Nate rushes into the bathroom. “Is everything alright?” he asks, his eyes scanning the scene before him and lingering on me as I pick myself up from the floor.
I straighten my posture, feeling the dull ache in my lower back begin to make its presence known. “That’s gonna hurt in the morning,” I remark, instinctively reaching for my lower back.
Nate wastes no time springing into action, his movements swift and decisive as he grabs a towel from the nearby rack. Without a word, he wraps it around Tessie, shielding her from the chill of the air as she stands at the edge of the shower.
TESSIE
Amara’s warm embrace envelops me as I enter the main house entrance, momentarily easing the tension that grips my chest. I return the hug, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over me for her unwavering support. I glance over her shoulder towards the bottom of the staircase. A knot forms in my throat, a silent reminder of the weight of grief still hanging heavy in the air.
“I’m glad you are using the main house. It is what Miss Mavis would have wanted,” Amara’s gentle voice breaks through the silence.
Standing beside Cain, I feel a surge of uncertainty wash over me, the weight of my emotions threatening to overwhelm my fragile resolve.
“If it’s too soon, we can go back to the guesthouse,” Cain offers, his voice laced with concern as he gazes at me with unwavering support.
“No, I’ll be ok,” I reassure him, summoning a faint smile despite the heaviness in my heart.
Mike’s comforting touch on my back sends a ripple of reassurance through me.
“I have prepared a room for your female guest. My shift ends soon, but I have prepared a meal for you all. You just have to warm it up,” Amara explains.
“Thank you, Amara. Really. Thank you for everything,” I say, the words heavy with gratitude as I meet her gaze with a heartfelt sincerity.
She turns around, a soft smile playing at the corners of her lips, a silent testament to the strength of her spirit amidst the trials of life as she disappears into the kitchen.
I ascend the stairs, each step feeling heavier than the last. The familiar sight of my nan’s closed door beckons me, drawing me towards it. But before I can reach out to touch the door, Nate’s voice breaks through the silence, his words a gentle plea. With a sigh, I reluctantly withdraw my hand.
Mike and Cain follow closely behind. As we reach another door to a bedroom, I push open the door revealing a spacious sanctuary.
A wooden, four-poster bed dominates the room. Its sturdy frame billows cream drapes that cascade gracefully to the floor, creating a sense of timeless elegance. A massive, white, fluffy rug lies in the heart of the room, adding a touch of luxury.
But the white marble fireplace commands attention, a focal point of the room. Carved with intricate detail, its smooth surface gleams.
“This is nice…” Mike’s voice drifts through the air, his words showing appreciation as he sets down a suitcase on the massive bed before us.
I walk over to the window, gazing out at the world beyond. I am struck by the quiet beauty of the landscape unfolding before me.
The guesthouse exudes warmth and intimacy with its small size and cozy vibes. Every corner is infused with a welcoming charm, from the quaint furnishings to the soft lighting that bathes the rooms in a gentle glow.
In contrast, the main house commands attention with its grandeur and elegance. From the moment you step through its doors, you are greeted by the expansive expanse of space and the regal beauty of its architecture. Every detail speaks of luxury and refinement.
Despite their differences, both houses hold a special place in my heart.
Nate’s arms envelop me and I lean into his comforting embrace. We stand together, gazing out the window. With his head resting on my shoulder, we share a moment of quiet contemplation.
The sound of Rae’s car suddenly jolts us back to reality, the music blaring from the speakers. As she beeps her horn, a smile tugs at the corners of my lips, a reminder of the vibrant spirit Rae brings into my life.
“Here we go…” Mike’s voice breaks through the silence, his words laced with amusement and anticipation.
Nate releases me from his embrace. I feel a surge of energy coursing through my veins. Turning around, I jog past Mike and Cain, my heart racing with anticipation as I rush downstairs to greet Rae.
Throwing open the front door, I find her standing there, a vision of effortless cool in her black sunglasses and hair swept up in a messy bun. The faint scent of cigarette smoke hangs around her, mingling with the sweet perfume that clings to her skin.
Before I can utter a word, she envelops me in a tight hug, her arms wrapping around me. In that moment, all the weight of grief and uncertainty fades away.
As she pulls away, a smile lights up, her eyes twinkling with mischief and laughter.
“How are you?” she asks.
“I have been better,” I reply.
Cain strides past us and he mutters, “Raquel.”
With a nod of acknowledgment, he picks up Rae’s overnight bag, a silent gesture of hospitality.
“Cain…” Rae’s voice trails off.
Before I can say anything, Cain leans in to kiss my cheek, “I’m going to take Raquel’s bag upstairs. We will let you catch up,” he explains, his words tinged with warmth and consideration.
“Thank you,” I reply.
“Don’t be stealing anything from my bag, Cain,” Rae remarks with a laugh.
Cain scoffs.
Taking Rae’s hand in mine, I lead her towards the kitchen. As she takes in the sights of the house around her, she can’t help but let out a wow.
Rae settles onto the stool. Her eyes are wide with awe and she breathes, “This place is beautiful.”
