As the evening's festivities came to a close, Kenneth and I found ourselves making our way toward the exit, leaving the grandeur of the ceremony behind.
The chauffeur had the car waiting for us. The night air was cold, and the silence between us was there as we settled into the plush leather seats. The car pulled away from the venue, leaving it behind.
The streets were quiet as we navigated through the city, each passing moment amplifying the weight of our silence. It was as if the world outside mirrored the uncertainty and unease that enveloped us.
I stole a glance at Kenneth, his expression unreadable in the dim interior of the car. The enormity of what had transpired today weighed heavily on my mind, and I couldn't help but wonder how our lives had become so entwined.
I kept my gaze fixed on the passing cityscape, my thoughts a jumble of uncertainty and questions about the man seated beside me.
As our car approached Kenneth's mansion, a sense of awe washed over me. The wrought-iron gate at the entrance swung open gracefully as we approached, revealing a long, meandering driveway lined with meticulously manicured hedges and vibrant flowerbeds. The sprawling garden that stretched out before the mansion was a lush oasis, complete with fountains, statues, and a cobblestone path that led to the imposing front doors.
The mansion itself was a masterpiece of architecture, a sprawling three-story structure adorned with elegant columns and intricate carvings. Its exterior was bathed in the soft glow of strategically placed outdoor lights, casting a warm and inviting aura over the entire estate.
As the car stopped, he wasted no time to open the car door and stepped out, his posture rigid and unyielding. The driver hurried to assist me, holding the door open and offering a polite smile.
I emerged from the car, and I couldn't help but take in the sheer grandeur of my surroundings. The marble steps leading up to the entrance were flanked by towering columns, and the double doors were adorned with intricate, gilded designs.
Kenneth's voice, still tinged with impatience, broke through my reverie. "How long are you going to stand there, Maurice?"
Kenneth's question snapped me out of my momentary daze, and I hurriedly followed his lead as he made his way towards the mansion's grand entrance. The imposing double doors stood tall and ornate before us, ready to reveal what awaited inside.
As we approached, the doors swung open gracefully, revealing a spacious and opulent foyer. The marble floors gleamed underfoot, and beautiful artwork adorned the walls, each piece seemingly more valuable than the last.
Kenneth walked confidently into the foyer, and I couldn't help but feel like a small figure in this vast and luxurious space. My eyes darted around, taking in the grandeur of the mansion.
Two maids, dressed in impeccably clean uniforms, stood by the entrance. Their crisp white aprons and caps gave them an air of elegance and professionalism. One had a slender figure and a kind smile, while the other had a more reserved demeanor.
At the center of the foyer, a tall and dignified man awaited us, his bearing exuding an aura of authority. He was impeccably dressed in a traditional butler's uniform, complete with a black tailcoat. His physique was lean but with an underlying strength that spoke of years of service.
With a respectful nod, he welcomed us himself. "Welcome home, Mr. and Mrs. Pierce."
I felt a lump form in my throat as I heard myself addressed with Kenneth's last name.
Mr. and Mrs. Pierce.
The words echoed in my mind, a stark reminder of the life-altering commitment I had just made, one that felt both foreign and surreal.
Kenneth's response was a curt nod, his cold gaze remaining fixed on the grandeur of the foyer.
I managed a polite smile, trying to convey a sense of gratitude for the welcome. "Thank you," I replied, my voice tinged with uncertainty.
Frederick, undeterred by Kenneth's lack of response, turned his attention to me. "Congratulations on your wedding. It is an honor to have you here, Mrs. Pierce. I am Frederick." he said, his tone warm and welcoming.
I nodded, feeling the weight of the situation. "Thank you, Frederick. I appreciate it," I replied, trying to be polite and mindful of the awkwardness that hung in the air.
Kenneth's voice, still cold and distant, cut through the exchange. "I'm going to my office. I don't wish to be disturbed," he declared, his gaze finally leaving the foyer to settle on Frederick.
The head butler nodded in acknowledgment. "Of course, Mr. Pierce."
With that, Kenneth made his way towards his office. As Kenneth disappeared into the corridor, Frederick turned his attention back to me, his expression courteous and considerate.
"You must be tired, Mrs. Pierce," Frederick remarked gently, as if he could sense the whirlwind of emotions I was experiencing. "Allow me to escort you to your room so you can rest."
I nodded in gratitude, Frederick gestured for me to follow him, led me toward a magnificent staircase, its banister adorned with intricate carvings. The stairs seemed to ascend to an endless world of luxury and opulence.
The upper floor of the mansion was equally grand, with plush carpets, stunning wallpaper, and ornate sconces along the way. Frederick led me to a door, and I watched with anticipation as he opened it.
The room was spacious and elegantly furnished, with dark wood furniture and luxurious textiles. A king-sized bed dominated the center, adorned with richly embroidered bedding. A few pieces of luggage sat neatly by the foot of the bed, and I recognized them as my own.
"Your belongings were sent here earlier and are waiting for you," Frederick explained, his demeanor ever polite.
I nodded my thanks as he excused himself and left me alone in the room. It was then that I decided to begin the process of removing my wedding dress. I'd worn it all day, and its weight and tightness had become unbearable.
As I struggled with the intricate buttons and delicate lace, I was startled by the sudden sound of the door swinging open. I turned, wide-eyed, only to find Kenneth standing there, his expression as cold and distant as ever.
"What are you doing in my room?" he demanded, his voice cutting through the air like ice.
I stammered, my heart racing. "I... I thought this was my room. Frederick brought me here."
Kenneth's gaze remained unyielding, and without a second thought, he commanded, "Get out."
With trembling hands, I made my way out of the room. But he then added in a cold and cutting tone, "And don't you dare dream of sleeping in the same room with me."