The Deep Dark Stone Path

Chapter 13 - *Dalilah*

I open the front door and look at the clock. I had been out for two hours. I whisper, "Follow me." I lead him throughout downstairs showing him where the living room and kitchen are. Then I show him where the laundry room is and then we head upstairs. I show him my siblings' rooms and where the two bathrooms are. I show him to the guest room. "This will be your room." He nods. I walk to my room and open the door. "James, this is my bedroom." He smiles and walks in. He sits his bag down next to my bed and sits down on my bed. I hear someone wake up and go into one of the bathrooms. I walk out to see it was my dad. I walk up to him and say, "Dad? My friend needs to stay here for a while can he sleep in the guest room, please?" He asks, "Why? Is it James?" I nod and reply, "His mom just died today and his dad is abusive" He nods without a second thought. I kiss his cheek and give him a quick hug and run back to my room. "Your room awaits your highness." I say as we go to his room.

. . .

Now James has all of his things unpacked and we are hanging out in my room. I look James in the eye and say "Well, it looks like we have the day to ourselves." James smiles. I don't know what it is about him, but I feel connected to him. We walk onto the veranda. I lean against the railing, as does James. I close my eyes and breath in the pine air. James says, "This is a beautiful view." I nod and he smirks. "Not as beautiful as you." I blush and James kisses me on the cheek. I go inside and grab the painting I was working on. I show it to James and he says, "That is really good!" I smile and James just nods. I point to the picture. "That roof out there is for a house. That path down there that leads from the back of the house to the woods. I think it leads to that house. It makes no sense. There is nothing at the back of the house except the veranda. Do you want to go explore it with me." James replies "I'll follow you anywhere." I smile and pull out the rope I bought yesterday. I tie it onto the balcony and James climbs down first. Then I climb down and me and James, hand in hand, begin our trip down the path.