She checked her phone. “Late call, from Eddie .She interrupted my sleep.”
Vickie stumbled down the dark corridor, barely awake. She hit something firm and ran her fingers across it.
“So smooth,” she breathed. “I never want to let go.”
The surface shifted. She blinked, confused.
“Why is it moving?” she whispered, stepping after it.
He’d been watching her the whole time. “You’re persistent,” he said flatly. “Like a problem I can’t ignore.”
He finally spoke, after watching her unravel for a while.
Vickie stood still, trying to fit the pieces together. So it was a person after all. She closed her eyes and lifted her hands, mapping his features in the dark.
“What audacious person would call me a pest?” she asked the air.
She opened her eyes slowly, the room coming into focus.
“So people like you sleepwalk? and speak too,” the voice said again. Now Vickie was fully aware.
“You, of all people. And why so guarded?” You're even shirtless. She stepped back. “You called me a pest? Do I look like one to you?”
Kelvin didn’t answer. Arms folded, he studied her with quiet curiosity.
“Pests ruin crops,” he said. “And you… you ruin my peace. Most days I wonder if this is fascination or obsession.”
He turned to leave.
“Leaving already?” she called after him. “Face me. Moron..
Eddie lay on her bed, biting on her lower lip as she contemplated to herself;
" This is dad's fault. If he hadn't owed any debt to that demon, I wouldn't be here working as a mistress.
Come in" she invited. A knock on the door making her wipe her teary face.
Vickie finally swept into Eddie's room, her anger palpable, and her sister's eyes followed her, filled with curiosity.
" Why are you looking all decked up, Vickie. She questioned, still gazing at her.
" Yes Eddie. I am decked up. You interrupted my beautiful sleep, she muffled, rubbing her eyes.
Vickie? My intrusion didn't cause your frustration as well. Right?
Yeah sure. It's that Kelvin of a guy. He keeps pestering and getting on my bad side.
Oops!! Come give me a hug, Eddie's arms widened for Vickie.
I love you Vickie. Don't be bothered by anything, ok? " Now, pls give me a warm massage.
Jeez! Vickie exclaimed, shocked by her sudden outburst.
" What!! Halt. So you called me this late, just for a massage? That's hilarious, sis.
I'm not doing it, I'm not a masseuse.
Kelvin went straight to Nickel’s room.
The room was dark, silent, exactly how Nickel kept it. Kelvin entered, catching the faint smell of smoke. He moved closer and found Nickel there. He sat beside him.
“You called. I’m here,” Kelvin said. “Any news on your uncle Morgan?”
Nickel didn’t look up. “I knew you’d ask about him. I should , Nickel. Your uncle is dangerous. What has he done now? You think he was involved in your father’s death?”
Both held cigarettes, the room dim around them.
“I’m certain Morgan has a hand in it,” Nickel said, tapping ash. “He wants the company for himself. He’s my uncle, but now he’s after Ethan and me too.”
“You don’t need to fear him,” Kelvin said. “He’s just greedy. I’ve got your back, like always. You know I’m your best friend. I’ll play your agent if I have to.” He clapped Nickel’s shoulder.
Nickel paused. “So… how’s her sister? Vickie?”
Kelvin scoffed. “That Vickie? She’s reckless. Hard to handle. I hope I don’t lose patience with her.” He glanced at Nickel, sharp. “Don’t give me that look. I don’t trust Eddie either. So I won't be gentle with her.
" Why still keep them both?? You should have finished them off after what their father did.
Kelvin rose to leave. “I should go, Nick. No one needs to see me in your room. Not even the sisters. Good night. Enjoy the evening.”
He closed the door quietly behind him and stepped into the dim corridor. A faint smile touched his mouth as he walked, but it vanished when he collided with her.
Stephanie, the maid. Persistent. Even Nickel knew of her fixation. She should’ve been working, yet here she was, blocking his path.
“Kelvin, darling,” she said, stepping in front of him. “Maybe we’re meant to meet like this. Forget my position. I’m more than just staff.”
Kelvin let her talk until he’d heard enough. “Are you finished?” His voice was flat. “You’re in my way. Move.”
He brushed past her and headed to his room.
Next morning, the office felt hostile. The light seemed to glare at her while the floor stayed solid beneath her feet.
Eddie stood up from the couch where she sat beside him.nMr. Nickel,” she said quietly. “May I use the restroom?”
Nickel swiveled his chair and gave her that look. The one that said he saw through her. “You need the restroom,” he said, “or you need an exit to stay away from me?
Last night was nothing, it was your job as my mistress. So don't avoid me all day, you can as well go with your panties to the washroom, you will definitely need it .
Nickel brought it out, flinging it towards her face. Eddie gasped. It was hers! She exclaimed. She left it last night, running out of his sight. She felt some what embarrassed.
T- thanks, she stammered, finally leaving the office.