"Then why don't you come along with us, Mom?" I asked, half-hoping she'd say yes.
Sadash shook her head gently. "Don't worry, sweetheart. For the first time, she's leaving my side. You know how much I love her," she said, trying to keep her composure, but her voice trembled slightly.
Tears stung my eyes. It hurt deeply to part from her. We embraced tightly, holding on like it was the last time. I buried my face in her shoulder.
"You two are making me jealous," Jake cut in, folding his arms with a playful pout. "I feel like I'm the son-in-law and she's your daughter. Aurora, what switch did you pull to steal my mother's heart?"
Sadash let out a soft laugh and gave him a light knock on the head. "You silly boy."
Ouch, Mom!" Jake rubbed his head, smirking. "She's more than just a daughter-in-law to you now, huh?"
"She's my daughter, Jake," Sadash said, her smile shining brighter than ever as she turned to me and tucked a curl behind my ear. Alright, alright," Jake interrupted, pulling us apart gently. "Now it's time I get my hug too." He hugged his mother tightly, then slipped something into her hand. "Here you go, Mom," he whispered with a grin.
Sadash looked down. "Jake, what's this?"
A little black credit card. Spoil yourself. Maybe even find yourself a fine sugar baby," he said mischievously in her ear. Sadash gasped and immediately began swatting him with both hands. "You naughty boy! What nonsense is that?!"
"Ow! Ow! Mom, stop hitting me! I'm just kidding!" Jake laughed as he dodged her playful slaps, shielding his head. "There's no harm in trying just sayin'!"
"You foolish child! Teasing your own mother like that!" she exclaimed, trying to sound angry but failing to hide her laughter.
I stood watching them, giggling so hard my stomach hurt. They were a hilarious pair, and I couldn't help but adore the bond they shared. Jake was playful, Sadash was dramatic it was a comedy duo I didn't know I needed in my life.
Then suddenly, Sadash began to cry. Her face crumpled, her shoulders shook. My eyes widened was she really crying?
Jake panicked. "Mom! Don't cry, please, I'm sorry." He grabbed his ears and knelt slightly in front of her like a guilty kid. "I didn't mean it. Forgive me."
I narrowed my eyes at Sadash. She caught my expression, and instantly I knew. The tears were fake. She winked at me when Jake wasn't looking. I stifled a laugh.
"It's okay, son," she sniffled theatrically. "You're forgiven." She pulled his cheeks. Jake winced but smiled in relief. After all the laughter, hugs, and fake drama, we finally got into the car and drove out of the Brooks mansion.
The ride was smooth. I fell asleep in Jake's arms, safe and warm. I didn't even realize we had arrived until the car door opened. Jake gently lifted me out in bridal style.
The butler, Gaius, stood at attention. "Welcome back, Sir. Madam." Jake didn't waste a second. "Gaius," he said, shifting me slightly in his arms. "Gather all the servants. Right now."
I blinked at him. "Jake, is this really necessary?"Of course it is, sweetie," he said. "They need to know who runs this place with me."
Moments later, the household staff assembled in the grand hallway, lined up with bowed heads and hands behind their backs.
"Raise your heads," Gaius commanded.
Jake took a proud step forward. "You all know who she is Aurora Brooks. She's visited often, but this time, she's staying. For the next few weeks, this mansion is as much hers as it is mine."
He paused, then continued, voice firm and commanding. She is the lady of this house. You will treat her like the queen she is. Any complaints from her, any disrespect, and you're gone. Fired, without question. You all know your salaries here are better than most accountants' don't give me a reason to replace you."
The staff stood upright, silent and attentive.
"Am I clear?" Jake's voice echoed. "Yes, sir!" they all chorused in perfect unison.
"Good. Dismissed."
They bowed before quietly dispersing.
Jake turned to me with a small, satisfied smile and whispered, "You deserve nothing less."
My heart swelled as I looked around the mansion. For the first time in a long time… I felt truly home.