Maggie stood in Aldrich’s study, gazing in awe at the abundance of literature that lined the shelves. Her eyes scanned the literary treasures filling the room. She spotted an old novel tucked away in the corner. With intense curiosity and a desire to glimpse into his world, Maggie opened the worn book. Seated in Aldrich’s comfortable chair, she immersed herself in a world crafted by a famous author – an intriguing tale about werewolves. Rumor had it that this book was destined for a film adaptation, produced by Barrett Group’s film division. As Maggie delved into the narrative, she stumbled upon Aldrich’s notes and revisions. He aimed to dilute the romantic plot in favor of emphasizing the dignity and terrifying nature of the werewolves. Maggie couldn’t help but chuckle because in that moment, she caught a glimpse of the adolescent hidden within Aldrich.
“I wish I could meet the young Aldrich; he must have been such a talkative, lively, and ambitious young man!” Maggie lightly laughed, closing the old book and then gazing at the driftwood desk. On the table lay a framed photograph – an ancient family portrait, capturing the essence of bygone days.
Two little boys stood on either side of a couple, their faces telling the story of a beautiful life. This man, Aldrich’s father, had a well-defined jawline, etched by time, that spoke of wisdom and experience. The silver-grey hair added a mature charm to his rugged allure. His warm hazel eyes twinkled with tender kindness, reflecting his love for his family.
Next to him stood Aldrich’s mother, an elegant woman. Her warm, deep blue eyes radiated warmth and compassion. Soft, flowing chestnut hair framed her face, accentuating her delicate features and the subtle smile on her lips. She exuded refinement, as if she had spent her life creating a haven filled with love and support for her children.
The older of the two boys bore a remarkable resemblance to his father. His sandy blond hair hinted at adventurous experiences in the sun, while the mischievous glint in his emerald eyes exuded youthful energy and curiosity. His confident posture hinted at a natural leadership quality, an allure that attracted others. He was Aldrich’s brother, a steadfast partner in their shared childhood experiences.
The younger of the two boys, Aldrich, possessed a quiet yet intense quality. His tousled black hair framed his face against his fair skin. His deep brown eyes, reminiscent of the earth itself, suggested hidden emotions and unspoken secrets. He harbored an inner spark beneath his restrained demeanor, a quiet strength. Aldrich had a compelling air, one that invited others to unravel the mysteries deep within his soul.
“Aldrich and his father are like two peas in a pod…” Maggie couldn’t help but marvel.
She also noticed that every face in the family portrait beamed with gentle, contented smiles. Aldrich craftily tugged at his brother’s clothes, and the younger brother’s body subtly leaned toward Aldrich, their smiles adding a touch of endearment and closeness.
“How fortunate they are, a loving family with kind parents and siblings. Aldrich must have had a happy childhood,” Maggie couldn’t help but touch the photo album, her eyes revealing not just the joy that Aldrich’s happiness brought her but also the loneliness and difficulty from her own lonely childhood experiences.
Curiosity tugged at her, and she felt there was more to uncover. Behind the photos, she found a second picture. Maggie carefully retrieved it from its hiding place, and as her eyes fell upon it, she froze. It was a woman – a woman she had met not long ago.
“Is that her?”
Maggie tightly clenched her fingers, scrutinizing the photo with confidence against her memory. “Yes, it’s her!”
Maggie’s heart raced in her chest, her thoughts racing to connect this woman to Aldrich’s world. This picture became a bridge connecting her past and present, invoking a surge of emotions within her. How could the woman she recently met bear such a striking resemblance to the one in the photo?
Maggie’s mind was in turmoil, and the vast sea of books could no longer hold her attention. She exited the study, her thoughts heavy.
Outside the study, the butler, Thomas, was directing two servants. The heavy wooden door of the study opened, followed by the sound of the electronic lock being released. Thomas hurried over.
“Madam, how was your reading experience in the study?” Maggie sighed, “Aldrich has a rich collection of books, and the library is magnificent, truly a treasure trove.”
“Indeed, even now, the master insists on reading new books every week.”
“That’s truly admirable.” When Maggie noticed the servants installing railings, she felt annoyed and restless. “What are they doing?”
“Considering that you might visit the study often in the future, the original floor lamp was a bit dim, and the floor might not be well-lit. We are replacing it with new floor lamps.”
“Thomas, you’re always so considerate. Thank you.”
“Providing meticulous service at Barrett Manor for you is the butler’s duty, Madam, you don’t need to be too polite.”
Maggie nodded, but she wasn’t in the mood to continue the conversation. The woman in the photo occupied her thoughts entirely.
This woman must have had an important and precious connection to Aldrich’s family. Yet, she was the same woman who had been attacked, and by an enemy. All of this weighed heavily on Maggie’s heart.
“Madam, you seem troubled. Is there anything I can do to help?” Thomas asked.
Maggie turned her gaze toward Thomas, the long-time caretaker of Barrett Manor who had accompanied Aldrich. Perhaps he knew some of the ancient stories.
“Thomas, can you give me a little time?” Maggie’s voice quivered slightly, revealing the turbulence in her heart.
The old butler turned to her, his smile gentle, and the wise eyes in his head full of understanding. “Of course, Maggie Miss. Is there anything I can help you with today?”
Maggie considered how to start, and Thomas didn’t rush her. He followed in her footsteps, walking along the quiet path.
Maggie took a deep breath, organized her thoughts, and began to inquire. “Thomas, I couldn’t help but notice the family portrait in the study. Can you tell me more about the Barrett family?”
“Of course,” Thomas felt this was not an unreasonable request.
Thomas sighed softly, his face filled with a mix of sadness and nostalgia. “Aldrich’s mother, may she rest in peace, passed away many years ago. His father, the former Alpha King, was injured in a battle and paralyzed from the waist down. He now resides in his private quarters and can only spend his days in a wheelchair, seldom able to get out of bed.”
“Ah… May the Alpha King be well.”
“He will be. And Aldrich’s brother, upon discovering that his destined mate was Aldrich himself, chose to live in seclusion, alongside their father.”
“So, Aldrich has been living alone all this time?”
“Yes, so when you moved here, everyone was delighted to have your company, Mrs. Barrett.”
“How is that possible? I thought my presence was a burden to Aldrich. I’ve always brought trouble to him…”
“Madam, please do not underestimate the impact you’ve had on Mr. Barrett. Before your arrival, this place was very quiet, and for Mr. Barrett, it was like living in a hotel.”
“He must be a cold workaholic.” Maggie could imagine the haste and icy demeanor in which Aldrich left and returned to Barrett Manor every day.
“Your arrival has not only brought vitality to Barrett Manor but has also made Mr. Barrett’s life more normal. He now dines punctually at Barrett Manor, walks with you in the garden, and considers adding new amenities for you. You have made Aldrich rediscover warmth and human emotions.”
“So, no one took care of him as family before? Maggie couldn’t help but feel a pang of pain for Aldrich.
Thomas smiled, silent, “Some answers can only be found by you. I can only tell you that beneath Barrett’s tough exterior lies a soft and genuine, desire for warmth, and now it’s open to you.”
Maggie was moved by this statement. As she bore the heavy burden of Aldrich’s situation, she felt pain out of sympathy. In that moment, she felt a profound connection between them – a shared sense of loneliness and a struggle to face life’s challenges alone.
“I can’t help but sympathize with Aldrich,” Maggie said softly, her voice full of compassion. “We’re not that different after all.”
Thomas nodded, his eyes filled with sympathy. “Indeed, Miss Maggie, you both have endured hardships to walk this path, and it’s a heavy burden.”
Driven by curiosity, Maggie pressed on. “Does Aldrich have any sisters, Thomas? Or any other family?”
Thomas shook his head decisively, “Mr. Barrett has only one blood brother.”
“Do you remember anyone who fits this description? A girl with neat short hair, tall and slim.”
“Your description reminds me of someone. Are there any distinctive features in her eyes?”
Maggie’s heart suddenly skipped a beat as she focused on Thomas. “Yes, her eyes are beautiful, captivating, and quite unique. Her irises were originally deep red, but they can change into…”
“Blue,” Thomas quickly responded.
“Yes, yes, there is really someone like that! She appeared in the family photo behind Aldrich. Could she really not be Aldrich’s sister?”
The butler’s face changed, and he showed a hint of surprise and realization. “No, Miss Maggie. There’s no sister. But as you described the woman in the photo, it could only be Aldrich’s former partner.” He paused. “Miss Maggie, you look too much like her.”
Maggie’s heart ached suddenly, mixed with pain and longing. This discovery stung her and stirred up a kaleidoscope of emotions within her. The connection between Aldrich and this mysterious woman was now woven into her own story in ways she had never imagined.