TWO WEEKS LATER As Adira and Nikolai left the car simultaneously, maids ran out of the house to meet them. "Welcome, ma'am." "Welcome, sir." They all chorused, their heads bowed. Adira and Nikolai walked pass them into the house, while the maids got their bags from the boot, along with Yvonne who assisted. The mansion was like one Adira had never seen. It was super huge and painted in a neat shade of white. That was the family house of Nikolai's grandparents, and they were there to spend a few weeks with Mr. Thatcher who was close to his demise. Mr Thatcher was Nikolai's grandfather and the founder of Yonder Dynamics. Unfortunately, he was suffering from cancer and wanted to spend the last of his days on earth with his family. Getting into the expansive sitting room, Adira was welcomed by the intoxicating aroma of fine leather and polished wood. The walls were adorned with exquisite artworks, ornate chandeliers dangled from the high ceilings, casting a soft glow over the richness of the space. The house was amazing and proved that it was indeed, owned by the founder of Yonder Dynamics. Light laughters were heard from a corner of the room, and turning to the direction, Adira found a few people seated on the long dining. She found Nikolai's parents, his brothers, Na-ri, and Finn's wife. Finn - Nikolai's younger brother - had gotten married six months ago. The table was filled with assorted meals, but they didn't seem to be eating yet. "Nikolai! Adira, you're here!" Mrs Bellamy called out, making everyone else to turn to their direction. Adira was more concerned about Na-ri. Why was she there? Was she a member of the family? Nikolai walked ahead of her, and she followed. "Good evening, everyone." For a few seconds, exchange of pleasantries took place. However, Vesper was the only one who didn't respond and had his head lowered. "You two are just in time for dinner. Hope you had no difficulties coming here?" Mrs Bellamy asked, her eyes on Nikolai. "It's not a long distance, mum. It's the same city," Nikolai answered perfunctorily. "Of course." "It's so good to see you again, Nik. It's been what? Two weeks?" Na-ri beamed, her smile rattling Adira. After she left the house, she tried all she could to meet with Nikolai, but he was too busy and didn't create time for her. A week ago, he even had to travel out for a business inspection. Well, she was excited that they'd finally be under the same roof again, and this time around, he won't be able to send her out because she had specially been invited by his father. Afterall, she was his financee. "Where's grandpa?" Nikolai asked, his tone icy as always. "Oh! He'll be here soon. His wife is helping him get dressed," Mrs. Bellamy replied, and instantly, Finn gave a slight scoff. Everyone found it ridiculous that Mr. Thatcher had chosen to remarry three years ago. His initial wife died about ten years ago, and seven years later, he met and got married to a lady that was young enough to be his daughter.Mr. Thatcher, of course, had retired from the company and spent most of his time abroad, and that was where he met this new wife of his. Adira's never seen her before, but she's heard a lot about her - especially how wealthy her family was. Still, she found it silly that a twenty-nine years old lady would agree to marry an eighty-five years old man. It was crazy. Minutes passed, and the entire family continued waiting for Mr. Thatcher and his trophy wife. While they waited, a small conversation ensued between Nikolai, his parents and Finn. Vesper was intentionally being a snub, just sipping wine at intervals and completely ghosting everyone. Adira took out time to admire the people at the table. Finn had grown into a fine gentle man at twenty-six, and his wife was even prettier. "I think he's coming" Mrs. Bellamy announced when she heard footsteps and the sound of tires rolling. They all looked and waited patiently until Mr. Thatcher was finally revealed, coming in on a wheelchair which was being pushed gently by his wife. Everyone rose to their feet, putting up smiles and warmth into their faces as they stared passionately at him. But Adira... she was startled and could hardly breath. Confusion took a toll on her as she looked at the familiar face coming before her. The lady supporting the wheelchair - how on earth could she be Mr. Thatcher's wife?! There was no way!