What Lies Beneath

"So, what are we gonna do now?" ask Alice as soon as they get into their bedroom. Karl closed the door and walk passed Alice without even looking at her. She is still waiting for his response.

"Karl?"

"Hmm?"

"I'm talking to you."

"Yes, I heard you the first time."

"Then, why won't you answer me? I said, what are we gonna do now?"

"Whatever do you mean?" Karl non-chalant asked as he unbuttoned his tuxedo.

"Well, it's our first night as husband and wife. Aren't you gonna... you know?"

"What? Sleep with you?" he asks back, matter-of-factly. She shrugged her shoulder. 

"Well, yeah..." she replied. He stopped unbuttoned his tux and look at her. 

"You know... For a sixteen year old girl, I thought you gonna be more naïve about this kind of things. You really not like what I first expected. " he replied. Alice showed him a wicked smile.

"Have I fool you then? Sorry if I'm not as innocent as you think." she replied. Karl frowns.

"No. You're nothing like what I think. I can't put my finger on it. There's something about you... Something I can't quite figure out yet..." 

"What do you mean?"

"I know my grandpa paid a lot of money to win the bid. But, you aren't exactly a poor person nor a prisoner here. I know you're rich, Alice... Hell, richer than I was when you're born. So, what exactly is your game here?"

"Nothing. I just get bored living alone and need some company. The marriage proposal seems like a good way to fix that. I mean, is that so bad?" she replied. It's a logical explanation for her to marry him, but Karl still have his suspicion.

"Now that's a lie. From what I heard, it was actually a tie between me and the D'Artaganan family, isn't? Yet you chosen me. Why?"

"So, you heard, huh? Well, if needed some answer than I tell you. Call it a husband and wife privilege, if you may. D'Artaganan family is too large. With a family like that, you can't keep anything as a secret. Now, I need someone I can trust."

"And I'm the right guy? Based on what? We barely even know each other."

"Don't you think I had studied about my suitor first before I  met them?" she asked sternly. Karl blink at her a couple of times.

"Oh, so you had me studied then."

"Of course. And between you and d'Artaganan - I much prefer you, my dear. Your parents dead, your grandparents lives upstate, and there's wasn't a lot of servant around in your place from what I heard. That's why you make an excellent choice."

"I see. How flattering." he said, sarcastically. She grins.

"Don't be. I didn't chose you because I liked you or anything."

"Me either. I only marry you because our family lineage is dying. Nothing else."

"Yes. That's also why I ask if you want to sleep with me earlier. Well, do you?"

"I think at least we should get acquainted first, don't you? Besides, its only been our first night. I'm not in that hurry." he replied. She sighs.

"Suit yourself. I just wanted you know that whatever its you want from me - I'm willing to give it to you. But, there's also something I need to ask from you."

"A price?" Karl asked back. She nodded and continue.

"Mandy Abermore, my governess. She been missing for over a week now. She take a few days off every now and then, but it has never this long. You need to help me find her."

"Hmm, a missing governess. I know a guy that can help with this type of things, so that can be arranged. Anything else?"

"I need you to find her, alive. There's something I need to ask her about."

"Like what?"

"None of your concern. I just need to hear you say that you gonna help me. Will you?"

"Okay, I'll help you. But, are you sure that's all you want?"

"Yes. Positive."

"Alright then. Now can I make a demand?"

"Of course. What do you want?"

"About the heir..."

"What about it?"

"I... I don't think I'm going to sleep with you anytime soon."

"Why not? We're married, aren't we?"

"Yes, I know that. But you're just sixteen. I... I don't think it will be a good idea." Karl said before crossing his arms. Alice smiles to herself.

"You know... You're a very strange man, Karl. Anyone in your position would be leaping with joy if they find a virginal young bride in their bed right now."

"Yes, but I'm not like everyone. Perhaps when you're older. As for now, its off the table."

"As you wish."

"Just to be clear, I'm still gonna sleep with you later. Just not now. Okay?"

"Okay. I get it. You won't be sleeping with me tonight. End of story." Alice replied before rolled her eyes. Karl left a sigh before taking a seat next to her. He extended his arms and touches her head. Alice paused.

"Karl? What... are you doing?" she ask him. He sighs.

"Nothing. I always wonder how is it like to pat a girl's hair. Now, I know the feeling."

"Okay... But, I'm not just a girl. I'm your wife, remember?"

"How could I forget? But, just for tonight - can we at least pretend that we're not bonded in matrimony? I don't want things to get awkward between us. Just treat me as someone other than that, like a brother, perhaps?"

"A brother? So, I am like what - your sister or something?"

"Yes." Karl said. Alice crossed her arms and look at him in her wedding dress.

"Are you sure that's what you want?"

"Yes."

"Okay, Karl. As for now, you can treat me as your little sister. But, not forever... I hope you won't forget what we truly are."

"Of course. Thank you, Alice." he said and showed her a little smile. That's the first. Alice sighs and look down at her feet. She can feel her heart beats a little faster out of a sudden. She doesn't even sure why, but for that moment - she just let it be.

-End of Chapter 3-