31

31
As the sun began to set on that Friday evening, Rachel, Celine and Madeline pulled up to the grand, stone and brick mansion that belonged to her betrothed’s family. Excitement and a hint of nervousness bubbled within Rachel as she stepped out of the car and took in the sprawling gardens and impeccable architecture of the home.
As they made their way to the front door, they were greeted by the matron of the family, a regal and poised woman who welcomed them warmly. Celine, ever the curious one, couldn’t help but inquire about Rachel’s betrothed, her voice tinged with a hint of nosiness.
The matron seemed to be expecting them. “Welcome, welcome!” she exclaimed, her face lighting up with a warm smile. “I am Mrs. Jenkins, the matron of this house. I understand you are Rachel and your mother? We’ve been eagerly awaiting your arrival.”
The matron, Mrs. Jenkins, was dressed in a long navy blue dress that flowed gracefully around her legs as she walked. The dress had a high collar with lace trim and long sleeves that were cuffed at the wrists with more lace. The bodice was fitted, with a row of elegant buttons running down the front.
The dress had a full skirt that was gathered at the waist, giving it a timeless and classic look. The dress was made of a rich and heavy fabric that rustled when she walked. A matching navy blue hat completed her look, sitting perched on her head with a white ribbon tied around it.
Her accessories were simple, a pearl necklace and a pair of pearl earrings. She looked elegant and proper, befitting of her role as the matron of the grand house.
Rachel and her mother exchanged a surprised glance, impressed by the matron’s knowledge of their names and identities. “Yes, that’s us,” Rachel said, returning the matron’s warm smile.
“Well, come in, come in!” Mrs. Jenkins said, gesturing for them to enter the house. “I’ll show you to your room so you can freshen up after your journey. I know it can be quite tiring, traveling for so long.”
As Rachel and her mother approached the grand house of her betrothed, they couldn’t help but stare in awe at the palace-like mansion in front of them. “It’s breathtaking,” Rachel’s mother breathed, her eyes wide with wonder.
“Yes, it is,” Rachel agreed, taking in the grand architecture and lush gardens surrounding the house.
As they approached the entrance, they noticed guards standing at every corner, dressed in smart suits and looking alert and attentive. Rachel’s mother turned to the matron, Mrs. Jenkins, who was walking with them, “Are these guards for security?”
“Yes, they are,” Mrs. Jenkins replied with a nod. “The family that lives here is very important and wealthy, so we take security very seriously.”
As they entered the house, Rachel and her mother stared in wonder at the grand halls and impressive architecture. “This house is truly magnificent,” Rachel’s mother said, her eyes scanning the high ceilings and intricate details of the decor.
Mrs. Jenkins smiled, “Yes, it is. The house has a rich history, it was built by the ancestors of the current family and has been passed down through generations. It’s been through a lot of changes over the years, but it still maintains its original charm and elegance.”
As they walked through the house, Mrs. Jenkins took the time to point out different features of the house and its history. “This room was once a ballroom, where the family would host grand parties and gatherings,” she said, gesturing to a large room with a marble floor and a crystal chandelier. “And this hallway was once used as a secret escape route, in case of any danger.”
Rachel and her mother listened intently, fascinated by the history and stories of the house. As they continued their tour, their jaws constantly dropped at the wonder at the grandeur and elegance of the palace-like mansion.
Finally, they arrived at a beautiful guest room, decorated with rich fabrics and elegant furnishings. “Here we are,” Mrs. Jenkins said, opening the door with a flourish. “I hope you’ll find everything to your liking. If there’s anything you need, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
The matron smiled, “You’ll have plenty of time to get to know him, my dear. But for now, let me show you to your rooms.” She said before taking the lead., she showed Rachel tp her room and showed her mother to hers.
Rachel’s room was a sight to behold, with large windows that overlooked the garden maze. She took in the beauty of the room, trying her best to push away any thoughts of the future and the nagging thought of how she would be compatible with her mystery man.
She took her time to settle, arranging everything before the maid who was sent to help her out arrived. Rachel, having done everything necessary, asked her to show her around the place. The maid quickly obliged to help out.
After some time, the maid had to return to her post, leaving her to contine strolling on her own.
As she decided to take a stroll in the garden, she caught a glimpse of a familiar figure in the distance, her boss. She called out, her heart beating fast, but the person turned and began to walk away. She was left wondering if her eyes had played a trick on her or if that was really her boss.
As she walked along the garden paths, admiring the lush greenery and colorful flowers, she thought she saw someone familiar in the distance. Squinting, she realized it was the familiar build of her Boss. She called out to him, but he turned away and disappeared behind a hedge.
Rachel couldn’t believe it. What was her Boss doing here? Was he here to check up on her? Or was there something more sinister going on? Her mind raced with possibilities as she made her way back to the house, determined to get to the bottom of this mysterious appearance.
Just as she was about to let her thoughts consume her, Celine interrupted with exciting news. “William finally called, he’s on his way!”
Rachel’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of William’s name. She couldn’t wait to see him and finally put her doubts to rest.
Is everything ok? She asked, looking at Rachel who looked a bit disturbed.
N-no she shook her head. Nothing
As she made her way back to her room, she couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was amiss.
Was it just her imagination or was there something off about the way that figure had turned away from her?
The night was filled with laughter and joy as they caught up with each other and made plans for the weekend.
But as Rachel lay in bed, her mind racing with thoughts of the mysterious figure in the garden and the impending meeting with William, she was very bothered as she felt that something was lurking just beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered.