AMELIA PARKER

Another day had come to an end, most of our office colleagues had already left but  Lucas and I stayed behind, discussing the details of the new project pictures.

"5 metres is quite deep, we'll need to conduct rigorous testing and simulations to evaluate the structural integrity at different depths. It would be wise to invest in advanced materials and  construction techniques designed for the underwater ecosystem." I suggested.

"You are right, it's essential for the safety of guests and environmental considerations, as well. They are of  paramount importance. Invite best safety and environment experts for lunch. Alright ?" Lucas instructed me.

"Sure. I'll take care of everything else. You should get back home now." I said. He hummed. I smiled, bidding him a good night and collected my belongings before leaving.

Upon reaching home, I found Alex watching television. He greeted me with a smile and moments later, he began coughing. Concerned, I hurried to his side, rubbing his back and fetching him a glass of water from the nearby table.

"Here baby." I handed him the glass. He sipped the water slowly until he felt better. Nina emerged from the bathroom, visibly relieved to see me.

"Are you okay ?" I asked Alex, as he laid his head on my lap.

"Yeah, sis. Its just happens sometimes." He whispered. I gently stroked his hair, knowing that he loves it.

"So, what did you do today ?"

"I read a little from my college curriculum. About Money Illusion."

"That's nice."

"I wish I could have a normal life." He whispered. My heart sank, hearing the sadness in his voice.

"You'll soon go to college, baby." I reassured him, trying to uplift his spirits.

"How was your day ?" He asked me.

"It was good except that Mrs.Knight's car met an accident. Thankfully, she is fine."

"I am glad she is." He responded, his voice tinged with concern.

"I wish we could go to the park, sis. I can't remember the last time I visited one. It reminds me of old days." He expressed, getting up.

"I am sorry, I wasn't able to find a little time for you but I'll ask Lucas if I can take an early leave tomorrow, I am sure he wouldn't deny." I apologized.

"You don't have to be sorry. I know you try your best everyday." He said, his voice filled with understanding and sincerity, reminding me how much he had grown.

"I'll prepare dinner for us—your favourite, Fajitas." I said, heading towards the kitchen. Nina helped me, and soon our meal was ready. After enjoying dinner together, Alex, Nina, and I watched a movie before retiring to our respective bedrooms.

The morning came with its own hustle, I aimed to finish all my work early so that I can spend sometime with Alex. The day was pleasant itself, with a blanket of clouds in the sky and a cool breeze, offering relief from the heat.

It was lunch time and I carried a plate of food for Lucas. As he allowed me in, I placed the food in front of him. When he looked up at me with his sparkling blue eyes, I couldn't help but be reminded of the unique warmth he brings to my life—a warmth I've never found elsewhere and I don't think I ever will.

"Please eat first." I requested him. He gave me a nod and closed the files, starting to twirl the spaghetti on his fork. Taking a seat across from him, I asked about his mother.

"How is Mrs.Knight now ?"

"She is okay." He replied, taking the bite. I let out a sigh of relief.

"You cook nice, Amelia." He complimented. I smiled and thanked him.

"I need to ask you something." I said. He lifted up his face, asking, "What is it ?"

"It's been a while since Alex has been anywhere, I was thinking of spending some time with him. So, can I leave early today ?  I have completed almost all my work and..." I rambled but was interrupted by him. "You can leave." My lips curled up into a radiant smile as I thanked him and exited the room once he finished eating.

I am so lucky to have a boss like him.

Some times when I recall my early years here, I am reminded of the crush I developed on him, like any young girl would have. I did find him rude but his looks and personality were always luring me to him, like a moth to a flame. But after struggling with life for the past six years, I have matured enough and although he is still undeniably charming, it's his behaviour and calm and composite aura that fascinates me. His presence makes me feel safe and secure, similar to how I used to feel with dad.

I packed my stuff and after informing him, I left. By the time I reached home, Alex was already changed in olive jeans and a white shirt, completing his look with a denim jacket and white sneakers.

He is growing up to be a handsome young man. I thought.

"You look handsome." I told him. He smiled as we settled in the cab. Nina took her time and went out for a walk as well.

Throughout, the car ride, Alex was staring outside, observing the slight changes that had happened over the past couple of years. He seemed happy and excited, causing my own heart to flutter with joy.

The car came to a halt in front of the park, and we stepped out. After paying the driver, we entered. Alex and I simultaneously inhaled in the fresh air, tinged with flower fragrance, then, we turned to each other and shared a soft laugh.

After so long.

As we strolled through the garden, savoring the weather, we spotted a family having a picnic.

"Do you remember when dad used to play catch with us." Alex murmured, his gaze fixed on the father and the son playing catch.

"Yeah, and how you used to cry when you weren't able to make a good throw." We chuckled softly.

"Dad used to get us ice cream and correct my throws." He added.

"And mom used to prepare the best meals for our picnics." I said, reminiscing our childhood. "Those were beautiful days." Alex looked at me, and my eyes welled up with tears. Holding my hand, he suggested, "Shall we go get ice cream ?"

"Of course. Your favourite—Black current." I said, smiling faintly.

"And yours—Chocolate Sundae" He replied.

After indulging in our favorite ice creams at a nearby parlor, we returned home, where Nina joined us.

"How was you brother-sister outing ?" She asked.

"It was good, Nina." Alex responded. "Well, I have something to say." He continued, glancing between between Nina and me. I arched my eyebrow, signaling him to speak.

"I wrote a song for you." He confessed. I couldn't help but feel awestruck at such a sweet gesture. I immediately moved closer to him, embracing him in my arms.

"Thank you." I whispered.

"I should be the one thanking you, Amelia, for always being there for me." He whispered back, tightening his hold on me.

"I am up for some masterpiece." Nina enthused. "Let's prepare dinner and then we'll listen to the song." She suggested, receiving nods of agreement from Alex and I.

After having dinner, Alex, Nina, and I gathered in the living room. Alex sat in front of us with a guitar. He took a deep breath before looking at me with a soft smile.

"In the darkest nights, you were my guiding light.
In the toughest times, you held me through the fight.

When I was on the edge, you pulled me back in.
Behind your smile, you hid the pain within.

In this world so cold, you are my warmth,
my guiding star.
Oh ! Dear sis, you have carried me through the battles afar.

You stayed strong, sacrificed it all.
Though mom and dad are gone.
Our bond is so strong, to weather any storm, knowing we belong.

Just hold my hand, and feel the love I have for you.
A love that knows no bounds, forever pure and true.
This life is yours, and I owe it to you all."

As he sang, strumming his guitar, his voice carried the weight of his emotions and by the end of the song, I could feel the warm tears, streaming down my cheeks. I immediately stood up and embraced him in my arms tightly.

"I love you so much." I whispered. He wiped my tears away and placed a soft kiss on my forehead. "I love you too, big sis."

"That was beautiful." Nina's voice interrupted, making us turn towards her. She was also wiping away her tears. Alex gave her a hug as well.

After having a little conversation and informing them about the party I needed to attend with Lucas, we left for our rooms. Before going to bed, I decided to try on a forest green slit midi cocktail dress. Approaching the mirror, I smoothed out any creases and felt satisfied with how it looked on me. Then, I nestled into bed for some rest, waiting for the new day to arrive.

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Friday is here.

Slowly, the story is progressing.
I hope you guys are enjoying it so far and waiting to unravel how it all rolls out.

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Stay safe !!