14 February 2013
The black Triumph pulled off the road and idled by the elaborate, wrought iron gates. A low mist, lingered like lost, abandoned souls in the damp night air; listening, waiting, for their native path. The last of blackbirds sung its final sombre song, before bidding the late summers evening farewell. A single, ornate street lamp, illuminated the wooden plaque bearing the title of the property hidden beyond the walls; each letter carved with masterful precision. Below, a small concealed keypad. The security cameras red light relayed its intent, as Juliette entered the code as instructed. Slowly the gates began to open.
With confidence in her step, she returned to her car. Step one complete she thought, as the sound of gravel beneath, resonated agreeably through the wheels.
A silhouetted canopy of trees, hid the property from view as she trundled up the driveway; equidistant torches guiding the Dolomite to its final destination.
Juliette checked her appearance in the rear view mirror; two smoky eyes stared back at her as the property came in to view. Oriel House, in all its original Tudor splendour.
The impressive timber and stucco facade shone like a beacon in the night, commanding all to follow and enter. Several large, sculpted chimneys rose from the immense sloped roofs, like revolutionary giants, one bellowing a release of smoke in to the cool air.
Several cars were already parked to the side of the house: Jaguars, Astons, Mercedes' and a sleek blue and white Cobra. Unperturbed, Juliette manoeuvred the old Triumph alongside a grey DB7, hidden from view.
She removed her small leather bag and the silver key from the glove box, and made one final check in the mirror. A mixture of apprehension and excitement, silently rippled through her body.
Τhε Boχ. II • Opuss № I