Chapter 8.

The atmosphere got tense in the room as the newly married stared intensely at each other trying to read meaning into each other's heart. Their hearts fluttered and danced to the rhythm of their heartbeat until the grumpling from her hungry stomach disturbed their cherished moment.

"I don't know if you had dinner last night but it's obvious you're famished", Richard said, breaking eye contact. 

"Uhmm, I will just freshen up and go downstairs. I just need directions to the kitchen, so I can prepare breakfast"

"Breakfast should be ready by now. Freshen up and I will do the same. I need to be at the office in a few minutes", he assured her.

Jenny hastened to the bathroom, where she discovered a meticulously arranged warm bath awaiting her, complete with an assortment of body soaps tailored for both genders. Among them was her beloved strawberry-scented soap. "How did he anticipate my preferences?" she mused to herself.

Settling into the bathtub, she allowed the euphoria and serenity of the water to envelop her, dissolving her worries in an instant.

Upon completing her bath, she enveloped herself in a pristine white robe conveniently hung on the bathroom walls, only to realize she lacked suitable attire.

"Sir, may I wear one of your shirts? I find myself without clothes," she inquired, her gaze averted.

"No need for such formality with me. Feel free to change yourself in whatever you find fitting. I've instructed Cheng to procure new clothes for you, which will arrive shortly," he reassured her.

Richard had his bath quickly as he was running late for work. In no time he was dressed in a blue Turkish suit that fits his physique perfectly, silver coloured tie and a silver Louis Vuitton shoe.

"You look stunning and dashing", Jenny couldn't help but compliment him immediately she stepped into the room.

"Thank you. The shirt appears somewhat oversized on you," he remarked, alluding to the attire she had borrowed from him.

"Your physique accounts for it. It's inevitable that it would appear larger," she replied with a hint of acknowledgment.

"Breakfast is about to be served."

He descended the staircase hand in hand with his wife, making their way to the dining table adorned with an array of dishes. Nanny Emmanuel was already seated at the table.

"Good morning, Nana," he greeted warmly.

"Good morning, ma'am," Jenny chimed in.

Nana, he was used to calling her that or else she's angry at him, still lingered affectionately.

"Good morning, children. I see he's made amends already, given you're both here together," Nanny Emmanuel remarked, addressing Jenny.

"Yes, ma'am. He apologized, and we're fine now," Jenny replied with a smile.

Nanny Emmanuel gestured for them to take their seats as breakfast was about to be served. Richard opted for his usual French breakfast: a croissant accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee.

While Jenny opted for; a Pan fried eggs with potatoes settling it with an orange juice.

In mere minutes, they finished their meal as the cook cleared away the dishes. Richard retrieved his suitcase and began to depart the mansion, but halted abruptly, realizing he had overlooked something.

Returning to his wife, he planted a gentle kiss on her cheek. 'You look stunning in this shirt' he whispered, causing her cheeks to flush crimson. He then turned to Nanny Emmanuel and bestowed a peck on her cheek as well."

As Richard left the mansion, Jenny watched him from the window, her heart pounding with a mix of nerves and anticipation.

The morning sunlight bathed the room in a warm glow, giving her a sense of newfound hope. She turned back to Nanny Emmanuel, who was watching her with a thoughtful expression.

"Granny, do you think Richard really means what he said earlier? I mean, can he really change?" Jenny asked hesitantly.

Nanny Emmanuel smiled kindly. "My dear, love and companionship have the power to change people. Richard has been alone for a long time, and perhaps now he is starting to see the value in having someone like you by his side. Give him time. Trust in the process, and in the meantime, focus on building your own happiness."

Jenny nodded, feeling slightly reassured. "Thank you, Granny. I'll try."

Nanny Emmanuel patted her hand. "That's the spirit. Now, let's get you settled. You have a new home and a new life to embrace."

Jenny spent the morning exploring the mansion, guided by Nanny Emmanuel. The house was grand, with high ceilings, ornate decorations, and an abundance of natural light. Each room told a story, filled with memories of Richard's childhood and his family's history. Despite its grandeur, there was a warmth to the place that made Jenny feel surprisingly comfortable.

In the afternoon, Cheng arrived with several boxes of new clothes. Jenny couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the gesture. As she sifted through the garments, she marveled at Richard's attention to detail. Everything was in her size, and the styles matched her taste perfectly.

As she tried on one of the dresses—a simple, elegant blue dress that hugged her curves just right—she couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence. She twirled in front of the mirror, her reflection smiling back at her. This was a new beginning, and she was determined to make the most of it.

Later that day, Jenny decided to venture outside. The mansion was surrounded by lush gardens, meticulously maintained and bursting with color. She walked along the stone paths, breathing in the scent of blooming flowers. It felt like a fairy tale, and for the first time in a long while, Jenny allowed herself to believe in the possibility of a happy ending. This was the first time she felt this happy in many unspoken year's.

She took out her phone and for the first time, post on social feed. A picture of her in her blue gown and in the garden with a beautiful caption.

#Sometimes, an unexpected decision brings you to be with the only person who can truly give you happiness

And with that she sent it. She knows that Amy and Emma would see it and they would call her to mock her but if it means staying this happy, and far away from them then it's fine and worth it.