017

Rose's POV

It's been two days since the whole incident happened. Derek had barely glanced at me. He even asked me to move to another room.

I didn't think much of it at first but later on, I realized that what happened also dragged his company to the headlines.

For what exactly? People are really leaving what's happening in their life just to mess up someone's life.

“Should I apologize to him?” I thought to myself but it didn't make any sense to me. I haven't done anything wrong.

If there's anyone who needs an apology, it definitely has to be me.

I walked downstairs and straight to the big kitchen. The cook walked up to me instantly. “Ma'am, is there any desired meal you want to have for breakfast?" She asked while I poured myself water.

“No, I'm fine. I'll make breakfast for myself.” I responded and she just stood a little longer, wondering… I don't know what she's thinking about.

“Hold on,” I called out to her when she turned to leave.

She stopped and was staring at me. " Where is butler Hans?” I questioned, changing what I intended to ask.

I obviously wanted to ask about Derek.

“I think he went to see his family." I nodded and waved my hands, indicating that she could leave.

I haven't seen Derek.

Why the hell am I bothered? Maybe because I'm bored and I enjoyed our first every banter on our wedding night.

I didn't know he had that warmth in him.

Ugh, I miss my mom.

I wanted to go out but I know for a fact that it could turn out really bad for me.

And yes, I haven't gotten any mysterious text from anyone.

My phone was buzzing at the back of my pocket while I was holding the pot and trying to fry some prawns.

“Who the hell is calling?" I asked and placed the pot on the counter, brought out my phone and was shocked to the bone when I saw the caller ID.

“Elodie!?" I let out a half scream when I heard her voice from the other end.

“How dare you get married without me?" Her scolding, yet playful voice came through and I couldn't help but laugh.

“Elodie I've missed you so much." I didn't know when I started sobbing.

I haven't seen or heard from my best friend for three whole years. She got a job and had to leave to another country per her dad's wish.

She was the one who granted me helping hands when I needed help badly.

In fact, I didn't bother for much while she was around. My woke world shattered when she left.

“I miss you so much Rose. So much. And please stop crying." She consoled me and I let out a smile. It was almost as if she was with me.

“I'm back." That was the next thing she said and I couldn't help but grow confused.

“Back where?”

" I'm in America right now. I couldn't contact you but somehow I contacted your mom. She told me everything.” I had my mouth agaped as I couldn't believe her words.

" Elo-”

" It's fine. I understand.” She interrupted and for some reason, I felt at peace.

“Do you remember Manon from college days?" I placed my hands on my forehead, trying hard to recall the name.

“Man- Ah, yes yes. I remember her. What about her?"

“She was the one who gave me the headlines of your marriage. Also, I saw you in the news headline two days ago." She explained while I listened carefully.

“I didn't want to call because I know you're dealing with a lot. I had nothing to do in Albania so I figured you'd need me.”

" Elodie stop it. Don't tell me you came because of me.” My heart felt so much warmth.

“Sure did.” She responded.

" That's so sweet of you. I'd never forget this.” I squealed on the phone.

“You wouldn't dare." She joked. “I'm in your house right now and believe me when I say Derek did a number."

“Yes, he did." My mood changed the moment I heard his name.

“I'm not saying the whole contract thingy was right. But yeah, he did well. Just play your card well and get here tomorrow. I miss you." I couldn't help but smile.

I love how thoughtful she is. And she's so supportive.

" I'll make sure to come tomorrow." I assured her.

“I have to go now. Call me if you need anything.” She ended the call even before I could respond.

I looked up and smiled, cleaning the tears that rolled down my eyes. “Who knows? This might not be a wrong decision after all.”

I was about to pour the oil on the pot which I thought I'd already placed on the gas cooker. I poured the oil directly in the gas itself, making flames engulf in the kitchen.

“Oh my God. Damn what have I done.” I screamed out while looking for a way to stop the fire.

The more water I poured, the more the fire grew.

“Help! Someone help please.” I cried out as panic and confusion set in.

I looked back at the door and was hearing bangs but the door was shut tight.

This is bad. This is really bad.

“What do I do?” I added more water but the fire grew bigger making me stumble backwards.

I ran towards the door, only then did I realize it was an electric door and I don't even know how to operate it.

I pushed the down knob towards but it didn't open.

“Ma'am? Can you hear me?" I heard a very familiar voice, probably the cook and I could tell she was panicking.

“Yes yes, I can hear you. The door.. the d-”

“Please stay put, you'll be out in a few seconds. The tech team is trying to come to the door.” She coaxed and it only made me grow more anxious.

There was a blast from the gas when I turned around and the pot flew and hit my head.

I fell to the ground, I could see people rushing me as I fought the darkness but I gave in to it.