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Kind of makes me realize that maybe life back at home wasn’t as great as I thought it was. Funny how one conversation with a man who’s listening to every word can change that.
Even after my plate is clear, I’m nowhere close to wanting to get up and call it a night.
“So, my turn.” After finishing my cup and being poured a second, I clear my throat. “Might as well start with a bang. How’d you get your hands on all of this?”
We both know my father got his hands dirty to get rich and of course, I’m going to wonder if Idris is the same way. Though, if my father doesn’t see him as a danger, I don’t want to assume.
He leans back and chuckles. The sound reverberates right through me. “A few generations ago, my family struck oil. We got enough to live lavishly. By the time I hit adulthood and got my piece, I got into stocks and risked my future.”
“And where’s the rest of your family?” I ask, almost relieved that his story is based on luck rather than on criminal activity.
His smile lessens as he traces the rim of his cup. “They took turns leaving this world in their own ways.”
So, Idris is all alone? My stomach tightens at that. My face must give away my pity because he’s back to chuckling.
“I have my staff. They’re as close as family can get.” Assuring me with his words, he finishes his cup before taking in the time on his phone. “It is getting quite late. We should call it a night. What will you do?”
I’m not sure. I don’t really want to be caught wandering these halls in the middle of the night. My discomfort with the staff should disappear once I see everyone at work while the sun is out.
“I’ll probably head back as well. Can’t hurt to sleep a little more.”
Before I can pick up my empty dishes, Idris moves quickly. Sputtering on my thanks, I find myself lingering until he returns.
“Do you know your way back?” he asks, shifting to rub at the back of his neck. He does look a bit tired.
Despite the fact, I act horrible and lie to the man, shaking my head. All so I have the excuse to have him guide me through the halls. At least, the guy doesn’t look like he minds. I can’t pick up even a hint of annoyance as he leads me away from the eating area.
Even better, his hand lightly rests between my shoulder blades. Instead of feeling any discomfort, I’m aching to walk slower so he puts more pressure on my body.
“My room is only a few doors down,” he explains once we make a stop at my own. He’s nice enough to point out which one. “If anything happens, you can knock.”
“Even if it’s in the dead of the night and you’re in a deep sleep?” I ask, lifting a brow.
Another chuckle from his end sends my heart racing.
“Even then. Goodnight, Daria.” He gives one of my shoulders a squeeze before drifting down the hall.
I can barely find my voice by the time I can return a similar goodbye.
My skin is tingling and my heart’s betraying my orders.
If I’m like this after one day, how will I act after a few more?
In the back of my mind, I already know that the longer I stay here, the harder it’s going to be to leave.
Idris
It takes two weeks before I get a call from William. The unknown number lights up on my phone and my heart lifts at the sound of the familiar voice.
“You’re alive. Daria will be pleased.” I’m already hunting down the woman.
Funny, those words come out before I give any interest in William’s safety. As of lately, the woman’s been the one plaguing my mind more than her father. More and more as each day passes by.
“It took some time, but I made it to my destination.” William sounds exhausted, I can only imagine. “How is Daria? Tell me she’s adjusted and relaxed.”
“She has.” That’s not a lie. The woman’s gotten quite comfortable in my home. Lately, I’ve had to prowl the halls to find her every time I’ve felt an itch that needs to be scratched. Even now, I’m hunting. “She still asks about you every day and I’m glad I can finally give her good news.”
He sighs in relief before there’s a shift. One that doesn’t feel so lighthearted. “Idris, I need a favor from you.”
