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“Yes, because it’s totally time for dinner,” I say sarcastically, and he frowns. “I want to explore the house. I’m bored. Either let me explore or bring me something to do.”
Jarred rolls his eyes and shuts the door, and locks it. I’m about to knock again, but I hear footsteps receding, so I assume he’s gone to check if it’s okay.
I wait for what feels like forever before the lock turns and Jarred opens the door. “Don Rossi says you may explore the house, except the kitchen, and you’re not to go outside into the garden.”
“I accept,” I say, desperate for a change of scenery.
He steps aside, and I walk out, glancing around. I don’t know which way to go first.
I decide to explore to the left, down to the end of the hall. I might as well start at one end and make my way to the other. I try the door at the end, and it’s locked. I sigh and go to the next one, and it opens, so I walk in.
There’s a home theatre inside, and it’s incredible. The screen is enormous, and there’s a remote control on one of the tables between the various armchairs. The armchairs are two side by side, but the row behind is lifted. I count; there are six rows, so twelve armchairs.
I’m tempted to sit in one, turn on the system, and give it a test run, but I want to stretch my legs more. I continue down the hall, and most doors lead to guest rooms. I pass Jarred, who seems to be keeping a wary eye on me.
I go to the other side of the mansion and find a music room with an expansive LP record collection. There is also a sauna and a massive home gym room next to that. It’s three times the size of my bedroom, and there are all kinds of equipment.
I get bored exploring upstairs and head downstairs. Instantly Jarred is following me. I didn’t explore all the rooms upstairs, but they mostly seem to be bedrooms.
I walk around the lower level. I already know the dining room and don’t go near the kitchen, although wonderful smells permeate the air. I find a library filled with plump armchairs, sofas, and hundreds of books. I doubt Miguel has time to read, though the one armchair does look a little worn in.
The next room I find is a living room with a large television. I decide to plop myself down and watch some shows. I find the Spanish Drama channel and relax as I watch it, smiling to myself. I almost forget where I am until Jarred clears his throat. “It’s time for dinner. You need to go get dressed.”
“I’m not hungry,” I say.
“You haven’t eaten all day.”
I glance at him and snort, “and you care because?”
“Come on, upstairs. You get dressed, come down for dinner, and Don Rossi won’t punish you,” he says, coming to take my arm. I wrench my arm out of his grip and yell, “Don Rossi can eat alone.”
“I could, but then I will stop extending the courtesy for you to eat until you’re so malnourished your cousin can collect you with a tweezer.”
I look at Miguel standing at the door and shake my head. I get up, and walk out of the room to go shower and change. I look presentable but not beautiful. He doesn’t get that level of effort from me. I go back downstairs with Jarred and sit at the table, but I refuse to speak to Miguel. He doesn’t seem to be in a chatty mood either. I glance at him, remembering how handsome his smile was.
Thirteen Years Earlier
I sit on my bed with my textbooks spread out around me. I make notes meticulously. Most of the people are out tonight because there’s a massive party on campus, but with exams soon approaching, I want to be completely prepared and take advantage of the peace and quiet.
There’s a sudden and loud knock on my door. I look up sharply and frown.
“Kerri?” I call, wondering if my roommate forgot her key.
“It’s me,” Miguel calls through the door, and I roll my eyes. I set my textbooks to the side, prying myself out of the mountain, and go to open the door.
“What are you doing here?” I ask.
“Well, you weren’t at the party, and it sucked without you there, so I came to get you,” he grins. “Get dressed and come on. I can’t have you miss out on the best party of the year.”
“I have to study, Miguel. You know exams are coming up soon, and I need to be prepared.” I smile. “Go ahead and enjoy yourself.”
“No, you study too hard. College is supposed to be fun as well as about studies. One night out is not going to flunk you, Kira. Come on,” he bats his eyes at me. “Please, I want to show you off.”
“Our families…”
“We both picked to come here because our families aren’t tied here. Now come on.” He holds his hand out. “You don’t even have to change. You look great.”
I blush and take his hand. “Fine, but only for an hour.”
