A Change of Wind

E i g h t

"And....James."
How nice, I thought.

My lips twitched and I tried to keep the smile wide on my face, a laugh escaped my mouth and I realized I should probably invite them in right now.

"Yes darlin', I thought it would be nice if Jamie joined us after the two of you made up yesterday! He even agreed to postpone his work so he can join us~"Grandma Eleanor said as she smiled at James, who I can tell trying his best to keep the obvious painful smile on his face on.

"Oh, Of course, Mrs. Callan. The more, the merrier. Please come in." I said with a forced smile as They walked in.
"I'd like you all to meet Ruth." I introduced Ruth as I closed the door.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all. Welcome to the Beckett's house. Please, make yourselves comfortable." Ruth greeted them with a smile.

"Thank you, Ruth. It's lovely to meet you too. Edith has told us so much about you." Nicole said.

I tried to stay as enthusiastic as I could.
"Yes, Ruth has been an immense help during my stay here, and through my whole life really!" I laughed. "I couldn't manage without her."

"I'm sure." I heard James Mutter under his breath.

I snapped my head toward him.
"What was that? Did you say something?"

He looked down at me and flashed me the fakest smile I'd ever seen. "Nothing. Just making conversation." He mocked.

That's what I thought. I ignored for a second and started leading the guests to the back, and into the dining room, when Grandma Eleanor started talking.

"I see the house is still the same." She commented.
"Indeed, almost nothing has changed.." John added as he looked around, and I could see in his eyes he was probably reminiscing about the past.

"Tell me darlin', how is your stay, I hope it's to your liking?" Eleanor asked.

"It is quite nice, I need to admit it's a huge change of scenery for me. But so far it's been a great choice for a peaceful getaway." I replied as we walked into the dining room.

"Well, I'm glad you're enjoying your getaway. We didn't realize we had such exciting neighbors." James mumbled, sarcasm's clear in his tone.

"Oh, I assure you, my intention is not to disturb anyone. I simply want some time to relax and unwind." I returned.

"Now, now," Mr. Callan cut in. "let's try to keep the peace here. We're all here to enjoy a meal together, so let's focus on that, shall we?"

Taking a deep breath, my tone softened. "You're right, Mr. Callan. I apologize if I've caused any inconvenience. Let's sit down and enjoy our lunch together. I hope you all brought your appetites." I concluded, as everyone sat down.

Once we were Seated, Nicole commented on the flowers.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but these are carnations?" She said.

"Hm? Oh yes, they're."

"They're lovely darlin, I see your taste in flowers Is unique." She complimented.

"Not at all, they weren't my first choice actually. I was hoping for peonies but they weren't available.."

"Peonies?" Grandma Eleanor tilted her head. "I believe those are mostly chosen for brides' bouquets?"

"Yes, they're Edith's favorite," Ruth said. "She has always liked them."

I chuckled a bit. "Yes, I do like them. I like all flowers really, I think they're all pretty in their way but at the same time they're tragic." I mumbled.