Chapter 31
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As dawn broke, Natalie’s eyes blinked open, with the twins right beside her. The two were still buzzing with the excitement of their new surroundings.
After freshening up, they headed toward the tantalizing aroma of Giselle’s home–cooked breakfast.
“Good morning, sunshine!” Giselle said, setting the table. “Phil was hoping to catch you last night, but you’d already turned in. He’s out getting supplies for a special dinner tonight.”
Thanks, Giselle, but you’ve done enough,” Natalie said, giving the twins a playful nudge. “We’re just going to visit the old house and my grandpa’s grave later.”
Natalie noticed the farm bustling with new arrivals and gently steered Giselle back to her hosting duties.
“Alright, just leave the dishes on the table when you’re done. I’ll swing by to clean up later. Gotta go. We’ve got a bunch of check–ins today,” Giselle said with a wave, turning to gesture for the guests to follow her to the reception area.
As soon as the twins sat down, they started eating breakfast with gusto. Emma, in particular, dug in with her fingers. Natalie, relishing the taste of home, joined in heartily.
Soon, with full bellies, they set off. They strolled leisurely, with Zayn and Emma skipping ahead, and Natalie capturing moments on her phone and taking in the charming scenery.
The town was a postcard of well–kept roads and blossoming flowers—a picturesque retreat.
In no time, Natalie found herself in front of the old house, a place of cherished memories with Kevin.
Natalie unlocked the door to the spotless interior, a testament to Dora’s loving care.
The familiar sight overwhelmed Natalie, her tears welling up. It was a poignant blend of old memories with Kevin and gratitude for Dora’s steadfast
support
“Mom, are you alright?” Emma asked, concerned by Natalie’s sudden stillness and red eyes.
“Just a little homesick, honey,” Natalie replied, regaining her composure and inviting the twins inside. She regaled them with stories of her childhood, filling the air with laughter.
With Dora in mind, Natalie advised, “Let’s go visit Dora. She’s Giselle’s mother–in–law and my great aunt.”
Hand in hand, they walked to the next house and found Dora engrossed in her craft in the yard.
“Dora, it’s me, Nat. I’m back.” Natalie called out to Dora.
Hearing that, Dora sprang up, beaming. “Nat! You’ve returned!”
Then her eyes widened at the sight of the twins. “And these must be your little ones. They’ve grown so much. Your grandpa would be so proud,”
Dora said.
“Yes, meet Zayn and Emma,” Natalie said, introducing her kids to Dora.
“Hi, Dora!” the twins said.
“Hello, sweethearts,” Dora responded. She then shuffled inside and came back with a bag of candy. “This is for you. A little treat from me.”
“Thank you, Dora!” the twins exclaimed, their eyes lighting up.
‘Such well–mannered and lovely children,” Dora said, patting their heads affectionately.
Natalie then presented an envelope with 20 thousand dollars to Dora. “For all the years you’ve kept my home alive, this is a small token of my gratitude.”
Hat, I can’t take this. It was just a friendly gesture. Phil and Giselle take good care of me. They’ve built a beautiful house on the farm, but I’m too set in my ways to move. They check on me every day. Use this for the kids,” Dora insisted, refusing to accept the money.
Understanding Dora’s firm refusal, Natalie decided to show her appreciation another way, planning to leave with a car full of groceries and gifts for Dora before heading back to work.
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Chapter 31
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After a heartfelt farewell to Dora, Natalie rounded up the kids for their solemn errand.
“Zayn, Emma, we’re going to pick up some flowers for Kevin’s grave,” Natalie said softly, her voice carrying a mix of sadness and resolve.
“Okay, Mom. What flowers did Kevin like?” Emma inquired, her eyes bright with a child’s earnest interest.
“Kevin would love any flowers you choose, Emma. You pick them out,” Natalie said with a smile, ruffling Emma’s hair affectionately.
“I’ll find the best ones,” Emma declared, her steps quickening as she headed toward the flower shop with a bounce in her step.
Emma selected not just flowers but also a small assortment of fruits, candies, and snacks, showing a thoughtfulness beyond her years.
With the kids in tow, Natalie walked at an easy pace, the tranquil scenery calming as they approached Kevin’s grave. It was meticulously maintained, a sign of respect and care.
“Grandpa, it’s Nat. I’ve come back to see you. I’m sorry it’s been so long.” Natalie’s voice cracked, her lips trembling and tears streaming down her checks.
“Mom, why are you crying?” Emma asked, her voice tinged with worry.
“These are tears of joy, honey. I’m just really happy to be back to visit Kevin,” Natalie explained, smiling through her tears and pulling herself together.
Standing by the grave with the twins, Natalie made the introductions. “Grandpa, I want you to meet Zayn and Emma, my kids,” she said, pride evident in her voice.
“Hi, Kevin,” Zayn and Emma said together.
“Is Kevin sleeping in there?” Emma asked, with a blend of innocence and curiosity.
“Yes, he’s sleeping, Emma,” Natalie said, keeping her tone gentle and even.
“Can we wake him up?” Emma asked.
“Kevin is taking a very long nap. Let’s not disturb him, alright?” Natalie said, finding the simplest way to explain his passing.
“Okay, Emma said, nodding.
Then the sight of butterflies fluttering nearby caught the twins‘ attention, and they scampered off to chase them.
Standing there alone by the grave, Natalie said softly, “Hey Grandpa, I’ve brought Shawn’s kids to see you. I really wanted Shawn to be here, too, but things didn’t work out that way. But I’m doing okay, really. I’ve let go of any resentment. I don’t blame Shawn, and I hope you do, too. He gave me these two wonderful children, and for that, I’m grateful.”
As the daylight waned, Natalie signaled it was time to leave. “Zayn, Emma, it’s getting dark. We should head back,” she said.
“Coming, Mom!” the twins responded, racing back to her side.
In no time, they were standing at the farm’s entrance again. The yard was lit up, alive with the buzz of people enjoying the evening. Laughter and chatter mingled in the air.
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