CHAPTER 8: "Breakfast with a crime lord"
Upon arriving, they all entered the breakfast parlour. Alex lagged behind, not wanting to seem too straight forward. He didn't know where he was supposed to sit and he couldn't afford coming across as disrespectful. He was well aware of how precarious his situation was. He was still in uncharted territories. Even then, he felt a strange confidence, a pull, a connection with Lady Worthington. It was very strange. And he didn't know what to make of it yet.
"Agent Rider." Lady Worthington's voice glided towards him, and Alex turned to face her, with a slight bow. "Come, sit with us. I'm sure someone with your reputation has a lot to tell." Her voice held unknown implications but since Worthington didn't seem to have anything against it, Alex took a seat on the lord's left side, several seats down from him and his daughter. It was obvious that Isabella didn't truly know about him, but then again, Maximilian had made quite an introduction.
But before he could say another word, she cleared her throat turning towards he father. Worthington looked at her, sighed and turned to Alex.
"On my left, if you please, agent Rider." Alex was astonished but hid it well. It seemed the missy held quite a bit of power over her father. Upon gazing up at her, he found the look on her face was that of the cat who had been handed the canary on a silver platter. This girl had been spoiled rotten.
Once settled, he could finally speak.
"Thank you, milady, though I doubt you would find my missions interesting. Or even appropriate. Such brute assignments are hardly worth your time."
Isabella was slightly startled, for, her father aside, she had never been refused anything, but she was very pleased. Alex's tone was just what she was used to: respectful, reverent, and with underlying admiration. This was how she was used to being treated. Perhaps having this agent around wouldn't be a bad thing. Well he wasn't a bad thing, the guy was eye-candy through and through. Isabella decided that she would do anything in her power to make sure Alex Rider rose in her father's ranks enough to be able to see him daily. Maybe she could even get him to be in his father's closest entourage. The idiots he trusted most. They were loyal, lethal, and either too cruel or too stupid to ever question her father. Alex was, so far, two out of those three. And if her father was smart, which she knew him to be, he would allow Alex in, with very little convincing on her part. Isabella silently gloated. This could be very fun.
Maximilian Worthington, on the other hand, was nothing short of stunned. He did well in hiding it, but that didn't change the fact that he was deeply impressed by Alex. His words were always respectful, loyal, devoted even. To Isabella, he was reverently complementing, flattering even. On the field, he was deadly, accurate, never doubting, well aware that a mere moment of hesitation could cost him his life. He definitely lived up to his reputation. He proceeded to look at Alex, suddenly very curious as to what he had to say about his time with MI6 and Scorpia. For he was sure that Isabella, flattered as she had been, would not settle for a no. He was right. At that very moment, his daughter was looking the spy straight in the eye. And he wasn't wavering. There was a confidence exuding from him that spoke clearly of having held the attention of countless girls. The connection, the tension, between the two of them was becoming palpable.
"On the contrary, agent Rider. Living, as I do, in a secluded mansion, I don't come across as much amusement as I would hope for. So start at the beginning... wherever it was you started at." Isabella's voice was now only slightly short of inviting. Alex only just suppressed a smirk. Sure, the constant attention of the girls from Brookland was truly annoying. And his attitude, at the moment, could be considered insolent. But that was his trademark. And he knew his fair share about seduction. He understood that lady Worthington was utterly bored in her immense mansion. He was her new toy. And, as far as he could see, that could only help him. Hmm. Perhaps the nuisance wouldn't be as much of a problem.
"If my lady insists..." Alex said, bowing his head slightly. Isabella smiled.
"I do." Isabella's smile turned into a smirk at her own words. And, though Alex's face did not change, there was a glint in his gorgeous eyes that told of their apparent unspoken understanding.
"Well, in that case..." Worthington didn't pay attention to the rest. He already knew the boy's story. What he really wanted to know was what could happen from here. After all, the young man was a legend and a coveted asset amongst both criminal and intelligence agencies alike. He needed to find out what he was doing here. He couldn't believe he had simply decided to drop out of the MI6 and join him. Yet both, the boy's story and all the intel he had received were consistent. Could it be possible for him to be telling the truth? Was he really as sick and tired of MI6, as he said to be? With his track record it seemed very possible and his skill and experience were exactly what he needed. But was he really good or mad enough to want to revenge himself on Scorpia? So what if they had killed the boy's parents? Worthington knew what Scorpia did to traitors, as did everyone in their line of "work". If Alex had survived them, back then, Worthington could only dream of what he could do for Storm.
Regarding the apparent attraction between him and his daughter he could only hope to exploit it. Maybe Rider would be the solution to all his problems. With his skills and the way he had charmed Isabella, he seemed like the perfect weapon. It would appear to be only fitting to allow Rider a little more access to Isabella than any other rookie would get. If only to keep her interested.
After breakfast, while her father was mulling over these thoughts, Isabella found herself appreciating how generous Mother Nature had been to Alex Rider. The guy was mind-blowing, that was for certain. Isabella couldn't help but allow her thoughts to wander off imagining what it would be like to be held in his arms, what his kisses would feel like, what it would be to let him- .
'What am I thinking?!' She didn't even know this guy! What's more, she had just seen him play with and trash 12 fully grown of her father's gorilla-men! She had seen him be shot at (and her heart had nearly beaten its way out of her chest at that one...), and shoot back, himself, with a fearsome accuracy. He was quite capable of killing, that much was painfully obvious. And yet... she had felt a tremendous sense of relief when she had seen him standing there, completely unharmed after the fight, after barely breaking a sweat. And then the sensation of his hand on her arm as he helped her up to the carriage.
She didn't like her dad's new 'business' one bit. She wanted out. Now. She had never been denied anything. Yet her father (with whom she had gone from "no daddy!" to "yes father") had been very firm on his desire for her to stay instead of escaping to her villa in the Spanish coasts. As was expected, she wasn't very happy about this. So when she met the great Alex Rider she had seen in him a beacon of hope, her one chance to get out of here.
Not to mention, he was a sight for sore eyes. After months of waking up to see her father's goons walking around the mansion, Alex was like a gulp of water in a dessert. But she couldn't and shouldn't go there. Not if she was planning on using him like she intended to.
He had skill and experience. If he could get away from Scorpia, he could get away from Storm. And if at 14 he had beaten one of the greatest terrorist organisations of the century, then he shouldn't have any trouble getting her out as well. It didn't matter what she had to do to get out. Not that she wouldn't be willing to do pretty much anything. One good look at him during the scene in the gym, the way his muscles showed off under that white t-shirt, showed that there was much to appreciate under those clothes. But she couldn't let her mind wander to how amazingly hot Alex Rider could be. She had to focus on escaping.
Once the breakfast was over, Alex was given all his things back and guided to the western wing of the main house. There he was taken to what looked like most army barracks and pointed to his own bed. The room had 5 beds, one of which was his, each with a set of drawers and a decent bathroom. This was consistently more luxurious than Brecon Beacons. He smiled: maybe he could actually enjoy this mission. He put his bag under his bed and threw himself on it. Suddenly, 4 of the men he had fought in the gym entered the room, limping and covered in bandages. Alex smirked at their dismay. This would be interesting. Slowly, as if trying not to provoke Alex, not to mention they couldn't move too much without ripping their stitches, they each sat down on their beds. Those closest to Alex scooted as far away as possible and there the 4 criminals stayed awkwardly, waiting for Alex to make the next move. He didn't. All of a sudden, the man to Alex's right burst out.
"How did you do it?!" he asked.
"Do what?" Alex replied with a lazy smirk.
"Beat us and make it look as if you were just playing with us?!" the man replied indignantly. Alex's smirk grew.
"You could blame it on a teenager's stamina, a lifetime of training, and a man's experience in dealing with armed opponents." He answered without even looking at his 'roommates'.
"Yeah, right." said the one on the far left. Alex looked at him.
"You don't believe me." He stated. It wasn't a question.
"You're... what? 17? All I'm giving you is your alleged 'teenager's stamina'."
Alex smiled. He was used to people not giving him credit.
"Well, for your information, gentlemen, I have been training for being agent all my life. I'm a black belt in various martial arts, speak 10 languages, and I've got a fair amount of skill at stealth, covert operations, stunt driving, among others, and, of course, shooting, courtesy of my time in Scorpia." The room had gone quiet but Alex didn't stop there. "Not to mention the nearly 4 years of experience in dealing with all sorts of criminals around the world." Alex was about to refrain from saying that both his dad and his uncle had been some of MI6's best operatives. But then he thought better of it. "And, of course, my dad and my uncle were 2 of MI6's best agents. My dad managed to infiltrate Scorpia and my uncle worked under-cover in the Storm Breaker case." Alex paused and then added. "So you could say it runs in the family."
The man on his left took over.
"Then why would you go from good guy to terrorist?" Alex knew this question was coming and he was ready for it.
"Because MI6 was always blackmailing me into doing their dirty work, going on dangerous missions, constantly using me, sending me to my death."
"Why Storm though?" asked the man on Alex's farthest right. "Why not betray them faster? You said something about working with Scorpia." Alex smirked. It would seem that lord W. had prompted his men to question him. How acquaint.
"I did. I went to Scorpia for a while. That's where I really learned to shoot." Understanding dawned on the men's faces as they finally paid attention to this side of the story. "But, as I said, they killed my parents so we had a bit of a conflict."
"So MI6 just took you back?!" one of them questioned incredulously.
"I played my part well. I wouldn't be where I am if I couldn't. I helped them thwart Scorpia, taking my revenge. I killed two birds with one stone. I was received with open arms and I've never been suspected of treason. I thought it best to stay on their side for the time being. I needed the training, I could gain experience. And I would acquire information on the agency fast and easy. It was the perfect solution for the time being. All I had to do was wait for the right time and the right people to help me bring them down. And now, the time has come and Storm is exactly the organisation to help me. And seeing as, in doing so, I'd be helping them, it seems that it's a win-win situation."
Years of experience in MI6 and spy blood in your veins tend to make you and excellent liar. Or, as Alex preferred to call it, actor. What ever it was, Alex managed to make his roommates take the bait and swallow his story hook, line and sinker. Although he was sure that Worthington wouldn't be completely appeased by their word, it was more a matter of keeping the proof of his loyalty coming.
"Wait a second." Said the man who had burst out first. "And then what? What will you do after MI6 is down?" he asked suspiciously.
"Stay with Storm, of course." Alex answered, looking the man straight in the eye. 'Never underestimate the power of persuasion of looking people in the eye.' Alex thought as his now 'colleagues' nodded in approval.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in the manor, Maximilian Worthington pondered over what to do with Alex Rider. He had decided to let him in. He had tested the spy, given him access to his daughter, given him a room, even trusted the young agent. But there was still that nagging feeling that he was missing a piece of the puzzle. Could it be true that the boy was planning on betraying MI6, and use his position in Storm to take down MI6 and Scorpia? Worthington thought Alex fully capable. And, in all honesty, this was only good news to him. So why was he still so uneasy? The answer was quite simple: the boy was unpredictable, untamed, unstoppable. Alex Rider was a wild tiger. With his expertise, his skills, his determination, his resourcefulness and seemingly never-ending luck, Rider could go against who ever he wanted and win. The boy was the very definition of a one-man army. Worthington felt like Agamemnon trying to control Achilles. An exhausting, if not impossible task. Was it wise, then, to allow the spy in? But then, how could he refuse? It would be ridiculous, not to mention dangerous. Perhaps all he needed to do was keep the young man happy, keep Alex working for him, as his pet, maybe? To subtly control him. Let the wild beast return to the master that kept him well-fed. Unleash him against Storm's enemies. Maybe even use him to lure Isabella to stay. Yes... this could work out wonderfully.
But he couldn't start now. No, this would draw attention from his soldiers and put Alex on alert. No, he would have to progress slowly, each time giving in a bit more. He would keep the young spy at their table, as he had done today, strengthening the bond between Isabella and Rider, giving him, each day, a new, small, benefit. Get him accustomed to being above the rest. Keep him happy. Keeping Isabella happy, too.
Ever since Worthington had started Storm, his little Bella had started shutting down, becoming sulkier, duller, more of a ghost. The light, that glint of happiness and joy, had left her eyes, long ago, no more laughter, no more smiles. Not even a smirk. Today, however, she had shown more emotion than ever. She had exuded her old confidence, her interest had been spiked by Alex Rider. She was back. And all thanks to young Rider.
It was decided. The young spy would stay, be would be given perks, and he would rid Storm of all competition. Alex would be allowed his revenge and he would in turn keep his Bella happy. Oh, this would be perfect. Maybe, with time, Alex could inherit Storm, and maybe that would convince Bella to stay close by. Yes, this was going to work.
Bored, and wanting to do a bit of recon, Alex jumped out of bed around midday, after a refreshing nap. His roommates where knocked out by the painkillers so he needn't worry about them. He stuffed his jacket into his bag, grabbed his army issue Swiss knife, stuffed it into his jean pocket, left his Walter with his jacket, and got out of the room.
Alex didn't know where he was going, or where he would end up. He just wanted to get his bearings straight. He started walking down the hall. He had been told that the entirety of the west wing was made up of dormitories for their master's best soldiers. There were barracks further away, for the greater bulk of the guards. With this knowledge, Alex took off to find the east wing, where he suspected would be the quarters for the master and young mistress of the house.
After a few turns, he arrived back at the entry hall and the grand staircase. He went right across the corridor directly in front of the stairs, and onto the east wing. The area was decidedly more luxurious. The carpet was finer, there were paintings on the walls, the decorations in general were more elegant. He saw a few maids coming out of a pair of double doors. Unaware as to whether or not he was allowed to be in this part of the mansion, Alex swiftly moved into the closest room available. Fortunately, one of the double doors, (which appeared to be everywhere on this side of the house) wasn't locked, and he backed into it, and shut the door. At a gasp from behind, he turned around, his hand already around his pocket knife.
"Are you lost, Mr. Rider?"
At that moment, Alex had the mad desire to say yes. To let her guide him. Where? He had no idea. He mentally slapped himself for the slip of composure and turned to talk to the robe-clad Isabella.
"Not exactly, milady." Isabella lifted an eyebrow. She was very interested as to why he had suddenly backed into her room. He couldn't've known this was her room. Gods, he really was a sight for sore eyes. "And, please, forgive the intrusion."
"No need. Now, what are you doing in my room?" she asked, with a small smirk. She moved over to her bed, where her dress was laid out. "Do you mind?" Alex was about to say no, but he obediently turned around. He really needed to get a hold of himself.
"I was merely exploring the house, milady, to get familiar with the lay out and get my bearings right. Then I saw some maids going out of the room next door and I was not sure as to whether or not I was allowed into this wing, so my first reaction was to hide. Admittedly, the action failed its purpose. I was discovered."
Isabella was getting goose-bumps at the sound of his voice. It was so rich, so deep, like a soft rumble. Worthy of its owner. And the delicate invitation was turning her knees to jelly. Pulling her dress on, she started walking over to him.
"Well, I don't see the harm in your actions so we could keep this little visit a secret. What daddy doesn't know won't hurt him..." Alex turned at the closeness of her voice to find her standing practically right in front of him. She really was beautiful. The mischievous glint in her eyes (he was sure that, on their first encounter, that glint wasn't there) was very enticing, her smirk had a seductive edge to it, and her whole body simply radiated a certain glow, hinting at her current amusement. She was breath-taking. Alex smirked widely. This really was a mission he was going to enjoy.
"Thank you, milady." He said, bowing slightly, his eyes never wavering from hers. "Is there anything I could do for you?" Isabella nearly shivered at the way he stressed on 'anything'.
"Well, you could go down to the stables and tell someone to get my horse ready, maybe even one for yourself. Do you ride, Mr. Rider?" Alex smirked.
"I do, milady, I –" Alex shut up at the sound of footsteps down the corridor. Isabella caught on and pushed him into her huge, walk-in closet. Then she ran for her bed and, with one hand, pulled off her dress, while the other pulled on her robe. Moments later, there was a knock on the door and her father peaked in around the door.
"Bella? May I come in?" Isabella faked a small jump and pulled her robe more securely around herself.
"Not now, papa, I'm getting changed to go riding!" her father pulled the door close, looked apologetic.
"Excellent, I was about to go riding myself. I'll wait for you down at the stables, shall I?"
"Yes papa, I'll be right down!" Isabella's heart beat began to slow down as the footsteps got more distant. As Alex walked out of the closet, she breathed out in relief.
"Well, that was interesting..." Alex said, sarcastically. Isabella turned on him, stalking across the room until she could jab her finger into his hard chest.
"Do you have any idea what would've happened had my father seen you here?!" Alex raised an eyebrow.
"Trouble?" Isabella sighed. His sarcasm was apparently endless.
"Tons." She forced out. Her throat felt constricted at his proximity. He stood at least a head higher than her. Not to mention his body was close enough for her to be able to feel his breath on her neck.
"Milady, trouble is my middle-name..." he whispered. She unconsciously closed her eyes.
"Isabella." She whispered back. He smiled, slightly confused. "Say my name." Alex smirked and leaned down to her ear.
"Isabella." She sucked in a gasp of breath and he smelled the perfume of her hair. Never had a girl overpowered him so completely. "Bella?"
"Yes?" she breathed out.
"Your father is waiting..."
Isabella's eyes flew open as she pushed past him and into her closet. Suddenly, she turned around, grabbed him by the hand and pulled him into the closet with her. Alex chuckled in amusement.
"There is a tunnel, for my own use, behind one of these walls. Not even my father knows about this. I had to bribe the architect for it, and I've never used it before. But it was apparently worth it." She added with a smirk. Alex smirked back and her legs nearly failed her. "It comes out behind the bottom of the main stairs if you turn left. If you turn right, you'll come out behind the hedge along a wall on the back side of the house." She said hurriedly pushing him into the opening on the wall behind what looked like a couple of hundred ball gowns. Alex grabbed her hand daringly and brought it to his lips. Again, her eyes closed in bliss. When she re-opened them, he winked and closed the wall behind him. Isabella sighed. Oh, she was going to love the months to come...
A/N: that's about 4000 words so don't complain. Please excuse any incoherences with the structure of the house but I'm a writer, not an architect. And now, I want reviews people! I want to know if it's going too fast, if it's going too slow, or if it's going at all. And as Alex needs at least some time to gain Worthington's trust, I'll be skipping at least a month the next chapter. R&R!!!
