" Margaret, we need to talk". Arthur said, his voice firm but controlled.
At this moment, the Harrington's mansion became quiet as everyone had departed. Arthur Harrington, Harrison's father, stood in the doorway of the living room, watching his wife, Margaret, as she poured herself a cup of tea.
" What is so important that we need to talk about?". Margaret looks up without a hint of curiosity in her eyes.
Arthur walks into the room, his footsteps deliberate.
" Why did you accept carmilla's mother offer to renew the contract?" He asks, his eyes narrowing.
Margaret's hands pauses, the teapot hovering above her cup.
" It's the right thing to do". She said, setting the teapot down.
Arthur's expression turns incredulous.
" The right thing to do? You know very well that the Hunt family has now become a threat to us after what you did. You're just putting our family into more danger".
Margaret eyes widens, her voice becoming more louder.
" Do you really think I don't know what I'm doing. The Hunt family is struggling financially and this marriage is the only thing that can save them".
" As for me, I have my own ways of benefiting".
Arthur stood in confusion, pondering on what his wife has just uttered.
" And what is that?" He questions.
Margaret's gaze snaps back to Arthur's, a flash of determination in her eyes.
" I have carmilla. Getting her married into this family is best for us. With her around, I can be able to watch the Hunt family closely".
" I know that you see her as a threat, but trust me, she will do more favors for us than just a threat" she said, assuring her husband.
Arthur's eyes narrowed. He could sense that his wife is up to something again, but he wasn't sure what. One thing became certain to him, the fate of carmilla's family and his own son's happiness hung in the balance.
" And what about our son's happiness, Margaret?". Have you considered how this marriage will affect Harrison?".
" Why do you think Harrison acted calm in front of his future in-laws. I had already discussed this marriage with him, but things decided to turn for my favor".
" I became surprised when Mrs. Hunt brought up the idea first". She responded, wearing a devilish smile on her face.
Arthur's face paled.
" What? How could you keep something so important from me?". He asks, his voice heavy with disappointment.
" You?... Have you been acting like the man I need you to be. Your always soft complaining about the things I do".
" Are you trying to act like a man now? You should know better than anyone or do you want me to keep reminding you about your position in this family". She replied, turning her face away from her husband.
" I'll make the necessary
arrangements for the wedding. All I need you to do is to be supportive like the husband you are". She said as she walks out on him.
Arthur stood helpless like the man he has always been to his wife.
" Bring your friend close and your enemies closer. So that the game you want to play, why don't we play it together". He said to himself.
**********
Good morning carmilla, I didn't know you usually wake up this early ever since your brother's death". Miss flora said with a smile on her face.
" Morning to you nanny flora, It just 10am. I just felt like waking up early today. Besides mom and dad left early, so I decided to have the house to myself a little". She replied, sitted in the living room busy with her phone. As the door bell rang, carmilla's face lit up wondering who it might be this early.
" I'll go get the door" the servant said, as she walks and opened the door.
" Who are you and state your business" the servant questions the guest.
Mia chuckles.
" Good morning miss. I'm Mia, carmilla's friend". She answered.
" Is she at home?". MIA asks
" Yes she is". Miss flora replied
" Forgive me. Please do come in, you came at the right time". She said as she ushers her into the living room.
" Carmilla! Your friend is here to see you". Miss flora called out.
Carmilla on seeing her friend, her face lit up with a warm smile. She hasn't seen her friend in months and she became excited to catch up.
She hurriedly stood up and runs to where Mia is.
" Thank you miss flora, you may excuse us" carmilla said, as miss flora gave the both girls their space.
" Carmilla, it's so great to see you're doing well!". Mia exclaims, enveloping carmilla In a tight hug.
Carmilla hugs her back, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity.
" Mia, I've missed you so much! Come on in". Carmilla responded, escorting Mia into the living room.
Mia eyes scans the room, taking in the elegant decor.
" Your house remains beautiful as ever, but the loneliness in it never changes" Mia said, relaxing on one of the couch.