CHAPTER 2: Impression

ELINOR’S POINT OF VIEW

“Ma’am Elinor, Attorney Reyes is downstairs looking for you,” I heard the housemaid say after she knocked on my bedroom door.

I put down the mascara I was holding and turned to the closed door. “Coming,” I replied.

I focused my attention on the vanity mirror to finish applying makeup to my face. I missed doing these kinds of things.

I want to visit various plantations owned by my grandma today. I want to see if there are any areas where I can improve its management. I also want to see the condition of the workers there.

Good thing I was able to finish my course, which is a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business, because that’s what my grandma wants me to take in college.

I wanted to take a course related to modeling back then, but I didn’t have a choice because I didn’t have my own money to pay for my own tuition.

“Beautiful!” I admired my reflection in the mirror before finally heading out, because it would be embarrassing to keep Attorney waiting for too long downstairs.

Last night, Attorney Reyes texted me and said that we would discuss today the processes to transfer all the properties and assets of de Montalvo under my name. I admit, I’m really nervous about this.

“Good morning, Attorney. Sorry for keeping you waiting,” I said as I entered the mansion’s living room. I sat down on the white and gold sofa.

Attorney Reyes put down the coffee cup he was holding onto the table and smiled. “It’s alright, Elinor. I really enjoy the coffee served by your housemaid.”

I chuckled. “Well, that’s grandma’s pride and joy coffee,” I joked.

“Indeed,” he said, and cleared his throat. “Let’s now discuss the reason for my visit here,” he began.

“Sure, go on, Attorney,” I said.

“In order to transfer the properties and assets mentioned in her will under your name, we’ll need to initiate the probate process, Elinor.”

My forehead furrowed. “Probate process?”

“Yes, probate is a legal procedure where the court validates the will, confirms your ownership of the assets, and ensures that any outstanding debts or claims against the estate are addressed,” he explained.

I nodded. “Oh, I see. How long does this process typically take, Attorney?” I asked.

“The probate process can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the estate and any potential disputes among beneficiaries or creditors. However, it generally takes several months to a year to complete.”

“I wasn’t aware it could take so long. Is there anything specific I need to do during this time?” I asked once again.

“As the executor, your role will include providing an inventory of all the assets and their value, addressing any outstanding debts, and distributing the assets according to your grandmother’s wishes. I’ll guide you through each step and handle the necessary legal procedures. We’ll also need to file the appropriate tax returns, both federal and state, on behalf of the estate.”

“Will I need to appear in court during the probate process?”

“In most cases, court appearances are minimal. However, there may be occasions where your presence is required, such as for the initial filing or if there are any disputes that need to be resolved. Rest assured, I will represent you and handle all court proceedings seamlessly.”

I am taking note of everything that Attorney Reyes said. I need to cooperate to expedite the process. I know that this won’t be easy because a large fortune will be transferred to my name, but I am confident that Attorney Reyes will not leave me behind.

“Thank you, Attorney Reyes. I appreciate your support and expertise. It’s comforting to know that you’ll be guiding me through this intricate process,” I sincerely said.

“You’re welcome, Elinor. My aim is to make this as smooth a transition as possible for you, considering the circumstances. Remember, I’m here to answer any questions or address any concerns you might have along the way. We’ll work together to honor your grandmother’s wishes and ensure the proper transfer of her properties and assets.”

After Attorney Reyes and I finished talking, he immediately left. I went to the kitchen to have breakfast before heading to the plantation.

I found nanny Filina there, busy arranging the table.

“Good morning, nanny,” I greeted.

She looked up at me and smiled. “Good morning, Elinor. Are you going to eat breakfast? Wait, I’ll get you a plate.”

I watched as she quickly left for the dirty kitchen to get me a plate. Meanwhile, I sat alone at the long table with food prepared.

My gaze fell upon the empty chair that my grandmother often sat on. It made me feel sad. It is true that you only realize the value of a person when they are no longer by your side.

“Here is your plate. Do you need anything else?” Nanny Filina asked upon her return.

“Have you already eaten?” I asked instead.

“I’m done. I ate with the other helpers earlier,” she replied gently.

I forced a smile and replied, “Is that so?”

I guess I’ll be eating alone again today.

“I’ll leave you for now, Elinor. I just need to water the plants in the garden. Are you okay here?” she asked.

I nodded and replied, “Yes, nanny. Don’t worry about me.”

As soon as she completely left the kitchen, the smile I had plastered on my lips disappeared.

I just forced myself to finish my food because it would be a waste not to eat it just because of my fussiness.

I was in the middle of my meal when someone suddenly entered the kitchen. I furrowed my brow because I don’t know him. He is wearing a flannel shirt and old, ripped, faded jeans. He is also wearing muddy boots.

He had a plate and a glass of water in each of his hands.

Who the heck is this guy?

Our gazes met. My breath caught as his incredibly handsome appearance took me by surprise.

He possessed a commanding presence with his tall height and muscular physique. His sun-kissed tan skin gave off a healthy and vibrant glow, accentuating his defined features. His angular jawline added a touch of ruggedness to his overall appeal, while his full lips hinted at a subtle sensuality. 

But it was his deep green eyes that truly captured attention. Gleaming like emeralds, they held an alluring intensity that seemed to draw people in. They held a hint of mystery and seemed to hold secrets that remained hidden from most. Framed by thick, expressive eyebrows, his eyes sparkled with magnetic energy and were complemented by long, dark lashes that added depth and allure to his gaze.

“Who are you?” I asked confusedly.

“Oh, I didn’t know there was someone here,” he said without answering my question. Without hesitation, he sat on the seat opposite mine.

“I said, who are you?” I asked again.

I didn’t know why I felt irritated by his actions. Didn’t he have any manners? He just entered here without any notice. What if he was a thief? Well, whatever bad thing happens to me here, it’s on him!

The corners of his lips lifted. I held back my pounding heart. What the heck?

“How about you? Who are you?” he asked in return, ignoring my question.

“Excuse me?” My bitch side was starting to show towards this man. “You just entered my freaking kitchen, Mister,” I said with a matter-of-fact tone.

Okay, Elinor, calm down. Inhale. Exhale. Inhale. Exha—.

“If I remember it correctly, you’re not Madame Consuelo. So technically, this kitchen is not yours,” he stated as if it didn’t matter. He casually started eating the food just like mine in front of me.

I looked at him in disbelief. A while ago, I wanted someone to eat with me, but now, I don’t want anymore if it is him! The audacity of this guy to talk to me like that!

He's so arrogant!

I secretly rolled my eyes. I just continued eating. I hurried to finish so I could leave this place. I need to talk to Nanny Filina later to ask if they always let strangers enter the mansion without notice.

I was about to finish when Nanny Filina suddenly came in. She was wearing a gardening apron and a straw hat with a string to hang it around her neck when she wanted to remove it. She also had a hand trowel with her.

She approached me directly. “Hija, Matthew won’t be able to make it today as your tour guide to the plantation. His wife is about to give birth, so they went to the hospital,” she informed me worriedly.

I took a sip of water next to my plate first. “It’s okay, Nanny. The safety of Matthew’s family is more important now. Please tell them congratulations on their new baby,” I said.

She let out a sigh of relief. “It’s good that you understand. I actually thought you’d be mad because your wishes weren’t followed,” she commented, causing me to fall silent. Was I really like that before?

“By the way, dear. Have you met this guy, Ferton? He used to be your grandmother’s trusted employee when she was still alive. He’s currently in charge of the plantation while we wait for your twenty-fourth birthday. Oh, I’m sure you two will get along just fine,” she happily commented.

I tried not to wince because of what nanny said. Us? Get along? I don’t think so. I don’t think I can be with someone as arrogant as him.

“Yeah, nanny. I think so too,” I lied and fake smiled. When our eyes met, I immediately rolled my eyes at the guy in front of me, that nanny called Ferton. Eye-rolling worthy.

I noticed the raise of his eyebrows, followed by his exaggerated head shaking, as if he was disappointed in me. Tch, as if I fucking care.

“I have an idea!” Nanny Filina exclaimed, looking at both of us, Ferton and me.

Uh-oh, I think I won’t like the idea she has in mind.

“What if Frenton takes Matthew’s place instead, so that your time won’t be wasted, hija, since you’re already dressed up. Fenton knows his way around here," Nanny suggested with a smile, as if it were the best suggestion she could come up with.

I knew it.

I glanced at Fenton, who was now smirking. I got even more annoyed because it seemed like he was trying to hold back from laughing.

I rolled my eyes. “No, thanks, Nanny. I can manage to tour myself around. I grew up here, remember?”

“But—”

“Let her be, Manang Filina. Didn’t you hear her? She said she can handle it herself. So if she gets lost, it’s not our fault anymore.” Fenton stood up. “I’m done eating. Thank you for the breakfast. I’ll go ahead now because we still have a lot to harvest today,” he said and leave us.

My lips involuntarily parted in astonishment. Who the heck did he think he was to disrespect me in my own freaking mansion?!

Nanny Filina looked at me with her apologetic eyes and said, “Please forgive Fenton, dear. That’s just how he is, but he can be relied upon on the plantation. Your grandmother wouldn't trust him if he wasn’t effective.”

“It’s okay, Nanny. But I hope he knows the difference between confidence and arrogance. In my last look at the dictionary, they were different,” I said as I put down my utensils. “Anyway, I’ll go ahead. Thank you for the food.”

“Are you sure you can handle it alone?” she asked with concern.

“Yes, Nanny. Thanks for your concern.”

“Okay, if you say so. Take care, Elinor.”

I left the mansion with only my cellphone and wallet in hand. As soon as I stepped outside, I caught sight of the departing owner-type jeep, where I presumed the arrogant man was riding.

I was taken aback by a sudden realization. Wait a minute, where am I supposed to ride to get to the plantation? And where is that plantation, anyway?!