Chapter 10
There’s a lot of things that’s going around my head right now while Maia is helping me to get dressed. She was more timid than before. The two maids that will help me are silent as well. I can feel my heart pounding hard.
What will be his reaction when he sees his daughter for the first time in eighteen years? Will he be delighted or dissatisfied? What should I do? I feel nervous.
I wore a light green dress with laces that was sent to me earlier. I was told that I will need to shop for my clothes in the near future since I only have limited dresses with me. The fabric feels amazing and I can tell that it’s expensive. Maia, Amber and Rose guided me to the garden house. I was told that this place is only used for special occasions.
“My lady, the Master, will be a little late because he was with an unexpected guest.” Amy said as she approached me.
“That’s fine. Is it alright for me to look around?” I asked and she nodded quickly before answering my question.
“Of course my lady.” She replied and I smiled.
I stood up from the chair I was sitting on and started to look around and admire the beauty of the garden. There are many roses planted in this garden. They are all beautiful even at night time. I am sure they will be more amazing to look at in the morning.
There are many herbs planted in this garden as well. It was decorated with clear glass so the night view of the sky is still visible. There are few lights that surround the area and I can’t see the other flowers on the far end of the garden. I am afraid that I will be lost if I insist on looking.
“I will ask for permission to see that area tomorrow.” I muttered to myself.
“You don’t have to ask permission.” I heard a deep voice from behind me and I can feel my heart tightens. I slowly turned around and saw a man with black expression as he gazed at me.
Looking at the way he dressed, his posture and the way our eye colors look the same I am certain. He is my father, right?
“Pardon..” I whispered as I tried to gather my thoughts on what I would reply to his words.
“I said you don’t need to ask permission. This place belongs to you now, Celeste Amaranth.” He said and I was shocked. What did he say? Is that really true? This place is mine? Is he giving me this place?!
“Are you..” I trailed off.
“Yes. I am your father.” He said and I clutched my hand to my chest. This man in front of me does not reassemble me at all but somehow his presence makes me feel safe. He has sharp jaws, green eyes and dark hair just like how my mother describes him to me whenever I ask about him. No way, he still looks young even though he’s already in his forties.
“You look exactly how my mother describes you, father.” I said and for the first time I saw him smile.
“And you look exactly like her.” He replied and I almost cried.
This is something that I have always hoped for. To see my father and meet him personally, this is like a dream. I can’t help but feel mixed emotions right now. He’s finally with me. I wonder if both of us can live happily together like a family now... or maybe it was hoping for too many good things. For now, I will enjoy my first meal with him.
We sat down and waited for dinner. The meals are later served by the servants and I can’t help but notice their smiles and giggles as they serve us. They are looking at us and silently talking to each other. I can also notice them tearing up a little every time they see father smiling.
“Are you enjoying your meal?” He said and I realized I was looking around a little longer and he must have noticed it.
“Yes... Yes I am.” I replied.
He nodded and ordered for more food. I was shocked because there is no way that I will be able to eat all of this up! The cook must be expecting this because there are more food dishes and they seem endless! This is overwhelming for me but I also feel special that I am receiving this treatment.
“Uhm... What should I call you from now on?” I asked and he looked at me as he spoke. He’s not a person who’s good at expressing his feelings isn’t he? He must be overwhelmed to suddenly take me in. He’s doing his best and I must do too!
“I am fine with anything.” He said.
“Then should I call you Viscount?” I said and I saw his brow twitch from irritation. Did he not say that he’s fine with everything?
“You called me father a while ago so why not go with that?” he replied. He could have said that in the beginning.
“Dad.” I said and he looked at me, “Can I call you Dad?” I said and he quickly diverted his eyes but can see his face bushing a little bit.
“You can do that.” He said and I smiled. Seriously? Mother is right. He was just like a child, that's why she enjoyed teasing father so much.
“You can call me Celeste too, Dad.” I said and he nodded while avoiding my eyes. I smiled at his reaction.
We finished our meal and I was full. The food is amazing! I feel like I can skip meals for days.
Father said he would walk with me until we reached my room and I agreed. Maia and the other servants walk behind us as we talk to each other. I am happy that we are not behaving awkwardly and he’s being good to me. I feel happy about it.
“Later I will talk to Monroe about your schedule and you will receive it tomorrow. If you have problems with it, tell him immediately so he can alter it. I will have him personally report to me about your activities.” He said and I nodded. He must be talking about Sir Mon, the butler. I guess they are pretty close.
“I understand.” I replied.
“Your education will also start tomorrow.” He said and I was shocked. Really? I will study! That’s great!
“Really? Thank you very much! I promise to do well.” I said and he smiled.
“I’m glad to hear that.” He said and I smiled. Finally! I get to do what I want to do. I really want to study so if ever I will be independent in the future I will have knowledge that can support me. I will make use of this opportunity to learn as much as I can!
“Is there anything that I am not allowed to do? Like places I should not go?” I asked. I want to be careful and not offend anyone in this place. I don’t want to make mistakes so as of now I need to be aware of what I should be aware of.
“You are allowed to do anything you want since you are my daughter.” He said and he paused. “No one should disrespect you in this household. Use this family name as much as you want Celeste, since the only reason why I built this family strong is for you to use in the future. All of this is for you, my daughter.” Dad said as he held my face with his hands. His eyes looked cold and emotionless while those words left his mouth. Does he really mean that?
“I will.” I said with the best smile I can ever show while I keep my tears from falling to my cheeks. I saw Dad grinned. I will make sure to get closer to you in the future Dad.
“Then I will go now.” He said and I realized that we are in the front door of my room. He turned around and I stopped him. I pulled his arms and he stopped.
“Wait! Dad can you bow down a little bit.” I said since he’s tall. He bowed a little and kissed his forehead. He was shocked as he looked at me and I smiled. It’s something that my mother always does to my father before.
“I promised mother to do that for her, Dad.” I said and it took him a few seconds before he regained his composure. “Goodnight Dad.” I said and entered my room.
“Hmm.” He nodded and turned away. Should I not do that? But I promised my Mom that I will. I should not think about this any further! I should rest because tomorrow is a big day! Maia helped me change and I quickly went to bed with a smile.