Morning sunlight filled the floor-to-ceiling windows of the mansion's library, casting a warm light on Ryder as he sat in the comfortable armchair. The soft leather creaked beneath him as he shifted, his eyes scanning the pages of the worn leather-bound book. The title, "The Great Gatsby", was embossed in gold lettering, and the musty scent of old paper filled his nostrils.
The room was quiet, except for the soft hum of the air conditioning and the distant chirping of birds outside. Ryder had risen early, seeking solace in the peaceful morning hours before the chaos of the day began.
As he read, the characters came alive in his mind, their struggles and triumphs a welcome distraction from his own tangled thoughts. He had always found solace in literature, and this classic novel was a favorite.
Just as he was absorbed in the story, Sophia entered the room, her elegant heels clicking on the polished floor. Her designer gown rustled softly as she moved, drawing Ryder's attention. Her dark hair cascaded down her back.
"Fascinating reading material, Ryder," Sophia said, her tone laced with amusement. "I didn't know you were capable of tackling such complex literature."
Ryder looked up, meeting Sophia's gaze. "Good morning, Sophia. I'm trying to broaden my horizons."
Sophia's smile twisted. "And what makes you think you can handle this? Your educational background is... limited, isn't it?"
Ryder's expression turned guarded, but he replied calmly, "I dropped out of university during my second year."
Sophia's eyebrow arched. "And what led to that?"
Ryder hesitated before answering, "Financial issues. My family couldn't afford the tuition."
Sophia's expression softened, her eyes betraying surprised. "I see," she said, her tone gentler.
Ryder continued, "I've been meaning to continue my studies, but... circumstances haven't allowed it."
Sophia's gaze lingered on Ryder's face, her thoughts whirling. She saw potential in him, potential wasted by circumstance.
"I wish I could continue," Ryder said, his voice hinted with longing.
Sophia's inner voice whispered, "I could help him. I could make arrangements..." But aloud, she only said, "Keep your dreams to yourself, Ryder. This world isn't kind to idealists."
With that, Sophia turned and left, leaving Ryder to wonder at the brief warmth in her eyes.
As Ryder returned to his book, Sophia's thoughts lingered on their conversation. She saw an opportunity to mold Ryder into something more, something that would benefit her own interests.
"I'll make sure he gets the education he desires," Sophia thought, a calculated smile spreading across her face. "And perhaps, he'll prove useful to me in the future."
The scene faded with Ryder lost in his book, unaware of Sophia's hidden intentions.
Sophia's thoughts still lingered on Ryder's conversation long after their encounter. She couldn't shake off the feeling that had been growing inside her - a spark of attraction, a quiver in her chest whenever he was near.
Secretly, Sophia had developed feelings for Ryder, feelings she dare not admit to anyone, not even herself. But as she watched him, saw the longing in his eyes to learn, to grow, Sophia knew she had to act.
Determined to pursue her desires, Sophia sought out her mother, Vivian, in her private sitting room.
"Mother, I need to discuss something with you," Sophia said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Vivian looked up from her tea, her eyes narrowing. "What is it, Sophia?"
Sophia's heart raced as she spoke. "It's about Ryder. I've been observing him, and I think he deserves a chance."
Vivian's expression turned skeptical. "What kind of chance?"
Sophia's cheeks flushed, but she continued. "An education. He wants to continue his studies, but he can't afford it."
Vivian raised an eyebrow. "And why should I care?"
Sophia's voice trembled. "Because, Mother, I think it would be a valuable investment. He has potential."
Vivian leaned back in her chair, steepling her fingers. "I'm not sure, Sophia. What makes you think he's worth our investment?"
Sophia's words spilled out in a rush. "He's intelligent, Mother. And eager to learn. With our help, he could achieve great things."
Vivian's expression softened, her eyes searching Sophia's face. "You've clearly given this a lot of thought."
Sophia nodded, her heart pounding.
Vivian's voice was firm. "Very well, Sophia. I'll sponsor Ryder's education. But I expect results."
Sophia's face lit up with relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Mother."
Sophia's smile hid her true intentions. She knew exactly what her mother meant.
The scene faded with Vivian's knowing glance, and Sophia's hidden triumph.
Little did Ryder know, his life was about to take a dramatic turn, courtesy of Sophia's secret feelings.
_At the mansion's kitchen_
The next morning, the warm sunlight streaming through the kitchen window highlighted the soapy water in the sink. Ryder stood at the sink, his hands submerged in warm water, scrubbing away at the remaining dishes.
The morning light danced across his face, highlighting his features. His sleeves were rolled up, revealing toned forearms, and his hair was mussed, as if he'd just rolled out of bed.
Just then, Sophia appeared in the doorway, Her hair was styled in a sleek bun, and her crisp white dress rustled softly as she moved.
Her gaze locked onto Ryder's figure at the sink, and her heart skipped a beat.
Sophia's thoughts whirled - he was everything she'd ever wanted in a man: kind, hardworking, and humble.
But her daydream was shattered when Ryder looked up and caught her gaze.
"Good morning," Ryder said, his smile warm.
Sophia's cheeks flushed, and she quickly masked her emotions with a haughy, cold tone.
"Good morning, Ryder," Sophia snapped, her voice icy. "Must you do the dishes? We have maids for that."
Ryder's expression faltered, but he replied calmly, "I'd just finished using them, and I thought it was best I washed them myself."
Sophia's interruption was swift. "Spare me the explanation, Ryder."
Her eyes narrowed. "My mother needs you downstairs now."
Ryder's brows furrowed, but he nodded and began drying his hands.
As Sophia turned to leave, Ryder's thoughts swirled.
"What's gotten into her? She's always cold, but today... today was different. For a moment, I thought I saw something else in her eyes, something almost... kind."
Ryder shook his head, chuckling dryly.
"Must be imagining things."
He followed Sophia downstairs, his mind still puzzling over her behavior.
Little did Ryder know, Sophia's thoughts were far from indifferent.
As she descended the stairs, Sophia's heart raced.
"Why did I react like that? He's going to be more than just a servant soon... but there's something about him."
Sophia's inner turmoil deepened.
She couldn't afford to let her feelings show.
Not now, not ever.
_Vivian's sitting room_
Vivian sat regally in the sitting room, her eyes fixed on Ryder as he entered.
"Ah, Ryder," Vivian said, her voice commanding attention.
Ryder approached, and without waiting for permission, sat down on the velvet armchair opposite Vivian.
Vivian's eyebrows rose, her expression incredulous.
"Who asked you to sit on my favorite armchair?" Vivian snapped, her voice icy.
Ryder's face flushed as he quickly stood up, his eyes wide with embarrassment.
"I-I apologize, ma'am," Ryder stammered.
Vivian's gaze softened slightly.
"Better," Vivian corrected, "you should ask permission before taking a seat."
Ryder nodded, chastened.
"May I sit, ma'am?" Ryder asked, his voice respectful.
Vivian nodded.
"Very well. Sit."
Ryder sat down, his posture straight.
"Your education, Ryder," Vivian began. "I've been reviewing your records. You dropped out at Level 200. Why?"
Ryder hesitated before answering.
"Financial constraints, ma'am. My mother's illness... I had to care for her."
Vivian's expression turned thoughtful.
"I see. And what do you think you'd like to study if given the opportunity?"
Ryder's eyes lit up.
"Business and economics, ma'am. I've always been fascinated by entrepreneurship."
Vivian nodded.
"I'm willing to sponsor your education, Ryder. You'll attend Ravenswood University, one of the best institutions in the country."
Ryder's face transformed with joy.
"Thank you, ma'am!" Ryder exclaimed, his gratitude genuine.
Vivian smiled.
"You have potential, Ryder. Don't waste it. But tell me, what drives you?"
Ryder's gaze intensified.
"I want to create a better life for my mother, ma'am. She sacrificed everything for me."
Vivian's expression softened.
"I understand. Family is important."
Ryder paused, his expression humble.
"Ma'am, may I have your permission to visit my mother at the hospital? She's been... unwell."
Vivian's expression hardened.
"You have no right to move around as you please, Ryder," Vivian said coldly. "You'll go in the evening, if I feel like releasing you."
Ryder's face fell, but he nodded obediently.
"Yes, ma'am."
Vivian's gaze lingered on Ryder, her thoughts hidden behind a mask of indifference.
Ryder turned to leave, his heart heavy with concern for his mother.
Little did he know, Vivian's words were only the beginning of a fragile dance between freedom and obligation.
As Ryder left Vivian's sitting room, his emotions swirled in turmoil. Joy and gratitude struggled with disappointment and frustration as he processed the mixed news. Attending Ravenswood University was a dream come true, offering a chance to further his studies and escape the limits of his menial tasks. However, Vivian's condition - that he could only visit his ailing mother in the evening, and only if she deemed it acceptable - cast a dark shadow over his excitement.
Ryder's thoughts raced as he struggled to comprehend Vivian's cruelty. Didn't she understand that his mother's smile and weak hold on his hand were his sole sources of solace? Being denied access to her bedside felt like a prison sentence. His heart ached, and he felt trapped, a prisoner of Vivian's generosity. Yet, Ryder's resolve hardened; he vowed to find a way to visit his mother, no matter the cost.
Determination burned within him as he descended the stairs. He would endure Vivian's rules for now, but Ryder was resolute in his decision to break free and forge his own path soon. The thought sent a coldness down his spine, but he was willing to take that risk for his mother, the only person who truly understood him. Ryder's mind was made up; he would find a way to reclaim control over his life and ensure that his mother received the care and love she deserved.