Chapter 36: CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE: STOPPING ARTEMIS

/-ARTEMIS-/

Alexander had calmed down when he realized that it didn't matter as long as I was with him. He was determined not to lose me to Jamie, and he wanted to make sure we were both together in the relationship. 

He kept the evidence, stating he had to find out who had sent the mail. I had heaved a sigh when he placed a kiss on my forehead before leaving to take a shower.

After he had dropped me off at the office, I found my way to LEON Industry, prepared to smack some sense into Jamie. 

"JAMIE!!!" I yelled as I spotted him about to walk into the company's entrance. He held up a smile but dropped it when I pushed away a worker who was trying to stop me. 

"I didn't think you'd come crashing in like this." He held up a smirk. 

I flushed, my blood boiling at his composure. Why did he believe I was some fool he could toy with and go Scott free? He was going to get it this time. 

My hand moved, and a slap landed on his face. He didn't move, and neither did his hands. The smirk widened, making the heat in me increase. 

"As soft as always. Why don't you run off to the gym and build some  strength?" He teased, his white teeth glistening. 

"What are you and Bella planning?" I attacked. 

"What happens between a couple stays between them. I can't tell you whatever Bella and I say... Don't tell me you've forgotten too soon." A smile danced on his lips.

"You...." I searched for the perfect word, but nothing seemed to fit him.

"I know you have somewhere you have to be. Why don't I leave and let you sort yourself out? He grabbed the railing, turning his back on me. 

"Jamie." I spat unconsciously. I grabbed my mouth almost immediately, preventing another word from escaping. 

"You don't have to worry about me. Bella treats me way better than you've ever done; she's perfect." He walked up the stairs, leaving me to gaze at his perfectly molded back. 

Was this the Jamie who had come pleading for forgiveness at my doorstep a couple of hours ago? Had he forgotten all about me and moved on with Bella just as he said?

The questions kept flowing in my head with not a single answer lurking around. I felt like a fool. 

"Miss Artemis, shall I offer you a drink?" one of the workers asked. My eyebrows furrowed upwards, and he moved away.

I stormed off, stopping in front of the black Mercedes Camelot. The driver stood behind the wheels, dancing to a certain western song, unaware of my presence. 

I knock slightly on the windscreen, getting his attention. He stumbled out of the car, hurrying to get the back door open. His hands trembled as he held the door, a glint of despair in his eyes. 

"Back to the Mansion." I ordered. 

"But Madam, Kate put a call through about a certain meeting that should begin in 30 minutes. Aren't you going there?" He stammered. 

I didn't reply, pointing my finger to the road. He shuddered, getting behind the wheels in order to get the ball rolling. He gazed into the front mirror, checking out my facial features. When he saw my index finger still indicating, he positioned himself, stepping on the fuel. 

The mansion was silent, unlike other days when the maids, graders, and guards would be busy with their various roles. Not a single person was left at the entrance, and the gates were shut tight to avoid any intruder from stepping in. 

I walked around the mansion hoping to find my spare key or get myself a ladder for further reference. 

"Madam, no one is home. Don't you think we should head back to the office?" The driver whispered behind me. 

"You can leave; I have more important things to do." 

"Madam, I can help you search for it. Why don't you go wait at the entrance while I search all over for whatever you're looking  for?" He forced a smile. 

"You seem tired. You can haul yourself back in the car and listen to the beautiful western music you so much enjoy." I waved my hand around in a gesture to get him off my back. 

"Can I really do that?" A grin appeared on his face. 

"Yeah, sure." I continued waving. 

"It's my duty to help you get whatever you want. You should be in the car resting." He stood before me, stopping me from moving any further. 

"Are you trying to tell me that I can't decide what I want for myself?" I raised an eyebrow. 

"No, that's not it. It's just that I am hyperactive today, and I would like to work till nightfall." He chuckled.

"Not buying that."

I pushed him away, heading for the yard. He followed, trying to stop me.

"Ma'am, I wouldn't want to get into any form of trouble. Big Boss wouldn't want you searching for anything with me around." He pleaded, halting me at intervals. 

"I can deal with my Dad. You can go back to the car and get a perfect rest under the air conditioner. Trust me, there's nothing to be afraid of."

"Please, Miss Artemis." He followed behind, trying to stop me. His footsteps echoed as he increased his pace, trying to stop me without holding onto me. 

"Miss Artemis, you should be at the office." Catherine flashed me a smile. 

"Where are my parents and the other maids? Where is everyone?" I asked.

She dropped her tray, her eyes trailing her footsteps to the back. "There's a holiday happening today. The workers left early, and your parents decided to go on an outing. I only came back for this tray..."

"Don't lie to me, Catherine."

"I would never lie to you, Miss Artemis." She giggled. 

"Catherine, do you have the keys to the entrance so Miss Artemis can head upstairs?" The driver faked a smile. 

Something felt off. There was not a single holiday or worldwide celebration happening according to my calendar. They were hiding something.