I let Japen enjoy his time in that room. I allowed him to do whatever he pleased-sitting beside me, watching sunsets together, even combing my hair or reading novels with me, which often made me chuckle at his antics. Not once did I object.
I kept from him the fact that I was planning his escape. With Anya’s help, we devised a solid plan to ensure Japen could leave the mansion without raising any alarms. I even contacted Robert to assist in his escape.
The execution was set for Saturday night, during the second day of Simmy’s monthly period, three days after that particular day. I knew the maids would retire to their rooms earlier than usual to avoid Simmy’s temper. As for Simmy herself, she had a habit of going to bed early during her sensitive time. Dad, on the other hand, would return home later than usual to steer clear of Simmy’s moods. If he hadn’t locked me in this room, I might have spent weekends at a hotel.
“You’ve read all of these?” Japen remarked as I tidied up the small novels on the tea table.
I nodded, standing upright. Absentmindedly, I straightened out the novels. “I’ll ask Anya to fetch another set.”
I walked over to the bedside table and grabbed my phone lying there. I quickly found Anya’s number in my contacts and dialed it.
Instructing Anya to fetch the novels from the tea table and bring a fresh set, I didn’t bother hiding Japen from her. But as she passed by, she nudged me. “Miss, haven’t you told him yet?”
Frowning at Anya’s boldness, I sighed but chose not to scold her. “He doesn’t need to know. Go, and after you bring the books, bring me some cookies.”
“Yes, Miss.” She left the room carrying a box filled with novels I’d already read.
Glancing back, I saw Japen standing on the balcony. His back was to me, lost in thought. I didn’t disturb him, opting instead to sit on the edge of the bed and open the last novel I hadn’t read yet.
Anya returned with a box of novels shortly after. She left again, and a few minutes later, returned with a tray of cookies in both hands, placing it on the bedside table. However, I noticed she was looking out at the balcony. Curious, I followed her gaze and saw Japen still standing there, deep in thought.
“He’s been there for a while, Miss. He hasn’t moved,” Anya remarked.
Frowning, I stared at Japen’s back. I knew he was preoccupied with something, but I didn’t want to disturb him. It was the first time he hadn’t pestered me during his days of confinement. He needed his space.
“Let him be,” I whispered, turning my attention back to the cookies. I picked one up, watching as Anya left the room.
Silence filled the room. If not for Japen’s company in that lonely room, I might have gone mad from the deafening quiet. Normally, I’d have turned on some music and listened to country songs, but I refrained so as not to disturb him. Instead, I continued reading my novel while nibbling on cookies.
Minutes, hours, and days passed, and that morning marked the last day I’d see Japen. I opened my eyes and stared at the ceiling.
I felt Japen’s heavy arm draped across my stomach. His warm breath brushed the top of my head in a steady rhythm. Blinking, I held his hand.
Since he’d been locked up with me, I’d wake up next to Japen each morning, either being embraced by him or embracing him myself. I’d grown accustomed to it, but I knew it wouldn’t last.
Sighing, I tried to free myself from his grip and succeeded. Just as I thought I could slip out of bed, Japen’s arms wrapped around my waist and pulled me back down.
I chuckled. “What? You don’t want me to take a bath?” I teased.
He didn’t reply, simply holding me from behind, burying his face in my neck, making me laugh at his antics.
Deciding not to protest further, I let him have his way. I closed my eyes, and minutes later, I drifted back into sleep.
When I woke again, the aroma of freshly cooked food greeted me. Sitting up, I scanned the room. My eyes narrowed when I saw Simmy placing the food on the bedside table.
Arms crossed, I faced her. “Anya’s job. Didn’t Dad tell you?”
Finishing with the food, Simmy straightened up and looked at me, pouting. “I just wanted to bring these to you. I’ve been busy these past few days and haven’t been able to visit.”
I rolled my eyes. It seemed locking me in this room didn’t shield me from Simmy’s moods. Gesturing for her to leave, I said, “You’re done. Leave.”
She hesitated, arms still crossed. “I see you’ve gotten comfortable in this room. Aren’t you bored?”
“No.”
She nodded, shrugged, and uncrossed her arms. “Well, you have company. I won’t bother you two. Enjoy your meal,” Simmy said with a smile before leaving the room.
My teeth ground together in frustration, fists clenched. That woman!
I glared at the door as she exited, exhaling a long breath. My eyes scanned the room. Where was Japen?
Forcing myself out of bed, I called out, “Japen?”
There was no response.