Chapter 5: The Summoning of Selene Fairchild
The grand halls of the Alden estate were eerily silent as Selene Fairchild arrived, her every step measured and deliberate. The soft click of her heels echoed against the polished marble floors, a sound both elegant and sharp, much like the woman herself. The moment she entered the chamber, all eyes turned to her.
She was, without question, breathtaking. Long, silken strands of midnight-black hair cascaded down her back, framing a face that exuded both grace and confidence. Her deep, violet-hued eyes held a quiet intensity, veiled behind a composed expression, as if she saw the world with an understanding far beyond her years. A delicate nose and full, alluring lips—naturally tinted with a soft rose hue—complemented the perfect symmetry of her features.
But it was not just her face that captivated attention; her figure was nothing short of mesmerizing. Draped in a flowing, deep crimson gown that clung to her curves in all the right places, she radiated an air of refined sensuality. The fabric shimmered subtly under the soft glow of the lanterns, accentuating the gentle rise and fall of her chest with each breath. A daring slit ran up the side of her gown, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of smooth, toned leg with every step. She carried herself with effortless poise, a woman who knew her beauty and the power it wielded over those who dared to gaze upon her for too long.
The physician was the first to acknowledge her arrival, offering her a polite nod before greeting her formally.
"Lady Selene, thank you for coming on such short notice." His voice was steady, though there was a hint of urgency beneath it.
Selene returned the nod and dipped into a graceful bow, her movements as fluid as water. "Physician. Elder Gideon. Lady Mariana," she greeted in turn, her tone respectful yet reserved.
Elder Gideon, standing tall beside his wife, observed her closely, his sharp eyes catching the barely perceptible twitch at the corner of her mouth the moment the physician spoke his next words.
"Xavier woke up from his coma today."
Selene’s composure faltered for the briefest of moments, but she quickly masked her reaction, her lips parting slightly as if to say something before she caught herself. Though subtle, Gideon did not miss the involuntary movement. Yet, he chose to remain silent, filing away the observation for later.
The physician, however, was more focused on the matter at hand. His gaze remained steady as he continued, his voice calm but firm.
"Unfortunately, his memories appear to be lost. We are attempting to trigger them gradually, and I was informed that you and Xavier were... close." He paused for a brief moment, then pressed on. "I was hoping that your presence might help us in this regard. Do you think you can assist?"