BURNING RED

Chapter 1

HER POV (STRANGER)

"Nana, why does Mommy always comes home in the morning?"

"Why Daddy's always away?"

"Why do they always in a hurry?"

"Why don't they kiss me goodnight?"

I've had asked her these questions for the nth time but I never got any direct answer.

We were in my room. From top to the bottom was according to my taste. I loved cute and nice things. I also loved fairy tales and magic.

My wall was painted red and purple. Big dresser, big walk in closet was also painted like my wall. My big heart shaped bed was in the middle of my room.

I couldn't ask for more. Everything I've wanted was given to me on a silver platter.

That was how my life revolved here in the castle.

They would follow everything I say. My Granddad and my Grandma were the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton in Scotland.

I grew up with them instead of my parents who were always busy and couldn't make time for me.

Nana took the place of my mother while growing up. She was like my second mother. She'd been working for our family since she was little and devoted her time on me when I was born. She never had her own family.

"Iona, why don't you check the presents you've got from Sir Lindsay? I'm so excited to see you open all your presents. I shall take some pictures of you and give them to your friends." She avoided my questions again.

"But Nana, I get the same presents from them every year. I told them to not bring me any if it's just the same boring toy!" I said annoyed.

My ginger curls were glimmering in the sun when we went out of the balcony. I settled on the outdoor couch and took the mirror on the table. Nana settled behind me and combed my long hair.

"You have to tell them what you want so they'll know what to bring you next my dear Iona."

"Never mind. I'll just give them away anyway." Then I remembered what Papa said. I call my Grandparents, Mama and Papa.

"But Papa promised me to take me somewhere in Asia so I'm counting on that." I said excitedly. I saw how Nana's expression changes.

"Don't worry! I'll ask Papa to have you as my escort." I smiled broadly.

I remembered my last birthday.

"Daddy promised me to be with me in my birthday party. But he didn't even call me."

"My dear Iona-"

"Mommy and Daddy were always saying things they couldn't fulfill."

Nana just sighed and continue what she was doing.

"But I'll be really happy if Mommy will spare me some of her time.." I added, quite solemnly.

"You don't know, Madame might come with you. She's just pretty busy with everything." But I doubt that..

"I'm bored Nana. Can we go to Mama after this?" I asked with my puppy eyes. Completely changing the topic.

She sighed and nodded.

"We're finished now. So let's get going!" I declared then jumped out of my chair.

"My dear Iona, you have to be careful with your movements. You should act and move like a queen."

"I know, but we're alone.. so it's our little secret." I put my index finger on my lips.

She smiled then caressed my hair. "Of course my dear. Of course.." her chocolate brown eyes were shining. I really loved her eyes.. because mine were the same as the grass. Too ordinary. While her's were like my favourite food in the world!!