Chapter 1
I’ve been working in this new stately home for a fortnight. The abundance of antiques and coffered ceilings still bemuses me to this day being a mere butler. My time in this home has been serene and interactions with Mr H Jones and Mrs A Jones has been nothing but polite and professional in terms of my role. Harold has worked in the filming industry for an extremely long time and his wife is always paraded by his side in all press photography. As I settled into their home, I became aware of the situation at hand.
As I served dinner one evening, I notice Mr Jones had restricted his wife’s food in regards to a new upcoming film he was starring in and wanted her to “look her best” for the camera at the premiere. Anastasia finished her plate and ushered me for an extra serving to which her wrist was met with a heavy hand that Mr Jones placed to silence her request. “Darling I’ve only had a small portion and I’m sure my hunger is more important than the photographic torture.”
“No, you’ve eaten what you need drink the rest of your wine and prepare yourself for bed. We have an early start tomorrow with the press. Goodnight.”
Anastasia glared at me with doe eyes as I witness the control he has over her. I nodded to him proficiently as a butler, however, unprofessionally my eyes remained in contact with hers as I watch a pool of tears begin to form. Mr Jones leaves the table and she stayed seated as her elegant finger circled on the circumference of her almost empty glass. Sensing her tension and upset I approached and filled it. As I did, her movement didn’t stop so a touch of wine caressingly dripped down her finger. “I’m so sorry Mrs Jones!” I preach as I reach for a napkin but before it’s in her presence she enters the finger in her mouth. “You’re very sweet aren’t you George.” As she stands from her chair our noses almost graze before departs the room. I’m left flustered.
