Forced Marriage: My Wife, My Redemption novel Chapter 7

Chapter 7: 7 The world won't wait for you

~Davis Mansion~

It's been a few weeks since Davis return to the mansion but the ones peaceful and happy home had transformed into a home of fear where everyone had to thread cautiously. In the kitchen, a group of maids huddled together, their whispers filled with unease. Their faces apprehensive with anxiety etched into their expressions, as they spoke in hushed tones about the unpredictable temper of their boss that could flare into violence in an instant.

"Did you see him today? He threw a glass at the wall when the gardener asked about the new flowers," one said, her voice trembling.

"He's terrifying," another whispered. "I heard he shouted at Henry again this morning."

"He wasn't like this before the accident," the cook said softly, glancing toward the study. "He's hurting."

"That doesn't mean we're not," the first maid muttered.

"He should at least consider that his situation isn't our making", another chimed.

Ethan standing at the door was furious "Are you ready to leave?", he asked with his tone icy. The maids were startled and quietly bowed their heads in submission. "We are sorry sir", they echoed.

Ethan issued a stern before he turned on his heel towards the study —Davis sanctuary since his return.

It's been weeks since Davis returned to this home but he has become an unrecognizable man from who he had once been. He had transformed into someone irritable and bitter. His frustrations boiled all over erupting unpredictably as it creates a tense atmosphere that seeped into every corner of the house.

Despite the exquisite furnishings and serene environment, the house now feels more depressing than ever. Every member of the house avoids Davis as plague while they ensure to work with little or no noise to attract his attention and avoid his fury and will occasionally gather in the kitchen to talk about the day.

Even Henry, his butler had learnt to avoid situations that will implicate him further and will always go through Ethan who is more of their saviour to pass across information or request for instructions.

Davis sat in his study, an empty glass on the desk in front of him as he gaze into the blank void oblivious of his surroundings.

Ethan entered without knocking, a folder in hand. "You missed a call from Elder Allen. He wants an update on—"

"I don't care what he wants!" Davis snapped, his voice sharp enough that Henry, who stood in the doorway flinched.

Ethan sighed, placing the folder on the desk. "You can't keep ignoring him, Davis. You still have to acknowledge him and make use of his influence"

Davis's jaw clenched, his eyes narrowing as he glared at Ethan. "Influence?" he repeated, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "What influence? Look around, Ethan. I'm a cripple sitting in a house that feels more like a tomb than a home discarded by my family like yesterday's trash, and you're telling me to use theirinfluence?"

Henry who had come to serve his meal cleared his throat from the doorway. "Sir, would you like me to—"

"Leave!" Davis barked, slamming his hand down on the desk. "All of you, just leave me alone!" His voice boomed.

Henry hesitated for a moment, glancing at Ethan, who nodded subtly. The butler stepped back and disappeared down the hall, his footsteps fading into silence.

Ethan folded his arms across his chest as , leaned against the wall. "You don't scare me, you know. You can shout, throw things, and lock yourself in this mansion but don't bother making me go."

"Why?" Davis asked, his voice almost a whisper. His expression softened briefly, revealing the exhaustion behind his anger. "Why are you still here, Ethan? Everyone else has left."

Ethan sighed lightly, his gaze unwavering. "Because you're my friend. And unlike the others, I don't turn my back on people when they're at their lowest, that doesn't mean I can't leave but until then."

Davis let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "Friend? That's generous. I'm a broken man that needs a miracle, Ethan."

Ethan looked at him and shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "Then maybe it's time you stopped wallowing and start fighting for one."

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