Serena was annoyed. Fine, they broke up, but it has been over week! How come he never took the initiative to contact her? It's not like he didn't know where she was. He can even send a card as he knew her parents! Not even a simple congratulatory remark for the success of their song? If she knew how or had ways to contact him, she would have already.
The only person who can send her message to him was Leonard, but she was too ashamed to ask for his help when he clearly told her to at least try things with Geoffrey.
Talking about Geoffrey, he can be quite the romantic. She did not expect that the male lead will disregard her indifference after that kiss. He even sent her a Christmas gift, which mind you, Charlton has not. It was a musical jewelry box with a pair of earrings inside. He told her that it was to match her necklace. Serena thought it ironic. He sent her earrings to match the necklace Charlton gave her. Serena can only sigh, what he does not know won't hurt him.
Anyway, Geoffrey said that he will be visiting on the morning after the new year. She did not want to receive him, but he sent a card to her parents making his visit a formal call. In fact, that was all the servants in their home was busy with. They were decorating the palace as if, well, he was indeed the crown prince.
—
Charlton felt like he was going crazy. He sent over a dozen of letters in a span of a week. He was like a love-sick puppy but have received not one reply.
Why was she not replying to him? He wanted to go there directly, but his card was rejected. Maybe she did not receive his letters? But Jack told him that it was the butler who received them, and when asked, the butler told Jack that the letter has been delivered to Serena.
Anyway, he will take the chance. His mother will be leaving on the day after the new year. He can go and escape from her clutches by that time.
—
While Geoffrey's carriage slowed, he lifted his curtain and saw that they have already entered the gates of Maxwell's ducal house. Getting closer, he saw that there to welcome him were the duke's family and their servants.
When his carriage came to a complete stop, the footman placed the stool in front of his carriage. Then, the Duke's butler announced his presence.
When he came down his carriage, as he was the prince of blood, the servants all offered the same etiquette as given to his father, they all dropped to one knee and greeted him, "your royal highness."
Serena's eyes widened. It was the first time she saw people actually doing that. Anyway, Geoffrey was walking towards them, his eyes looking at her. She would be lying if she didn't admit that he looked really cool at that moment. He emitted pride as he walked straight and tall. He was dressed impeccably in black and gold complimenting his black hair and blue eyes.
Her parents were about to give a formal greeting, but Geoffrey quickly moved to help her mother up. "Please, we will be family one day." He said.
Serena wanted to raise her brow, 'really?' she thought.
Then they led Geoffrey inside.
As Geoffrey's purpose was obviously Serena, the couple took it upon themselves to give them time alone.
—
"Moun, you saw how the prince acted earlier. I thought he was just here because of his father. But, could it be?" Celine smiled then as if remembering something she scowled. "This doesn't mean that I have already forgiven him for not joining us the last time though."
Simoun shook his head and laughed. Perhaps, Leonard did tell the truth. Then he could only hope that things will work out well between him and their daughter. That is, of course, for the best.
—
When his mother left in the morning, Charlton quickly called Jack to get his carriage prepared. He will personally send the letter and see to it the Serena receives it.
On the way, he stopped by a florist's shop. Bought a bouquet of white lilies which signifies his apology and devotion, and as if it weren't enough, be bought a dozen more of pastel colors.
—
Leonard was at their ducal home's gate. He was double checking the security of their home. It would do no good if something were to happen to the crown prince while he was in their home. He had royal guards with him, but it's better to be on the safer side.
Thankfully, he decided to be there at that moment. He just had it with Charlton's coachman, delivering letters to Serena over and over. The first time, it was luck that he saw their butler about to deliver the letter to Serena. He stepped in on time and got the letter instead.
Then, he told the butler that whenever a letter was to be delivered to Serena, they must go through him first and not to inform her.
Good thing that the butler was smart and followed his instructions. Although he was not a son by blood, he was still after all, the heir to the dukedom.
—
"Why are you giving these back?" Geoffrey asked as Serena gave him back the gifts he sent.
"Although I am flattered, I must say that these are too much. Geoffrey, I think we're better off as friends. And…"
Geoffrey shook his head and just smiled at Serena. "Nothing is too much Serena. I don't want to sound pushy, but we will be wed one day. So, you should know that you deserve these and so much more."
"But…"
Geoffrey chuckled. "Would you mind giving me a tour of your gardens?"
Serena didn't want to but getting tired of the servants trying to listen on their conversation, she nodded.
As they exited the mansion, Geoffrey's servant approached with a bouquet of tulips. He received it and handed it to her.
"I recall you saying that these were your favorites." He said as he handed her the flowers.
Serena felt herself blush. It has been a while since she last received one. Briefly, she noted that Charlton never even gave her flowers.
"Shall we?" he said as he asked for her hand.
Not wanting to be rude as everyone around was pretending not to stare, she placed her hand in his.
—
TBC
