Hundred and Four

SHELLY.

In Lord Asher’s huge living room, I’m seated as I await his arrival. I came here more than thirty minutes ago and whenever I stand up to leave, promising to return later, the servants have something to say to persuade me to wait just a little longer and then longer till it's almost an hour.

Petian is now a toddler, which means more wailing, nagging, and tantrums. She almost threw a fit here on arrival, but the servants were swift enough to bring her a fruit pack and snacks and likewise myself as we wait with less guilt.

It takes another twenty minutes before I hear the voice of Lord Asher from far off. I was about to read meaning of his not appearing; like he is pissed with me and wanted to punish me, before he stops me right on my track as though he knew.

The sound of his voice gets closer, and so does he. As usual, he is with his cigar in his left hand as he drags and puffs while he approaches me.

His countenance is oddly different today, he isn't the smiling and jovial