Chapter 7

Scarlett pov

As I stepped into the new building, my mind was totally preoccupied with that wild woman who looked just like Elena. Please, let it not be Elena trying to play games with me; I would never let her live that down.

"Welcome, Scarlett, to my little abode," she greeted, all calm and collected, her smile shining like she was trying to sell me a house. I couldn't help but roll my eyes, brushing off her overly friendly vibe.

"Thanks, miss," I managed to mutter, my lips twitching as a reluctant smile threatened to escape.

“It’s all good! Katherine has mentioned you a lot; maybe we could be friends. I…” she trailed off, her brow scrunching up in thought. I found myself at a loss for words, caught off guard.

"Miss," I called softly, motioning to her as she nervously fidgeted with her fingers. A wave of guilt hit me; maybe I was being too harsh. I wrapped my arms around her, lifting her chin to meet my gaze, and noticed a tear resting on my palm.

"Wait, were you crying?" I asked, my voice laced with concern.

"No, I just feel so worthless..."

"What?!"

"Why? No way, you're not," I replied, trying to soothe her as I pulled her into a comforting hug. And here we were, just the first day at her place, and already her tears were turning my clothes into a soggy mess.

At this point, I might as well skip washing my clothes before I head out, considering the waterfall of tears she was producing. I gently tugged her back, running my fingers through her hair. My heart was doing a little dance as she gazed up at me.

She sniffled, using the back of her hand to dab at her tears.

"I'm sorry for being so immature."

"You look like a kid," I muttered under my breath, not realizing I was loud enough for her to catch it.

"What? Did you say something?" she asked softly, and I quickly shook my head, eyes wide as saucers. "No, I... I didn’t say anything."

She chuckled lightly, "Sorry, I got a bit carried away. I shouldn’t have asked."

"Of course."

"Um... sorry, let’s go inside."

Just as I reached for my luggage, her hand accidentally brushed against mine on the bag, and we both erupted into laughter. "Let me help you, Scarlett."

As we ventured further into the house, I couldn’t shake the eerie resemblance between Katherine and Elena. The way she moved, her smile, even her laughter felt like a ghost from a past I thought I had locked away.

"Let me show you to your room," she said, pulling me back to reality.

I followed her up the stairs, my eyes glued to her hair. Even though it was a shade different, the way it flowed down her back was hauntingly familiar. I found myself captivated by her, even if I had to get used to her cheeky vibe.

At the top of the stairs, she paused and flashed a smile at me. "I hope you enjoy it," she said as she opened the door to my room.

I stepped in, appreciating the cozy decor that felt like a welcome change from the sterile environments I was used to.

"Thank you," I said, glancing back at her. "It's beautiful."

Her face brightened with happiness. "I'm so pleased you think so."

As she started to leave, I reached out and touched her arm gently. "Wait," I said quietly.

She turned back, curiosity evident in her gaze.

"What's your name?" I asked, a bit of nervousness creeping in.

Her smile grew wider, her eyes sparkling. "I told you, it's Scarlett. My name is..."

Before she could finish, I interrupted. "No, your last name."

Her smile faltered for a moment before she replied, "My last name is... Maxbean."

My heart raced as the room seemed to whirl around me. She had the same name as one of my favorite golfers.

That's okay.

"What about you, Scarlett?" she asked, leaning against the door with her arms crossed as I slowly removed my jacket.

I tossed it onto the couch. Suddenly, she stuck out her tongue, signaling me to put the jacket away, and pointed toward the wardrobe.

"You’d rather use the wardrobe than just throw it on the couch, right?" she said, raising an eyebrow, clearly entertained by my annoyed expression.

I let out a soft sigh before turning to the couch and then facing her with a defeated posture.

"Please, I need some space. Either slam the door behind you or kindly bring me a smoothie. I’m starving, and your friend is heartless, so just get me something to take my mind off her rudeness before I lose it.”

She chuckled softly and stepped back from the door, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Alright, alright. I'll grab you a smoothie. But don’t think this means you’re off the hook. We need to talk, Scarlett."

I let out a sigh and flopped onto the bed, burying my face in the pillow. "Just bring me the smoothie."

I could hear her laughter fading as she made her way down the hallway. Despite my mood, a smile began to form on my lips. There was something about her that lifted my spirits, making me want to lower my guard.

I sat up, running my fingers through my hair as I tried to process everything that had happened since I arrived. It was only the first day, and I already felt overwhelmed.

Suddenly, thoughts of my son rushed into my mind, and I jumped out of bed. Without a second thought, I grabbed my phone and purse from the nightstand. I winced as I nearly stumbled to the floor.

I quickly scroll through my contacts and called Elena. The phone rang, but there was no response. Panic washed over me.

 I was terrified something had happened to my son, and the silence only deepened my anxiety. Just then, Marian opened the door and peeked in, her body halfway through the entrance. The sight of her ignited a surge of anger within me.

“Get out! I need some privacy!!”