Chapter 36 The space is considerably more apparent now that I am alone. Christie and I don’t have any furniture, food, or money. And neither of us is employed. It will take months to restore this property to its previous glitzy splendour. I have no idea how to get us back on our feet, and I am quite frightened about starting the process. Christie, I’m sure, is as well. In that case, where are they?
I get up from the floor mattress and walk to the bathroom. I let the water run over my fair skin and blond hair.
Despite the heat, I find the water really calming. As it rushes over my body, the water represents my freedom. It envelops me, drop by drop, freeing my confined senses and conflicting emotions. It reminds me that I have returned home and am no longer burdened by the dreadful life I had at the mansion.
I hurriedly exit the shower and grab my towel. I walk on tiptoe across the white tiles, around the empty flat, to my bag in the corner. I pull on a pair of jeans, a plain white t-shirt, and my favourite Converse shoes. I pull my hair into a messy ponytail and smile. It feels wonderful to be out of those stiff corporate clothes and be back on my own.
I feel like me again.
Just then, the door swings open and Christie and Peter walk in, carrying two brown bags. She is dressed in black leggings and a bright red exercise top. She appears flustered but natural. I quite like this look on her.
“Hey, sis!” I say excitedly. I run over to her and help with the bags, setting them down on the kitchen counter.
“Hey, honey! Don’t you look cute! It’s been a while since I’ve seen you in jeans and a t-shirt.” “Are you sure? “By the way, I love that look on you,” I remark softly as I select an apple from one of the bags and put myself up on the counter. “What happened to you two this morning?” How is your candy hidden in your pocket, Peter? Could I have some?”
The youngster smiled and dashed to the restroom. “Mommy, I need to pee.” The little boy grumbled and disappeared into the hallway. “Oh well, I simply had to go for a walk.” It was really lovely outside. I missed taking walks around the neighbourhood. I had forgotten how lovely the mornings are here. Then I went to the farmers market for some goods after checking on our belongings in storage, which should be delivered in two days.”
She lets out a deep sigh. I could tell being home was making her emotional.
“Oh Chelsea, it’s so good to be home. I am sorry for everything that has happened, I.” “No, Christie, it’s okay,” I interjected. The last thing I want her to do is ruining the mood by diving back into the mess with Sebastian and Dave.
“No, Chelsea let me get this out,” she states firmly. “I thought about everything during my
walk this morning and I need to apologize. I am sorry for putting you through everything that happened. I should never have dragged you there. You were right about everything…” she pauses as her voice wavers.
I reach out and rub her arm in comfort.
She takes a sharp breath in and speaks again, “Sebastian never loved me and I didn’t think it through before I decided to get engaged and live with him. We had such a wonderful life here. I never should’ve given it up. And to think, if it weren’t for you… I wouldn’t have found out the truth. I’m so sorry for arguing with you and I’m even sorrier for making you work for the company.” I hop off the counter and embrace her in a warm, tender hug.
“I am so disappointed in myself, Chelsea,” she continues. As your sister, I should’ve known better. Please forgive me, sweetheart.” She sniffles, holding me tighter.
“Chelsea, please stop crying. You don’t have to apologize. I’m sorry for being so mean to you. There were times when I was so out of line and disrespectful.” I pull away and stare into her cloudy eyes., “Oh, sis. It’s so good to have you back.”
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