Anderson's pov
As I stood in the living room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of frustration. My mother just didn't get it. She was still stuck on the idea of me marrying Sophia Patel, just because of our families' social status.
I had thought that once I was back in the country, my mother would finally accept that Sophia and I were over. But it seemed like she was more determined than ever to push us together.
I took a deep breath and tried to shake off the feeling of annoyance. I knew that my mother was just trying to do what she thought was best for me, but it was hard not to feel like she was suffocating me.
I glanced around the room, my eyes landing on Lyra, who was quietly dusting the furniture. I felt a pang of guilt for snapping at my mother earlier. I knew that Lyra must have overheard our conversation, and I hoped that she didn't think less of me for it.
I made a mental note to apologize to Lyra later, and then turned my attention back to the task at hand. I had a big day ahead of me tomorrow, starting my new job at my father's company.
I was determined to prove myself, to show my parents that I was more than just a privileged rich kid. I was ready to work hard and make a name for myself, no matter what my mother or anyone else thought.
As I stood in the living room, I couldn't help but steal glances again at Lyra, who was quietly dusting the furniture. She was a stunning beauty, with a sweet and innocent face that seemed to radiate warmth and kindness. Her brown hair was styled in a neat and elegant updo, with a few loose strands framing her heart-shaped face. Her bright brown eyes sparkled with warmth and kindness, and were fringed with thick lashes that added to their allure.
She was dressed in a formal maid's uniform, complete with a crisp white apron and a fitted black dress with a subtle sheen to it. The dress was adorned with intricate white lace trim and delicate silver buttons, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall look. Her skin was a smooth and creamy complexion, with a subtle glow that suggested good health and a happy disposition. Her lips were full and inviting, and when curved into a gentle smile it added to her charm.
Despite the formal nature of her attire, there was something endearingly vulnerable about her, a sense of quiet strength and resilience that was deeply appealing. I found myself mesmerized by her beauty and personality, unable to look away as she moved effortlessly around the room.
I felt a pang of guilt for staring at her, but I couldn't help myself. There was something about Lyra that drew me in, something that made me want to know more about her. I pushed the thought aside, telling myself that I was being ridiculous. She was just a maid, after all. But as I continued to watch her, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more to Lyra than met the eye.
I pushed aside my thoughts of Lyra and focused on the day ahead. My first day at Smith Industries was a big deal, and I was determined to make a good impression.
As I arrived at the office, I was greeted by my father's assistant, who showed me to my new office. I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of pride and responsibility wash over me.
My father, Reginald Smith, was waiting for me in his office. He was a tall, imposing man with a stern expression, but his eyes softened slightly as he greeted me.
"Ah, Anderson, good to see you're on time," he said, his voice firm but approving. "I trust you're ready to get started?"
I nodded, feeling a surge of determination. "Yes, Father. I'm ready to learn and contribute to the company."
My father nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Good. I'll show you to the conference room, where you'll meet the rest of the team."
As we walked to the conference room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness. This was it – my chance to prove myself and make a name for myself in the business world.
But as we entered the conference room, I was surprised to see a familiar face among the sea of suits and ties. It was none other than Sophia Patel, the woman my mother had been trying to set me up with she was sitting in the back, a smug expression on her face. I felt a surge of surprise and annoyance. What was she doing here?
My father cleared his throat, interrupting my thoughts. "Everyone, please welcome my son, Anderson, who will be joining our team as a junior executive."
I took a deep breath, pushing aside my surprise and annoyance. I stood up, surveying the room with confidence.
"Good morning, everyone," I began, my voice strong and clear. "I'm excited to be joining the team at Smith Industries. I know that I have big shoes to fill, but I'm eager to learn and contribute to the company's success."
I paused, scanning the room and making eye contact with the team members.
"I understand that some of you may be skeptical about my appointment. But I assure you, I'm not just a privileged rich kid. I've worked hard to get where I am, and I'm committed to earning your respect and trust."
The room was silent for a moment, and then, to my surprise, the team members began to applaud. I felt a surge of relief and gratitude.
My father smiled, his eyes shining with pride. "Well done, Anderson," he said, patting me on the back.
As the meeting continued, I was introduced to the rest of the team, and we discussed the company's current projects and challenges. I was impressed by the team's expertise and passion, and I felt a sense of excitement and belonging.
As the meeting came to a close, Sophia approached me, a smile on her face.
"Welcome to the team, Anderson," she said, her voice dripping with sweetness. "I'm looking forward to working with you."
I smiled politely, but inside, I was seething. What was she up to? And why was she really here?
"I didn't know you worked here," I said, trying to sound casual despite the surprise and annoyance I felt.
Sophia smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I don't, actually. I'm here as a representative of my family's company. We're exploring potential partnerships with Smith Industries."
I raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "And you're the best person for the job?"
Sophia's smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered. "I'm just trying to help facilitate the process. Why are you being hostile towards me, Anderson?"
I denied it, trying to keep my tone neutral. "I'm not being hostile. I just don't understand why you're really here."
Sophia's eyes narrowed, her gaze piercing. "I'm here to do my job, Anderson. And I expect you to do yours. Let's keep things formal between us, shall we?"
I nodded, relieved that she was backing down. "Agreed."
I turned to leave, but not before catching Sophia's gaze. For a moment, we just stared at each other, the tension between us palpable.
As I walked away, I couldn't help but think that Sophia was more cunning and manipulative than I had given her credit for. What was she really after?
I made a mental note to keep my guard up around her. I wasn't going to let her get the better of me.
As the days went by, I settled into my new role at Smith Industries. I was determined to prove myself and make a name for myself in the company.
But despite the challenges and long hours, I always looked forward to coming home. Not just because of the comfort and familiarity of the house, but also because of Lyra.
She was always there, smiling and welcoming, with a warm cup of tea or a freshly baked cookie. We would chat for a bit, and I would tell her about my day. She was a great listener, and I found myself opening up to her in ways I never thought possible.
My mother, of course, was not pleased with our growing friendship. She would often remind me that Lyra was just a maid, and that I should not be getting too familiar with her.
But I couldn't help it. Lyra was kind and genuine, and she made me feel seen and heard in a way that no one else did.
One evening, as I was coming home from work, I found Lyra in the garden, tending to the flowers. She looked up and smiled, and I felt my heart skip a beat.
"Hey," I said, walking over to her. "How was your day?"
Lyra's eyes sparkled as she told me about her day, and I listened, entranced. As we talked, I realized that I was feeling more and more at ease around her.
And I couldn't help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, there could be something more between us and if it would work out, My mother on the other hand was growing increasingly displeased with my friendship with Lyra. She would often make snide comments about Lyra's background and education, implying that she was not good enough for our family.
I tried to ignore her comments, but it was hard to shake off the feeling that my mother was trying to drive a wedge between Lyra and me.
One evening, as we were having dinner, my mother brought up the topic of Sophia Patel again. "Anderson, I've been thinking," she said, her voice dripping with sweetness. "Perhaps it's time for you to start thinking about settling down. Sophia would make a wonderful wife for you."
I felt a surge of annoyance, but I tried to keep my cool. "Mother, I've told you before. I'm not interested in Sophia. And even if I was, I wouldn't let you or Father dictate who I marry."
My mother's face fell, and for a moment, I saw a flash of anger in her eyes. But then, she smiled again, and the moment was gone.
"We'll see about that," she said, her voice dripping with menace.
I felt a shiver run down my spine as I realized that my mother was not going to give up easily. One thing about my mother is that she is a very determined woman and to gets whatever she wanted, no matter the cost but I am her son, and an apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
I walked into the house, expecting to see Lyra's warm smile and welcoming eyes. But instead, I was greeted by one of the other maids, Emma.
"Hello, Mr. Anderson," Emma said, curtsying slightly. "I brought you your tea and cookies."
I took the tray from her, feeling a pang of disappointment. "Where's Lyra?" I asked, trying to sound casual.
Emma's expression turned sympathetic. "I'm so sorry, Mr. Anderson. Lyra took a leave of absence to go home and take care of her mother."
I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. Lyra had never mentioned anything about her mother being ill, or that she was planning to take time off. We had talked just the day before, and everything had seemed normal.
I tried to process this new information, feeling both surprised and confused. Why hadn't Lyra told me? And what was going on with her mother?
I thanked Emma and took my tea and cookies to my room, my mind racing with questions and concerns.
As the days went by, I grew increasingly worried about Lyra. I couldn't understand why she hadn't told me about her mother's illness, or why she had left so suddenly. I tried to focus on my work, but my mind kept wandering back to Lyra and what might be happening to her.
On the fifth day of her absence, I couldn't take it anymore. I needed to know what was going on, and I needed to make sure Lyra was okay. I decided to take matters into my own hands and find out where Lyra lived.
I went to the kitchen, where I found Mrs. Jenkins, our housekeeper, busy with her work and going over the lunch menu with the chef. "Mrs. Jenkins, can I have a word with you?" I asked, trying to sound casual.
Mrs. Jenkins looked up, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Of course, Mr. Anderson. What's on your mind?" We moved to a corner of the kitchen
"I was wondering if you could give me Lyra's address and phone number," I said, trying to sound nonchalant. "I just wanted to check in on her and make sure she's doing okay."
Mrs. Jenkins' expression turned guarded, and she hesitated for a moment before responding. "I'm not sure that's a good idea, Mr. Anderson," she said slowly. "Lyra's a private person, and I'm not sure she'd appreciate you showing up at her doorstep."
I felt a surge of frustration, but I tried to stay calm. "I just want to make sure she's okay," I repeated. "I promise I won't overstep any boundaries."
Mrs. Jenkins sighed, clearly reluctant. "Fine," she said finally. "But please, Mr. Anderson, be discreet. Lyra takes her home like a shrine."
I nodded, taking the address and phone number from Mrs. Jenkins. I felt a sense of determination wash over me. I was going to find out what was going on with Lyra, no matter what