As the carriage came to a stop, Zafron's eyes widened at the sight before him. The mansion that loomed ahead was not quite as grand as the Blackthorn estate, but it was impressive nonetheless. Its imposing facade spoke of wealth and power, with intricate stonework and large, gleaming windows.
Cordelia descended from the carriage with practiced grace, Zafron following behind, his mouth slightly agape. "Madam Cordelia," he ventured, "is this truly your mansion?"
She turned to him with a coy smile. "Well, technically it belongs to the man I married. But one could say it's equally mine."
As they approached the gate, Zafron noticed several men stationed at intervals. Security, he presumed. Each man bowed his head respectfully as Cordelia passed, murmuring, "Welcome home, Madam."
The interior of the mansion left Zafron even more awestruck. The entrance hall was a marvel of marble and gold, with a grand staircase sweeping upwards and crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over everything. Exquisite paintings and tapestries adorned the walls, each one probably worth more than Zafron could earn in a lifetime.
Cordelia moved through the house with the confidence of someone who knew every inch intimately. She led Zafron through numerous corridors, each as opulent as the last. Servants and staff members paused in their duties to greet her, their eyes inevitably sliding to Zafron with curiosity.
As they walked, Zafron couldn't help but compare this mansion to the Blackthorn estate. While both were undeniably luxurious, there was a different energy here. The Blackthorn mansion felt older, more steeped in tradition, while this place had a fresher, more modern feel to it. The artwork was bolder, the furnishings more contemporary.
Zafron's observations were periodically interrupted by the beautiful maids they passed. Each one greeted Cordelia respectfully, but their eyes lingered on Zafron, some even offering shy smiles. He was accustomed to this attention by now; his looks had always attracted the opposite sex. Yet, as always, he felt no particular thrill from their admiration. It was simply a fact of life for him, one he neither encouraged nor discouraged.
Finally, they reached a door guarded by two maids. Cordelia addressed them, "You're relieved of your duties for now. Please leave us."
The maids curtsied and departed, but not before casting appreciative glances at Zafron. As they walked away, he could hear their whispered conversation.
"Did you see him? So handsome!"
"I know! I wonder who he is?"
Their giggles faded as they disappeared around a corner.
Zafron felt a slight warmth in his cheeks but pushed the feeling aside. He was here on business, after all, even if he wasn't entirely sure what that business was.
Cordelia turned to him, her hand on the doorknob. "Are you ready, Zafron?" she asked, her voice taking on a tone he couldn't quite decipher.
He nodded, curiosity and a touch of apprehension mingling in his chest. As Cordelia opened the door, Zafron couldn't shake the feeling that he was about to step into something far more complex than he had anticipated. The opulence around him, the whispers and glances, Cordelia's mysterious errand - it all added up to a situation that was well beyond his usual experiences.
Taking a deep breath, Zafron followed Cordelia into the room, wondering what exactly he had gotten himself into.
Zafron's eyes widened, taking in the nice space. The room was a masterpiece of luxury, with high ceilings adorned with intricate moldings and walls covered in rich, embroidered tapestries.
As they entered the room, Cordelia gestured broadly. "Welcome to my private chambers, Zafron."
'This room is enormous! It could fit five of mine easily.'
"Please, sit on the bed," Cordelia instructed, moving towards her dresser.
'On the bed? Is that appropriate?' Zafron thought.
Zafron hesitated, his gaze falling on the enormous four-poster bed with its silken sheets and plush pillows. Reluctantly, he perched on the edge, feeling out of place in such grandeur.
Cordelia stood before her ornate mirror, critically examining her reflection. She adjusted a stray lock of her chestnut hair, then leaned in closer, scrutinizing her complexion. Her fingers traced the curve of her cheek, a small frown creasing her brow.
"You must be wondering why I've brought you here," she said, meeting his eyes in the reflection. Her hand reached for a crystal perfume bottle, and she dabbed a bit on her wrists.
Zafron nodded, not trusting himself to speak. He watched as Cordelia turned, the soft rustle of her dress filling the silence.