Chapter 24: Where is Raymond?

What do you mean sir? I asked

Never mind, but do you still have those letters? He asked.

Yes, I have them hidden somewhere.

OK, I'd like to see them.

We'll do a proper investigation on the matter, and I'll keep you posted. Be careful, though. I'll ask someone else to watch you discreetly since Marcus will be with your daughter.

*******

After the meeting with the detective, I went to Raymond's mansion.

The security guy greeted me politely as I entered. 

When I got in, I was already told that Raymond was not around.

After taking my luggage upstairs, I headed down to the poolside to get some fresh air.

I didn’t realize how much I missed here.

I sat on one of the chairs processing my thoughts and how my life would be when Elvis was out of the way.

I was already getting cold so I decided to go inside. I made a light breakfast of scrambled eggs and bread and ate to my satisfaction. I didn't know why I just wanted to see Raymond.

I sat in the living room to see a program but also wanted Raymond to get back because, at that point I was scared of sleeping alone.

After watching movies for what seemed like an hour, I fell asleep on the couch.

I woke up the next morning in bed. My head hurts. I couldn't remember how I got to the bedroom.

Since my leave was still on, I decided to just spend the rest of the week indoors since outside isn't safe.

And suddenly, I remembered the notes I had to give the detective.

I went to my cupboard and took out my small box where I kept them.

 I don't know why I kept these letters that gave me chills, but I was glad I did.

I put all of them in an envelope to give them to the detective soon.

I was bored at home. I hadn't seen Raymond since I came back. And I couldn't stoop so low to call him.

Soon I heard the sound of a car driving in. It was probably Raymond. I stood in my room, my heart racing about whether I should go out or not.

I opened the door slowly, since Raymond's room was opposite mine, I could see him when he entered.

I looked through the small opening in the door. But he didn't come up.  After some minutes, I went back to my bed. What am I even doing?

My phone rang. It was Ivana.

“Please come downstairs,” she said briefly and ended the call.

I wore concealer on my neck and face because the scars were still there. Then I wore something appropriate to properly cover my body.

I rushed downstairs and saw Ivana sitting pretty on the sofa.

My eyes widened, what is she doing here? 

She felt my presence and ran to meet me, hugging me tightly.

“Arielle, how are you doing? How was your vacation ?”

“I'm fine. What a surprise visit.”

“I know right, I was around the area and I heard you were back, so I decided to come see you.”

" That's so thoughtful," I said, smiling.

“I was so bored indoors. I'm glad you're here.”

Her eyebrows raised:"Bored indoors, when there's fun outside.”"

“Go get dressed, we're going out.”

My eyes narrowed. “To where?”

“You'll find out soon.” Go now," she said, tugging me a little.

I can't say no to her. She'll find it suspicious.

After getting dressed, Ivana pulled me out of the house. 

Deep down, I wanted to ask her where Raymond was, but I couldn't find the courage to do so. We're supposed to be married and I'm supposed to know his whereabouts.

As Ivana's driver started the engine, I could help but feel so insecure. I just hope nothing bad happens today.

Today is going to be a day you won't forget so easily. Ivana squealed.

We soon arrived at a boutique. 

As we walked in, the staff greeted us warmly.

We soon started shopping, and Ivana made sure I got a lot of sexy clothes. Even though I had nowhere to wear them, she insisted.

We got to the underwear section. 

“I don't want any underwear,” I said shyly.

“I'll get one just for myself then.” she replied, walking 

I followed her as she shopped.

We got the lingerie section. Ivana picked up one of them. She looked at me smiling.

“Arielle, this will fit you perfectly.” My eyes widened. “No, no, I don't want it.”

“Stop acting like an old woman. " You're married now, you need more of those,” she said, winking. 

My cheek warmed up. “You need to spice up your sex life.” She added, picking up more lingerie and handing it to me.

If only Raymond had told her about the contract marriage, she'd have known all this was feeble.

After carrying many bags to the car. The driver zoomed out of the boutique. I was eager to know where we were going next.

We reached a beauty spa. I can't remember the last time I went to the spa.

Ivana was ready to pamper me today.

I was happy I agreed to do this with her.

Immediately we entered the spa, the room and calming scent put me at ease. We were greeted by the friendly staff, who offered us refreshing drinks and led us to our treatment rooms.

A half-day spa treatment was booked by Ivana, complete with massages, facials, and other pampering goodies. I can't remember the last time I'd treated myself to such luxury.

I laid on the massage table and the skilled therapist did her work and I felt my body relaxing as she did magic to it.

Next, I underwent a facial. My skin was feeling refreshed, revitalized, and radiant.

After our spa treatments, Ivana and I met up in the relaxation lounge, where we sipped tea. We chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company.

We headed to a nearby salon for some styling and grooming. Ivana insisted that I needed a makeover, and I couldn't argue with her.

At the salon, we were treated to a range of services, including haircuts, styling, and coloring. I opted for something simple, while Ivana went for a bold, bright color.

As I sat in the salon chairs, I felt what I hadn't experienced in a long time. It was as if the spa treatments and salon services had washed away all my worries.

We finally emerged from the salon, and I barely recognized myself. My hair was looking vibrant and healthy, my skin glowed with a radiant complexion.

Ivana grinned at me, clearly pleased with the transformation. "You look stunning, Arielle!" she exclaimed.

I smiled back at her, "Thanks to you, Ivana," I replied. "I feel like a new person."

“Arielle, I'm sorry I did not tell you this earlier, but today's my uncle's birthday, and he's throwing a small party. Can you please accompany me?”

My eyebrows raised. “But it's a family event, so I don't think I'll be welcomed there,” I said, trying to dismiss her.

“You are part of the family now, "Arielle. Raymond told me he was not sure if he'd be coming, and my dad couldn't make it.” She said all at once.

“OK fine, I'll be there,” I replied and she clapped her hands.

I'll drop you off. I have some errands to run and come pick you up when it's an hour until the party starts.

I just nodded.

We arrived at Raymond's mansion. It was already evening.  

Thank you for today, Ivana.

" It's nothing Arielle, I'll see you later, and please wear the blue gown," she said, winking at me.

Now I know why she single-handedly picked for me. She's so cunning. I smiled as i walked in. I sighed, realising Raymond was still not in.