𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐒𝐀𝐕𝐈𝐎𝐑 |

chapter five

Vera

Being in touch with nature is supposed to be good for the soul. Feeling the warm grass brush against your legs, the leaves dance in the wind in a gentle frenzy, and the trees swaying along with them. It was comforting, almost inviting to be a part of nature's circle. A way to relax without forcing it. Just being in the environment.

The park near the house had more scenery than an actual park. There were hammocks tied to trees, scattered evenly around the area; the grass dipped into a hill, but not too huge of a hill. I sat on the grass, facing the small pond while chewing a bite of my cheeseburger.

With Aiden at school and Katherine on a stressed-out rampage, a morning out here was very much desired. Plus, it felt amazing out here and the view was amazing. The heat was bearable, and the breeze canceled it out regardless. Off a whim, I decided to wear a ponytail today, and I couldn't be happier with that decision.

Once I finished my quick meal, I picked up my water bottle and hopped inside my car once I unlocked it. I shoved my phone in the cupholder and started the engine, exhaling once the air hit my face in a gentle rush. I glanced in the rearview mirror then pulled off while buckling my seatbelt and cracking my back with a sigh.

One of these nights, I need to just drive. No purpose, no reason, just to drive and listen to music. There are countless nights where I can't sleep fully, and staring up at my ceiling isn't going to help anymore after so long. And I refuse to drink warm milk. Absolutely not.

With a sigh, I made a quick turn and stopped at a red light, pulling out my phone. I sent a quick text to Jesse, wondering if he was home while glancing between my phone screen and the traffic light. Once it was sent, the light turned green, and I pulled off down the street before making a right then pressing down on the pedal.

My phone buzzed in the cupholder, and I already knew what the response was. Jesse hardly responds when he's busy, so I know he's at home and not doing a damn thing. Not that I can blame him, but he could've gone on a jog or something.

I grabbed my water bottle and took a quick chug before turning into Jesse's neighborhood. Sitting up more, I lifted my foot off the gas a bit then whipped into his driveway, parking beside his mom's car and shutting off the engine. When I stepped out, the front door had already swung open, and Jesse was peeking out with his right hand shielding his eyes.

"Why don't you have a shirt on?" I chuckled, shutting my door and walking towards him.

"Because I was in the comfort of my own home, thank you very much," He sassily remarked, opening the door wider for me to walk inside.

Instantly, I was hit with the aroma of spices and the sounds of meat sizzling. It made my stomach rumble, and I whipped my arms around it as if it could mute it.

Of course, that burger was hardly fulfilling.

"Vera!" Ms. Kira called out, peeking back to smile at me. "It's so good to see you!"

"Hi, Ms. Kira," I greeted, walking over and quickly hugging her. "What are you making?"

"My famous grilled chicken," she grinned, maneuvering around the kitchen.

I loved this woman's cooking. This is one of the main reasons I loved coming to Jesse's house; his mother was an amazing cook, and she was an all-natural sweetheart. Might I add, she is also very welcoming.

"The second she came back from work, she was ready to cook," Jesse chuckled, grabbing a bag of chips.

"You put that down. Dinner is almost done, mister," Ms. Kira quickly said, pointing a fork at him with narrowed eyes.