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"You look... tense," she observes, running her fingers soothingly through my hair.
"Just a lot on my mind," I admit, feeling guilty for burdening her with my troubles.
She simply nods in understanding, not pressing for more details. It's one of the things I appreciate most about her--that she doesn't demand anything from us in return for the shelter we provide her.
But still, I can't help but wonder if this idyllic bubble we've created can last forever. How long before outside forces threaten to burst it? And what will we do then?
"Hey," she calls, placing a hand on my cheek. "It's okay, Tony. Why don't you take a break, you've been working constantly lately."
My heart lightens a bit at this sudden change of plan but part of me is still hesitant, knowing that there are things we can never make time for no matter how much we want them.
"I can't," I tell Mia finally with regret lacing around each word. "There's too much to be done and... That isn't how things work in a family like this."
Mia stares up at me through wide eyes, taken aback by my response before quietly nodding her head in understanding though frustration lines every visible feature of hers from her downturned lips to furrowed brows.
"So you can take care of everybody else but not yourself? That doesn't sound very fair," she says softly, stroking my arm gently as she speaks.
Despite myself, I feel my body start to relax at her touch--it is so comforting after all this stress lately. She looks up at me with an expectant glimmer in her eye. A wave of guilt hits me then—here Mia is trying desperately for even just one moment away from our chaotic world and it’s hard for me to come through for something so basic as cozy couch time.
Before giving me an opportunity to protest anymore Mia adds "Just read with me for a little while - please?" Not wanting to disappoint her nor turn down such an offer I agree.
"All right, all right," I sigh, scooping her up and pulling her into my chest. "You're too adorable to resist."
She grins up at me. "I know."
Oh, I bet she does.
32
MIA
It's been enough time for me to settle into this amazing compound that has become my home. I wake up each morning to the tantalizing aroma of breakfast, skillfully prepared by a personal chef who resides here. It's an indulgence I never imagined I would have, and it sets the tone for a delightful day ahead--every day.
"Thank you, Jim," I say with a smile as he sets the plate on the table in front of me.
"Of course, Miss Mia," he says with a smile.
I smell the perfectly made French toast and poached eggs, my mouth watering with excitement.
I have the freedom to explore and indulge in whatever brings me joy. Whether it's lounging by the pool under the warm sun, immersing myself in the vast collection of books in the private library, the possibilities are endless. Well, as long as I don't leave the property alone.
But what truly warms my heart is the way Xavier, Antonio, and Lucas go above and beyond to accommodate my every need. They have an innate understanding of my desires and effortlessly cater to them. It's the little things they do, like ensuring my comfort and happiness, that make all the difference. Their dedication and attentiveness are truly remarkable.
I finish the last bite of my breakfast and smile up at Jim. "That was amazing, thank you," I say as he clears the plates.
"You are most welcome, Miss Mia," he replies with a small bow before retreating to the kitchen.
As I sit there, sipping on my coffee and looking out into the perfectly landscaped garden, my thoughts drift to Xavier, Antonio, and Lucas. They have been nothing but kind and considerate towards me since the moment I arrived. The way they seem to know my every need is both unnerving and comforting at the same time.
I make my way over to the private library. The scent of old books fills my nostrils as I run my fingers over the spines. I settle on a leather-bound novel and cozy up on one of the plush armchairs.
Suddenly, I hear footsteps entering the room. Without looking up, I know who it is. Lucas has a distinct walk, heavy with purpose. "Baby," he says in his deep voice.
I look up at him, and his dark eyes meet mine. There's something about the way he looks at me - like he's studying every curve of my body. It sends shivers down my spine.
"Is there anything I can get for you while I'm out?" he asks, breaking my trance.
"No, thank you. Just enjoying some quiet time," I reply. He presses a kiss to my cheek before heading out of the room.
