As Butler Jenkins left to carry out his orders, Fifth Young Master remained seated, his gaze fixed on Leticia's peaceful sleeping face. A strange feeling stirred within him, a possessiveness he had never experienced before. He found himself growing increasingly protective of the innocent girl, a desire to keep her safe and close by consuming his thoughts.
Unbeknownst to Leticia, Fifth Young Master had already put measures in place to ensure her constant protection. He had handpicked a team of loyal and skilled individuals, tasked with watching over her discreetly. They were instructed to intervene if she ever attempted to leave the mansion without permission or if any outsider posed a threat.
Fifth Young Master's mind drifted to the possibility of Leticia trying to run away, an unlikely scenario given her contentment in the mansion. Yet, the thought of her escaping his grasp filled him with an unsettling sense of panic. He knew that if such an event were to occur, he would not hesitate to bring her back by force and confine her within the mansion's walls.
As these dark thoughts swirled in his mind, Fifth Young Master remained unaware of the growing influence Leticia held over him.
"Butler Jenkins get the best Tutor to teach Leticia," Fifth Young Master said coldly.
Butler Jenkins bowed deeply, acknowledging Fifth Young Master's command.
"Yes, my lord," he replied solemnly.
"I will personally oversee the selection process to ensure that Miss Leticia receives only the finest education."
Fifth Young Master nodded curtly, his expression stern.
"See that she is taught history, literature, mathematics, and the arts," he instructed.
"And make certain her tutors are wellversed in etiquette and social graces. She must be prepared to navigate high society seamlessly."
Butler Jenkins nodded, committing Fifth Young Master's orders to memory.
"It will be done, sir," he said.
"If I may ask, what subjects would you like Miss Leticia to focus on initially?"
Fifth Young Master considered this for a moment before responding.
"Start with basic academics," he said gruffly.
"We need to assess her current knowledge and fill any gaps in her education. Once we have a solid foundation, we can branch out into more advanced topics."
Butler Jenkins bowed again, grateful for Fifth Young Master's guidance.
"I understand completely," he said.
"But make sure this person is good after all my Leticia is innocent."
Butler Jenkins' expression softened at Fifth Young Master's protective words. He sensed the growing attachment his lord held for the innocent girl and felt a sense of relief. Perhaps this mysterious young lady could bring some warmth and happiness to Fifth Young Master's life.
"Of course, my lord," Butler Jenkins reassured him.
"I will personally vet each candidate, ensuring they possess not only exceptional qualifications but also a kind and patient demeanor. Miss Leticia's innocence deserves the utmost care and respect."
Fifth Young Master nodded, satisfied with Butler Jenkins' response. He turned his gaze back to Leticia, watching as she stirred softly in her sleep.
"Good," he said gruffly.
"And Butler Jenkins..."
"Yes, my lord?"
"Do not let anyone harm her," Fifth Young Master ordered, his voice low and dangerous.
"Not physically or emotionally. She is under my protection now."
Butler Jenkins bowed deeply, understanding the gravity of Fifth Young Master's command.
"It shall be done, sir," he promised solemnly.
The next morning Leticia was eating breakfast while watching a movie when Fifth Young Master turned off the Zerty TV. Leticia whined as she blinked and she looked at the Fifth Young Master.
"Why did you turn it off?" Leticia asked, her lower lip protruding in a pout.
"I was watching that."
Fifth Young Master sighed, crossing his arms over his chest. He had more important matters to attend to than entertaining Leticia's whims.
"Because it's time for your lessons," he said firmly.
"I've hired a tutor to begin your education. You'll be starting today."
Leticia's eyes widened, a mix of curiosity and apprehension crossing her face. She had enjoyed her freedom and the company of Fifth Young Master, but the thought of learning new things excited her as well.
"What kind of lessons?" she asked hesitantly.
Fifth Young Master softened slightly at her uncertainty. He sat down beside her, his expression gentler than usual.
"Basic academics," he explained patiently.
"Fifth Young Master would I get a reward!?"
Fifth Young Master's eyebrow arched at Leticia's sudden request. He hadn't expected her to ask for a reward so boldly. A small smirk tugged at the corner of his lips, amused by her audacity.
"And what makes you think you deserve a reward?" he asked, his tone teasing.
Leticia's cheeks flushed slightly, but she held his gaze steadily. She had learned that confidence often paid off with Fifth Young Master.
"I'll work hard and learn everything the tutor teaches me," she promised earnestly.
"And I'll be good and not cause any trouble."
Fifth Young Master studied her for a moment, considering her words. He found himself strangely touched by her eagerness to please him.
"Very well," he said finally, his voice gruff but not unkind.
"If you apply yourself and make significant progress in your studies, I'll consider rewarding you."
Leticia innocent expression showed as she jumped in the air and hugged Fifth Young Master.
Fifth Young Master stiffened in surprise as Leticia threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. He was unaccustomed to such open displays of affection and found himself momentarily at a loss for words.
"Thank you!" Leticia exclaimed, her voice muffled against his chest.
"I promise I'll be the best student ever!"
Fifth Young Master hesitated before gently patting her back, unsure of how to respond to her enthusiasm. He cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure.
"You're welcome," he said gruffly.
"But remember, a promise is a promise. I expect nothing less than your absolute best."
Leticia pulled back, her crimson eyes shining with determination.
"Don't worry, Fifth Young Master," she said solemnly.
"I won't let you down."
Just then, Butler Jenkins entered the room, announcing the arrival of Leticia's tutor. Fifth Young Master stood up, straightening his suit jacket.
"Ah, right on time," he said.
"Leticia, this is Miss Amelia Hartfield. She'll be responsible for your education."
Leticia looked up at the elegant woman who had entered with Butler Jenkins. Miss Hartfield was dressed impeccably in a tailored skirt suit, her hair pulled back into a sleek bun. She smiled warmly at Leticia, extending a hand in greeting.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Leticia," she said kindly.
"And I'm looking forward to helping you learn and grow."
Amelia's gaze lingered on Fifth Young Master for a moment longer before she quickly composed herself, turning her attention back to Leticia. She had worked tirelessly to secure this position, determined to use her influence as Leticia's tutor to win the heart of the elusive Fifth Young Master. However, the strange glow in Leticia's eyes gave her pause, sending an inexplicable shiver down her spine.
"Shall we begin our first lesson, Leticia?" Amelia asked, her voice steady despite her inner turmoil.
Leticia nodded eagerly, oblivious to the undercurrents of tension in the room. She grabbed Amelia's hand, pulling her towards the desk where various textbooks and learning materials were laid out.
"Yes! I can't wait to learn!" she exclaimed.
Fifth Young Master watched the exchange with a mixture of amusement and concern. He noticed Amelia's lingering gaze and the subtle tension in her posture, but attributed it to nerves rather than any deeper emotion. His focus remained primarily on Leticia, ensuring she felt comfortable and supported in this new endeavor.
"Very well," he said gruffly.
"I'll leave you two to it. I expect regular progress reports, Miss Hartfield."