Chapter 2: The Monster Loves to Talk
(SASHA)
I am buried busy in my study when a knock on the door startles me. I grip the pen with such intensity that I can easily snap it into half, without looking up. I wonder who it could be when I had announced to everyone earlier that I'd be busy, and I'd very much appreciate ample time to concentrate on my work.
"Come in," I reply, and the door gently pushes inward, and Benedict makes his way in carrying a bowl of fruits. He smiles tightly as he heads to the free table on the far right, placing the bowl at the center. Benedict has been our housekeeper since I was young and has been serving the Adonis family since.
"Help yourself, Sir." He says. One look at him and I know something is bothering him, given the way he is stealing glances at me.
"What's wrong Benedict?" I ask, pushing the chair away and getting to my feet.
"I shouldn't be telling you this. But I think you need to know." He whispers, occasionally glancing behind uneasily as if he fears someone walking in on him. I quirk an eyebrow, willing him to explain to me whatever he means by that.
"They're conspiring against you, Sasha." He whispers, hand over his mouth. I chuckle and help myself to an apple. I bite into it, holding his gaze.
"Who's conspiring against me?" I ask. "I hope you haven't been hitting the Novril again, Benedict."
"No, Sasha. I'm serious." He retorts, scratching the bald part of his head. Benedict had been a friend for a long time and was fiercely loyal to the Adonis family which was an advantage in this world. There is, however, one problem that I can't quite chalk up to the fact that maybe it was old age catching up with him, or it's something else. He always sees conspiracies where none exist.