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The flight crew went through their pre-flight routine, and I pocketed my phone, securing my seatbelt as the jet taxied down the runway. The vibrations beneath me signaled our ascent, and I gazed out the window as the city lights grew smaller below.
The rhythmic hum of the engines provided a welcome backdrop to my contemplation.
An interview would mean sharing my experiences, successes, and perhaps even failures.
It would depart from my usual guarded approach to the public eye. But there’s something about Elizabeth's request that resonated with me.
Honestly, something about Elizabeth always got to me. Ever since she first visited our house, there was just…something about her. I was drawn to her even though I couldn’t tell what it was.
She’s this vibrant woman who usually had a lot of things to say, but that seemed to change anytime I was around.
The familiar vibrations of the plane's touchdown signaled our return to the ground. I unfastened my seatbelt as the engines quieted, then collected my belongings, ready to deplane.
The door opened, and the warm New York breeze brushed against my face as I stepped onto the tarmac.
A black Rolls Royce parked waiting nearby, its sleek lines glinting in the airport lights. I nodded to my driver before sinking into the plush leather seat.
After long days, I got accustomed to just nodding greetings to the people around me. We pulled away from the airport, and the city lights blurred into streaks as we sped along the familiar streets.
Coming home was always a sweet feeling. After the whirlwind of meetings and negotiations, returning to my mansion's solitude brought comfort.
Time alone was something I always looked forward to. The gated entrance opened, revealing the sprawling estate and mansion beyond.
My home stood like a luxury fortress, a modern marvel with grand architecture that seamlessly blended glass, steel, and stone. Lights illuminated the perfectly manicured gardens, and the gentle trickle of a fountain welcomed me as we approached the entrance.
Stopping, I stepped out of the car and was greeted by the towering entrance enhanced with intricate carvings.
The massive wooden doors swung open, revealing the luxury within. Hilda, my housekeeper, stood just inside with her hands clasped before her and a warm smile on her face.
"Welcome home, Mr. Hartman," she said in her gentle German accent, then took my briefcase from my hand, a gesture I’d grown accustomed to over the years.
"Thank you, Hilda," I replied, returning her smile. "It's good to be back."
As I entered my home, the grandeur of the foyer never failed to impress. A massive sweeping staircase curved elegantly to the upper floor, while ornate chandeliers cast a warm glow over marble floors.
The air was scented with a delicate hint of lavender, a testament to Hilda's meticulous care.
I followed Hilda's lead, and my footsteps could be heard by the Italian marble floors lining the hallway. She glanced at me, her eyes filled with concern.
"Would you like to have dinner, Mr. Hartman? I can have something prepared for you."
I considered her offer momentarily as my weariness caught up to me.
"Thank you, Hilda, but not tonight. I think I'll head straight to bed."
She nodded. I appreciated her ability to anticipate my needs.
”Of course, sir. Let me know if you require anything."
I nodded my thanks and made my way up the stairs.
I opened my bedroom door to reveal my sanctuary. The king-sized bed was a luxurious expanse of soft linens, and the panoramic windows offered a view of the sprawling estate.
I kicked off my shoes, loosened my tie, and placed my phone on the bedside table. I glanced at it briefly, contemplating my decision regarding the interview with Elizabeth.
Her name had been lingering in my mind for some reason.
With a sigh, I silenced my phone. I sank onto the bed, exhaustion seeping into my bones. The day's events replayed in my mind, and I lost myself in thought.
