Grumbling Alaric, after his return from Manhattan, was strangely unlike his usual self. You see, everyone knew that Manhattan had always been the elixir of Alaric's spirit. It was where he found his solace, his fuel for living. Yet on this particular day, a subtle air of discontent hung around him, casting a shadow upon his once vibrant persona.
The business trip yesterday did indeed wound Alaric from the start. Commercial flights, cramped seats, adhering to Aymard's agenda—it was truly a nightmare! For three days straight, he felt disoriented, and whatever he did just didn't feel right. Time and time again, he screamed out of frustration, attempting to release the anger in his heart, only to be haunted by Aisha's smile, whispering the word "Fox" in his mind.
Bold as ever, she, a mere Personal Assistant to an obscure, fortunate soul, dared to pass judgment. What's more, she exuded unwavering confidence as he equated herself with others, paying little heed to her bluster. How could she not be interested in placing Dirdja's name on the top of her party's guest list? Truly, Aisha was full of herself. Alaric had already heard the commotion beyond the RSVP, whispers of the silk scroll delivered by a gloved courier. It arrived in an intricately carved copper box. A formal dinner invitation from the enigmatic heiress of Durlach at her equally mysterious abode.
Alaric was displeased to learn that some of his acquaintances claimed to have received that prestigious invitation. All this time, he had always been the foremost, never to be surpassed by anyone he knew. The treatment he received from this Newcomer truly unsettled him. How dare they ignore Dirdja!
Or perhaps, could it be that AR, as the employer, listened attentively to Aisha Roestam?
In an instant, Alaric's chest tightened, recalling that evening at St. Regis last week. It had led Dono to audaciously make sly remarks, sighing in disappointment until the late hours of the night. Yet, Alaric simply chuckled, brushing it off at the time. He didn't consider his actions could have unpleasant consequences down the road. Diminishing others had become a habit for Alaric, who knew exactly how significant Dirdja's name was. Unfortunately, he forgot that Dirdja wasn't the only one with a renowned name. Their competitors held equal power, if not more, just like Dirdja. Or even some friends whose families wielded such authority that they refused to be recognized by the common folk. Take, for instance, the Sumanagara Twins who had begun to be idolized by society. And also their stepbrother.
A shiver of cold sensation crawled up Alaric's spine, causing a momentary shudder without reason. His stomach churned, feeling a slight twinge. A thought that had always been forbidden suddenly invaded his mind, firmly taking hold. He found himself questioning if he had made a grave mistake. If there were no invitations for his parents, what would become of it all? He despised being bothered, but his mother's teasing remarks about finding a well-endowed partner for the continuation of their half-realized business venture left him uneasy. Perhaps his family, too, awaited the possibility of such an outcome concerning AR.
He sighed heavily, berating himself. His family was too grand to stoop low and fawn over AR. Alaric was certain his family would never behave in such a manner. With a light hum, he made his way out, descending the grand spiral staircase towards the spacious dining room. There, he saw his parents engaged in a serious conversation. The untouched breakfast spread before them. The furrow on his mother's exquisite brow, though her eyes widened, indicated unease. Alaric understood that something was amiss. Unfortunately, he lacked the nimbleness to execute the fleeting escape plan that briefly crossed his mind.
"Oh, when did you arrive there?"
Magdeléne, Alaric's mother, quickly greeted him, turning to look at him. Alaric flashed a polite smile. He stepped closer, pecked Magdeléne's cheeks, and pulled out the chair next to her. It didn't take long for breakfast to be served promptly. Dharma Dirdja, his father, scrutinized Alaric carefully.
"Aymard mentioned that while you were in New York, you had the opportunity to entertain AR Durlach's Assistant. How was she?"
Alaric raised an eyebrow. Rare indeed was this situation, with both of their parents still at home. Even rarer was Dharma engaging him in conversation. Alaric found it peculiar that Aymard had apparently shared the details about Aisha with Dharma. After all, during the journey back, Aymard remained silent upon hearing Dono's account. True, his brother was quite sensitive, disliking Alaric teasing Aisha, even though Aymard's own interest in the PA was not yet fully formed.
"Dono mentioned that you had caused him some unease," Dharma continued.
Alaric gazed sharply at Dharma. As usual, Dharma only spoke to him when offering criticism.
Magdeléne sighed, "What's the big deal about her anyway? She shouldn't be offended, as she should be accustomed to it. Hosting an Assistant, Darling? Dreadful!"
Dharma shook his head, "I hope you understand, Magdeléne. You've been quite tiresome since yesterday. Constantly angry because we haven't received an invitation from the Durlachs," he said.
Magdeléne sighed, "What does that have to do with those ill-mannered Durlachs and Alaric?"
"Good morning, Mama."
Suddenly, Aymard appeared behind Magdeléne, pecked her cheek, and swiftly moved to sit next to Dharma.
"It's unusual to have such commotion in the early morning," Aymard joked.
Magdeléne chuckled softly, "Your father, he accuses Alaric of being the reason the Durlach heiress ignores us."
Alaric felt his heart pounding, a sense of unease washing over him. Could the accusation be true? Meanwhile, he watched Aymard twist his smile, alternating his gaze between Alaric and Dharma.
"It's quite possible, Ma," he said.
Alaric gaped, "What?"
Dharma sighed, "I heard directly from Dono. It's about the wolves and a little fox."
Alaric choked on the sip of orange juice he had just taken. "A little fox?!"
Aymard burst into laughter, while Magdeléne furrowed her brow in confusion, "Can someone explain to Mama?"
Aymard shook his head, "Just ask Burik, Mama."
"Aymard, your sibling's name is not Burik."
Aymard laughed even harder, "Oh, right, ask the Honorable and Handsome Prince Alaric."
"Aymard!"
As Alaric finished coughing, with Magdeléne's hand still gently rubbing his back in concern, he glared angrily at Aymard,
"You're annoying, Mardi! A tattletale!"
"Alaric! Language! Why do you enjoy calling each other by those uncivilized names?" Magdeléne complained.
Aymard continued to laugh, glancing at Magdeléne. He suppressed the jealousy in his heart when seeing how much Magdeléne cared for Alaric who had only choked. He recalled that Magdeléne's gaze had never been warm towards him.
"Mama is a bit concerned not because of Alaric's behavior. But isn't it strange if we're not invited?" Magdeléne said.
Silence fell. Dharma stared at Alaric sharply, then shifted his gaze to Magdeléne.
"It's not surprising if her PA's has given a bad recommendation to AR Durlach. Perhaps she took offense due to your actions, Alaric," Dharma said.
Magdeléne turned to Alaric, "What have you done, Darling?"
Alaric froze confronted by the eyes of his mother that he could never understand. Unlike Aymard, who had no hesitation in contradicting Magdeléne when she demanded something he deemed excessive, Alaric was truly the Beloved Son of Mama, never one to argue.
For a moment, Magdeléne remained silent, blinking without taking her eyes off Alaric. After a while, she sighed.
"Well, then. If that's the case, even without the invitation from Durlach, we are still Dirdja. It doesn't matter, Darling," she said.
Dharma smiled and cleared his throat. He turned to Aymard and said,
"Your mother has been keeping me up all night. Constant nagging, occasional outbursts. Every hour, she calls all the Assistants, asking if there's any invitation coming."
Aymard shrugged his shoulders, struggling to hold back laughter. Alaric looked back and forth between Dharma and Aymard, feeling uneasy. Magdeléne narrowed her eyes.
"Well, what can we do? If they don't intend to invite us, then so be it. Am I supposed to beg for an invitation? Like some Firdarani-who trying to acquire her tin box," she said.
Dharma smirked sarcastically, "I don't mind not being invited. But listen, if we end up having difficulties in collaborating with them later on, don't obstruct me from punishing your beloved child."
Magdeléne sighed, "It's actually quite a problem, honestly. It's truly a bad reputation if I don't receive any attention."
Alaric turned to look at Magdeléne, who now wore a disappointed expression. Aymard burst into laughter.
"Alaric, you need to start thinking all long-term. At least, think about Mama," Aymard said.
Magdeléne nodded, "Mama's dignity is at stake, Darling."
Alaric bowed his head in frustration, "So what should I do then?"
Dharma chuckled softly. After a moment, he spoke seriously,
"You should have learned to think like an adult by now, Son. Start learning to do so. Aymard is overwhelmed handling it all alone."
Alaric let out a faint sigh. Magdeléne resumed her gentle back-patting, full of concern. Aymard redirected his envy towards his breakfast, devouring it without hesitation. Dharma was about to rise from his seat when one of the workers hurriedly approached. A man dressed in a gray suit with a thick vest followed the Household Assistant. His hands were adorned with white gloves.
"I dare not receive it, Ma'am," the worker said.
Magdeléne nodded. Dharma looked at the Man in White Gloves and greeted him, "Welcome. You've arrived early in the morning," he said.
The man smiled politely, "Good morning, Mr. Dharma Dirdja. I apologize for intruding upon your personal time."
Dharma nodded, "Very well, who are you and what is your business?"
The man bowed respectfully and presented a small shimmering box. Alaric and Magdeléne were taken aback.
"I have been sent by the House of Durlach to personally deliver an invitation to a dinner for you and your family," he said.
Alaric felt his throat dry. Aymard simply smiled, while Magdeléne couldn't take her eyes off the elegantly carved slender box presented by the Man in White Gloves. Slowly, she rose and approached, accepting the invitation.
"As the Lady of the House, I accept the invitation from the Durlach family. Please convey to them that we will gladly attend. Do not hesitate to ask if you require any assistance from us," she said.
Aymard and Dharma raised their eyebrows simultaneously. It was unusual for Magdeléne to show such kindness and offer direct assistance.
"Thank you for your kindness, Madam. I will convey your message to Madam Roestam. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall take my leave," the man replied.
Magdeléne nodded gracefully, delicately holding the invitation with both hands. It didn't take long for her to return to her seat. The slender metal box was truly beautiful. As RSVP had mentioned, the engravings were intricate. However, RSVP had missed some details. Some friends mentioned receiving a copper box, but in Magdeléne's hands, it was made of gold. Alaric was astonished as Magdeléne carefully opened the small latch. The Man in White Gloves had already exited, escorted by the Household Assistant.
"They have style," murmured Magdeléne.
As it opened, a distinct fragrance filled the air. It was subtle, not overpowering. It had an earthy quality that evoked the scent of the morning beach. Alaric observed Magdeléne as she reached for the slender roll inside. RSVP was right this time. It was delicately woven silk that resembled aged parchment.
"Embroidered with golden threads," Magdeléne whispered.
Dharma watched her closely, and soon a relieved smile adorned his face. "Still upset, Magda?"
Magdeléne lifted her gaze, briefly locking eyes with Dharma before suppressing a restrained smile. Shortly after, her attention returned to the invitation, her eyes shimmering with excitement.
"It seems it's scheduled for next week, precisely on Wednesday," she murmured.
Dharma sighed, a knowing smile playing on his lips as he glanced at Aymard. Aymard responded with a playful smirk. His mother was delighted, obtaining a beautiful object that others may not possess.
"Olivina claimed her box was made of copper. She boasted about it, thinking that Durlach prioritized her," Magdeléne whispered.
This time, Dharma raised an eyebrow, aware that the mothers' affairs had already begun. Aymard muttered under his breath, sounding like the buzz of a bee.
"Alright, it's time to leave. Aymard?"
Aymard nodded. "Yes, Papa. Alright, Mama, have a good time. I'm sure Aunt Olivina won't dare to brag in front of you this time," he said.
Magdeléne chuckled softly. "You and your words, Aymard. Mama truly adores you."
Aymard chuckled while rising from his seat and straightening his jacket. "See you this afternoon, Ma."
"Alaric?" Dharma inquired.
Alaric gazed at Dharma. "Later, Papa."
Dharma simply nodded and moved on after pecking Magdeléne's crown, to which she responded with a fleeting glance. It didn't matter much, as Magdeléne was too engrossed in the beautiful object in her hands.
"Oh, my dear Alaric. Mama truly adores their taste."
Alaric took the roll from Magdeléne's hand, not to read it, but to observe its physicality. It was no wonder anyone would admire it.
"Ah, Mama is now wondering-"
Alaric paid no attention to Magdeléne who suddenly turned to look at him. Alaric was engrossed in examining the exquisitely engraved golden box. Perhaps it wasn't entirely made of gold, just gold-plated, but it was still magnificent.
"Do they have a daughter, Alaric?"
Alaric turned with a perplexed expression, "Huh?"
"You and Aymard inquired about AR, didn't you? Who knows, they might have a teenage daughter or one ready to make her debut at The Ball?"
Alaric furrowed his brow, "I don't know, Ma. I only know that Aymard considers them as potential business partner. The another issues like you have asked, apparently, is just the mothers' affair, No?"
Magdeléne stared at Alaric sharply, but moments later, she smiled while adjusting Alaric's suit.
"Yes. You're right. But it would be fascinating if AR indeed has a daughter."
Alaric raised an eyebrow, "Why?"
"Mama admires their taste. Although the commoner rumor is significant, with such refined taste, Mama believes AR must have raised their daughter perfectly."
Alaric grew more puzzled, "Okay, I'll go along with Mama's baseless analysis then."
Magdeléne glared at him, causing Alaric to burst into hearty laughter.
"What do you know about mothers' affairs? Matters like this are just as important as convincing shareholders, you know!"
Alaric muttered sarcastically, "So what if AR Durlach has a daughter?" he asked playfully, still chuckling.
Magdeléne smiled broadly, "Long-term business prospects, my dear."
This time, Alaric furrowed his brow, his laughter no longer as carefree as before.
"A permanent agreement."
Now Alaric's laughter began to fade.
"If there is a mature daughter among them, it might be wise for Mama to include her on the list."
"The list?"
"Yes. Your potential bride."
Alaric froze on the spot, his eyes wide with disbelief as he stared at Magdeléne, who casually tossed a dismissive smile before returning her attention to the exquisite object that had just been delivered. Not long after, Magdeléne walked away, leaving Alaric alone, heading towards her private chamber.
"You know, if there is one, Mama would prioritize you over Aymard."
Alaric swallowed hard. It felt like a lump in his throat.
"Why, Ma? Isn't Aymard the older brother? Mama is playing favorites!"
Magdeléne shrugged her shoulders slightly as she ascended the grand marble staircase. Without looking back, she responded to Alaric,
"Because Aymard can take care of himself perfectly, my dear. He always has, unlike you," said Magdeléne, in sync with the echoing sound of her footsteps on the wide marble stairs.
Alaric snorted. He gazing at his mother's figure that slowly disappearing at the top of the staircase before turning and making the way to her own chamber. Now Alaric felt a tinge of annoyance. He was unable to comprehend the intricate workings of his mother' minds. Why she always so obsessed with choosing the perfect daughter-in-law? Similarly, the other mothers Alaric knew were no different. They all seemed to possess a certain obsession, a fixation that surpassed even the grandest of parties and the most extravagant of social affairs. To be honest, the complexity of their plans was surpassed any market expansion plan and the subtlety exceeded any Ponzi scheme. Truly terrifying.
*****