Chapter 15
Golden rays shone through the clouds as the sun began to set. Jasper was slumped in the back seat of a luxury car that was on its way to Seaview Manor.
“I’ve dealt with the social media accounts that spread gossip about Madam Alice, Mr. Jasper. Their accounts have been shut down, and a lawyer’s letter has also been issued. It should be enough for now. But the news about your marriage… We weren’t able to remove it from the trending searches. Things… are looking difficult.” Xavier looked apologetic.
Jasper looked out the window sullenly. All this while, there were multiple occasions when he wanted to contact Alice upon remembering how badly their last conversation had gone. It was embarrassing having to go through Jonah to speak with her. Even if she did answer, what was he supposed to say? Should he apologize for what happened today? He couldn’t do that. The words wouldn’t come. It felt as if he were being crushed beneath a bolder that was so heavy he could barely breathe.
Just as the Rolls–Royce was about to pull into the vicinity of Seaview Manor, he frowned. “Stop the
car.”
1
The chauffeur obeyed and pulled over to the side of the road. Jasper got out before Xavier could ask any questions. His feet carried him across the road to a vintage atelier where well–tailored suits hung by a brightly–lit translucent window. The plaque above read “Eternity,” the same word printed on the box containing the suit that Alice prepared for him.
The wind chimes by the door jingled as he pushed the door open. An old tailor came out to greet him, “Are you here to pick up a custom or would you like to have something tailored?”
There was some slight hesitation before Jasper asked, “Was there a woman in her 20s who tailored a men’s suit here roughly a month ago?”
“Ah, of course! There was indeed a young woman here! She was quite skilled. I remember her very well!” The old tailor’s eyes lit up. “That woman is very talented at clothing design. I’ve been in the business for over 40 years and even I can’t even compare to her!”
“Did she… come here every day?” Jasper asked quietly.
“Yes, she always came on time every morning and stayed until we closed in the evening. I often saw her resting against the desk because she was so tired. She wouldn’t even bother to take a single sip of water while she was here. It was worrying,” the tailor said as he reminisced. “I asked her if she was giving it to her father or her boyfriend, and her face was so red when she said it was for her beloved. I didn’t expect her to be married at such a young age. It made me wonder who the lucky guy was!”
Beloved… The word stung like the thorns of a rose.
her beloved, oh she must love her husband very much. Why else would she make clothes by hand where every stitch is filled with love? Oh yes, and
to sound less suspicious. “I’m her
man was dumbfounded as he scrutinized
as the sun set. It all felt like a dream. Alice loved him? But why would she act like a completely different person and dive into the arms of another man after leaving him when she used to focus her gaze solely on him? He
did you visit the atelier, Mr. Jasper? You usually only wear designer
“It’s nothing. Let’s go.”
right theh. The amount of harrowing phone calls he was getting was nearly giving him trauma. Frowning, he checked who was calling before he
“Hello?”
tonight! Everyone wants to celebrate.” Landon sounded jovial, barely able to keep the teasing out
“Celebrate what?”
on you. Are we celebrating your marriage or your
“Scram.”
You should come by as a show of support. How long has it been since we last hung out? What? Are you done with
after a moment’s hesitation.
prepared a sumptuous meal for Silas that
you’re allergic to smoke. I know this kitchen isn’t that bad, but you shouldn’t be inhaling the fumes.”
do this…” The slip of her tongue made her stop. She had her guard down because
Were you preparing his meals every day for the past three years? I’m going to teach Jasper
It doesn’t matter anymore. I’ll never do that again.” She barked a laugh that didn’t do anything to conceal the loss and
these years. From now
both famous and
club?
in tears. Silas, who was in the passenger seat, alighted first. He was dressed casually, which was a change from his meticulous and serious image as a prosecutor. He looked
car. She was in a form–fitting silver halter dress that resembled a galaxy under the flashing lights. Her hair was carefully styled and cascaded down her back in waves.
in fright. “Jesus Christ, aren’t you a little