Back to London after a hiatus

The months passed quickly. The Lunar New Year came and went. My stay in Australia with my family for 2 months was fantastic. The twins were doing well and my parents were enjoying their life there. Working out on the farm took my mind off many things and taught me to appreciate life. My family knew of the going on in London, but they did not ask much about the details. My Dad was very concerned about the whole pregnancy thing, but I assured him that it was just a rumor and nothing more. And we left it as that.

Gareth and I hardly spoke as we went back to our lives. I kept track of his accomplishments, and Pris updated me about him as well. He seemed to be doing very well, launching a new line of men’s wear and bridal gowns. I’ve read every interview of him in any magazine I could get my hands on. When I got back to the Manor, Pris updated me on the happenings of the Manor, the hotel business and of Nicholas and Gareth.

It is now July and I’m back in full swing of work in the Manor after the longest break I’ve ever taken in my working life. It was my first day back and some kid decided to pour water colour paint into the swimming pool again. I smiled inwardly and called for Mag to close off the pool and do the necessary follow up actions.

Things have been good of late, but Gareth and I have not spoken in about 4 months now. I had to admit that I missed him very much. Rumors have it that he has a new girlfriend. It hurt at first to know that Gareth had decided not to wait for me, but I knew that I have no authority over his life, so I cried for a day, kept the three rings that Gareth had given me, which I wore everyday since we parted, and moved on. Pris assures me all the time that it is just a rumor, but rumor or not, Gareth and I ended on the first day of the New Year.

After my rounds, I returned to the office and got a call through the telecom.

“Qiu!! I need you in London now!!!” Pris announced, shouted rather. I held the receiver at a distance.
“Tonight? Can I go tomorrow instead?” I asked her with a sigh.
“Tonight. Mum’s orders.” She shouted impatiently.
“But I just got back to work.” I whined.
“Exactly so. That’s what Mum said. Since you are back in action and out of hiatus, Mum wants you back at the Chateau for a short visit. Grandpapa and Grandmamma have been asking about you and you know that Grandpapa is getting old.” Pris explained as-a-matter-of-factly. I sighed aloud.
“Don't sigh and get you ass back here in London now!” she said.
“You've gotten more snappy ever since you got pregnant.", I stated as-a-matter-of-factly.
"Now!!" and she hung up. Just like that. I sighed aloud again and rested my forehead on my hands.

Going back to London meant I might meet him again after almost 7 months. I sighed and gave the necessary instructions for when I will be away and left the office early to head back to pack.

I arrived in London at about 1 in the afternoon. Robert picked me up and we headed back to the Chateau. I was ushered into the Morning room to greet my grandparents.

"Autumn! What brings you back to London?” Grandpapa asked in surprise when I stepped in.
“To visit you." I said with a smile. I leaned in and gave Grandpapa a hug.
“But Autumn, how are you?” he asked me sincerely. I smiled at him.
“I’m fine Grandpapa, don’t worry. I’ve got everything sorted out and I’m good.” I assured him.
“Good good. I’m glad.” He said with a smile. I then turned my attention to Grandmama.
“Autumn darling.” She said and hugged me.
“Grandmama, I’ve missed you.” I whispered to her as I hugged her.

“Let me take a look at you.” She said as she took a step backwards. I smiled and twirled around for her.
“Lovely, lovely. But you lost some weight.” She frowned. I laughed.
“I am surprised I did, given that my mum fed me like a cow when I was in Australia.”, I told Grandmama with a laugh.
“We will feed you up and get you back in shape soon.” She said smiling. I laughed.

"Where is Pris?", I asked them.
"Out on a walk with Nicholas. I'm so happy for them. But I was rather upset that you didn't turn up for the wedding." Grandmama said. I only smiled and shrugged.

I excused myself after catching up with then and went on to greet Mum and Dad before heading to my room to rest up before supper. My things were brought up to my room. I went up to the closet and opened it to look for a change of clothes. As I sifted through my stuff, I noticed Gareth’s pile of clothes neatly packed in a corner. I took a deep breath and picked up one of his shirts. I held it to my nose and took a deep breath. It smelled of him. I climbed into bed, took off my shoes, held his shirt close and fell asleep.

There was a gentle knock on my door, and I was awakened by it. I got up slowly and called for the person to enter my room.

“Miss Autumn, I’m sorry to disturb you, but we need to prepare you for dinner.” It was Rose.
“Rose, come on in.” I called out and she stepped in and closed the door behind her.
“I missed you Autumn.” She said and came over. I nodded and smiled.
“I’ll choose the dress while you take a quick shower to freshen up.” She offered. I nodded and headed to the bathroom for a quick shower.

I came out in a bathrobe.

“Let me do your hair Autumn.” Rose offered. I nodded and sat down, allowing Rose to do her magic.
“Thank you Rose.” I said as I went on with my make up.
“It’s nothing. I have not a chance to dress you up since you left London. I’m so glad you are back.” Rose said with a smile.

With my hair and make up done, Rose went over to my bed and held up the dress she chose for me. I looked at it in surprise. It was the pink dress, the very first dress that Gareth made with me in mind.

“No?” Rose asked me having noticed my expression.
“It will do Rose.” I told her and she helped me change into it. I figured that since it was only going to be a family dinner, I did not have to worry.
“You look wonderful. The dress still fits.” Rose exclaimed. I nodded with a smile.
“Now for accessories.” She went on excitedly and dug into my jewelry box which I brought along with me.

Rose pulled out the three rings that Gareth gave me and a simple white gold necklace and a diamond pendent. I looked at the ring as Rose helped me with the necklace. Family dinner, no big deal. It had been 2 months since I last looked at the rings. I slipped them on my fourth left finger. The diamonds sparkled in the light while the sapphires shone. I thanked Rose and left my room to the drawing room where the family gathered.

As I reached the drawing room, I heard laughter and voices. It sounded like it was not just the family. Robert opened the door and announced me. I looked around. The St Claire family was invited for dinner. All eyes turned to me.

“Autumn. Welcome home.” Nicholas came up and greeted me. I looked at Nicholas and smiled as naturally as I could. I felt out of place. I looked around and Saw Pris seated at the settee in a distance.
“How have you been?” Nicholas asked as he led me into the room.
"Good, I guess. How is your pregnant wife?" I asked with a chuckle. Nicholas laughed.
"Very pregnant, I should say." he said with a smile and a gleam in his eyes. My heart clenched. I was happy for them, but it hurt somehow.
"Well, congratulations. It's way overdue." I said to him.
"Thank you. We were just surprised that you didn't turn up for the wedding. Well, Pris was rather upset about it. You know, the hormones and all." Nicholas explained. I laughed.
"I know. She's gotten really snappy recently, hasn't she?", I said with a giggle. Nicholas only laughed.

"Qiu!", Pris exclaimed.
"I'm not deaf.", I told her as I sat down beside her. I smiled, noticing the bump.
"How have you feeling?" I asked her.
"Pregnant." she snapped.
"Other than that?" I said with a chuckle.
"Otherwise, good." she said as she gently rubbed the bump. Nicholas sat down beside her and put his hand on hers. They looked at each other, and smiled. There was an understanding. I looked away, as my heart began to hurt.

“Autumn!” Monique exclaimed as she came over to me side. I stood up and she hugged me excitedly. Edwardo acknowledged me with a nod. I smile at him as I hugged Monique.
“Let me look at you.” She said as she released me and twirled me around.
“Lovely.” She said with a huge smile.
“You just ran off without saying a goodbye and I missed you terribly.” She chided me. I made a face.
“She did. I had a hard time trying to pacify her every time she asked about you.” Phillip joined us.
“Phillip.” I said softly with a smile and stole a look behind him.

“If you are looking for him, he’s late. And we did not tell him that you have returned. The St Claire and the Ridges have been having dinners together regularly, so he is assuming that it’s just another dinner.” Phillip said with a gentle smile. My face changed and I felt woozy. I quickly reached for the rings to remove them when Robert announced the arrival of Gareth.

And a Chloe Hamton.

I stood there rooted, not moving, not wanting to turn around. I tried again to remove the rings from my finger as I heard the family greet each other.

“Gareth, just in time.” Monique went up to greet her son.
“Chloe, I’m so glad you could make it.” She went on to greet the female guest.
“I must thank Lady Ridges for inviting me. It’s been so long since I last came by to London for a visit.” Chloe exclaimed excitedly.

I stood where I stood. It was then I felt someone gently tug on my dress. It was Pris.

“I can’t. Pris, I can’t do this.” I whispered to her.
“You will be fine." Pris whispered. I heard laughter; apparently, Gareth and Chloe had still not realized that I was in the same room. Nicholas stood as well.
“Autumn, you look like death. Are you feeling well?” he asked. I shook my head, unable to speak. I took a deep breath.
“If you both will excuse me, I think I would –“I began when Phillip approached us. My back was still facing the others.

“Autumn, are you feeling alright?” Phillip asked, noticing the colour leaving my face. I nodded.
“If you will excuse me, I would like to –“ I tried again. Phillip must have shielded me from Gareth’s view as he greeted Phillip.

“Phillip! Nicholas! Pris!” Gareth greeted the three of them.
“You finally noticed us?” Nicholas asked his friend dryly.
“Well, it’s great to see you again Pris. And who have we have?” Gareth asked cheerfully. My back was facing Gareth.
“Phillip, I didn’t know you were dating again.” Chloe said, joining us.
“She's visiting.” Nicholas said slowly, not knowing what was the right thing to say. I realised something was not sitting right with them.

“I don’t think we’ve met. Phillip, do introduce your girlfriend to us.” Gareth said, eyeing his brother carefully.
“How I wish she were my girlfriend, but she isn't. She's a family friend. You might have met before.” Phillip said gently, but I could tell there was some discomfort in his speech.

I took a deep breath and turned around with a smile on my face. In that instant, Gareth’s smile left his face and shock and confusion took over. Chloe looked between me and Gareth curiously, then looked at the others, as if waiting for some huge explosion to happen.

“It’s ok guys.” I told them with a smile. Gareth only stared blankly at me, as if trying to piece something together.
“Qiu, are you alright?” Pris asked. I nodded to Pris.
"I'm fine. Just tired from the flight, as I only took a short nap earlier before dinner." I added. Phillip stood beside me. Gareth looked at me as if he knew me, but didn't know me at the same time.

I looked around and something bad was inkling in me. Something was wrong, very wrong, but I could not put my finger to it. Everyone seemed cautious about something, except Chloe, who seemed genuinely lost.

"Do I know you?" Gareth asked slowly and cautiously. I looked at him in surprise, then looked at Pris, hoping that it Gareth was up to him usual pranks. Nicholas, Pris and Phillip looked somewhat uncomfortable. I turned my attention back to Gareth.
"I'm Autumn. I know it's been awhile, but I don't think 7 months will make a huge difference." I explained to him gently. Gareth looked confused.
"You seem somewhat farmiliar, and there's this feeling I can't seem to explain." he said to me, then looked at Phillip. I looked at Phillip too, and he only smile gently at Gareth.
"It is going to take some time Gareth, but your wait is over." Phillip told his brother.

I was about to say something when Robert announced that it was time for dinner. Nicholas escorted Pris, and Gareth excorted Chloe. I looked at Phillip, unsure of what was going on. Phillip hed out his arm and I took it. Something was wrong.

Everyone entered the dining around was just beginning to take their seats, when Mum motioned for me to sit beside Phillip. I nodded and followed Phillip over, only to discover I would be seated next to Gareth as well as I approached the dining table. Phillip on my right and Gareth on my left. And on Gareth’s left was Chloe.

I looked at Pris who was seated across the table from me and she gave me a look assuring me that everything was alright and that she would explain everything to me when we were alone. I took a deep breath and settled in. Phillip reached out and pulled out the chair for me.

"Thank you Phillip." I said to him as I sat down. Robert came up to me.
"Red or white Lady Autumn?" Robert asked me. I looked around.
"White for the lady." Gareth said suddenly, looking up at Robert. I looked at Gareth for a moment, confused. He had the same confused look as me. Robert kept his attention to me as he waited for instructions. I nodded and he indicated for a staff to pour the white wine.
"Thank you St Claire." I said softly.

~~~

Gareth watched Autumn. She smiled and laughed as she conversed with Phillip. It was then Chloe nudged him. Gareth turned his attention to Chloe. And then, something else caught his eye. A pink dress. Then he remembered the swatch of cloth that Pris had pinned onto the manniquin when they were in Scotland.

"You're staring." Chloe whispered to Gareth, interupting his thoughts.
"Huh? Oh." was all Gareth said and picked his wine glass and took a sip.
"So, she's Autmn Ridges huh? She's pretty." Chloe said.
"I'm sorry. Who is she again?" Gareth asked Chloe, extremely confused. His head was beginning to hurt.
"Autumn Ridges. Cousin, are you feeling alright? You look very pale." Chloe asked her cousin in concern. Gareth shook his head.
"I'm fine." Gareth said softly. It was then he felt someone touch his shoulder gently. He turned to see who it was.

"St Claire, are you feeling ok?", Autumn asked, extremely concerned. Gareth looked straight into her eyes. He took a deep breath.
"I'm fine, just feeling a little under the weather." Gareth assured her.
"Are you sure?" she tried again. He nodded. She nodded, smiled and turned her attention back to Phillip.

Gareth took a small sip of his wine and watched Autumn from the corner of his eye, not wanting her to realise that he is looking at her. She was smiling at something Phillip was saying. Gareth's brain stopped working the moment she turned around to look at him in the drawing room earlier. She looked vaguely farmiliar, she felt somewhat farmiliar And that dress, it was farmiliar too. It was definately his style but why would she have that dress on her if he had never met her before. Or had he?

Dinner was simple and went on smoothly. Gareth and Autumn spoke little to each other, except for simple polite small talk. With dinner done, everyone adjorned to the drawing room for light refreshments. The men with they port and the women with their tea, or champange in the case of the younger people.

Pris settled in beside Autumn after helping herself to a flute, which by then, she noticed that Autumn had already downed 3 flutes.

"Psst." Pris tried to get Autumn's attention.
"Hmm?" Autumn replied without looking at her, surveying the room.
"3. You downed 3, when I just started on my first." Pris said to Autumn.
"I was thirsty, and you should not even be drinking to start with." Autumn said, turning her attention to her friend and plucking the flute out of her friend's hand and finishing the champange.
"Ok, take it easy." Pris said with a shrug. Autumn only nodded. She only wanted this to end quickly so she could go back to her room to catch up on her sleep and then figured out what was wrong with Gareth. She sighed.

"Pris, is there something I should know?" I asked her.

Monique sat down beside me. I turned my attention to her. She took a very deep breath. I looked at both Pris and Monique.

"Can someone just tell me what is going on?" I said softly.
"After you left, he was devestated." Pris began.
"No! Please don't tell me he..." I began softly.
"He stopped eating, cooped himself in the room, pulled out the drip when we had it in. And he drank. Alot. He didn't want to talk to anyone at all." Monique explained. I closed my eyes ad ook a deep breath.
"Then why.." I began again.
"Does he not remember you?" Pris said. I nodded.

"We had to put him through hynopsis to get him to start eating agin. Healing his health was most important at that time, and we had him hynopsis back to 3 months after he broke up with Justina. At the point where he was getting better. Which meant that he had not met you yet,only heard of you." Pris explained slowly. I clenched my hands tight and took a few more deep breaths.

"So you are saying that he does not remember me? Will he ever remember me?" I asked them both softly.
"He seems to have know something in his life is missing, and has been trying to figure it out for awhile now. In fact for almost half a year, but it has not gotten very far. He knows that there is someone important in his life, but he can't piece anything together yet." Monique explained. I only nodded as I listened.
"But now that you are back, it seems to have an effect on him. We're not sure, but we are doing everything we can to make him better." she added.

Soon, the men returned in to the drawing room and the young ones gathered around me and Pris.

"So Autumn, how has your break been?" Nicholas asked, only to be frowned upon by Pris.
"It's ok Pris. It was great, and I'm so glad to be back at work with a new perspective. Australia was wonderful, working on a farm was just what I needed. Taught me alot of things. Animals, expecially horses." Autumn explained.
"On a farm? You worked on a farm?" Chloe asked surprised, more like somewhat disgusted.
"Chloe." Gareth warned.
"I'm sorry, I'm just not used to all these." she said, trying to cover up her embarassment.

"My family owns the farm. We have a horse breeder for a neighbour, and down the road, a vineyard owner. And a drive further up is Grayson's vineyard. He was such a darling to have to have visited me, and took me on a tour of his vineyard." I said with a smile.
"Grayson Huntington? You know him?" Chloe asked, again surprised. Autumn nodded.
"Lovely, lovely man." Autumn said and down the rest of her champange, raising her hand, she called for another.
"Oh! And did I mentioned that I helped with the birthing for 2 foals while I was there. It was amazing! I decided to bring one of them home." Autumn added on excitedly.

"You did?" Pris asked. Autumn nodded.
"You did not!" she confirmed with Autumn. Autumn just nodded and smiled.
"I'm his mommy, so yes, I brought him home." Autumn said.
"Oh no. Nicholas, please stop her." Pris whined to Nicholas.
"Birthing of 2 foals. That's amazing Autumn." Phillip said.
"I think it's quite disgusting." Chloe added, making a face.
"Chloe." Gareth warned again, keeping silent throughout most of the conversation. Chloe only rolled her eyes.

"So Autumn, what do you do?" Chloe asked cheerfully.
"Me? I help Pris run the Ridges Manor in Singapore. And you?" Autumn said as she took a sip of champange.
"I'm doing my MBA in Business Management. Do you have one?" Chloe said proudly.
"No. I'm a simple girl. Just a diploma in Financial Services. Then I joined an insurance company for a time before I left to join the hotel industry." Autumn explained. Chloe only made a face.
"An insurance agent?", Chloe said with a hint of disgust.
"She was a MDRT qualifier for 5 years in a row, since her second year in the business. A world renowed bar tender, creator of the Sunshine and a Mafia boss." Pris said hastily. I shot Pris a look and then laughed.

Everyone looked at me, either shocked or with a raised eyebrow. Gareth could not cover up the shock when he heard what Pris had said. Nicholas stared at Pris, obviously rying very hard not believe a word she said. Phillip was just as stoned face, like as if the nws did not surprised him, and sipped his whiskey. Chloe, well, was just stunned and speechless.

"Pris was joking about the bartender and Mafia boss part, but was right on about the MDRT." Autumn quickly covered up.
"Who would have thought? You are from the other side of our world." Chloe said with a smile.

I turned away and rolled my eyes. It is going to be a long evening. I sighed and turned my attention back to the conversation. But more importantly, I needed to know what was going on, in detail, to Gareth.