At work, Desmond could not concentrate on anything. He kept looking at Anabel's picture. A beautiful picture where both of them were holding hands. He couldn't wait to have Anabel back to himself. Getting her back would be his greatest achievement for the year.
.
.
.
After work, he cleared his desk and made his way to the VIP parking lot where his car was parked. He started the car and slowly drove out of the company.
As Desmond navigated the familiar streets leading to Sir Orton’s mansion, his mind began to race. This special dinner was more than just a simple gesture of gratitude.
It was an opportunity. A chance to right his past mistakes, to seek forgiveness, and perhaps, to open the door for something new. He had spent the entire day in his office, thinking of the right words, the right approach. As he pulled up to the grand estate, he took a deep breath, smoothing out his sleeves, and stepped out of his car.
The mansion stood tall and regal under the evening sky. The architecture was an epitome of wealth and elegance. Desmond had been there once. The time when Sir Orton celebrated his 70th birthday. At that time, he didn't know he was Anabel's father. He came because he was the CEO of Orton's group. Because of the multiple contracts they gave him.
But today felt different. It was as if he was entering a world he had never been in. He walked toward the large entrance doors, lifting a hand to knock.
Before his knuckles collided with the wood, the door swung open. He was expecting to see a servant, but to his surprise, it was Anabel.
The moment their eyes met, a wave of unspoken emotions passed between them. She didn't know it was Desmond. She heard the sound of a car and opened the door to know who was coming.
She wasn’t expecting to be the one to see Desmond first. She had assumed Jethro or one of her parents would handle the greeting. But fate had its own way of setting things into motion.
Desmond offered a polite smile before greeting her, "Good evening, Anabel. How are you?"
She hesitated for a couple of seconds before replying with a straight face. "I’m fine." And then, she stepped aside to let him in.
As Desmond walked in, his eyes scanned the unfamiliar luxury. The rich wooden flooring, the elegant chandeliers, and the fine artworks that lined the walls.
"I will go inform the person that invited you." Anabel said with a neutral voice and left.
Desmond nodded and sank into a seat in the beautifully furnished living room. As she walked away, he let his gaze roam around, appreciating the intricate decorations and the tasteful selection of furniture.
A few minutes later, Sir Orton entered the room along with his beautiful wife. Their presence was commanding, yet welcoming. Lady Orton had a gentle smile gracing her face.
Desmond stood immediately and bowed his head slightly in respect. "Good evening, Sir Orton. Lady Orton." He greeted.
"Good evening, Desmond," Sir Orton replied, and Lady Orton added, "Welcome to our home."
"Thank you very much. I'm favored to be in your house." Desmond said, and Lady Orton gave a small smile, "You are welcome, my dear," before excusing herself to assist Anabel in serving the food.
Sir Orton gestured him toward the dining room. "Come, let's sit."
Desmond followed him and entered the space where a long dining table was elegantly situated. Moments later, Jethro joined them and pulled out some chairs.
Soon, Lady Orton and Anabel returned and set down the various dishes. The meals were steaming out of the beautiful plates, accompanied by an assortment of fine wine and fresh fruits. After serving, they settled down.