CHAPTER FIVE
“WHERE ARE you going this very early, Gretel?”
Gretel wrapped an old shawll around her to fight the cold somehow. The sun was just rising, but she had no time to waste.
“I’m going to see Javier, Mother. I’ll convince him that Hansel is innocent. I’ll do everything so that he’ll let my brother go.”
“But how would you do that? They found a piece of evidence against him, and Dario and Jones had already abandoned him.”
“I don’t know either, Mother. All I know is that I must do something for him.”
“I’ll come with you.”
“No,” she said firmly. “I can take care of myself. Hansel needs you by his side. Don’t worry. I’ll come back safe.”
“Gretel…”
“Trust me, Mother. Hansel will come back to us sooner than you think.”
Gretel gave her a reassuring smile before leaving the house.
The road to Javier’s mansion was tiring. Her legs hurt, and her stomach began to rumble. Her throat was dry, and she was panting when she finally reached the gate.
She looked around the spacious lawn, and there was no one around—except for Black!
“Black!”
Black ran toward the entrance, barking. He reached for the gate and wagged his tail.
“Is your master inside? Do you think I can talk to him?” she said, hoping the poor dog would understand her.
Black barked once again as he ran back to the house.
Gretel sighed in exhaustion. She leaned on the steel door and caught her legs. Her muscles ached, and her heart was throbbing hard.
She glanced at the sky. The sun was already up. It looked like it was going to be a good day.
Tears began to well up in the corner of her eyes, but she wiped them right away and cleared her throat.
Gretel stood up at once when she heard Black barking again. She swallowed in relief as she saw Mr. Martinez approaching with long strides.
“Miss Gretel, what can I do for you? Come in.” He opened the gate hurriedly.
“I’m sorry to disturb you at this hour, Mr. Martinez,” she said the moment he closed the gate. “I-I just wanted to talk to Javier and appeal my brother’s case. I hope he can give me time. I’m really desperate right now.”
“Well, my master had just woken up. But I’ll see what I can do. Follow me.”
Gretel sighed.
“T-thank you, Mr. Martinez!” She glanced at Black. “Thank you, Black.”
Black only wagged his tail with pleasure.
DESPITE her exhaustion, Gretel could not help admiring the interior of Javier’s mansion. She had been inside Lady Arcie’s home a couple of times before, but she stayed longer at their kitchen. Gretel felt like she was unworthy of stepping into his manor.
The marbled floor, the elegant chandelier, and the sleek staircase looked larger than life.
“Master Javier is still in his office—oh, there he is.” Mr. Martinez gestured on top of the staircase.
Javier was already standing there in his dark blue robe. Gretel’s heart throbbed as their eyes met. She felt weaker as his gaze roamed her body.
“How bold of you to come here this early morning,” he remarked as he finally stood in front of her.
Gretel unconsciously took a step back. She was easily intimidated at her state.
“I-I just want to talk to you and—”
She took another step backward when Javier moved forward, but her knees gave in, and she almost collapsed on the floor if he did not catch her arms on time.
Gretel gasped when he pulled her toward him. Javier’s warmth was comforting and overwhelming.
“I-I’m sorry.” She tried to stand straight and pull away, but Javier did not let her go. “I’m fine, Mr. del Mundo—”
“No, you’re not,” Javier cut in a firm tone. “Mr. Martinez.”
“Yes, Master. I’ll bring the breakfast to your office right away.”
“Thank you.”
So, he knew how to be grateful all along. Gretel’s thoughts were interrupted when he suddenly swept her off her feet, literally. She stared at him in shock. Javier was practically carrying her in bridal style.
She swallowed as her heart pounded hard again.
“Javier—”
“No talking for now,” he said.
Javier carried her up to the second floor. Gretel’s face was flushed the whole time. They entered a large room that looked like a library. Javier finally carefully put her on a huge couch.
“Look at you. You’re as pale as a vinegar,” he remarked with a smirk when he sat beside her.
“Mr. del Mundo—”
“You called me by my first name a while ago. I’m fine with that,” he said.
“I did not mean to.”
“You should get yourself used to that then.”
Mr. Martinez finally entered the room, carrying a huge tray. He put it on the table, and Gretel’s mouth watered at the sight of hot soup on two large bowls. There were also bread and fruits.
“Enjoy your breakfast.” Mr. Martinez nodded politely before leaving.
Gretel felt bad about not thanking him. She was too occupied.
“Eat, and you’ll feel better,” Javier said.
With trembling hands, Gretel reached for the spoon. Forget about pride for now. She was starving.