Chapter 52 CHAPTER 52: A Flicker of Jealousy
William
As the door opened, my breath hitched as Hazel emerged looking like a goddess. The scent of rose and jasmine hit me. Even from far away, the scent of Chanel No 5 perfume wrapped itself around me like a cloak. It was Hazel’s favorite scent and I could pick her out of any crowd with that scent. She wore one of the dresses I picked out earlier, an emerald green dress that shimmered under the living room light. It fitted her like a glove, showcasing her blossoming figure in a flattering way. She wore delicate gold jewelry, a necklace with a tiny emerald pendant that matched the dress and simple stud earrings, completed the look.
Her normal curly brown hair which she usually wore down in a cascade of curls was now styled in a sophisticated messy low bun that highlighted the elegant line of her jaw. Hazel, despite being heavily pregnant, moved with a grace that captivated the room. Pregnancy had only enhanced her already striking features. Her cheekbones were sharper, her hazel eyes, a luminous emerald green, and her full lips curved into a radiant smile. Behind her was her mother, also dressed beautifully.
My father straightened, his gaze fixed on Hazel. A flicker of surprise crossed his features, followed by a low whistle. "Well, son," he remarked, eyes lingering on Hazel, "it seems you've struck gold with this one." He chuckled.
Hazel, meanwhile, began to move towards us. Before I could react, my father stepped forward, taking her hands in his.
"William certainly doesn't deserve someone as stunning as you," he declared in a jovial way and with a warm smile. He then leaned forward, placing a kiss on each of her cheeks, causing a blush to rise on her face.
Good evening, Mr. Thorn" Hazel greeted, warmly. "Apologies, but my father couldn't join us tonight. However, he insisted my mother come in his stead." She gestured towards Mrs. George, who beamed with a radiant smile.
"Absolutely no need to apologize, Hazel," my father replied graciously, extending his hand to Mrs. George. Sensing an opportunity, I gently excused myself and ushered him aside. My gaze locked with hers as I held her hands.
"Hello, gorgeous," I murmured, unable to resist stealing a kiss to assert a subtle claim. With my hand resting lightly on the small of her back, I guided her towards the sofa, momentarily leaving my father and any potential inquiries behind.
"You left me speechless for a moment," I teased, enjoying the delightful blush that crept across her cheeks.
"Do you have any idea why we're here?" she inquired, a flicker of nervousness in her voice.
"No need to fret, love," I reassured her. "Perhaps my father simply craved a little family gathering."
"Are you absolutely certain?" she pressed, her fingers unconsciously fiddling with my cufflinks – a nervous habit I had grown familiar with. I cupped her face gently, tilting it upwards to meet my gaze.
"Trust me completely, love," I whispered. "The only concern I have tonight is fending off any wandering eyes that might stray from my captivating wife." My playful comment drew a soft chuckle from her.
A timely announcement of dinner being served from my father broke the comfortable silence as Hazel excused herself and went to the restroom.
The handful of guests invited for dinner began to walk to the Versailles antique platinum table which gleamed under the soft glow of a crystal chandelier, casting a warm, almost honeyed light on the guests as they settled in.
As Hazel returned from the restroom, Steven rose to greet Hazel. A surprised gasp escaped Hazel's lips as she instinctively raised a hand to her mouth. A delighted squeal followed before she embraced him warmly. The conversation I was having with the waiter faltered, the words catching in my throat. A surge of unexpected anger replaced my previous train of thought. Their familiarity was evident, and a flicker of unease settled in my stomach at the nature of their embrace.
Before I had a chance to voice my concerns, my father clinked his plate to capture everyone's attention. I managed to suppress my frustration and took my seat, just as Hazel sat down beside me.
On top of the elegant table were meticulously arranged polished silverware and fine bone China plates inscribed with the Thorn family crest. The head of the table was reserved for my father, Mr. Thorn, to his left were Charles and Steven, while I sat to his right with Hazel next to me. Beside Hazel, was her mother, Mrs. George, who appeared serene, her experienced eyes taking in the opulent setting with a gentle, knowing smile.
The air was choked up with the blend of different fragrances of perfumes and the rich aroma of traditional English cuisine. At the center of the table was roasted chicken and a leg of lamb, its crispy exterior hiding the succulent, rosemary-infused meat beneath. A silver tureen hinted at roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, buttery mashed parsnips. There were bread rolls and gravy to accompany the meat.
Silver platters of freshly baked bread rolls were within easy reach, their crusts crackling softly under the touch, a salad of mixed greens, dotted with pomegranate seeds and slivers of almond, was served alongside a light vinaigrette. The drinks were no less thoughtfully chosen; a decanter of rich, velvety red wine stood beside each plate, except for Hazel and her mother, in front of whom rested crystal glasses of sparkling water, their bubbles catching the light as they danced upwards. As the dinner commenced, the clink of cutlery blended with the gentle clatter of conversation, each dish passing from hand to hand, building a bridge of shared appreciation. The formalities of the table setting did little to stifle the warmth that gradually unfolded around the table, the food acting as both provocation and solace, coaxing stories and laughter from every corner of the table.
“This is more than what I expected” Hazel whispered to me, looking impressed.
“Yea, it’s all very intense, just like my dad” I said. Then I turned to Hazel’s mom. “Enjoying the food” I asked. “Ah yes, it's very rich and delicious”, then she looked up at my father. “Thanks for the invite” she said.
“You are family now” he replied, smiling.
After we finished dining, the group migrated to the expansive living room. I excused myself to the restroom while my dad whisked Hazel to his study, apparently to have the talk he had been trying to have with her since the scandal had begun. I was gone for a while as I had to sort the caterers and others who helped set up the dinner so they could leave.
Upon returning, I noticed Hazel sharing a laugh with Steven. From the doorway, I observed their interactions. Steven whispered something into Hazel's ear, prompting a giggle from her. A pang of jealousy struck me as his hand casually rested on her stomach, their laughter ringing louder and making heads turn in the room. Approaching them, I draped my arms around Hazel's shoulders, planting a gentle kiss on her head, staking my claim before straightening up to lock eyes with Steven, my gaze sharpening into a silent warning. I assumed he got the message because his smile faltered.
"Hey darling," I murmured softly.
Hazel responded by clasping my hands. "Hey Steve, meet my husband, William," she introduced.
"We've already met, pumpkin," Steven replied, his use of the nickname catching me off guard. When had they grown so familiar?
"It seems you two know each other quite well," I commented, a hint of calm masking my irritation.
"Yes, we first met during the press conference I held for you when you were hospitalized," Hazel explained.
"And we've been besties ever since," Steven added playfully, brushing stray hair from Hazel's face. My annoyance simmered beneath the surface, my grip tightening on Hazel's shoulders. She looked up at me, concerned about etching her features.
"Is everything alright?" she inquired, her innocence piercing. I nodded and gave a little smile that didn’t reach my eyes.
"If you'll excuse me," Steven interjected, "I'd love to introduce Hazel to someone special." My eyebrows arched in curiosity and a trace of suspicion.
"Someone special to you? In this room?” Hazel asked, obviously excited and looking around.
"Yes, someone very dear to me. In fact, it's my husband who's also here at the party tonight."
The room seemed to pause around me, the revelation hanging heavily in the air. Steven's smile returned, warmer this time, as he beckoned a man from across the room to join us. As Charles approached, the pieces began to fall into place, and the evening took on an entirely new dimension. When Charles got close, I watched their exchange. It seemed they were both smitten by each other as their stare spoke volumes. Then Charles captured Steven’s lips in a searing kiss before putting his hand in the small of his back.
“This is Charles the love of my life” Steven cooed, gazing at Charles the whole time. I was speechless, then I remembered how my dad had introduced them earlier, and it all made sense. I realized I was just jealous of nothing, as Steven was the jovial and extroverted one in the relationship.
I was brought out of my reverie when Hazel tapped me.
“We have a long day tomorrow, Mr. Williams. In that case, we will be leaving”, Charles announced.
Steven turned to Hazel, “Stop being a strange pumpkin, you owe me" before he winked at me. I flashed him a knowing smile and he returned it.
“You have every right to stake your claim when your woman is this gorgeous,” he added.
He then moved over to Hazel and engulfed her in a hug, kissed her forehead, linked his hands with his spouse’s and waved goodbye to us.