Mothers Eyes

Renaissance beginings

Devin started pulling paperwork from his briefcase, clearly organized and prepared for the meeting. Theo, still trying to take in the grandeur of the mansion, looked up at him and said, "This place is amazing, but there's no way I can afford to live here. The taxes alone must be more than I make in a year." Devin gave a sly smile, exuding a confidence that was contagious. "Oh honey," he replied, "you do not need to worry about money. This property is not all that comes with the inheritance. As long as you accept the terms of inheritance, you will have all you and your children will ever need to live comfortably."

Theo's curiosity was piqued. "What exactly are these terms you keep mentioning, Devin?" she asked, her brow furrowing slightly in concern. Devin took a deep breath and began to explain, as he shuffled through the documents. "All the people who work on the property have been part of this family’s legacy for generations and are to be retained as workers—unless there’s an occurrence that is so serious they must be terminated. This could include putting the Lawrence family in harm's way, stealing, harming property or animals, or any form of abuse." He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in. "I assure you, Theo, you don't need to worry; the workers are wonderful people and have never caused any issues."

He continued to explain the next stipulation: Theo must live on the property and maintain the family business and heritage. “The business involves selling and trading artifacts and sharing historical knowledge about those items,” he elaborated. “George will be the most helpful with this; his family has been directly involved for generations. He knows the ins and outs of the trade, and he’s a wealth of knowledge. The other person who will be invaluable is Thomas, the groundskeeper. He manages the property and can guide you through the logistical aspects of living here. I handle the legal matters for both the business and the family, and I’m just a phone call away if you ever need assistance.”

Devin then addressed the family heritage aspect, stating that Theo’s family would learn about their legacy as they lived in the mansion. He explained that the will included a trial period for her to assess the situation. "You have six months to see how you feel about residing here and overseeing the business," he said earnestly. "During this time, your family will have access to any funds you need to help ease the transition." Devin looked her directly in the eyes, emphasizing the importance of this decision. "The only thing we need to sign now is your acceptance of the six-month inheritance trial and the life insurance papers for Tate. Would you like to go over Tate's arrangements?”

Theo nodded, her heart heavy but resolute. "Please go over them. We never discussed much, but I knew there were plans in place." Devin continued gently, “Tate wanted to be cremated and have his ashes placed in the family cemetery, which is located on the west end of the property. He didn't want a formal showing; instead, he preferred a gathering of friends to celebrate his life. Does all this sound good to you?”

"As long as that's what he wanted," Theo replied softly, her mind racing with memories of Tate. "Okay." Devin nodded, acknowledging her acceptance. "That's all I need from you for now. You must be so exhausted after today. We can talk more in a few days if you'd like. I understand you need some time to process everything." He guided her toward the door, George was waiting on a call for him to come assist her in settling in.

As they made their way down the grand hallway decorated with portraits and family heirlooms, Devin called George to have him meet them at the end of the corridor. Theo took a moment to collect her thoughts, feeling a mix of gratitude and apprehension. She thanked Devin for his help and time before he left her in George's capable hands.

George smiled warmly as he approached, "Both kids have already chosen the rooms they like. I hope that's alright." He paused for a moment, gauging her reaction. "Ryder chose the room that used to be Tate's, and Remi selected the bedroom across from him, which previously belonged to Sara Lawrins, their great-aunt. Here we are; they are both sound asleep in Tate's room. They wanted to stay together tonight."

Theo looked at George gratefully, touched by the children's choice. "They are very close, and I agree with them. I think I'll stay with them in Tate's room tonight too. Thank you, George. We’ll see you in the morning."

As she stepped into the spacious bedroom, she closed the door gently behind her, letting out a relieved sigh as the day’s events began to settle in. The room was large and filled with memories, and she could almost envision Tate as a young man, full of energy and ambition. The maroon walls were adorned with posters of classic rock bands and photographs of family gatherings and milestones. Shelves lined the walls, filled with books and memorabilia, all serving as reminders of the life Tate once lived.

The bed was enormous, larger than any she had ever seen, and the two comfortable chairs in the corner reminded her of a therapist's office. She felt a sense of nostalgia wash over her as she imagined Tate lounging there, sharing stories and laughter.

Moving toward the first door, she discovered a huge walk-in closet brimming with clothes and boxes, many of which still held remnants of his past life. The second door opened to a bathroom larger than the one in her own home, complete with a jacuzzi tub, an expansive shower, two sinks, a luxurious vanity, a toilet, and another closet stocked with everything someone might need, from toiletries to plush towels.

A sudden knock at the door startled Theo out of her reverie. A voice came through, “I brought you some extra blankets and pillows.” Recognizing Meg's voice, Theo opened the door and smiled. "Thank you so much for being so kind," she replied gratefully before bidding her goodnight.

Inside the bedroom, she noticed Ryder asleep in one of the armchairs. She gently covered him up with a light throw and placed a plush pillow under his head. The other blanket and pillows were placed on the second chair. Remi and Jewels were nestled together in the large bed, with Remi holding onto a picture of Tate in her small hands.

With a delicate touch, Theo gently took the picture and set it on the nightstand, ensuring it was visible but safe. She leaned down, kissing both kids softly on the head, feeling a rush of affection and sorrow. Then she laid down on the other chair, grateful for the comforting surroundings, ready to sleep off the exhaustion of the long day.

As she closed her eyes, she couldn’t shake the feeling of both trepidation and hope that filled the air of the old house. Tomorrow would bring new challenges and tasks, but for now, she found solace in the presence of her children, surrounded by the memories of Tate and the promise of the future.