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THE soft rays of morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the room. Jasmine stirred, turning over to see Karissa curled up at the other side of the bed, her small face serene and peaceful in sleep.
She sighed, her heart heavy as she reached out to draw her daughter closer. She gently brushed Karissa’s hair back and planted a tender kiss on her forehead.
“I’m so sorry, my love,” she whispered, though the words barely reached her own ears.
Carefully, she slipped out of bed, mindful not to wake her, and padded into the bathroom to get ready for the day. The hot water felt like a soothing balm as she washed away the tension of the previous day.
When she returned to the room wrapped in a fluffy towel, she glanced at the bed to find Karissa still sleeping, her small frame rising and falling with each steady breath. Jasmine smiled faintly, then walked to her dressing mirror.
As she dried herself, she picked up the blow dryer to tackle her damp hair, the soft hum filling the quiet room. Halfway through, she noticed movement in her peripheral vision.
Karissa had woken up and was now walking past her, heading straight into the bathroom without so much as a glance in her direction. Jasmine paused, blinking. Had Karissa not seen her? Or was she ignoring her?
Shrugging it off, she resumed drying her hair. Maybe she really didn't see her.
A few minutes later, Karissa reemerged, her expression neutral. Without a word, she walked to her little vanity, picked up a bottle of lotion, and headed back into the bathroom.
This time, Jasmine couldn’t ignore the pang in her chest.
“Karissa,” she called, her tone gentle but firm.
No response.
“Karissa,” she repeated, louder this time.
After a moment, the bathroom door opened slightly, and Karissa peeked out, her face impassive.
“Yes, Mum?”
Jasmine frowned, her eyes searching her daughter’s face.
“Did you not see me? Or do we not greet each other in the morning anymore?”
Karissa hesitated, then muttered,
“Good morning, Mum,” before retreating back into the bathroom and closing the door behind her.
Jasmine sat there for a moment, stunned. She had expected Karissa to be upset after their conversation yesterday, but this… this was new. This was another day, not yesterday, she was supposed to have gone past it right?
She sighed deeply, forcing herself to overlook the exchange. Perhaps it was best to let her daughter process things in her own way. Children were resilient, she reminded herself, even when the truth was hard to hear.
As she continued with her routine, Jasmine’s thoughts wandered. She knew the wall Karissa was building between them wasn’t entirely unjustified. The little girl was hurt, confused, and mourning in her own way. Jasmine resolved to give her some space, but she couldn’t shake the ache in her heart.
The silence between them wasn’t just quiet, it was heavy. And Jasmine wasn’t sure how to break through it just yet.
***
The sound of an approaching convoy echoed through the snowy estate as Jared’s black SUV, flanked by two other sleek cars, rolled into the Marshall property. His guards stepped out first, scanning the perimeter with practiced precision before opening the car door for him.
Jared emerged, looking as composed as ever in a tailored overcoat and leather gloves. His piercing gaze took in the familiar surroundings, his expression softening slightly as he stepped forward. Behind him, a pair of maids hurried to carry his luggage into the house.
Inside the mansion, the Marshalls waited in the grand living room. Mr. Marshall sat in his usual chair, a proud smile on his face, while Mrs. Marshall stood near the fireplace, adjusting a vase of fresh poinsettias. Kelvin leaned casually against the arm of the sofa, his hands in his pockets.
As Jared entered, the warmth of the room seemed to contrast sharply with the crisp chill of the outdoors. He paused just inside the doorway, inclining his head respectfully.
“Welcome home, Jared,” Mrs. Marshall greeted warmly, stepping forward to embrace him lightly.
“Thank you, ma’am,” Jared replied, his tone reverent.
Mr. Marshall stood, offering a firm handshake that turned into a paternal clap on the shoulder.
“It is good to see you, son.”
He nodded, a smile on his face.
“It is good to be back, sir,” Jared said, his deep voice carrying a hint of genuine relief. He turned to Kelvin, who grinned.
“Still looking sharp,” Kelvin teased, extending a hand.
“Kelvin,” Jared said with a smirk, shaking his hand firmly. “It has been a while.”
As everyone settled, Jared took a seat opposite Mr. Marshall, his posture relaxed but respectful.
“So,” Mrs. Marshall began, sitting beside her husband, “how are your parents? We haven’t heard from them in a while.”
“They are doing well,” Jared replied. “Father is still overseeing projects in Dubai, and Mother is busy with her charity work in Europe. They send their regards.”
Mrs. Marshall chuckled.
“This is Christmas, they ought to be at rest,” she said and the two young men sighed.
“Give them ours as well,” Mr. Marshall said with a nod. “And remind them they are always welcome here.”
Jared smiled.
“I will.”
The conversation shifted naturally to Jared’s work, specifically his ambitious new project, the resort that had everyone talking.
“You have really outdone yourself with the location for the resort,” Mrs. Marshall said, her eyes alight with admiration. “It is stunning, and the timing couldn’t be better with the holiday season.”
Jared nodded thoughtfully.
“Thank you. It has been a challenge, but the views alone make it worth the effort. The Aspen landscape is unparalleled.”
Kelvin chimed in.
“You have practically put Aspen on the global map again. Everyone is raving about it. I even heard some of my clients mention they have booked a stay.”
“That is the goal,” Jared said with a small smile. “I wanted to create something that wasn’t just luxurious but immersive. A place where people can experience Aspen in its entirety, nature, culture, and relaxation.”
“It is an inspired choice,” Mr. Marshall added. “You have always had an eye for potential, Jared.”
“I appreciate that, sir,” Jared said sincerely.
After more discussion about the project’s challenges and milestones, Kelvin stood.
“Alright, enough business talk for now. Jared, let me take you to your room so you can freshen up.”
Jared rose, nodding to the Marshalls.
“Thank you again for having me. It is always a privilege to stay here.”
“You are family, Jared,” Mrs. Marshall said warmly. “Our doors are always open to you.”
With that, Kelvin led Jared upstairs, the sound of their footsteps fading as they ascended. Jared cast a glance around the familiar halls, memories of past visits flitting through his mind.
“It is good to be back here,” Jared said as they reached the guest room.
Kelvin pushed open the door, revealing the spacious, tastefully decorated room.
“You have got the best room in the house, as always,” Kelvin said with a grin.
Jared chuckled.
“You always take care of me.”
“Of course,” Kelvin said. “Get settled in. We will catch up more later.”
Jared nodded, setting down his coat. As Kelvin left, he took a moment to stand by the window, gazing out at the snow-covered expanse of the Marshall estate. For the first time in weeks, he felt a sense of calm.
He was home.
- Writer
