Chapter 14: went and tattled
In Vivienne's spacious chamber, sunlight poured through tall windows draped with silk curtains, casting a warm glow over the polished wooden floors. She sat gracefully in front of her vanity, brushing her crimson hair with slow, practiced movements. Her superior maid, dressed impeccably in the Dravenhart family's colors, stood by her side, hands neatly folded in front of her.
Without turning her gaze from the mirror, Vivienne spoke, her voice smooth and controlled. "What happened to Axelius?" she asked,
The maid straightened, clearing her throat softly before responding. "Four days ago, young master Axelius lost his memories, my lady," she began, choosing her words carefully.
"Since then, his behavior has changed drastically. According to Elias, young master Axelius is...currently keeping the company of a 'friend' that only he can see and hear." The maid's voice wavered slightly, clearly uncertain how to phrase the situation delicately.
Vivienne paused mid-brush, her brow arching slightly as she processed the information. "An imaginary friend?" she murmured, almost to herself, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. Without another word, she stood up from her vanity with a fluid grace, brushing down the creases in her dress before gliding over to the tall window.
Pushing aside the sheer curtains, she peered down into the gardens below. Her sharp gaze quickly found Axelius, just stepping out of the mansion's side door. He ran, clutching a crooked stick and chasing...nothing. His hands swiped at the air, his mouth moving as if in conversation with the breeze.
Vivienne's eyes softened for a brief moment before her expression hardened. "He created an imaginary friend...due to loneliness," she whispered, almost as if piecing the puzzle together. Her eyes never left his small form, watching as he laughed and jabbed at invisible things with the stick, his grin wide and carefree.
Straightening her posture, she turned back to her maid, her voice dropping into a tone of pure authority. "From now on, I want a close eye kept on my younger brother. Report to me anything unusual. If he gets hurt or if something happens to him again..." She stepped forward, her gaze sharp and unyielding. "You'll be dismissed from your position. Immediately."
The superior maid's eyes went wide, and she bowed deeply. "Y-Yes, my lady. I understand."