Chapter 64

She enjoyed this. Being the center of attention. As petty as it sounded, it made her feel valued, happy even. Cecilia smiled to herself as Thomas very carefully braided her hair, humming an unknown song. The last week had been full of negativity and silent tears. She thanked God for returning everything into place. Although her brother's death still loomed like a dark cloud over her.

"Do you feel the baby yet?" Cecilia couldn't see his face but the childish giddiness in his voice didn't go unnoticed by her.

"Honey it's still too early for that. I doubt it even has proper fingers." She giggled lightly. Thomas blushed at his lack of knowledge. He indeed knew nothing about babies. He grew up as a servant, with very less interactions with women. He didn't have much knowledge of women either. He sighed as he tied a ribbon on Cecilia's head.

"I'm sorry if I ever treat you unfairly. I just don't know anything about this." She turned around, clasping his hand gently in hers.

"You're doing great. You don't have to worry. We have the maids to teach us. Everyone is inexperienced at one point. We'll get through it together." He gave a small smile.

"I'm so lucky to have you... "

The Strawberry bush was springing new green leaves. A sign of new beginning, Carina thought to herself. The mansion was busy with various subjects. From their lady's pregnancy to Charles's untimely death, they didn't have time to wander around the garden anymore. The Strawberry bush was basically abandoned. Not a soul would pass by at this hour. It made Carina feel safe as she had her afternoon tea, hidden away by the thick lush leaves and vines.

Life was hectic now. She had to keep touch with Nathan and tiptoe around some pieces of information to her mother. Keeping secrets was risky but she would tell Sophia when the time was right. If Nathan even got a whiff of her plan, everything would fall apart. A lot of things were on her mind. And for the first time in her life, she didn't have time to think about Thomas. It amused and scared her at the same time.

Placing the cup down in her lap, she began to get up. In the process of dusting ger gown, she let out a hiss as her finger pricked on a thorn. Blood began to pour out from the open wound. She cursed and held the finger with pressure.

"Do you need help?" Carina was met with two curious doe eyes. A maid, probably 12 or 13 of age.

"It's just a cut. It'll heal."

"Still.. what if it gets infected?"

Carina gave a sad smile. The maid looked so innocent. She didn't know the house she served at was filled with demons.

"I've been through worse, little one. What's your name?"

"Emma."

"Are you new here?"

"I got here last week, after the Lord's murder." Carina nodded.

"I know it's not my place but, can I ask you something?"

"Sure." Here it was, the regular question. She was going to ask if she was a murderer.

"How do you manage to put up with such horrible people?"