Chapter 4: No Time to Spare

The sun shone into the room like a beacon on the coast. The burgundy, velvet curtains hung uselessly in front of the large sash windows. I sat up in my bed, running a hand through my tousled locks, my eyes languid from slumber. Stepping out of my bed, I reached for my robe, which hung on the post of my bed.

"Winston!" I called.

"Yes Sir?" my servant asked, standing in the doorway of my bedroom.

"May I have a cup of tea? You know how I take it," I replied drowsily.

"Of course, Sir. I would like to inform you that Lord Henry Wotton has requested your presence at his residence at noon," Winston said with poise.

"Winston, what time is it?" I asked.

"It is approximately half past twelve, Sir," Winston replied. A small smile played on his lips.

"Forget the tea Winston, I must get ready!" I said hurriedly, throwing off my robe I ran to my armoire.

The church bells tolled, as I rapped my knuckles against the door of the Wotton residence. After a few seconds the door was opened by the perpetually blushing Ms Caraway.

"Greetings Mr Gray, Lord Wotton is in his study anxiously awaiting your arrival," she said, gesturing for me to step inside.

"Thank you, Ms Caraway." I said chivalrously, handing her my coat and hat.

Strolling down the long corridor, I looked around. Paintings of Wotton ancestry lined the walls. Their faces immortalised on canvas, never growing old or weary, forever young. Heretics, businessmen, nobles and courtesans some were, all wealthy, and all with the same cold, calculating eyes. They watched me as I walked down the hallway, taking note of my every step. Finally reaching the elaborately carved wooden door, I turned its brass handle, walking into Henry's study. Sitting on a lavish chair was none other than Sibyl Vane.

A/N: Review if you would like to read more!
TheBrightEyedOne