Settling In

The property has changed quite a bit since Marcus took over the winery. This house, largely built to accomodate the wealth he has acquired in owning this business. The north wing is for the four of us, Aris and Claud to live comfortably. A teacher has been hired to continue the studies of Max and Maxine, Madelaine has just started as well.

While Marcus was away it seemed he had a few employees enjoying the fruits our labors. The first that I poked my nose into the books, it was plain to see that something was amiss. Within a few days the foreman was let go as well as the bookkeeper. The bookkeeper did not know that a few people were paid that did not work there. Which was why the bookkeeper was let go. Already the receipts are fatter on the books and I have started the inventory process already making my suggestions to improve the operation overall. I have no idea where this business side of me came from but it is the one thing I do well.

I saw Ivy the other day.. Aris like he always did, has an eye for the slave. Pleasantries were had between us but how do we speak now. We were either friends or at each others throats, highly competitive but now, what do I have in common with a slave? I endured having my guard drag off the woman to the bushes, the entire area forced to listen to grunting and rutting while I pretended to read my ledger book. I did not care that he used the woman but that he had to do it as he did. Aris is a beast, uncouth at that.

Marcus and I have an arrangement.. it works for us both at this time. I am not sure if I am a ward of his or not, I am sure we will argue that line plenty. It is what we do best. After arriving back to the house with a grinning Aris, I excused myself and went to spend a few ahns with the children, early evening playtime is my favorite part of my day. Once they were settled in their beds, I took a long bath and let my mind drift to pleasant places. I was brushing my hair and about to turn in myself when there was a tap at my door. For a long moment I would look at myself in the mirror. Who did I see in those eyes so vibrant? Are they just a facade hiding a dullness within? I admit that I am finding my life a tad boring yet at the same time I still stir something in a few.. And so, each day brings new experience as I step out and seek new friends and places of interest.

Recently.. to the ire of Aris, I saw him. He looked well yet I was extremely guarded, the desire to fall into his arms was strong yet the memories too cruel. Inside my heart .. always.

::the book fell shut and tied with white ribbon, fingertips would touch lightly over the satiny bow. The book placed on top of the old one, locked in her trunk. Private sanctuary for private thoughts::