“Apart from this and the mansion in London, I have my own apartment in Belgravia, then there’s the country estate in Hampshire, an apartment in Edinburgh and an estate in the northernmost part of Scotland. The country estate in Hampshire is my favorite though. It’s called Heaven’s Gate and it’s special.”

“Why’s it special?” I ask, wanting to learn more about this unknown side of him.

“Because Heaven’s Gate has miles and miles of forest land spread across hills, a beautiful blue lake, several riding paths, horses...” He raises his hands. “I can’t explain how utterly beautiful it is. It’s just...splendid.”

His love for that land shines in his eyes. Why did he do it? Why did he leave everything he held dear to start a new life? How much has he missed this place? How much of his true self has he kept locked inside all these years?

What has bothered me the most is the drastic change of personality he made when he came to India. He used to be a daredevil, a rich aristocrat and businessman. But I never saw him behave entitled or arrogant in any way during our time together. He was down to earth and never ever showed by word or deed that he had lived a life of utter luxury. Even in my interactions with him now, his arrogance and nonchalance are clearly visible. So, what made him change that much when he was with me? Was it just me, or was it some life changing event that caused everything—his leaving England and the change in his personality to the calmer and gentler person I knew him to be?

My questions can be answered by none other than Damien and only once he regains his memory. At times, it’s so bloody frustrating with all these new realizations I’m having about him. It’s like everyday a new question pops in my head for which I have no answer.

The housekeeper enters with a tray of refreshments. Damien stands up as she enters and gives her a big hug. She pats his cheeks lovingly. She pours us coffee, all the while gushing over Damien. She’s old and matronly and speaks with a thick Scottish accent. I understand that she hasn’t seen him in years. Damien answers all her queries politely and with respect. I smile as he introduces me to her. She places plates of sandwiches, cheese, scones, fruits and cakes on the table in front of us and departs with a cheery smile.

Damien hands me a plate and we both spend the next few minutes devouring the food.

“So, tell me what did you think about Jonathan’s project?” he asks me as I sip my coffee, my hunger satiated.

I place the mug on the table in front of me and shift to the side to face him. “Is it time for my interview now?”