Rich Oaks
Gazing out from the balcony of my penthouse, I take in the breathtaking view of the cityscape. Despite the opulence around me, my mood isn’t exactly jubilant as I wait for Duke’s arrival. Just thinking about him stepping into my apartment sends a wave of discomfort through me, and I brace myself for when he comes.
My phone rings, cutting through my thoughts.
It’s my mother.
‘He texted you?’ She sounds worried.
‘Yeah, he texted. His plane just touched down in Rich Oaks, so he should be walking in here in about an hour or so,’ I reply, trying to sound calm.
‘It’s quarter to midnight. Did you make him something?’ she asks.
‘I have some leftover fried rice in the refrigerator,’ I say.
‘How many days old?’ she asks, skeptical.
‘It’s from today, mother. It’s not bad,’ I reassure her.
‘I doubt he will eat anything. It’s late,’ I add.
‘Okay. At least you have something, just in case he wants to eat. I wish you all the patience in the world, Aisling,’ she says.
‘We will be fine, Mother,’ I say, feeling a bit exasperated.
‘I trust you,’ she responds.
‘So why do you worry?’ I ask, genuinely curious.
‘Loosen up a little for him. Try and make the environment pleasant,’ she advises.
‘Mum, everything is going to be alright,’ I say, trying to sound confident.
‘I believe you. I know you always bring some excitement every time,’ she says.
I chuckle. ‘I see what you’re trying to do. Go to bed, mum, and leave us alone.’
‘Sure. Any minute from now, honey. So, what are you doing now?’ She asks.
‘I’m on the terrace,’ I reply.
‘Are you going to be waiting on the terrace for him?’ she asks.
‘Yes,’ I say, ‘I want to be the first thing he sees when he walks in.’
