His Smile

Ashleys Pov.

 "You should smile more often; the children love happy people." Of course, they did. I walked up to the children while Alandrai and Ian got the things we got for them out of the car. I could see staff around who could offer a helping hand, but seeing the mighty Alexandria descend so low as to do the menial job on his own was new. I played fun games, we played hide-and-seek, asked questions, and named our favorite colors.

 Saint Mary was well-founded and well-known, unlike other orphanages in the country. Not only was it under the protection of the Hale clan but some rumors had it that an heir of the Hale family had been adopted from here. This was a sick joke to bring down the family and ruin their reputation but nothing of that sought could ever happen. Every heir born to Hale had not only had their birth documented but the journey leading up to his birth. He was my case study on the socialized family back in my days in college. 

He was not only the golden child but one born after a series of miscarriages. His mother's pregnancy was documented like a nation's treasury. As early as he could talk and move he had teachers flooding in trying their best to acquire him with one skill or the other. Indeed it all turned out well, not only is he the only heir but he has succeeded in keeping the greedy aunts, uncles, and cousins at arm's length. He was a great leader and I accept that aside from that he is nothing but a terrible monster. 

Time went by and soon the children were gathered for lunch. We had brought necessities and chefs who made delicious food for them. The children all ran to the table but Lidya stayed behind walking at a slow pace. "Hey Lidya, " I called, reaching for her hand, which she happily extended to me. 

"What's wrong? I noticed you did not play as much as the others" She was not only beautiful but her pale green eyes gave a sense of peace around her. Her hair was nicely wrapped in a bun leaving no strains loose which was odd as all the other children had taken off every extra clothing due to the heat and sweating from running around. "You like Alex?" her sudden question had me halt in my tracks. What did I do to give her that impression? For all I know, I avoided him to the best of my abilities. 

"Well.. he is my husband" I answered casually. She was a child and there was no need to ruin her innocence on such but the look on her face did not seem like one happy with my response. "I know you are married to him, Ms Kimberly mentioned that some months back but do you like him?" she asked more sternly than the first time. She appeared to be calm and reserved but for some reason, I was getting vibes from her that I didn't get from the others. 

"Well, people get married because they like each other, Lydia. I mean I like him" Well as a human I shouldn't hate you know, but I dare not let out the rest of my thoughts to her. I could see the smile of content spread across her lips and every part of her relaxed. She wasn't too small to be his daughter, a theory I will never dismiss but it did not fit properly. Alexandria Hale has been the type to be organized be it at home or in business. He hates nasty and unclean work and has always put his mind through his countless rejections and shutting numerous competitors who couldn't resist the temptation of the dark market. "Lidya" I turned to the little gal scouting to her level.

 "Why do you care so much if I like him or not?" I couldn't resist the urge to ask. It's been hell with him, and getting something as leverage would be like Santa brought me an early gift. 

"You don't know, do you?" Her words only made me curious. She turned to the distance, and I followed her gaze. A long table was set in the middle, and a variety of meals were displayed perfectly on it. 

Alexandrai had long gotten rid of his jacket and was now in his white shirt which he had unbuttoned the first two top buttons. His sleeves folded to his elbow and his hair held in a messy ponytail with what looked like a ribbon from one of the children. His eyes shone with love and happiness and his lips constantly spread as he laughed along with the children. This was not the man I was used to. He was cold and barely said comforting words but his smile and the sound of his laughter were captivating. I wish he could smile more for he looked even more dashing. Realizing the direction of my thoughts, I quickly cleared my throat turning to Lydia who smiled so lovingly at me.

 "He doesn't smile much but with us, he always makes sure we are happy, I don't have much time and I want him to be happy, he has always taken care of us" Her tone carried sadness but I could understand. Getting adopted and leaving the family she'd known all her life wouldn't be an easy choice. "You can always come visit, I know the family he picked for you will love you even more" Lydia suddenly pulled her hands away from mine, her eyes teary. 

"I can't come to visit... I wish I could but I can't" Her voice broke and her hands went up to her head pulling the cap off. Standing before me was a little girl who held tight to the happiness of those around her completely forgetting about herself. Her head had no hair, now her pale look and the constant tiredness could be explained. She was suffering from Cancer and all along she had been thinking of another. Before I could utter a word, Alexandria's gaze fell on us and he quickly walked over scooping Lydai into his arms. I wish I knew, I don't know why I felt guilty for lying. I did not like Alexandria in the slightest, not even as a human. 

"You should join us, the food is getting cold" I walked by his side but his calm words were still erupting in my head. Never has this man addressed me so calmly. It was from one threat to the other. There was something about this place and about the children that brought out a different part of him, a part he dared not show outside these black gates.