Paradox | T. Riddle ✔

~•1.4•~

She woke up to a bed softer and much larger than the one she had been on in Riddle's current abode. Her eyes darted around the large room, landing on the feathery duvet pulled up over her.

The clock struck past noon yet she had no idea when and how she had come there nor did she know who had brought her there either.

She tried to sit up, ignoring the ache in her limbs and found to her relief that she was clothed, wearing an unfamiliar but costly dress. The room she was in was extremely luxurious as well, the velvet curtains drawn shut to block the sunlight.

The only place she could recall having such grandeur was the Malfoy Manor.

And her doubts were confirmed when the door opened and Roxanne Malfoy stepped in.

Seeing her awake, she paused at the doorway but then stepped in nevertheless.

Roxanne Malfoy was wife to Abraxas Malfoy, newly wedded and by the looks of it, rather full of herself. She had striking features with her pale blue eyes and platinum blonde hair yet the same haughty expression on her face that was characteristic of the Malfoys.

She had brought breakfast on a trolley that a house elf was dragging behind her, coming to a halt beside the bed.

She dismissed the elf then turned to face her. Eleanor tried to sit up again but winced as hot pain shot up her veins.

Roxanne's features softened to see her in such pain so she reached forward and gently helped her up. "Are you injured?"

She shook her head, retreating into the covers because she did not want anyone to see the ruthless way Tom had treated her, "n-no... I'm fine..."

She didn't look anywhere near fine but Roxanne let it slide, keeping up a small conversation to let her ascertain that she was not in any immediate danger. "What's your name?"

"Eleanor..."

Pale blue eyes flickered in suspicion, "Eleanor who?"

"Troy," she breathed and saw the color drain from Roxanne's features.

The Troys were a well known pureblood family originating from America. They were one of the most powerful wizarding families and had connections far and wide. So if a member from their family was missing or abducted, it was evident that they would leave no stone unturned to track her out, Roxanne was well aware of that.

And if the Troys were looking out for Eleanor at the moment, that could put the Malfoys in danger too which she clearly did not want to happen.

Then again, she couldn't fathom how Riddle had gotten hold of her and why had he brought her to them of all people. There were mysteries tied to the woman in front of her and she couldn't help but feel curious to know more.

"Oh dear Lord... You're from the Troy family?" She looked shocked, "how did you end up like this then?"

Her eyes dimmed as the haunting scenes flashed in her memory again. "Long story..."

Roxanne could see that she was having trouble in speaking even so she didn't ask further, pushing the trolley closer to her, "eat first. You look absolutely weakened. We'll talk later, alright?"

"Who... Who brought me here?"

She froze at the question but replied, "my husband's friend."

"What friend?"

"Mister Riddle brought you here," her voice was visibly strained as she uttered the name, unable to hide the unease lacing her tone, "anyhow, you finish your breakfast and I'll tell Twinky to heat the water up for your bath."