everything has changed ➺ charles leclerc

twenty-six - angeli

— angeli

WE STEP OUT OF THE RANGE ROVER that carried us to the Schumacher Estate, and I'm immediately struck by the immense scale of the property. Despite having visited numerous times before, the grandeur of the estate never fails to impress me. It sits in splendid isolation, surrounded by lush greenery that stretches as far as the eye can see, with Lake Geneva glistening in the distance. Inhaling the crisp scent of the surrounding forest, I can't help but feel a sense of serenity wash over me.

Aunt Corinna welcomes us with a radiant smile, gracefully opening the double doors of the entryway. "Angeli, my darling!" she exclaims joyfully, and I can't contain my excitement as I rush into her waiting embrace.

"Aunt Corinna!" I exclaim with a wide grin, hugging her tightly. It's been too long since I've seen her.

Her voice, filled with warmth, caresses my ear as she whispers, "I missed you so much, darling. I'm thrilled that you've decided to spend some time with us here." She pulls back slightly to look at me, her eyes reflecting the genuine affection she holds for me.

A joyful voice interrupts our reunion. "Mum! Your son's here too!" Mick's familiar voice calls out from behind me.

Aunt Corinna playfully waves off Mick's remark. "Oh, please, Mick. I see you every other weekend. This visit is long overdue," she retorts, her gaze fixed on me, as if making sure I'm really there.

Suddenly, Gina's exuberant squeal fills the air. She rushes into the foyer, her excitement palpable. I break away from Aunt Corinna's embrace and make a beeline toward my dear cousin, embracing her with equal fervor.

"Gina, I missed you too," I chuckle, enjoying the warmth of our reunion as she spins me around in her enthusiasm.

As our mothers exchange their own heartfelt greetings, I can't help but feel the deep bond that ties us all together. My mum, Amelie, shares a fond smile with Aunt Corinna, their sisterly connection evident in their embrace.

Mick, ever the joker, playfully pouts. "Uh, hello? Anyone miss me? I'm here too," he quips, looking at us with feigned disappointment.

Gina's mischievous grin widens. "Nope," she replies, unable to contain her delight.

Aunt Corinna, her eyes twinkling with affection, approaches Mick, ready to envelop him in a warm embrace. "Of course, Mick," she says, her voice filled with affectionate teasing. "Just not as much as I missed your Aunt and cousin," she whispers playfully into his ear.

Mick pulls back, crossing his arms in mock indignation, before breaking into a grin. The room fills with laughter, and in that moment, I'm reminded of the strength of our family bonds. 

Mick feigns offense, his playful smile fading momentarily. "Well, I see where I stand," he says with a mock hurt expression.

Aunt Corinna bursts into laughter, her infectious joy filling the room. "Oh, Mick, you know we love you too," she reassures him, giving him a warm hug. 

Mick's smile returns, and he shakes his head in amusement. "I know, Mum. Just messing with you." He plants a kiss on her cheek.

We all gather in the spacious living room, catching up on the latest events in each other's lives. The cozy atmosphere of the estate wraps around us, creating a sense of tranquility that I desperately need.

As evening approaches, Aunt Corinna suggests we take a walk around the estate grounds. The sun casts a warm golden hue over the landscape, and the crisp air fills our lungs as we stroll along the meandering paths. The sound of leaves crunching beneath our feet adds to the serenity of the moment.