Celestial Ties

CHAPTER 14

"Evelyn," Mr. West's voice called from across the garden. I walked over, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. He greeted me with a warm embrace, his presence exuding a calming charm. As he stepped back, he pointed excitedly towards a cluster of lilies. "Look at this beautiful butterfly!" he exclaimed. I followed his gaze and saw the delicate creature fluttering among the vibrant flowers.

"It's stunning," I said, my smile widening. "Mr. West, your home is absolutely beautiful."

He chuckled, his eyes crinkling with genuine pleasure. "Thank you. Dennis, this is Evelyn. I've been telling everyone about her. Isn't she a beauty?"

I felt a warm flush creep up my cheeks as Dennis, a dignified man nodded in agreement. "Yes, she is definitely a beauty," Dennis said with a smile.

"Come, Evelyn, let's have dinner," Mr. West invited. The prospect of a meal was enticing, and I couldn't refuse. My stomach had been growling, perhaps because the luxury around me made me even hungrier.

Mr. West took my hand gently, and Dennis followed us as we made our way to the garden dining area. The setting was exquisite—a table elegantly, surrounded by lush greenery and soft lights. The aroma of the food was mouthwatering.

"We didn't know exactly what you'd like, so I made a selection of dishes that I thought you might enjoy," Dennis's said. Dennis, with a touch of pride in his voice, described the meal: "We have lobster thermidor, truffle risotto, and a fine selection of cheeses."

I picked up a small spoon and tasted the lobster thermidor. My eyes widened as I savored the rich, creamy flavors. "Mmm, this is absolutely delicious," I managed to say, trying to convey my appreciation.

"I know, right?" Mr. West said with a knowing smile. "Dennis can never go wrong with food."

Dennis beamed, a look of satisfaction on his face. "Years and years of experience," he said modestly.

"This is truly amazing," I said, finally able to express how much I enjoyed the meal. The food was nothing short of five-star, and the setting made it all the more special.

"Dennis, join us," Mr. West called out, his voice warm and inviting. The camaraderie between the two men was evident, their bond resembling that of close family. Dennis, an elderly man with a welcoming demeanor and a trace of grey in his neatly combed hair, smiled graciously.

"Thanks for the offer, but I must attend to my duties," Dennis said, his tone polite but firm. "You know, everything can go wrong if I don't keep an eye on the staff."

"It was a pleasure meeting you, Evelyn," Dennis said with a sincere nod.

"Likewise," I replied with a smile. As Dennis left, Mr. West and I were left alone.

"Mr. West, why would you leave all this luxury to stay in the healthcare center in that small room?" I couldn't help but ask, my curiosity piqued.

Mr. West chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with fondness. "I like it there," he said. "Ever since my sweet Abigail left me, the healthcare center has given me comfort. And there, I get to meet people, unlike here where everyone is so occupied."

I looked around, taking in the grandeur of the estate. The sheer size of it made me wonder how many people lived here. "It must be lonely here," I said, empathizing with his feelings. "Do you ever see them?"

"Catherine, my lovely daughter, is always busy with her clubs and socialite engagements," he explained. "Grammy is always on the move, as if he has no pause button. And Amber—well, I can never quite tell where she is."

I nodded in understanding. "It sounds like Dennis is a good companion."

Mr. West laughed, a rich sound full of affection. "Ah, Dennis, my old pal. He's been here since the estate began, but I do think he's getting bored of me," he said with a playful grin.