Just seeing him again reminded me of everything I was trying to forget. At least James wasn't trying to blackmail me emotionally. Lucas still didn't know about my past. So why did he have to come now of all times? And why did it have to be on my date with Lucas?
****
When we returned to the manor, I left Lucas at the door and rushed to my room. I locked it behind me and threw myself on the bed. I buried my face in the pillow and started to cry.
Lucas
Did I do something?I thought the date was going well.
It wasn't how I expected it to be, as I had no experience whatsoever. Even my past lovers or anyone I had a fling with never really had a proper date with me, I kept worrying that Olivia wouldn't have a good time. But she did. At least that's what I thought.
Everything went well. I wondered what exactly made her panic. As she pulled me toward where we parked, I kept glancing back to catch a view of the car.
I was upset with myself that I didn't pay attention to it in the first place. I noticed the car, and she was staring at something. I didn't know if it was related. But when the car sped off, she began to panic. I realized something was wrong.
"What was that all about?” Father asked with a yawn.
"It's none of your concern," I replied as I walked past him.
"I've noticed you've been getting a little too proud these days," he remarked. "You've been speaking out against me, and you don't even hide your displeasure. Even now, you're ignoring me to attend tothatgirl.'
With the emphasis he placed on “that:, I had the feeling he knew something I didn't, and maybe it might have to do with why she panicked that night. But he wasn't worth the trouble. If there was anyone to tell me, it had to be Olivia herself, and if she wasn't ready, I was going to wait.
"Good night," I said to him.
He didn't respond.
****
Standing in front of Olivia's door, I raised my hand to knock but stopped. I placed my ear against the door and could hear her crying.
"Olivia, It's me," I announced as I knocked gently. "Could you tell me what's wrong?"
The crying stopped, and I could hear her sniffling.
"Do you need someone next to you?" I asked. "You don't have to say anything. Just let me hold you. I promise to make you feel better."
No reply.
"If you change your mind, just call me," I said and turned to leave.
Just as I turned, I heard the door unlock and creak open.
Olivia was standing there trying to wipe her eyes with her hand. They were already red.
"Promise I don't have to say anything?" she asked.
"Not even a single word," I assured her.
She nodded and let me into her room. I closed the door behind me and followed her to bed. She and I had yet to change out of our outfits for the day.
"Give me a minute," she said and made her way to the bathroom.
A few moments later, she stepped out wearing her night dress. I took off my clothes and just remained in my underwear. I allowed her to lie down first before joining her. I spooned her, and she felt so small and fragile.
Her breathing had calmed down, which was a good thing. We remained quiet, studying each other's breathing. The silence wasn't awkward.
She finally broke the silence, "I'm sorry about ruining today's date."