Chapter 13
1100 Words
Eleanor's POV.
Killian placed his hand on the small of my back in order to prevent me from falling. His bluish eyes searched my face, a hint of longing and admiration in them. My heart raced and pounded in my chest, beads of sweat rolled down my spine where his hands stayed.
Gulping down the lump that had formed in my throat, I cleared my throat before leaning off him. Itching his nape, his cheeks flushed as he felt a little bit embarrassed for staring at me in such a manner.
“Thanks,” I mumbled to which he nodded curtly at..
Jacques jerked his neck in our direction, his eyes flicking between the both of us.
“I saw these artifacts. Did you make them?” Jacques inquired and a smile graced my face as I shifted my gaze at the collection of Various ornaments and accessories he was referring to.
Among those artifacts were local beads, jewelries made of bronzes, metals and platinum. stone tools, anklets, rings, and bracelets of different collections were stacked at a particular spot, each piece glistening in their own glory. Laced trimmed blouses, aprons with colorful flowers and white flared bonnets hung on several racks.
Vintage dresses of different kinds and designs were worn on mannequins, native french wears and designs of my own creation could be seen on mannequins as well.
Different shades of light flashed across those mannequins, causing a glistening sparkling effect on them.
Shifting my gaze to Jacques, I replied, “Yes I made them..”
His brows shoot to the ceiling and his jaw dropped as a flicker of surprise flashed across his eyes.
“Ils sont extrêmement beaux ! (They're extremely beautiful!)” He exclaimed, feeling somewhat amused and impressed.
“Thanks,” I mumbled and we all came to a halt in the middle of a large hall which was decorated with mosaic tiles. Huge golden chandeliers casted a bright yellowish glow which shone on our faces.
Killian could not take his eyes off me for a moment. Even with my full clothing, I still feel a little exposed in his eyes because I could see a hint of longing and desire in it.
I don't care if he's clueless that I'm Eleanor. All I care is to exact revenge on him for every pain and torture he made me experience in the past.
The pain of Rejection, betrayal, unfounded accusations, mistrust and one that I won't ever forgive– Separating me from my child.
“So, Miss Raquel,” Jacques began, snatching me out of my reverie.
“I'm very honored that you accepted our invite despite your busy schedule. You created a special time just to see us and I'm really grateful for this,” Jacques said, raising my fingers to give it a friendly kiss.
Since I arrived in France, it's a norm for ladies to receive kisses on their fingers often from men. It is a form of greeting and mostly renowned women are treated in such a manner..
Jacques locked eyes with me, his brownish eyes searching my face. With a smile, I whispered, “Thank you,”.
“You're welcome, my lady. I would love to ask if you'd be showing up at this year's Augusta's festival?” He asked, raising both eyebrows as curiosity crossed his features.
I gave a brief nod and replied, “I will be showing up there this year. Mrs Augusta specially invited me so I'd definitely show up. Besides, it's her seventieth birthday. You can't expect me to miss out on an occasion this significant, do you?”
I asked and ended up chortling softly.
“Are you coming as well, Mr Jacques?”
“Yes I will. Also with my friend here, Mr Killian,” Jacques replied and I shifted my gaze at Killian whose silence was louder than words for some reason.
I knew their presence here today was for a reason and I'm curious to know what it is since Jacques hadn't gotten to that point yet.
After having a tour of my fashion house with them, Jacques finally disclosed the request he wanted to make.
He cleared his throat while I listened intently as I anticipated his words. Running my fingers on the fluffy cashmere around my nape, I pressed my lips and directed my gaze at Killian whose eyes were still on me.
“What request do you want to make, Mr Jacques?”
“Urm.. The thing is, Mr Killian has a wife who's also a designer like you but she needs your help in making a name for herself. She's even a huge fan of yours and she'd love to be business partners with you since you both take pleasure in the same activities.” Jacques disclosed and the smile I kept on my face faded immediately.
So this was it? This was the reason they both came here?
So I can help Taylor in making a name for herself? Isn't she the famous designer from White Moon pack who got an offer to work with some small foreign firms in France? Why on earth does she need my help?
Even if I'm to guide or help someone with the fame I've acquired, Taylor would always be the least.
“What's her name?” I asked, feigning innocence,
“Her name is Taylor. Taylor Dobrev,” This time around, Killian responded, his words driving like a stake in my heart
Hearing him mentioned her name in full brought a mix of emotions in my heart. I felt angry, disappointed, and … Maybe I'm jealous. No I can't be… I'm no longer Eleanor but Raquel
Letting out a faint breath, I tried to calm my racing heart. Killian and Jacques's eyes bored into mine as they hinted at my response.
“You mentioned Taylor right?”
“Yes.” Killian added, feeling blissful to have finally spoken to me.
“I'm sorry but I can't help you in any case. My standards are very high and I'm mindful of the kind of people I choose to work with me.” I said, and there was a flash of detection in Killian's eyes.
“Miss Raquel. Taylor is a friend of mine. I know you're selective when it comes to having a friend but I know you'll love her when you get to meet her. She's industrious, creative and loyal,”.
Jacques said and I nearly burst into laughter. Loyal?
Why would someone like Taylor be loyal to me when she nearly killed me in the past?
- Writer
