'This is the only way. I have already lost the most opportune moment to escape from this place. Those people will be distracted for a few days at most. But it won't be long before they know that I have run away. Now, only this man, no matter how hateful, is my only option.' Astrid thought, as she pretended to calmly drink her tea.
The atmosphere was awkwardly silent, and the only sound was rustling leaves and dripping morning dew which was condensed on them.
Vincent didn't seem to want to pay any attention to her and indifferently watched the sky.
"Fine, I will give you a chance to prove your usefulness and you will have a chance at regaining your freedom, but I promise you nothing, for you are in no position to negotiate any terms or any deal with me because we are not at equal grounds to begin with." Vincent coldly said, leaving no way for Astrid to argue any further.
"Fine…", Astrid said reluctantly, while keeping her anger in her stomach, as she knew from her experience that the man in front of her was not the one to be messed with.
"Now, go and get freshen up and meet me in lounge for breakfast in an hour, sharp. The maids must have prepared some clothes for you." Vincent continued as he stood up and walked away.
"-_-"
Astrid didn't look at him but stared at a white bird which was sitting at a tree branch as it flew away into the vast sky with a tinge of longing in her heart.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
***
Astrid returned to her room and looked at the dresses hanging on a clothing stand. There was various design to choose from, like a light blue flared tulle gown with heart shaped neck, it was embroidered with pearls and crushed diamonds on its bodice and sleeves, a Pink sleeveless floral gown, a purple satin gown with a long slit and deep V-neck which was embroidered with silver thread at the bottom.
But she chose a mermaid style dark green velvet dress with intricate black lace along its sleeve and neck, which covered every inch of a body except showing the feet, hands and face. She also chose a matching black long stole scarf to wrap around her hair.
She walked towards the bathroom to help herself and take a bath, while discarding her clothes at the entrance.
After a while, Astrid slowly dipped inside a large bathtub, which was enough to fit a dozen people in it and sighed with satisfaction, adjusting to rest in a comfortable position. The bathroom had marbled walls and flooring, a spring fountain built in a corner and the lightings were dim. A variety of essential oil, bathing salts, body oils, body and hair wash item were placed for the people to have a complete skin care routine.
She really enjoyed these few moments when she could pamper herself to the fullest. 'Maybe, not being able to runaway was not so bad, if it meant she could take such a comfortable bath regularly. she wouldn't be able to this if she was on a run.' she coyly thought to herself.