Prologue
The office of the illustrious W. was never disturbed. It made it easier for his PA to deal with most of his business, since his schedule rarely changed. In fact, it was predictable from the black coffee in the morning to the staying in "to go over a deal one more time."
And Mrs. Reynolds was happy with that. She enjoyed routine. She had worked for the late Mr. Darcy, who was rigorous and had kept their company successful thanks to this kind of discipline.
As for the current Mr. Darcy, there had been a tedious period, she would not quite call it quite "rebellion," more like „inner search," but it was brief lived and his priorities were re-aligned. Of course, that came with sacrifice, since Mr. Darcy seemed more morose now, but it could not be helped. He had the responsibility of over 200 employees, he had no time for... distractions.
That is perhaps why that day had been so difficult. A woman barged into their office, with no prior appointment. It took Mrs. Reynolds a few moments to realize it was that woman. To the former's defense, she had tried to keep her at bay.
„Mr. Darcy specifically asked not to be disturbed," Mrs. Reynolds held her ground.
The curly head turned with wonder, and with piercing hazel eyes, „Oh, I'm sure Mr. Darcy will understand it is an emergency."
And she burst into the office without further discussion. Mrs. Reynolds was ready to call security, but Mr. Darcy stopped her. And when seeing his look, she knew he would not turn the woman away – his eyes twinkled with a certain light, a light she hadn't seen in months.
As Mrs. Reynolds was closing the door as requested, she couldn't help hearing the woman's words, this time filled with despair, "Lydia has disappeared!"