Chapter 15: Engaging in the Activity

The magnificent Harrington estate was a flurry of activity, a never-ending procession of wealth, influence, and power. Every look felt like a chess play in a game I was only starting to grasp, and every area appeared to hold mysteries.

That morning, as I came down the grand staircase, Marcel and Sophia were already sitting in the bright parlour, speaking softly but firmly. As soon as I walked in, their laughter stopped and was replaced by rehearsed smiles that stopped short of their eyes.

"Freda," Sophia remarked with ease, pointing to a vacant chair. Come along with us. I was just talking to Marcel about the charity gala that is coming up.

I paused, my gut telling me that this was a test, not an invitation. I sat down, maintaining a neutral expression while forcing a courteous grin. "Good morning. How about the gala?”

Marcel reclined on his seat, evaluating me with his keen eyes. “It's among the year's most significant occasions. As Williams' spouse, you must be... ready. You know, there are expectations associated with the Harrington name.”

Naturally, I answered in a tone that matched his. "I'll take any necessary action."

Sophia's eyes flickered with amusement as her nicely arched eyebrow rose. “It's encouraging to hear that. The media will be keenly observing. Any mistake could damage the family's standing.”

It served as a subtly pointed reminder that I was not welcome in their world. I wouldn't allow them to realise how hurtful their words were, though.

Marcel said softly but menacingly as he leaned forward. “The board meeting the following week is another issue. Have you discussed Williams' vote with him?”

I scowled. "His vote?"

"He must have mentioned it," Marcel remarked in a tone that suggested astonishment. “It's a crucial choice that might change the organization's power dynamics. However, he might be keeping you in the dark.”

The inference lingered like a challenge. They intended to test my willingness to fall for the ruse, to confront Williams and run the danger of coming across as insecure.

Calmly, I responded, "I have faith that Williams will make the right choice." "He can do that without my help."

Marcel's face clouded, and Sophia's smile tightened. I had a brief sense of satisfaction because that wasn't the response they had hoped for.

I realised, however, that this was far from done.

I ended up exploring the expansive grounds of the estate later that afternoon in an attempt to decompress. I couldn't get rid of the feeling that I was being watched, even though the air was clear and fragrant with roses.

I almost bumped into Sophia as I turned a corner. With an attitude of planned grace in one hand, she clutched a glass of champagne in the other.

She said, "Freda," with a smile that stopped short of her eyes. "I wanted to catch you by yourself."

I braced myself by folding my arms. "Sophia, what do you want?"

Her eyes never left mine as she sipped her drink. "I simply felt that we ought to speak briefly. From woman to woman.”

"How about?"

"About survival," she remarked in a mockingly worried tone. "You've entered a far more complicated world than you initially thought. The Harringtons don't put up with incompetence or errors. You will find yourself completely engulfed if you are not careful.”

Unfazed, I looked her in the eye. "Is that a threat or a warning?"

Her smile widened as she responded, "Neither." “It's guidance. Freda, you ought to be aware of your allegiances. Williams may appear to be looking out for you, but he has other plans. And let's just say that Marcel is not readily forgivable.”

Even though her comments made me shiver, I chose not to show it. "I appreciate the guidance, Sophia. I will remember it.”

I was about to walk away when she said something that made me halt.

With an edge in her voice, she questioned casually, "Did Williams ever tell you about the accident?"

With my heart racing, I froze. "What happened?"

"Oh, you didn't hear from him?" She pretended to be innocent as she spoke. “How unexpected. Let's assume that he has secrets in his closet that, if discovered, would ruin him. Freda, you have to be careful. It could be the worst thing you ever do to trust him.”

I turned to look at her, my temper erupting. "Speak up if you have anything to say. Give up playing games.”

Sophia grinned broadly but remained silent. I was furious and more perplexed than ever when she turned and left.

I confronted Williams in his office that night. He was studying documents behind his desk, but as soon as I walked in, he looked up.

“Freda,” he responded, shocked. "What's the matter?"

I crossed my arms and shut the door behind me. "What are you not telling me?"

He scowled. "What are you driving at?"

I answered sharply, "Sophia mentioned an accident." “She said that you might be hiding something that could ruin you. Is that accurate?”

The tension in the air between us increased as his face stiffened and he stood up.

He firmly stated, "Sophia has no idea what she's talking about."

I insisted, "Then tell me the truth." "What took place?"

With a groan, he combed through his hair. “Years ago, there was an accident. It has to do with Marcel and the business. To keep the family safe, I had to make a tough choice. That’s all you need to know.”

I took a step closer and remarked, "That's not good enough." "I deserve to know the truth if I'm going to be a part of this family."

His jaw tensed as he paused. "Some things are best left in the past, Freda. Have faith in me.”

But every day it was getting tougher to trust.

I went back to the library late that evening in the hopes of seeing Daniel. The room was empty and dark, but I noticed a single, nicely folded sheet of paper on the desk.

I read the sentences written in bold, urgent handwriting as I unfolded it, my hands shaking:

‘They are aware of your identity. Leave now while you can.’

The sound of footsteps reverberated behind me before I could comprehend the meaning of the tune. My heart pounding, I whirled around to confront Marcel.

"Freda, are you looking for something?" His voice was icy and menacing as he enquired.