8. New level of weird

Alina

“How's your mother?” I started the conversation as Martha and I were having lunch. 

“She is doing better, Miss Alina. Thank you for asking.” I nodded. I was about to continue the conversation when I heard footsteps in the house. Who was here at this time? My question was answered when Theodore appeared in the kitchen’s doorway, followed by Anders holding a bag. What was he doing here so early? 

Like always, he had his hands tucked in his dresspants and the same hard, stoic expression plastered on his face. He looked at me before his eyes fell on Martha. 

“Why wasn't I informed of you leaving before work hours?” I heard Theodore's hard voice, making Martha tremble and look down. 

“I did inform before leaving, Mr Maxwell,” she said timidly, looking at her feet. This obnoxious man was scaring her for no reason when I clearly told him that it was a family emergency. 

“Yeah? Who exactly?” He took a step forth to intimidate her further. Was he seriously doing this? For what reason? 

“Miss Alina.”

“I don't remember where in your job description it was written that you were supposed to report to Miss Alina about your absence. If I'm not wrong, the only person that you are supposed to report to was either me, or Anders.” So this is what it was about. He was offended at Martha for giving me more importance than him? Is he even serious? How was the poor woman supposed to inform him when he came so freaking late and his butler always stuck to him like his shadow? I mean, it's like he is his secretary or a personal assistant more than a butler. And at that moment, she was just freaked out to get the news of her mother being admitted to the hospital. She was panicking and so I allowed her to leave. Where is his basic humanity? 

“I'm sorry Mr. Maxwell. It won't happen again,” she apologized. 

“It better not. Leave,” she immediately scurried her way out of the kitchen before Theodore finally looked at me. His eyes slowly trailed from my head to toe, taking their own time. It was then I realized what I was wearing. A tank top and shorts. Fucking amazing! 

How was I supposed to know he would be back early? I had just decided to come down for lunch and then spend the rest of the time back in my room like I always do. It wasn't like I was going to see anyone else but Martha. 

He took the bags from Anders, and stretched his arm in front of me. 

“Get ready, we have to attend a party,” it wouldn't kill him to be polite. Why does he always have to order? 

“What party?” I for a moment thought he would just ignore my question and walk out of the kitchen. But I was surprised to hear his next words. 

“It's a formal party for one of my important business associates. You are required to accompany me. You have exactly an hour. Don't be late.” That was all before he left the bag on the table, and walked out. I watched in confusion as Anders gave me a sympathetic smile, before following him. 

Oh well, did I have a choice? 

**************

It took me five minutes less to one hour before I was finally done with my makeup and shimmying into the dress.Why was this man always hot on his heels, never taking a rest? And even if he didn't, then was there a need to drag me to his business partner's parties? Couldn't he just deal with them himself? I just wanted to return to writing my book. But guess I'll have to postpone it for now.

As I stood before the full-length mirror, I couldn't help but feel amazed at the sight. The elegant silhouette of the black dress embraced my curves with a subtle grace. The fabric cascaded down to the floor, whispering softly with each step. The dress boasted a daring slit, revealing just enough to tease, adding a touch of allure to the ensemble. The neckline, a modest plunge, framed my collarbones delicately, hinting at a quiet confidence that lingered beneath the surface. I took a moment to assess myself in the reflection, and a satisfied smile played upon my lips. The dress, with its timeless allure, draped seamlessly. I ran my fingers lightly over the smooth fabric, marveling at the subtle design that had brought this piece to life. Finally, feeling like my look was complete, I decided to join Theodore.

"Fucking finally," I heard Theodore mumble under his breath as he cut the call that I assume he had been on for some time now. I had just arrived in the living room and was facing his back currently since he was facing the door while stuck in a short argument with someone on the phone. He felt my presence behind him and finally decided to turn around.

"Fucking time you finally show up! Do you realize-" he looked up from his to finally take in my appearance. I waited for him to continue his scolding, but I was surprised when nothing came out of his mouth. Instead, his eyes remained fixed on my face, before they trailed down, agonizingly slowly, to the rest of my body. First, my upper body, then my waist, down to my feet. He visibly gulped and I waited for some kind of insult to come from his mouth, knowing the kind of obnoxious personality he has, but once again, there was nothing. Instead, he just stood there for a few seconds before abruptly turning around to leave.

"Let's go," he gritted before marching out.

"What was that?" I mumbled to myself. "That man really is a whole new level of weird," I shook my head before Ander's came to get me.

"Mr. Maxwell is waiting for you in the car, Miss Alina," I nodded before following his lead.