An Unusual Affair

Chapter 2

The week went by swiftly, with every day starting and ending in almost the same way for Emily, Lily, Richard, and Hayden. 

Richard would drop Hayden off every morning, catching a glimpse or two of the same woman. Lily adjusting to the new school environment slowly with the help of Hayden, who would make sure to relay all that he had done at school to his father at dinner. 

'Dad, Lily lives with her mother who has opened a bakery here in Rivertide. And no one knows where her father is so everyone calls her mother a widow.' Hayden said while cutting his chicken piece. 

'Hayden I didn't know you liked to gossip so much. It's been almost a week since she joined your class and I feel like I have been living with her all her life. Do you guys even study or just talk at school?'  Richard said pouring himself a glass of water. 

'We just talk over the recess Dad. I like to talk to her. She seems so innocent and sweet.' Hayden said.

Hearing the word 'innocent', Richard was reminded of the same face he had been seeing outside Hayden's school for a few days now.  

'You must be of the same age as her. Anyways, enough of Lily. I am leaving tomorrow morning so I won't be dropping you off. Your Mom might visit you while I am away.' He looked at Mrs. Swan who had just entered the Dining Hall, 'When Venessa comes over, make sure that you are accompanying Hayden at all times, Mrs. Swan. And no one is allowed to leave the house unless it is very necessary. Do you understand Hayden?' Richard asked looking back at his son. 

 'I understand Dad.' Hayden said, all excitement leaving his voice. 

'Master Richard, Madam always comes for a short while so there won't be any problem. I will be here always.' Mrs Swan replied politely. 

Richard nodded and went to his room to get ready for his travel.

Emily and Lily were also engaged in a conversation about Lily's new friend. 

'Hayden does seem like a nice boy. As a thank-you gift to help you around at school, I'll bake some muffins tomorrow. What do you say Lily?' Emily asked.

'Yeah, it's a good idea. He told me that his caretaker Mrs. Swan cooks everything very well except for the baking part. So I think he will like homemade muffins. He can even share with Mrs. Swan.' Lily said excitedly. 

'Okay, I'll pack them up in a bag so he can carry them home. Let's get to bed now. It's getting late.' Emily got up to clear the kitchen while Lily went to brush her teeth. 

In the morning Mrs. Swan accompanied Peter to drop Hayden off at school. Lily and Emily were already entering the school gate when Hayden called Lily from the back. 

'Hey Lily, wait for me.' Hayden shouted taking the bag from Mrs. Swan. 

Lily and Emily both stopped by the gate. As Hayden approached them he greeted them, 'Good Morning Mrs. Morgan. Hi Lily.' 

A smile appeared on Emily's face at the way Hayden just addressed her. 

'Good Morning Hayden. How are you doing?' Emily said squatting down in front of him. 

'I am good. This is Mrs. Swan. She is my caretaker.' Hayden said pointing towards her. 

'Hello, Mrs. Swan. Nice to meet you. I am Emily.' Emily stood up and extended her hand towards her. 

'Nice to meet you too Emily. And that must be Lily, right?' Mrs. Swan asked with a smile, shaking Emily's hand.

Lily also shook Mrs. Swan's hand. 

'Hayden, my Mom baked some muffins for you to thank you for all your help.' Lily said standing next to Hayden. 

'Really? I love muffins.' Hayden said excitedly, looking at Emily.