Secrets of the South

Chapter 5 : Two Summers Apart

The next summer turned out to be nothing like what Sophie had expected. James and Theo's grandfather fell seriously ill, and their families had no choice but to stay in London to be with him. It was just Rosie and Sophie this summer, and the next one as well. Sadly, their grandfather's condition didn't improve, and he passed away a year later. The news weighed heavily on all of them, but Sophie felt the loss even more profoundly. She wished she could have been there for the boys, especially James, who had looked up to his grandfather as a role model.

James's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as he regaled Sophie with stories about his grandfather. "You know, Sophie," he began, his voice filled with affection, "my grandfather is the most amazing person in the world. He's not just my grandpa; he's my hero."

Sophie looked at him with wide, eager eyes, her face reflecting the genuine curiosity she felt. "Tell me more, James. What makes him your hero?"

A fond smile played on James's lips as he painted a vivid picture with his words. "Well, he's always there for me, no matter what. When I'm with him, it feels like every day is an adventure. He teaches me all sorts of things, like how to fish by the lake or how to fix things around the house. But it's not just about what he teaches me; it's how he does it. He makes everything fun, like a game or a secret mission."

Sophie listened intently, captivated by James's stories. "He sounds wonderful. What else do you do together?"

James's eyes lit up as he continued, "We go on nature walks, and he tells me all about the plants and animals. He says it's important to appreciate the beauty of the world around us. And he's full of these amazing stories from his own childhood, like the time he discovered a hidden treasure in the woods or the time he built a treehouse with his friends."

Sophie giggled with delight, imagining the adventures James and his grandfather shared. "That sounds like so much fun, James."

"It is," James agreed with a nod. "But you know what, Sophie? The best part is how he believes in me. He says I can do anything I set my mind to and that I should always be kind to others. He makes me want to be a better person."

Sophie's heart swelled with admiration for James's grandfather. "He's like a wise mentor and a best friend rolled into one."

James beamed with pride. "Exactly! I hope I can be just like him when I grow up."

-ˋˏ ༻❁༺ ˎˊ-

These two summers were undoubtedly the least fun of all. Sophie and Rosie found themselves ensnared in an intensive training regimen, their mothers determined to mold them into elegant and refined young ladies. Days were consumed by etiquette lessons, forcing them to navigate the intricacies of proper behavior in various social settings. They practiced conversational grace, honing the art of small talk and the ability to maintain poise under any circumstance. Dress and fashion became paramount, as they were meticulously educated on the selection of attire and the nuances of elegant dressing. Grooming and personal hygiene left no room for error, demanding meticulous skincare, haircare, and impeccable nails. They polished their talents in piano and singing, alongside dance and music lessons, ensuring they were proficient in the arts. Languages, particularly French, were stressed upon heavily.

As the two arduous summers finally drew to a close, Rosie and Sophie sat together, reflecting on their experiences. "I miss them," Sophie confessed, her voice filled with longing. "I miss James and Theo. I miss the fun we used to have."

Rosie nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting the same sentiment. "I miss them too, Sophie. These summers just haven't been the same without them."

They shared a sigh, hope flickering in their hearts as they looked ahead to the next year. "Let's hope they can come back next summer," Sophie said, her voice filled with optimism. "And may it be as fun as it used to be."