The House of Albums | t.s.

Folklore's Ache part 4

The House of Albums was alive with anticipation, each album waiting eagerly as Mother stood before the newest door. The air buzzed with excitement, but none felt it as intensely as Folklore. Her hands clutched together, eyes never leaving the door that held her sister, Evermore, behind it.

The other albums were eager, but their excitement paled compared to the desperation Folklore felt. The younger twin had waited so long, and now she was moments away from being reunited with the one who understood her best.

Mother had already announced the album's name, though it was no secret to anyone. Folklore, in her longing and loneliness, had shared countless stories about her sister. The others had listened, their curiosity piqued by the tales of the twin albums.

When Mother opened the door, Folklore's breath hitched. The familiar scent of sandalwood drifted into the hallway, and a wave of comfort washed over her. The warm, richer autumn colours that defined Evermore filled the space, a reminder of the sister she had missed so dearly.

Mother was mid-introduction when Evermore stepped out, arms open wide. Folklore rushed forward, her heart swelling as she was enveloped in her sister's warm embrace. For a moment, the world faded away, leaving only the two of them, reunited at last.

Mother watched the reunion with a mixture of happiness and guilt. She had kept the twins apart, but seeing their joy now, she was glad they could finally be together.

When they broke from the embrace, Folklore clung to Evermore's arm, unwilling to let go. Evermore smiled down at her sister, letting her hold on.

As Mother continued with the introductions, Evermore greeted each of the albums. Some wore smiles of welcome, others expressions of curiosity or mild surprise at the deep bond between the twins.

1989, ever the practical one, suggested they start with dinner, knowing it had become a tradition to share a meal the night a new album arrived. It was a way to get acquainted, to help the new album settle in.

While the others busied themselves in the kitchen, Folklore took the opportunity to show Evermore around the house.

She led her sister through the cosy rooms and hallways, pointing out the different spots that had become her favourites. When they reached the living room, Folklore showed Evermore her preferred reading nook, a seat by the window where she liked to curl up with a book and a cup of tea. The older twin noticed the vacant space across from where Folklore sat and knew it was meant for her, a place her sister had kept empty, waiting for her arrival.

Afterwards, Folklore guided Evermore outside to Lover's garden. The lush greenery and vibrant flowers of spring and summer surrounded them, a stark contrast to the autumnal hues Evermore favoured.

Yet, the garden was a place of peace, a retreat Folklore had come to love. Evermore smiled as they strolled through the pathways, nature having always been a bond between the sisters-Folklore drawn to the renewal of spring, and Evermore to the reflective beauty of autumn.

As they walked, Folklore told her twin about her daily morning tea with Lover and how much she would love for her to join them. Evermore, though not much for conversation on most days, she couldn't resist the excitement in her sister's voice and agreed, eager to share in the simple joy of spending time together.

Folklore also spoke of RED, how the autumnal album had been a great comfort to her during their time apart. She mentioned how RED's messy, passionate embodiment of autumn had reminded her of Evermore, though in a different way. RED reflected the chaotic, painful side of the season-the side that Evermore had come to terms with and moved past.

Evermore listened quietly, her heart warming at her sister's excited rambling. She knew Folklore only spoke this much when she was truly happy and comfortable, and it was a good sign that their bond remained as strong as ever.

As Folklore spoke of RED, Evermore found her mind drifting to the younger autumnal album. The way her sister described her sparked her interest. RED seemed to embrace the hurt that Evermore had tried to escape, yet couldn't fully let go of. It was a difference that intrigued her, and she found herself wanting to know more.

Dinner that evening was wonderful. The albums gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter as they welcomed Evermore into their midst.

Afterwards, Folklore and Evermore retreated to Evermore's room, a space filled with warm, darker colours, plaid patterns, and the comforting scent of sandalwood. They didn't speak much, content to sit together and read, enjoying the simple pleasure of each other's company. Folklore eventually fell asleep on Evermore's plaid-covered bed, slipping into a peaceful rest she hadn't known for a long time.

Evermore stayed up a while longer, reading quietly. When she finally put her book down, she decided to go downstairs for a drink, hoping to find some whiskey in the kitchen. As she made her way down the stairs, she heard someone moving around and followed the sound.

In the kitchen, she found RED sitting at the island, a glass of wine in hand. The younger album looked lost in thought, her expression one of quiet sorrow. Evermore knocked gently on the doorframe, not wanting to startle her.

RED looked up, offering a smile that quickly faltered. The mask she wore for others didn't seem to hold up under Evermore's gentle gaze, and she didn't feel the need to hide her hurt.

"Mind if I join you?" Evermore asked softly.

RED nodded, gesturing to the cabinet where the wine glasses were kept. "Would you like some wine?"

Evermore accepted, retrieving a glass and handing it to RED, who poured the wine with a steady hand. For a moment, neither spoke, the silence between them comfortable yet heavy with unspoken thoughts.

"Are you settling in, alright?" RED asked after a while, her voice quiet.

Evermore smiled, nodding. "It's been easier and better than I expected. I'm just happy to be with my sister again."

The younger album looked down at her glass, swirling the wine slowly. "I admire the bond you two have. I'm glad you're finally together."

The twin's expression softened. "We don't do well with separation, so I'm grateful Folklore had you and Lover to keep her company."

RED waved off the compliment, but Evermore's firmer tone made her pause. "Thank you," she said, her gaze intense and sincere. RED felt her cheeks flush and looked away, trying to hide her reaction.

Cathing the distant look forming in the younger blonde's eyes, Evermore gently asked, "Are you alright?"

RED sighed, the weight of her emotions evident in her voice. "Most nights, I struggle to sleep. The heartache... it's just too heavy sometimes."

The older album nodded, understanding all too well the pain RED described. "Do you want to talk about it?"

RED shook her head, her straightened locks moving with the motion. "Thank you, but... I'd rather be distracted from it."

Taking the hint, Evermore began asking RED simple questions-her favourite colour, favourite food, favourite movie, if she liked reading, and the last book she had read.

The conversation flowed easily, light and unburdened by the past. RED found herself relaxing, the heaviness in her heart lifting as she focused on the present and on this unexpected connection with Evermore.

They talked long into the night, the moon's light bathing the kitchen in a soft, blue glow. Eventually, RED yawned, exhaustion catching up with her. Evermore offered to walk her to her room, and RED accepted, grateful for the company.

At RED's door, they exchanged quiet goodnights. "Thank you for tonight," the pop country album said, her voice soft but sincere.

"Thank you too," Evermore replied with a smile. "Sleep well."

RED closed the door, feeling lighter than she had in a long time. Evermore's presence had been a comfort, a reminder that even in a house filled with different albums, each carrying their own burdens, she wasn't alone.

Evermore returned to her room, where she found Folklore still sound asleep, curled up on her bed. She changed into comfortable clothes, sweatpants, and an oversized shirt, then slipped into bed beside her sister. She kissed her sister's head, turned off the light, and settled in, closing her eyes as she drifted off to sleep, content in the knowledge that she was finally where she belonged.