Imprisoned by secrets

Chapter 12

Ten years ago...

Beatrice liked taking evening walks around her home. Whenever the weather was pleasant, she'd walk in the garden by 6 pm.

The sweet smell of the brightly coloured flowers gave an illusion of peace. The dark clouds and the gentle sway of the cool evening breeze helped cleanse the thoughts that often plagued her mind.

As she walked on the damp grass that evening, she couldn't help but think of Ethan. Her sweet, darling Ethan. He was the most important thing in the world to her.

She had seen him the day before. He'd told her he was waiting for the results of his university entrance exams. He wanted to study engineering at an exclusive university. It was a long shot but Ethan had always been determined and intelligent. She had offered to help with funding but he'd turned her down saying he hoped to get a scholarship.

Beatrice smiled when she remembered how his brow furrowed with worry. He was already starting to grow a beard like most other boys she knew. She was sure he'd look great with it.

She couldn't believe that seven years had passed since they'd first met—it had truly been a meeting by chance. She couldn't imagine her life without him.

Over the years, he had somehow managed to infuriate, frustrate and intrigue her at the same time. She liked the fact that he always challenged her and how he never let her get away with everything.

Beatrice had never before considered anyone to be her equal both intellectually and physically. She had lived her entire life knowing that she was above and beyond her peers. It was the first time she'd ever met her match. That was why she just couldn't stay away from him.

Lately, Ethan had been getting touchy about receiving help. He wanted to solve all his problems by himself.

Ever since he'd seen her picture in a socialite magazine, he'd become so subdued and quiet. Ethan had always known she came from money and that they weren't in the same social class but he'd never realized how rich and important her parents were.

He still remained stubborn in his belief that he would marry her one day. To do that, he had to be worthy of her. It wasn't enough for him to like her anymore; he wanted to be able to provide the allies, power, and connections she had mentioned many years ago when he'd first told her his intentions.

Ethan was very different from other boys. If he loved you, he let you know without mincing words or trying to manipulate you.

Beatrice was reaching for a flower with dark thoughts on her mind when she felt the air change. Someone was walking towards her. She could sense it.

"Miss Rivera? Your father has a surprise for you in his second study." A servant said.

"In a minute." She replied.

Beatrice sighed tiredly. After a few seconds, she turned away from the flower.

When she pushed open the door to her father's second study, she realized he wasn't alone. There were two other men in the room.

"I apologize. Someone told me you wished to see me. I didn't know you had company." Beatrice said politely.

"Come in, Beatrice. I sent for you. You remember him, don't you?" Hector pointed to one of the men in the room.

The man turned around to look at Beatrice. He was extremely handsome with his well-trimmed hair and full eyebrows. She looked closer and she was certain there was something familiar about the glint in his eyes.

"Thomas?" She asked finally as she blinked away her shock.

The young man laughed.
"I was afraid you wouldn't know me. I should have known better. A pleasure to see you after so long." Thomas stood up to kiss her hand.