4

VALERIA

The road back to the hotel was a long one. I was seated at the back seat of a luxurious bus, which was sort of hidden so crying more was very much easy.

50,000 dollars to 70,000 dollars?  Where was I going to get that kind of money? Hell, I didn't even have up to 2,000 dollars in my name. If I decide to save right now, Nessa would be long gone.

What am I going to do?

Get a new job? Where? How? How can I juggle a 9 to 5 with other jobs?

Are there online jobs now? What can I do?

What can I possibly do to obtain quick cash?

I bit my bottom lip so hard to push back a new round of tears; I bit it so hard that I could taste blood.

What the hell was I going to do??

I stood in front of the building and thought to myself about how life decided to make me feel extra shitty today when I saw a car drive past me slowly. I studied the black captivating Mercedes Benz closely, the glasses were tinted so I couldn't see anything but it felt like a pair of eyes were watching me. As soon as the car drove past, I felt someone's hands on mine and turned to look.

"Terrence??"

"I had to follow you here, you weren't answering me when I called from the bus. I had to make sure you were going to arrive safely."

"Oh, thanks." I said flatly.

"Are you okay?" He asked with so much concern.

I sighed as my eyes welled up simultaneously.

"Oh, V." He said embracing me but I cut it short.

"Look, you don't have to be nice, you can go back to not knowing me." I cleaned my tears rapidly.

"What do you mean?" He inquired.

"I broke your heart for the umpteenth time this year so I know this is all fake." I spat. Why was I acting that way?

"Look, I know you are hurting. I know it is tough, but it is unfair to project your feelings towards me."

I sighed, "I know, I'm sorry. I'm just going through so much."

"I know that, V," He paused. "What did the doctor say?"

"I can't do this right now, Terrence. Please understand." I pleaded, holding his hand.

"Oh sure, I do understand. Take care of yourself, and never forget that I'm always here for you." He said, flashing me an assuring smile before I walked into the building.

***

ADAM

I had to leave the office, I had to visit my mum and listen to more reasons why I need to settle down.

Ugh.

The driver got in,  started the engine, and started driving when I watched my newest employee come down from a bus. I studied her demeanor, she looked sad and her eyes looked puffy, like she had been crying.

"Drive slowly." I said.

My car slowed down when it was closer to her. She looked at my car and leaned forward with furrowed brows. This gave me little time to study her face more; even if it was going to last for seconds.

Damn, how could someone look this good?

I felt this sudden desire, which wasn't good at all. I shuddered and commanded the chauffeur to keep driving, her face etched in my brain.

Thankfully, my phone lighted up. On seeing the Caller ID, I groaned angrily.

"Why couldn't you tell me that you have  returned? I had to discover it from the news." Michael, one of my friends (not like I had a lot) asked as soon as I picked.

"I'm so sorry bro, forgive me?"

"No, no way. You left for Turkey years back without informing me and you did the same thing when you returned. Aren't we brothers??"

"I think you love him more than loves you, Mike!" Shouted a voice from Michael's background. I could easily tell whose voice that was, Michaela, his twin sister and my one-time fling. Oh, so many amazing memories.

"Hey, Michaela." I said sexily.

"Ew, not with my phone please. You can call her later." Michael said and they all chuckled.

"Hey you, welcome back. I'm not so offended though. You've always been this way."

"Ouch, sis." Michael snickered.

"I see you've still got that fire in you, baby." I said, leaning comfortably on my seat.

"You enjoyed a lot of it, didn't you?" She asked.

"Oh my goodness guys!" Michael complained.  Michaela and I laughed so hard.

"You guys are doing this to spite me, huh?"

"Of course, silly. I need me some vodka. See you soon, Adam." She said. I could hear her footsteps reduce.

"Am I forgiven?"

"Well, you are still going to do it again, I might as well start getting used to it." Michael said.

"Oh come on, bro. I'm sorry about this. I should have told you earlier, I had a lot on my plate." I explained.

"As usual." He paused. "Look bro, I understand. It's fine. When are we meeting up? Right now?"

"Nah, I need to see my mum. After?"

"Oh sure, just text me."

"We good?"

"Of course we are, always."

I felt so satisfied with that response. I disconnected the call and looked out the window as I silently thought of how hellish meeting with mother was going to be.

***

The car parked in front of this huge mansion which used to be my home till I moved out and found my own place. I moved out but I only lived 10 minutes away from my mother's; would you classify that as moving out?

The mansion was a grand monument to a bygone era, nestled amidst lush flora. Guests were greeted by imposing pillars flanking the grand entry, which led to a lobby with marble floors and a crystal chandelier that illuminated the fine details of the antique furnishings.

The living room was a lavish and cozy area with luxurious velvet couches grouped around a stunning fireplace. The polished hardwood floors were illuminated by direct sunlight streaming through big windows, and the walls were covered in elaborate tapestries that recounted tales of a bygone era. Tucked away in a corner of the comfortable living area, the mini bar radiated a kind yet utilitarian elegance. Though small in size, it was full of charm and a great addition to the house, offering a comfortable place for both quiet evenings and last-minute parties.

Crafted from elegant wood with contemporary metal elements, the mini bar contained a small selection of mixers and spirits. There was a small refrigerator hidden under the counter that kept drinks absolutely cold so you could always find something nice to drink when you needed it. A carefully chosen selection of glasses, including highball glasses, tumblers made of crystal, and maybe a few unusual mugs to add some personality, were arranged on the shelves above the mini bar. A few well-selected bottles were arranged on the counter, ready to satisfy a range of palates with everything from a flavorful vodka for creative cocktails to a good whiskey. There was a bonafide bartender too, might I add.

The tiny bar is bathed in a warm glow by soft LED lighting that is hidden beneath the shelves, providing a welcoming ambiance. A few accent pieces gave the area a unique feel, such a set of handmade coasters, a bowl of citrus fruits, or an elegant cocktail shaker.

Small barstools or a few cozy seats adjacent encouraged visitors to have a seat and strike up a discussion. The tiny bar was a focal point without taking over the living area thanks to its functional design, which allowed it to mix in perfectly with the overall aesthetic.

Not only was the mini bar a useful place to mix beverages in this little space, but it also added a touch of elegance to the overall feel of the house. Serving as a wonderful refuge for times of rest and companionship, it was a testament to the homeowner's appreciation of the small pleasures of hospitality.

There was also a large library with ceiling-to-ceiling mahogany bookshelves that smelled of old leather-bound books. The knowledge of centuries permeated the air, and among the pages of literary masterpieces, a comfortable reading nook by the fireplace encouraged introspection. There

Exquisite parties were held in the dining room, which embodied tasteful elegance around a large table. The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, and the clink of crystal goblets brought back memories of happy festivities that reverberated through the hallways. Back then, it was so amazing, everyone was happy, until he did what he did.

Steps up the grand staircase with its plush carpet brought you to a peaceful oasis of bedrooms, I can't remember how many bedrooms there were. There were canopied mattresses, vintage dressers, and windows framing stunning vistas of the surrounding estate, each room exuded a distinct charm.

There were lost artifacts from the past collected dust in the attic: faded pictures, old trunks, and a treasure trove of toys from childhood. Every object had a backstory that served as a constant reminder of time passing and the ghosts of memories that lurked in the mansion's quiet corners.

Laughter and tears had blended together inside the mansion walls, weaving a tapestry of happy and sad times but now, it was hollow and empty.

I've suggested to my mum to sell the mansion and get a place like mine to stay, but she kept refusing saying the mansion is her second biggest achievement, I'm sure you can tell what the first one is.

As soon as I got down from the car, one of her many workers walked up to me, "Good day Mr. Adam, it is good to see you again."

"5 years was a long long time huh?" I asked as I started up the frustrating stairs I always loathed.

"Where is she by the way?" I added immediately.

"She is by the bar, Sir, waiting for you." She responded.

I took in a deep breath as I got to the door "How do I look?" I asked, adjusting my suit I had to change after the incident earlier.

"Impeccable." She replied with a flirtatious smile that I had to ignore. I can't have my mother discovering that I slept with one of her workers. Again.

That's right, sue me.

I walked into the house and a lot of memories came flooding in. I lived there for 20 years, of course the memories were numerous. I didn't want to bask in my emotions so I walked straight to the bar and saw my mum there, sipping on what looked like a martini. I stood there to watch her for a moment, admiring my amazing mother.

Miss. Madeline Lawrence, the proprietor of The Lush Hotel, the smartest woman I've ever met, the daredevil. She was the best hard worker I've ever known. Regardless of the unlimited work handling a hotel brought about especially when it came to  organizing elegant gatherings at the hotel, where influential and eligible individuals converged,  I watched her handle the day-to-day operations of the hotel for 25 years without breaking down, she was perfect.

Yes, she and my stupid father worked on it together but she was the owner. I'm so glad my dad didn't take that away from her.

Lush Hotel wasn't just a business venture for Madeline—it was a legacy, and she had decided to watch me handle it when I turned 23. Not to sound cocky but I've done a pretty damn job (with my mum's help of course) for the past 7 years, including when I wasn't available.

I studied her silver-colored hair which she had from birth, I always admired that color, it fitted her perfectly, I'm pretty sure it added to her intelligence and resilience. She was so cool, after everything she went rnrough over the years, especially with the media when my dad left, she still stood strong. If I ever decided to settle down which would be never, I would marry someone like my mum but that was impossible, girls with my mum's behaviour didn't exist.

I suddenly thought of that lady.. Valeria was it? Why was I thinking of her??

I shuddered immediately.

What the hell is going on?

"Adam? Why are you standing there?" She sounded amused.

"Oh it's nothing." I responded, taking a seat beside her.

"You haven't seen this place in years, were you lost?" She asked as she signaled the bartender to whip me a glass.

"I could never get lost here, mum."

"Right, of course." She said, taking a sip. "So how have you been? We hardly spoke when you were overseas."

"True, I was so busy with so many things." I said.

"So many things or so many women?" She asked, squinting her eyes. I shot her a hard look as the bartender handed me a glass.

"What?" She chuckled.

"I wasn't busy with so many women." I took a sip.

"Oh, so one woman?" She probed.

"Mum, come on. Can't we have a normal conversation without you mentioning women?"

"What? You said so yourself, that you found someone over there."

"Well, it ended."

"Really?"

I nodded.

"Okay then, tell me her name."

I almost choked. "Excuse me?"

"Her name, that's all I'm asking for." She repeated, her eyes fixated on me.

I cleared my throat anxiously.

"Yes?"

"Her name is Michaela."

"Miss me with that bullshit, son. Do you happen to know two Michaelas now?"

"Shit." I muttered under my breath.

She scoffed and downed the entire glass, "I can't believe you lied to me." She said, walking  towards the living room and sinking on one of the chairs.

"Pedro, keep those drinks coming." She requested.

"At your service ma'am." Pedro said.

"How many glasses has it been?" I whispered to him. He displayed five of his fingers and I signaled him to not make more.

I downed my glass as well and joined her in the living room. She was staring at the ceiling, maybe counting sheep, I used to do that back when I was younger and bored .

"Mum? I'm so sorry. I just wanted to get you off my back for the time being."

"By lying?" She was still staring at the ceiling.

"I'm sorry." I repeated. There was no response. "Mum?"

She looked at me,"You need to work on your lying skills."

"Coming from my mother? Damn, that's cold."

She laughed hard, then sniffled and adjusted herself, "Adam, I'm not pressuring you into getting someone and if I have been, I'm so sorry. I just feel you're pushing away the right ones because of what happened between me and your father."

"Truer words have never been said mum." I agreed. She was totally right.

"I don't want you doing that to yourself. Give yourself a chance to fall in love."

"Hard pass, mum. Hard pass."

"You know, the more you push it away, the more the force. And the stronger the force, the harder you end up falling."

"I don't see that happening to me anytime soon, or ever."

"Well, give yourself a chance. You are not like your father; never forget that." She said with a slight yawn.

"Pedro?? Where is my drink?" She asked as she headed towards the bar leaving me to ponder on the last words she mentioned.

What if I am exactly like him??