Chapter 42: Most Women Didn’t Live to Tell the Tale
"Mr. Hayes, please come in."
Lariette opened the door once Damien was dragged away by the guards, inviting Mr. Hayes inside. Her gleeful countenance upon witnessing the trashy man’s humiliating exit replaced the previous worry.
"Good morning, Ms. Elsher," greeted Mr. Hayes upon seeing Lariette. His eyes wandered to the crimson-haired man standing by the lady, "Is this gentleman your husband?"
Mr. Hayes noticed Lariette bringing up her husband during their phone call. He found a new addition under the young lady’s residential records when briefly checking them earlier.
"Yes, this is my husband," Lariette nodded softly, gesturing at Ruediger, "Ruediger Alvord. We’ve just gotten married."
"Oh! Congratulations!"
Ruediger let out soft chuckles. He reached out a hand, offering to shake hands with Mr. Hayes, "Hello, Mr. Hayes. Thank you for your swift action just now. You’ve helped us."
"Hello, Mr. Alvord. I’m just glad we settled the disturbance without much trouble."
The two men shook hands before Lariette reminded them to step inside the apartment. Mr. Hayes hurriedly followed the lady while Ruediger closed the door.
Slipping his feet out of the shoes, Mr. Hayes wore the home slippers placed at the entryway. Lariette gestured at him, telling the middle-aged man to sit in the living room.
Ruediger went to the kitchen, intending to bring at least a cup of tea out for Mr. Hayes. His tall figure swiftly disappeared behind the wall separating the kitchen and the hallway.