“Good, God!” He almost spilled his drink on himself at the realization that he was actually finding her somewhat desirable. “Not someone I’d take to bed, that’s for sure!”
Liar! His conscience screamed.
“I must be intoxicated already,” he laughed. Trying to shake off the absurd inner monolog between his head and his—
The steady rap at the door didn’t surprise him. Kingsley opened and entered quietly. “Sir, it’s well past lunchtime. I’m sure Miss Winterborne is famished. Should I have Mrs. Potter prepare an early dinner?”
“Is it, now?” He chewed on his lower lip. “I suppose so.”
“Very well, sir.” Kingsley started to retreat but paused for a moment. “I noticed she packed rather light. Shall I see to it that we locate some items for her to wear until we can pick up her belongings?”
Lux took a deep swallow of scotch before answering. “Fine. I see no harm in it.”
“Thank you, sir.”
He halted the man’s progress. “Tell me, Kingsley, do you know what the psychic is up to?”
The older man gave him an odd look that he was quite familiar with. He practically raised Lux as a young lad, so he respected the man’s opinion. Even if he never so much as told him so.
“What do you mean?”
He said frankly, “Why the hell would she voluntarily want to stay here knowing full well I plan on exploiting her talents…Well, if she truly is a psychic.”
“Sir, I can only say that there are things in this world that are unfamiliar to us, even unexplainable. It shouldn’t be discounted without an attempt to understand or discover its truth. I can only look at all things with an open mind and an open heart.”
His frown deepened. Lux hadn’t expected Kingsley’s frankness upon the subject.
“You should try it for a change.” Kingsley continued, “As for why she took on another person’s debts, I suppose we all have our reasons. I’m sure she had a valid one, sir.”
Not liking the answer, he responded more sharply than intended, “Very well. I won’t promise anything.” He added, “However, I plan on putting her to the test—and I mean to prove that she’s a fraud. Just like the others.”
Lux didn’t miss Kingsley’s inaudible sigh as he left the room.
He snorted, “Right. An open mind and an open heart!”
A bitter recollection crept in and caused the area above his lips to twitch.
The last time he’d allowed both those things to happen, someone died.
Chapter 3
Arabella wandered through the halls of the estate. She was mesmerized by the elaborate architecture that was well preserved at the hands of the devoted and capable management staff. One of her many gifts was the ability to hear people’s thoughts. She’d never admit it, but it made for juicy entertainment when she allowed herself to tune in and listen.
After a few minutes of hearing idle gossip between the younger staff, mainly all about her being a witch, Arabella grew bored and turned down the ‘mind reading’ dial. She had been so absorbed in her own head that she’d wandered into another wing of the mansion. She sensed that everything about this area was old. Buried deep behind the new facelift was a story ¬that wanted to be told.
On the surface, the wing was a seamless construction that matched the rest of the house. Yet, the walls never lied. They had absorbed all the energies of the residents that occupied the space. Retained all the memories of the past.
What’s this? She touched her cheeks and they were damp from tears that had flowed without her knowing. Arabella felt emotional. She knew these feelings weren’t her own. They belonged to someone who had inhabited the place and she had trouble choking back the tears.
The energy was so sad. Broken.
“Who are you?” She didn’t hear a reply from the woman. “I can help you,” she offered.
WHOOSH! The blast of cold air circled around, grazed her skin before passing right through her body. She shivered uncontrollably, but it didn’t stop her from following the energy down the hallway. She picked up speed as her feet seemed to know exactly where they needed to go.
There was no fear within her. She had learned how to protect herself as a kid, thanks to her highly intuitive Grams. The thought of the kind old woman gave Arabella a renewed strength. As if she summoned the woman, she distinctly heard her call out, Healer.
Arabella was gently reminded again of what her life purpose was.
That’s what you are, my child. Never be afraid, for you are light.
She balled her hand into a fist. “I am light,” she repeated confidently.
Her eyes scanned the walls and she noticed that all the paintings were covered with sheets as if they were tragic memories that should be forgotten. As if to dull the pain of loss.
There was an urgency for her to investigate more, but she’d have to try to pry the story out of someone easy to coerce. Yes, she needed to know what happened and why there was such sorrow. What caused this kind of bone-aching pain for everyone involved?
As if some strange force tugged her forward, she climbed the stairs to the top. Her footsteps slowed as she reached the end of the path. “The attic,” she breathed.
Arabella reached for the door handle when she felt a firm grip on her forearm. The person whirled her around to face him.
“What are you doing here?” Lux roared. His eyes were now a furious, stormy gray.
His reaction had frightened her for a brief second and she stammered, “I—I was lost.”
“Lost in another wing?” His tone was harsh. “Never go here again,” he warned.
She took a deep breath to calm. “Please release my arm.”
Her request seemed to find its way into his subconscious and he snapped out of his anger. Lux complied by dropping his hold on her.
“I’ll find my way back now,” she said calmly. Her gaze locked on his. She gave him a stubborn stare as if to prove that he didn’t shake her foundation.
Without another word, Lux took a step back and turned on his heel, leaving her standing all alone. Her legs buckled and she held onto the wall for support. Her heart beat so fast against her chest she thought it would fly out as she watched him retreat down the stairs.
Only then did she remember to breathe again.
Arabella appeared to be the only guest at this dinner party as she watched Mrs. Potter and the staff busily place dish after elaborate dish of the finest foods on the massive dining table. It could’ve been a spread straight out of a fancy cooking magazine, complete with exquisite china, silverware, and delicate crystals. Tiered silver candlesticks and floral centerpieces gave the ambiance a more romantic feel than it should.
This would be perfect for twenty guests, but she was informed that she would be dining alone. Arabella was relieved, yet a little disappointed. She wanted a chance to speak to Lux about her role in all this. She wasn’t a fool and knew Randall would use her abilities to get out of whatever mess he’d made. The sooner she knew what Lux wanted with her, the quicker she could leave everything behind. This included cutting all ties with her stepfather once and for all.
Her mind kept returning to Lux’s anger toward her being in the private wing. She was still confused about why she couldn’t read his mind, no matter how hard she tried. There was a strange block that made her uneasy. Why was he so difficult to read?
“Would you like me to get you anything else, Miss.” The kind, grandmotherly voice belonging to Mrs. Potter broke through her reverie.
“Actually, yes.”
The woman raised a sharp brow at her. “What could I do for you?”
“How about joining me for dinner? I don’t like eating alone.” Arabella gave her a hopeful smile.
Mrs. Potter shook her head, “That won’t work. It’s against our rules for staff to dine with guests or employers.”
Arabella pushed out of her chair. “Well then, we’ll have to change all this.” She started to gather several plates of food.
> “What are you doing?” she asked in alarm.
“Just grab a few plates and follow me,” Arabella giggled as she went in search of the kitchen.
A flustered Mrs. Potter was quickly a few steps behind. Her ample girth reminded Arabella of a sweet mother hen who lost control of the situation. She entered the spacious staff galley and everyone seemed frozen in place at their table. Some had their mouths hanging open; others scurried to stand up to greet her.
Kingsley quickly got up on his feet. “Miss Winterborne, what in heaven’s—”
“If everyone could help retrieve the dishes, we’ll be all good.” Arabella announced happily, “We’re going to have a feast in here!” She unloaded the dishes balanced on her arms onto the stainless steel workstation. In her twenties, her stint as a server was all coming back to her now.
“That’s…that’s unheard of,” Kingsley sputtered. For the first time, Arabella was pleased he struggled to remain in control.
“What’s unheard of? Do you want all this good food to go to waste? I’m only one person and I’d hardly be able to make a dent.” She started to rummage through the cabinets for plates and utensils as a few delighted women helped her with the task.
She whirled around to make sure Kingsley wasn’t having cardiac arrest. “How about it, Kingsley? There are so many families starving out there. We should at least enjoy a nice meal together. ” She gave him her most pathetic pouty face to drive the point home.
Mrs. Potter broke out into laughter. “You are certainly making it difficult to refuse.” She turned to Kinglsey. “What do you say? Arabella has only said what we’ve always been thinking. Besides, the Master has already taken his meal in his room.”
The silence was deafening as they waited for him to respond. After some thought, Kingsley gave them a warm smile. “You’re right, Miss Winterborne. It’s been a long time since we’ve shared a meal with anyone, even a guest.”
Arabella clapped her hands. “Wonderful! But please, everyone call me Arabella. Calling me ‘Miss’ is unnecessary. We’re all friends here.” She hoped they knew she would never judge them or feel as if she was better than anyone else.
Everyone finally became at ease and the entire dining experience reminded Arabella of what it felt like to share a holiday dinner. She’d been excluded from so many since her mother’s passing. She’d missed what it was like to be with company. At home, her meals had been in her room or she’d eat in the kitchen. Perhaps she was no better than a Cinderella to Randall and his children.
She quickly made friends with the staff and made an effort to learn everyone’s name. There was Margaret, James, Renaldo, Timmy, Charlotte, and June. Lastly, there was Lucy. She was the youngest and the most entertaining. She reminded Arabella of a bright and bubbly pixie. She knew immediately they’d become good friends since they were so close in age.
What started out as the worst day of her life was becoming one of the most memorable days for her. At least in this stranger’s home, a place she’d never see herself living, she was able to be herself.
To be free.
If not for more than a short time, until the fairytale ended and she was locked back in the tower again.
“What the hell was all that rattle?” Lux followed the voices chirping in excitement as he made his way down the stairs and through the hallway.
He was going to burst into the kitchen when he stopped. Arabella’s musical voice squeezed at his chest. Through the inch-wide slit between the door, he viewed a truly unexpected sight. The entire staff dined with Arabella as if this was the most natural thing in the world. They were sharing stories and laughing together. Enjoying each other’s company.
The last time he’d witnessed something like this was when he was seventeen and he was the one sitting in Arabella’s place. Lux watched for a few minutes; Arabella’s face lit up as bright as sunshine. The way she engaged with others made them comfortable and relaxed. He wondered how effortless it was for the woman to make everything appear so normal.
As if this place wasn’t cursed by the events of the past!
Cursed by his very own doing—
“Good God, she’s bewitched the whole damn staff!” He let out a deep breath of frustration.
Lux could’ve easily destroyed the moment or berated the staff but something, or someone, made him change his mind. Instead, he turned around and headed back toward his office.
There would be more opportunities for him to cause hell and havoc. Today was not the day.
Chapter 4
It had been three days since she entered the Beastly Estates. Three whole days since her encounter with Lux in the private wing. She was constantly on edge and wondering when he would seek her out. Would he simply be waiting for the right time to play the devil and collect? She couldn’t put a finger on it, but there was something about the man that drew her to him.
Yes, he reminded her of a wounded bird she once discovered on the side of the road. The fragile thing was resistant and pecking at her in the beginning, even drawing blood. He soon learned to accept her care and protection. When his broken wing mended, she set him free. It had hurt her deeply yet she couldn’t cage him when he didn’t truly belong to her. He still had a choice to return. He never did.
Gosh, why did she drudge up such a sad memory? She was getting antsy not being able to go outside. The snow finally let up today and she was bursting to explore the property. At least the staff no longer gossiped about her being a witch. She tried to refrain from using her powers around them and was relieved when they treated her as any ordinary guest.
This morning at breakfast she’d asked Kingsley about Lux, making sure she sounded nonchalant about his whereabouts. He mentioned that Lux was in the midst of a very important merger. One of many responsibilities he carried as the heir.
Would it hurt Lux to make an appearance? She pursed her lips as she made her way down the corridor that led to the back.
Arabella wasn’t really complaining about not having to face Lux. In fact, she had continued to take her meals with the staff. She’d even gotten to know them better. Somehow Mrs. Potter and Kingsley had taken on a parental role, always making sure she’d have something warm to wear or entertaining to do. Truthfully, they were softening her heart in the process, which saddened her. Arabella decided not to allow any negativity to creep in. She would enjoy every moment here! She’d memorize everything about her stay so she could relive the happy times in her mind when she had to leave. Somehow, the thought of returning to her stepfather’s home was harder and harder to imagine.
She was growing used to the Beastly Estates. Growing fond of everything within its doors.
Arabella had a sudden urge for fresh air. The blizzard had passed and it was safe to take advantage of the rest of the estate. Earlier, Lucy had mentioned there was a greenhouse not too far past the garden. Arabella conjured an image of how gorgeous the exotic flowers were in full bloom during the summer. As she walked along the snow-covered path, she couldn’t help admiring the gods and goddesses’ statues on display throughout the area. There was no mistaking these were one-of-a-kind imported sculptures. She’d taken enough art history classes to know the work of the Italian masters.
Arabella stopped to touch the frozen piece of ice that once flowed freely out of the vase in the sculpture’s hand. A blast of cold energy swirled around her and she whipped around to see who it was. She noticed a beautiful woman in a green cloak smiling at her.
“Wait!” she called out.
The woman turned and continued walking brusquely, her sweet laughter filling the air. Arabella followed through one section of the garden, then on to the next, until she ended up at a row of bushes that led to a dead end. The sun sank below the horizon and she’d have to get back before it got too dark. She’d never find her way without a flashlight.
A little out of breath, she planted her hands on her hips, puffing out a stream of air to recover from the run. She walked over to a nearby bench and took a seat.
It seemed oddly out of place to put one there. Arabella looked up and noticed that she’d gone quite a ways. She was on the walkway, and when she looked down at the entire view of the garden, she immediately fell in love with the stunning picture it presented below.
“I must be imagining this,” she said breathlessly.
In the distance, the lights illuminated the garden. The sculptures were arranged in such a way that they formed constellations. The circular pathways were transformed completely. The strategically aligned lampposts generated a celestial grid and the tea lights wrapped around the tree branches reminded her of twinkling stars.
Her eyes misted and the image would be forever etched in her soul.
Arabella didn’t know how long she’d stared at the beauty of the celestial masterpiece but she was definitely feeling the frigid cold brought on by nightfall.
She reluctantly stood and knew finding the way back to the house would be tricky.
“Think hard. Let’s retrace the steps.” She rubbed her hands together and started her quest.
Arabella soon discovered this garden was a complicated maze. Whichever direction she went, it appeared she was going around in circles.
She took a deep breath and exhaled, “Stay calm. Use your abilities.”
Closing her eyes, she pulled up the mental layout of the place and a streak of light traveled through the invisible map, revealing the path home.
“If you think prayers are going to lead you back, you’ll most likely freeze to death.”
The familiar baritone made her eyes snap open. Standing a few inches away from her was the Beast himself.
“Lux!” she said a little too happily. “How did you know I was out here?”
“When the staff mentioned you’d missed dinner. I assumed you either planned your escape, which you wouldn’t have gotten too far…” He attempted a lopsided grin bordering an imaginary fang-baring snarl. “Or, you were lost in the garden. I’m afraid it’s become a sort of initiation that all new guests have gone through.”
Alphas for the Holidays Page 197