Upon waking up early that following morning, a peculiar sensation churned within my stomach, leaving me feeling slightly off-kilter. I tried to pinpoint the cause of my unease, but my efforts yielded no answers. I asked Johnny to make me a cup of coffee to chase that feeling away since I was uncomfortable.And I sat under a gazebo as I faced the pool.
As I sipped my morning coffee while pacing along the pavement, I felt a sense of restlessness brewing within me. "was today going to be a disappointment? Was Wesley Kane really okay ,as I had anticipated? or have I failed me in my final exams? I was lost in those thoughts I never heard Jenny's footfalls approaching . I was startled when she spoke.
" Makensie,what are you doing here this early morning?I thought it was time to relax ," Jenny asked smiling and obviously concerned.
"Jenny, prepare the kids by 10 am. We're going out today," I announced, the anticipation of the day ahead fueling my excitement, despite the respire in me.
Jenny, our dependable family helper, glanced at me curiously before suggesting, "Why don't you go for a swim? It might help settle your stomach."
I chuckled at her suggestion, knowing she always had a solution up her sleeve. My problem was not my stomach but how do I explain it to her"Ah, the wise words of Jenny. Maybe Kensley should take notes from you," I teased, amused by her quick thinking.
Jenny rolled her eyes playfully. "Let's hope not. I already feel like I'm being bombarded with excess questions from her daily. I might just develop ulcers if that continues."
I laughed at her response, appreciating her humor amidst the morning chaos. "Well, at least the kids have school and homework to keep them occupied. Otherwise, you'd never catch a break."
Deciding to take Jenny's advice, I made my way to the pool.I removed my gown and I dipped myself to the water, the sun was already out so the water did not fill that cold , Only after swimming for a while ,I saw Kensley and Zen, my two energetic children walking towards the pool with their grumpy faces, They got into the swimming pool at the shallow edge, their expressions a mix of boredom and reluctance.
I swam over to them, my curiosity piqued. "What's with the long faces, my babies?" I inquired, furrowing my brows in concern.
Kensley, always the one to voice her thoughts, piped up, "It's Saturday, Mom. It's only 9 am. Can't we just sleep in?"
I couldn't help but smile at her straightforwardness. My babies were certainly not morning people, a trait they seemed to have inherited ,from probably their fathers since I have never been a lazy morning person ,I wake up early even when it's not necessary .
Gently treading water, I leaned in closer to them. "We have a fun day planned, so no sleeping in today, I'm afraid. But if you want, we can have a relaxing morning probably for an hour before we head out."
As the sunlight danced on the water's surface, casting shimmering ripples across the pool, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Despite the initial restlessness, the prospect of spending quality time with my children filled me with warmth.
By 10 Am ,I saw the driver was already at the driveway waiting for us but we were not ready we had just finished eating our breakfast and there were no signs of anybody rushing in that house.
" Come on Jenny and Johnny ,what are you guys doing not dressed up , we are all going together!" I asked ,when I found them relaxed ,chatting and giggling .
" Ooh, how comes, should we really accompany you!" Johnny asked.
" It's not my call , I would have loved to stay indoors and enjoy the birds chirping and watching squirrels chase each other from the window of my room , but the day is planned for us as always?" I said trying to sound happy and disappointed at the same time.
" If that's how things are ,then I need my job more than anything else, when it comes to the big boss that's where I draw the line !" Johnny said, rushing towards the servants quarters of course to get ready.
" So you told me ,you have never met this big boss. Why is he so secretive? like you I only know his voice , and I came after you ,So I thought he was your husband untill you told me otherwise!" Jenny said.
" As long as we are fine, he cannot hide forever,I have a feeling I might meet him today, my concsious never lies!" I said tapping on my heart that started beating faster after I said those words.
As we set out on our journey, the five of us were filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. The destination remained unknown to us, adding an air of mystery to our adventure. The children, unable to contain their curiosity, bombarded us with a million questions.
The luxurious vehicle we traveled in seemed straight out of a dream. It resembled a presidential ride, with plush leather seats and abundant space. The driver, always seated at the front, seemed to possess an air of mystery himself, seeming unaffected by our presence in the back.Whoever my secret admirer was ,he must be a very rich person my God, I was even worried how we will fit in these other normal cars I see around .
The interior was reminiscent of an airplane, complete with snacks, drinks, and a well-functioning air conditioning system. The atmosphere inside was so serene and comfortable that one could easily drift off to sleep, enveloped in the delights of this extraordinary car.
The children, unable to resist their hunger, requested snacks. Zensley, the politest of the bunch, asked if they could have some. Jenny, however, quickly dismissed the idea, knowing that more delicious treats awaited us at our destination, " We need space for pizzas and chocolate ice cream at the hotel".
Kensley, the clever little girl suggested," How about chewing on peanuts, they are small enough not to fill us up",.
Johnny, foreseeing the consequences of their relentless requests, decided to grant them a handful of peanuts each, just to keep them satisfied until we reached our hotel.
Kensley, always observant, turned his attention to Auntie Jenny. Curiosity gleaming in her eyes, and inquired," Do you know this journey is meant to celebrate Mommy's success".
Jenny, taken aback by the question, confessed that she was unaware of such plans. ," I believe we are merely heading to a zoo for a picnic, and I will watch you marvel at the various animals" She said with excitement.
Zensley, ever the dreamer, vehemently opposed this idea, proudly declaring," Nope I would have brought my binoculars if that were the case,Mommy would never agree I come without them ".
" That's my boy!" I ruffled his mane, and regretted doing it. Jenny had to take care of it before we alighted.
As the car came to a stop, we knew it was time to alight. Stepping out, it felt as though my eyes had betrayed me, for the sight before me was like nothing I had ever experienced. It was as if I had stumbled upon heaven itself. The heavenly restaurant that lay before us was a sight to behold. The aroma of delectable delicacies wafted through the air, enticing us to enter and indulge our senses.
The restaurant was a grand structure, constructed with elegance and sophistication. Its architecture evoked a sense of awe, with towering pillars and intricate carvings adorning the exterior. The entrance was grand, with double doors made of polished mahogany, inviting us to step inside and discover the wonders within.
At the door the always quiet driver spoke to the guy standing there" Kane's Family here for lunch and any other activity!"
" Kane's family? which Kane ? the one I operated on yesterday,? how are we his family, No ,this driver is confusing things!" I thought.
" Excuse me , what did you just say?,No we are not,he is just my patient!" I said ,stepping a few steps back.
" Madam relax , I'm fully aware of my words, it's me who has the knowledge of where you are spending the rest of today!" The driver said.
I didn't know what to do but my heart was beating fast ,my legs were giving up on me ,then on a second thought , I thought probably my secret admirer was Wesley Kane's friend,so why not go and find out.
" Mommy ,have you seen a ghost, or what has that bad driver told you!" Kensley spoke out ,she was always ready to defend me.
" Mommy is just shocked , this hotel is such a nice place , Come on let's go !" I said collecting my courage,before Kensley asked more questions.
" Welcome , your table is reserved and Mr Kane is already waiting , just follow me !" A man said ,with a label on his shirt" Head waiter!"
" You heard the head waiter, remember,respect,stillness and Kensley!, talk less ,okay!" I said though I was in turmoil, yes I was going crazy, my mind had yet to settle. Is this the reason I have been having butterflies since morning . God I need to survive whatever this is!.
As we entered, the interior proved to be just as stunning as the exterior. Majestic chandeliers illuminated the room, casting a warm, golden glow across the space. The sounds of soft music filled the air, creating a serene and enchanting ambiance. The walls were adorned with exquisite artwork depicting scenes of nature's beauty – vibrant landscapes and serene seascapes that evoked a sense of tranquility.
The dining area was vast, yet intimate. Tables draped in pristine white linen were arranged meticulously, allowing for a sense of privacy while still fostering a convivial atmosphere. The soft, velvet chairs were so comfortable that one could easily sink into them, forgetting the world and the troubles outside.
Then I spotted him , a bandage under his left ear, a bandage put there by my own hands. I had not seen his face ,they had used a thin cotton veil to hide his face leaving the place for surgery alone. I had heard about him ,he was well known in the west of Miami for his wealth but I never looked him up, I was busy falling in love with my secret admirers voice and deeds.
Jenny whispered to me," I think you should keep a straight face , you look worried, that beautiful face is supposed to glow,and those lips should be curled into a smile!" .
" Jenny am scared ,am shocked, What if he is the boss we have all wanted to meet!" I whispered back.
" Would you mind if he was the one , My God ,he is handsome ,wealthy, famous and humble , every woman's dream , if only he could be I would thank heavens for giving me an opportunity to work for him ,because poverty would no longer be my portion!" Jenny replied all this while her hands brought together ,her head staring at the chandeliers of the restaurant.
Jenny almost stumbled on me and I had to help her to her steady self ,by then Kensley and Zensley were already at the table, and already having a conversation with Kane.
" Mummy said we should behave but why are your eyes similar to my brothers!" Kensley was asking ,her little eyes,similar to those of Kane's, he was accusing locked in a glare.
" Because I am your father!" Kane replied. I was only one step to the table ,I heard that voice,it was my secret admirer no doubt, then because I am your father, I fainted.