LOUIS' POV
A request made by ÉLODIE has been nagging at me for several days. Although I want to do everything in my power to make her happy, I am unable to directly influence this situation. However, I am unable to coerce her into staying in this mansion with us. When we initially met at the cafe, I spoke to her in a manner that was very unacceptable.
It's a blessing that she didn't sustain any injuries. If that were not the case, you would not even be able to breathe just now.
The sound of my own voice from that day is still audible to me. Before, I had been harsh and icy. I am aware of that. Following that, there is no way that she would be interested in remaining here with me. That would be completely absurd.
But am I able to make a decision?
Or it's possible that I do. Maybe I could address this situation in the same way that the Underworld does. My mind is like a snake, and the notion comes to me like a snake.
No. It is not possible to do that.
If I were to do that, she would look down on me.
There is something else that I need to consider. If I ask her in a gentle manner, perhaps she will agree to it. Doesn't it make sense to give it a shot?
After pulling out my phone, I go through the contact list until I discover her name.
"ÉLODIE'S friend." I was able to preserve it in this manner when she handed it to me. Keeping her number was the only way I could rationalize my decision to do so.
I keep pressing the call button as I wait. It sounds like my fingers are drumming against the desk. I feel a tightening in my jaw. Why do I feel so anxious? I have confronted people who were dangerous and given orders that caused others to shake with fear. It's simply a phone call, nothing more.
A click can be heard.
A jovial voice greeted me with, "Hello, cutie," and I smiled.
My throat is cleared out. "I am not ÉLODIE."
"I am so sorry! First, I believed it was her. You—"
"I am her uncle," I interrupted her statement. Whatever it was that she was going to say, I already knew.
There is no sound. Immediately then, "Did something happen to her?"
It is clear to me now why my Sweet Pie has developed such a strong attachment to her because of the quick worry that can be heard in her voice.
"There was no occurrence. In order to give you a proposal, I am calling you.
"A proposal?" In what way do you mean?
That's what I said. I would like to employ you to work as ÉLODIE'S nanny. It is necessary for someone to take care of her and instruct her away from home.
There is again another halt.
Her question is, "Why me?" "I am employed," she said. There is no other person whom I am seeking."
It is true. However, ÉLODIE is interested in you. When it comes to her desires, I do not go against them.
Her response is practically instantaneous: "I do not believe that I am able to accept."
"I will pay you twice as much. All that is required of you is to remain at the mansion, take care of her, and act as her instructor. Everything you require will be provided by me. A room, food, and clothing are all necessities. Anything that you desire. You need only state your price.
“It is not that. I have no power to quit my employment. I am unable to abandon my pal. There is another person you can find. I have no doubt that a large number of people would accept this offer.”
I keep my frustration in check by running my fingers through my hair and attempting to keep it under control. My capacity for patience is running low. If only I could deal with this situation in the same manner that I am accustomed to. No, I have to play this differently. I can't do that.
A slow breath is taken by me. “Three days are allotted to you to give it some thought. For the time being, I will not inquire about your response.”
On the other hand, "But—"
"Miss SOPHIE, I do not like that word." "I do not have the ability to spell it."
There is no response from her. A really astute young lady.
"In three days, I will call you again for your answer."
Next, I end the call.
She dismissed the incorrect individual.
Is she even aware of what she has just attempted to accomplish?