. Jackson takes a piece of cheesecake and Julia digs into a banoffee pie.
'This is very delicious,' Sebastian exclaims.
'Indeed,' Vivian supports him.
'It is all on the cooks, they are excellent,' gratification lacing her tone.
After a while, Raymond comes back to the dining room, once dinner is officially over.
'Sorry, I missed dessert,' Raymond exhales.
'Is everything okay?' Julia goes to him. He replies with a quick nod, however, confusion inhabits his mind.
'Was it something I said that baffled you, Raymond?' Vivian asks with a devious grin. Sebastian rolls his eyes and bumps her knee. She is getting personal with him and this would raise unwanted questions.
'Nothing whatsoever,' Raymond's brief response made Vivian beam with satisfaction.
'Thank you for dinner,' Sebastian clears his throat.
Everyone smiles then exits the dining room. Isabella heads to the garden to smoke and Sebastian follows her. Julia and Raymond are bickering in the side leaving Vivian with Jackson.
'So, are you okay?' Jackson starts making conversation.
Vivian looks up at him since he is taller than her, 'Of course, Jack, everything is perfect.' From the corner of her eyes she could see panic increase in Raymond, he is pacing back and forth and racing his hand across his hair.
'So, what are you doing tomorrow?' Jackson asks nervously.
'Nothing really, why?' she nonchalantly answers.
'I- well, can I take you out?' Jackson gradually offers.
Vivian's eyes enlarge in surprise, certainly not what she expected, 'What?'
'Wait, how about as friends?' Jackson restates.
Vivian smiles, 'Of course, Jackson, I was just taken back. I would love to.' This is her attempt at getting closer to Jackson.
'Great, I will text you tomorrow and we can plan a perfect day,' he smiles victoriously.
'That's great,' she replies before they could continue, Isabella and Sebastian, walk back inside.
'Shall we leave?' Sebastian asks Vivian who nods.
Jackson gently hugs Vivian, 'I will see you tomorrow, Viv,' he whispers into her ear and kisses her cheek.
She smiles, 'I cannot wait.'
'Lovebirds relax, there are kids present,' Isabella exclaims covering her eyes.
YOU ARE READING
Revenge Never Knocks
Mystery / ThrillerA little insight: "Rule number one, do not underestimate your enemy," she laughs, "And as for the game, I have been rolling the dice this whole time," she opens the glass door and puts a leg inside. She looks back at them, "Revenge is a game you pl...
