Chapter Text
„Guess who's home!“
A female voice echoed through the whole structure of the house that belonged to the family Grace. The alluring scent of a warm meal wandered through the building as Emma closed the door behind her, locking her brother Ray out.
Fully aware of how the young man had no key on him.
It didn't take long for their mother to come out of the kitchen to greet her children but instead, the woman was met with the aggressive ringing of the bell that could be accessed from the outside.
Isabella's lavender-colored eyes watched Emma who was pretending she couldn't hear how Ray repeatedly told her to open the door, an innocent smile on her face.
„That smells amazing! Where's dad?“ Emma inhaled a deep breath with the most enthusiasm she could manage to bring up before going into a hug with her mother.
„Emma, please open the door.“
She could easily do so herself, of course, yet what kind of mother would do that? Her daughter was a good child but it was inevitable that Ray and Emma got into small disputes from time to time.
They were usually silly and not serious and tended to be forgotten easily.
It mostly consisted of teasing comments from Ray until the barely younger girl started to pout because she couldn't defend herself with enough good arguments for too long. Ray spoke rational and complicated words that weren't even in her vocabulary at times, in sentences that she would understand even less.
He was almost like a book every time he opened that mouth to use that sharp tongue of his to get on his sister's nerves and Isabella was relatively curious about what it was about this time.
Emma looked up, still embracing the dark-haired lady with the white apron. Her refusal to do as told was basically written on her freckled face and it made the older woman smile softly since she loved every moment when her children, who were nearly old enough to soon be considered adults, still acted as if they never grew up in the first place. Delightful.
Isabella wasn't ready to let them go, particularly Emma as she still had so much to learn in the older one's opinion.
That however became a problem at times because this meant mother and daughter would often disagree about how independent Emma actually was while Leslie and Ray often had to spectate how these two fought until Isabella spoke an ultimatum but most of the time, fortunately, they were at peace. They loved each other after all, that's the reason both cared enough to fight with the other in the first place.
Not all families can say the same about themselves.
„He called me an idiot at school today just because I got called out by the teacher for trying to explain something to Gilda!“ The girl said, shooting a green glare at the door that suddenly got opened by Leslie, their father. She silently gasped, not believing it but Emma was now convinced that her dad was a traitor.
Isabella gave her husband who was also wearing an apron to match with his wife's, a weird look that Emma could only identify as disapproving. It purely made him chuckle nervously, rubbing the back of his head while mouthing out a silent apology to his wife for not following orders.
The teenage girl who wore her hair in a ponytail saw Isabella's eyes soften immediately. It made her feel happy to see how much they loved each other. So curious too.
On the other side, Ray simply sighed, not paying attention as he was just tired from his day. He allowed his heavy bag to drop with a bumping noise, which got everyone's attention again.
„Stop acting like I never do that, idiot.“ If she wanted to play this game of siblings that liked to fight over the tiniest things, he would go along with it. It was a small price to pay for so much entertainment value. Yes, this amused him.
„Hey!“ Emma called out, she however didn't look very pleased as Leslie just stood on the sidelines continuing to snicker to himself. Isabella took the opportunity to caress her daughter's cheek softly, making the girl shift her attention towards her.
„Ray, let's end it here, just apologize.“ Her voice was strict but lighthearted just like you'd expect it from a loving mother.
„Fine if you say so. I'm sorry Emma, you're not an idiot sometimes “ He added much to his mother's dismay.
„Thank y-…“
The girl's bright green eyes lit up after processing it correctly, reminded of her naivety. She wasn't usually this slow!
Puffing her cheeks up as she let go of the hug to cross her arms instead, Emma shot another frown, this time directed at Isabella who was now laughing as well.
(Another traitor.)
Yet, despite still being mad at Ray for his outrageous everyday remarks- Just taking in the sound of laughter, the smell of food, and the familiar feeling of her home and family made the atmosphere change for Emma and she ended up laughing herself, louder than anyone else.
„Alright, you're forgiven! But, I'm not sorry about shutting the door right before your nose, you should have seen your face. It was amazing”
„We'll see about that later, Ems.“ He gave her a playful glint with his eyes, the high-school girl had a new reason to worry.
„How about we all sit down at the dining table and enjoy the food your mother and I prepared before it gets cold, huh?“
Agreeing to it with a nod, Emma quickly got rid of her bag as well, took off her school uniform shoes, and ran down the small hallway, turning the corner into the kitchen with so much energy, it almost made her fall from how polished the white marble floor was there.
Noting how the table wasn't set up yet the teenage girl did her best to do so as quickly as possible with only a few well-placed movements. Getting plates, forks, spoons, and everything they needed. Challenging herself to finish the setup before anyone could enter the dining room.
Moments later, the rest of her family entered the room and Emma was nearly done, her orange antenna still wiggling around from her fast actions.
She happily placed down a bowl that only contained the greatest and longest of spaghetti noodles in the local store before Ray was ultimately quicker than his sister, putting down the red sauce of the most flavorful and reddest tomatoes to grow in their garden, finishing the task of arranging everything.
It was just a simple Bolognese but it could easily be the greatest meal ever when shared with the ones you love.
Regardless, when they all sat down and began to ration the pasta, a conversation shortly launched when everyone had something on their plate and they said their usual appreciation speech towards the food.
„If I remember correctly, wasn't there something you asked about me before?“
Their father's voice asked in his soft tone, looking at the girl who was struggling with the length of her noodles and keeping them from slipping off the fork to the point where she was just stabbing her plate in frustration.
Ray couldn't believe his eyes so he chose to just not look at the tragedy going on next to him and continued to eat his fair share of pasta but not without a roll of his eyes.
Letting out an inaudible sigh, Emma stopped her efforts and let herself fall back into her chair from exhaustion. Her oregano green gaze was on her father as she answered his question with small laughter.
„Well, the truth is I mainly just wanted an excuse to get away from the door before Ray could pick the lock and serve me for dinner…“
„Speaking of which- These noodles are too salty.“ Ray commented, after chewing, a serious and thoughtful look on his face.
„The sauce… it's a bit faded and could have used more spice.“ He added as a matter of fact.
„But it's good!“ His sister commented, finally having found a strategy to eat her pasta effortlessly.
„I'm eating it or am I not? I didn't say it was bad.“
„Thanks, Ray for the feedback. Are you already prepared for the weekend?”
She personally didn't mind Ray's advice, Isabella had sent him into cooking lessons for a reason and her son surpassed her expectations but before these two could argue again Isabella interrupted them with a question. No fighting at the table.
„Yeah, I'm going out with Anna tomorrow to visit the park! Apparently, there are a bunch of new wildflowers blooming near Goldy Pond and we wanted to check them out!“
Ray silently snorted. 'What's so funny?' She preferred to ignore it.
„Also Gilda said she wanted to go shopping for clothes again… Like last week- I probably need to expand my closet soon, she's just obsessed with dressing me up and doing my hair. Today she wouldn't stop playing with it during class!“
It had felt nice, yet in the end, Emma got called out as she explained before when trying to tell her best friend that she actually planned on cutting it.
Gilda hadn't even heard her over the teacher's complaint. Which led to believe that somehow the universe refused to let Emma say what she truly wanted when it came to her wishes.
„I don't blame her, your hair is lovely and fun to work with even if it's challenging.”
Emma knew her mother's love for her long hair, specifically hers- Why was everyone idolizing it? It was a pain to wake up with, a pain to take care of, a pain to tame, and always got in the way during club activities.
„Are you alright, pumpkin?“ Leslie's voice called out, he used that nickname a lot particularly when Emma was sad...
Oh wait, she was making that face again, wasn't she?
A sweet smile reappeared on Emma's expression as she nodded reassuringly. „I'm good, what about your plans for the weekend though?“
Ray's hand was suddenly on her shoulder, making her flinch. How had he finished eating so quickly when he had complained so much about it?
„Don't tell me no one told you.” He could use this to poke fun at his most beloved sibling but that look from before stopped him. It had perhaps been dismissed by their parents with her smile but she couldn't fool the smartest one in her class and the one who got raised alongside her.
„What is that supposed to mean?“
„Why don't you ask them?“ Ray shrugged, clearly meaning the two adults sitting in front of them.
Emma blinked forcefully. Her father looked guilty, poking his fingertips together awkwardly like a shy teenager but his wife stayed reserved and calm. She noticed how both were already done dining as well.
„We didn't get the chance to tell you, you see- Your lovely mother received an invitation to join in on the celebration for the Mansion she works at by her boss, Peter Ratri, around a week ago.“
„Leslie, Ray, and I are going there tomorrow. We figured you'd be busy and didn't want to pressure you into coming with us.“
(Why couldn't you have just asked?)
Suddenly not caring anymore about being the only one who still had something on her plate, Emma felt terrible. How could she not have noticed? She was spending so much time at school or with friends, she hardly had time for them- The people she loved most!
Now that just wouldn't do!
„Why didn't you tell me anything?“ Ray backed up with his hands up as Emma looked at him desperately. „Hey, I didn't even know they didn't tell you. I just thought you forgot it.“
„Well, I'm coming with you!!“
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Tired green eyes opened at the sound of her alarm which did not sound like her phone and certainly wasn't.
„Wake up, Ems!“
Yea, it was even more annoying than that.
The low brightness in her room made it hard for her to see anything, it wouldn't hurt to just… close her eyes again, right?
They were so heavy, her ears could still hear that voice calling out her name but her eyelids didn't care and just dropped slowly until suddenly a sharp light flashed on.
Emma's hands instantly covered her vision as a reaction.
Some weird unsatisfied noises escaped her lips as she glared at Ray who was standing next to her bed. He had clicked on the light switch- What time was it for her to feel like this? Emma hid under her blanket, this felt too early to be on a Saturday.
„It's five in the morning, mom told me to get you so we can start preparing for the anniversary, get out.“
Reading her mind as usual, of course.
„Fine, just turn off the lights please.“
Despite being half asleep, the freckled girl made out his steps when he walked out of her bedroom. He hadn't fulfilled her request. Why was she even surprised?
Groaning into her soft pillow Emma started to wish she'd never agreed to come along in the first place. Now they were going to chase her around the house for a formal appearance the whole morning because everyone else already settled on what they wanted to wear unlike her who only decided that she'd be accompanying them yesterday.
Slowly crawling out of bed, she let out a long yawn, a quick stretch of her whole body did the job of waking up for her.
Now she was wide awake!
The girl's emerald stare landed on the mirror on her wall, she studied her features with a subtle smile on her face.
She looked weary but it was fine, she honestly didn't care and if she could she would just go to the mansion with her pajamas since they were comfortable.
It wasn't a pajama party though.
The only thing that looked like it would be a problem, was her hair, it was so messy- Emma was a chaotic sleeper and that reflected perfectly on the state of her long orange locks each time after waking up.
Realizing how Isabella was likely waiting for her, Emma got out to brush her teeth with her sweet strawberry toothpaste, mint tasted terrible. She also combed her hair to make it look presentable, and whatever else you'd do in the morning.
A daily ritual.
It didn't take long to find the beautiful woman once she was done. Her mom wasn't even wearing her own dress yet but somehow always looked stunning... No wonder Leslie fell for her all these years ago.
„Good morning!“
„Morning, dear. Would you help me pick out a dress for you? I'm not sure which one would suit you the most, they are mostly just my old ones.“
Her mom really straight up went for it.
„Sure, let me see!“
After some debating, trying on a few to see if they accommodated her size, she finally found a simple yet elegant white and red high-low dress in her mother's closet. It didn't call her name out silently or something like in the movies but the freckled girl was certain it would look quite nice on her- Hopefully, it wouldn't be that uncomfortable.
And it wasn't, no- It was rather the opposite much to her surprise. The soft fabric was smooth against her skin! It made her wonder over how expensive it must have been.
„You can look at yourself once we're done! I think I know what I'm gonna do with your hair unless you have something else in mind already.”
Emma shook her head in a no.
Her mother sounded very satisfied, she must have really liked the idea that sparked into her head because Emma could make out a pleased smile from the corner of her eyes.
„Stay still, alright?“
Emma didn't nod „Got it!“
She wanted to complain how somehow Isabella always pulled off to be the only person to exist, where it would hurt when she'd brush her curly hair and this time was no different when Emma felt the woman do it again.
It made it hard to stay still.
Despite smiling to herself while sitting there, her expression would crack each time her mother gave her the feeling of having her hair pulled at.
So that's probably what they meant with pain being beauty and all! Well, that's just terrible.
The graceful woman was definitely taking her sweet time with her daughter's hair. Not that it surprised Emma how sometimes she silently got mad whenever she'd fail to do something correctly and would do it all over again.
(How much longer?) From the way, it felt like Emma guessed she was trying to pull her locks up into a bun.
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„Finished!“
Good, because she was about to get impatient. Unexpectedly raising a brow, Emma noticed how her mother was looking for something in her bag- Her makeup bag!
She got up rapidly.
„I think I'm fine. Thank you, mom!“ There was no way she was going to let her apply it on her face. Her mother looked confused for a moment there, how rare, blinking at her dressed-up daughter as if she didn't understand the language she was speaking.
„Oh, alright then, you can look now if you want. I'll be taking care of Ray and your father now.“
„Good luck!~“
She'd probably need it.
Emma was still convinced that Ray didn't actually want to go there but just did because for some reason she didn't know.
Once her mother was out of the room, Emma got up and stared into a mirror the second time this morning. She barely recognized herself-
Long, untamed strands of hair were now neatly and not to mention tightly pulled up into a bun while still leaving out a few on the sides to frame her face delicately.
Oh and the dress. It looked even more wonderful than it felt like, hugging her figure, soothing it, just as if it had been made just for her and this occasion.
(They could give me a tiara and I'd look like a princess!)
Not that she ever wanted to be one, maybe as a child but now Emma preferred to just be herself and she wasn't a princess, just Emma.
However, playing Emma the Princess for a day wouldn't hurt, and the girl even though it may be fun as well if she'd let it.
Emma subconsciously pulled a little at her bun because of the tight feeling...
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„I think we're ready to go!“ Said Isabella clapping her hands together in awe as she stared at her family who was now fully dressed. It was now seven in the morning-
She also wore a bun, her's was slightly different from Emma's, and her fully white and asymmetric peplum dress suited her mother gorgeously.
The girl in the high-low gown saw how her father who was wearing a light grey and white collared suit eyed his wife, admiring her.
It brought another smile to her face. Would anyone ever look at her like that?
Ray, on the other hand, wasn't too excited to go judging from his posture. He wore a classic black and white suit, nothing to stand out, not like he wanted to.
They all sat down in the car, their mother drove as usual but it made Emma awfully aware of how she hadn't sat inside of it for what felt like months- She always preferred to walk or take the bus but strolling around all formerly dressed in a town before a festivity wasn't the smartest idea.
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Merely a few minutes passed and they arrived at their mother's workplace, green orbs widened- This place was astounding to look at, the building itself wasn't very modern but hell, if it wasn't slightly intimidating then she wouldn't know the word for it.
And they weren't even inside yet.
Emma was the first one to get out of the car and marvel at how close she was to it. The Ratri's mansion was probably the only place here in Goldy Pond that was known for how much wealth ran among the few members of the family that lived there.
Not everyone was allowed to enter at any moment and most of the time nothing report worthy happened there. The redhead had no idea what she was getting into.
„Welcome Isabella Grace and family, I'm glad to see that you could make it.“
A man with shoulder-long hair stood at the front door with a few additional people. They checked for invitations at the door, how welcoming.
„Thank you, Peter, for having us on this special occasion. I sure hope we're not late.“
First name-calling, huh? Informal but both were doing it, weird was how the man was eyeing Emma with a surprised glow within his golden eyes.
„You surely are not, don't worry, although you're the last to arrive. Now if you may, please follow me inside.“
How was she supposed to talk here?
Emma was famous for being able to connect with people quickly and socialize very well but that was school— Not a fancy gathering with fancy people that were dressed fancy and talked even fancier.
Pushing her worries aside, they entered and what waited inside was a whole buffet and a bunch of other families of which most were engaged in conversations but stopped once Peter Ratri stepped onto a small stage.
The first room in the mansion when you entered the main gate was a big hall, there were hallways attached to it that led to god knows where and stairs to walk up, they were long and everything was clean.
...There was no way just one family could live here!
The small coughs of her mother's boss made Emma flinch back into reality and look up. So this was the man who currently possessed all of this? Impressive.
„Welcome my guests. I'm your host, Peter Ratri and I'm delighted to have all of you here today to celebrate the mansion's 50th anniversary since its rebuilding.“
He paused.
„As some of you may know this facility is a reconstruction of a property of the Ratris which was passed down for a long time from almost 70 years ago until having been burnt down on an unfortunate day.“
She didn't know that! Isabella hardly ever speaks about her workplace- She'd research it but she wasn't too curious to know if anyone died back then. There could be ghosts haunting the mansion but maybe they were friendly.
„First of all, I'd like to express my deepest apologies to all of you who hoped my dear brother James was going to be able to attend. Unfortunately, he's still not available but I'm positive that he'd want us to celebrate this event even without his presence.“
Emma wondered if she was the only one who'd be curious to ask why he couldn't come. Was he sick or maybe just busy? Either way, it was a shame.
„Next I want everyone to feel comfortable here! You're free to roam in this level of the mansion but we ask you kindly to not go upstairs unless you've got permission from a higher-up.“
(Is he afraid someone might steal something?)
Well, she couldn't blame him for that, it wasn't as if there was a reason to go up anyway so the rule was understandable and easy to keep. She pulled at the tight feeling of her bun again which made it more bearable for the moment.
„Finally, I hope you'll all enjoy your stay here, the festivities will last until 8 pm. Feel open to enjoy something from the buffet or take a walk around down here or in the garden. I'll be holding another small speech in an hour and announce a few other events but for now, I'll quit the formalities, thank you for your attention.“
Suddenly soft and smooth background music started playing. A good way to set the mood if you'd ask her.
When he had mentioned the buffet Emma's eyes immediately wandered towards it, spotting the love of her life.
Carrot cake- If it tasted anything as it looked then she was convinced that this whole morning was already worth it just for this.
Not spending another second without it, her legs moved on their own to get a plate and place a slice on it. Her white shoes with the small heel made noise every time she stepped on the cold and hard, marble floor.
Taking a small fork she stabbed her food with it and took it in her mouth with a portion of her piece on it. Overwhelming her taste buds, Emma placed a hand on her forehead, maybe a bit dramatic but highly accurate- This cake was worth it, worth it all.
(Ah, so that's why mom insisted on skipping breakfast!)
„Emma?“
Wait, that voice sounded familiar to the freckled redhead with the now slightly messier bun. She turned a little to face a pair of glasses.
„G—Gilda? What are you doing here?“
„I should ask you the same! You said that you'd be busy today but you never mentioned that you'd be coming here- You look absolutely stunning, I love the dress! Let me tell you Emma, red is absolutely your color.“
Gilda walked circles around her friend like she was some kind of sight to see. Usually, Emma wouldn't mind, she thought it was cute but the other seemed to have forgotten where they were at.
„Thank you, you look very beautiful yourself.“ Emma said before repeating her question. „Why are you here though?“
„Oh thank you! My mother got an invitation because she has also started working here recently. I forgot to tell you that, sorry. I'm the only one who came along though and now… I don't know what to do.“
„Don't worry, I feel the same way! Ray immediately left me and my parents are doing something, I guess. Hm, you should try out this cake, it's…“ She took another ecstatic bite.
„—delicious!“
Emma chuckled, maybe that was enough dramatic effect for one cake.
„I guess it wouldn't hurt to try it if you like it that much!“
Her friend was about to get a plate only to realize they were all gone for now. They were probably not expecting that many families to tag along, huh?
„I'll get it for you.“ And so Emma tried to be polite, placing her almost empty plate down and walking past the crowds of people in the hall to get it. Dodging them as if she was performing a parkour.
Gilda suddenly felt left alone but simply waited. She could have gotten a new one herself but her friend loved to insist on being nice, way too nice at times if you'd ask her...
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Emma, who was now confused about where she had to go again, wondered if she should just ask her mother who worked here or that boss of hers. They would know- Fortunately, her mother's beauty was eye-catching so Emma found her talking to Peter Ratri while Leslie stood on the sidelines.
Wow, she had never seen that look on her feather's face. Jealousy didn't suit him at all.
The girl approached, with hesitation, she didn't know if she'd be able to come across as civil as her mother. That man had a mysterious aura around him and it made him feel so unapproachable...
„What about your nephew, Norman, right?“ Her mother asked while Emma was hidden by the shadows of people standing next to her.
(He has a what?) She didn't go any further.
„Norman's currently sick in bed, so he couldn't attend. I'd love to have him here but health goes first. I care about my nephew but you should know that feeling. After all, you have two children around the same age as your own.“
„Of course, I- '' Emma stopped eavesdropping, she had heard enough to know what to do now. Seeing how someone was already getting new plates, she quickly returned to Gilda. She stuffed her face with the remaining carrot cake on her plate to get that out of the way.
„Looks like they already got more while I was away! Sorry, I really need to go somewhere else, Gilda.“
„You're leaving me already? I—I don't mind but where are you going all of the sudden?”
„Um, mom told me to look out for Ray.“
She couldn't just say that she was planning to find a stranger called Norman because she was curious and felt incredibly bad for him- What if he could hear the festivities? What if he was lonely?
It was just terrible, to know something big was going on in the place you lived in but you couldn't even say hello. That's why she'd do so instead- It wouldn't take long.
Or maybe Emma was just trying to find an alibi to get away from the fancy speech used here but wasn't his nephew also like them? Would she have to talk to him like that? It just sparked her interest more.
„Alright, good luck on finding your brother. I think I saw him walk into one of the small corridors alone during the introduction.“
Emma smiled thankfully, now she knew she had to be careful in them, or else this small lie would probably come out as one very quickly and Isabella would likely not appreciate that her daughter was sneaking around in the mansion of her duty.
Another idea popped into her head, she grabbed a clean plate and placed her old one on the other used ones. The young lady in the white and red dress set another piece of carrot cake on it.
Her trusted friend concluded it must be for Ray but she was very wrong. Emma wanted to give Norman something to enjoy from the buffet, it would be a great way to introduce herself, no?
It was her favorite food after all.
All there was left was to hope that she wouldn't get lost, this place seemed huge.
„We'll speak again later, you can tell me how you liked the cake when I'm back!“
With that, Emma walked away, disappearing behind the next corner while the longer back of her dress floated around like a cape before following her on her search and vanishing as well.
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A dead-end here.
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A dead-end there. She pulled at her bun again, why was it so tight?
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Another- A sigh couldn't be helped.
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(Ray?)
Emma spotted her brother, he was busy looking at the arts and photography hanging on the walls of the hallways she roamed in. Part of her started to believe that Norman guy wasn't downstairs after having opened a few doors which only led into other halls with a few people marveling at what there was to see.
She had noticed how the architecture of the mansion was relatively similar to the style from the baroque era. Very detailed on the walls and symmetrical in almost every way, perhaps it was inspired? Emma wasn't familiar with the history of the mansion.
In the end, none of that mattered because she just couldn't find him and that knowledge wouldn't help.
Taking her shoes off to avoid any sounds she sneaked past Ray who didn't notice her over how busy he was. As busy as you could get watching the wall.
Following the path, she ended up in front of some long stairs leading up. Technically, this was also a dead-end. That meant if she followed the rules…
(I shouldn't…) But then her whole search would have been for nothing! Her lively green gaze dropped to the cake she was still holding in her hands. Maybe it was time to go back.
A defeated sigh came out of her and she twirled back to leave with a dramatic turn of her high-low dress.
„Off….!“
Emma stopped her tracks and looked up.
Someone had clearly said something and it came from upstairs and not only that, but they also sounded troubled!
Emma, being herself, forgot all of her doubts from before and rushed there, not taking her shoes with her. Therefore breaking a rule she had thought she could maintain.
Now she was sure it was a male voice as she got closer, in addition to that it was almost as if the person in question was guilty about it or as if it was hurting his pride to call help.
No one should feel ashamed for needing support...
Now in front of a door, Emma was certain that the individual who had been calling for assistance was behind it, so why was she wavering? Taking in a deep breath she grabbed the doorknob and pulled it down without a word.
Suddenly there was eye contact. Silence.
Dare she mention that there were a pair of beautiful eyes? No, intelligent- Scratch that, both were accurate. He looked like a ghost, pale skin, white hair...
Yet what ultimately caught her attention was the wheelchair on his legs and back as he laid on the floor helplessly. The young man had a mixture of surprise and disbelief structuring his face, he really hadn't expected anyone to come.
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The beautiful stranger tried opening his mouth after a few more moments of saying nothing but the girl in the flowy dress already analyzed the situation and figured that it was indeed his wheelchair and initiated things instead.
„Stay still, alright?“ God, she sounded like her mother now, didn't she? She placed the carrot cake down on a small shelf.
Careful not to squish him even more, Emma positioned it up again. His aquamarine eyes just watched her. This was actually happening. Someone had helped him and that someone had cake with them. Sweet.
„Thank you, miss..“ He looked directly at her when she suddenly stretched out her hands to lift him back into his wheelchair.
Needless to say, her eyes had the same effect on him as his on her.
He gratefully accepted the offer and soon found himself seated in the familiar position, a smile formed on his face and it only grew wider when she told him her name.
„Emma, just Emma! It's no big deal, I'm glad I could help! What's your name?“
Emma. He'd remember that- Sounded familiar but new at the same time.
Did he know her?
No, he was sure he didn't...
For a moment the young man in the navy blue and white suit forgot that he'd been asked for his title. He pulled at his tie.
„It's Norman Ratri but feel free to call me Norman, it's a pleasure to meet you, Emma.“ She froze abruptly. He sunk back into his chair, his confidence gone, suddenly overthinking the situation.
„Did you just say... Norman?“ He nodded hesitantly.
Was that weird? Should he change his name? Perhaps his whole identity? He wouldn't mind if it made things less awkward- Hold on, why was she smiling?
„I've been looking for you this whole time!“
The way Emma's forest-green eyes sparked at that made him feel like he was somewhat special. She looked so happy but how? The girl didn't even know him… or did Emma and he was just unaware?
„W-Why?“
„Because I wanted to know who Norman is- Funny, you don't look sick at all…“ She brought her hand up to her chin, inspecting him under her green gaze with no shame.
„Sick?“ He was being so impolite by just asking question after question, Norman knew he was better than this.
„Your uncle said you were sick in bed so I thought I might visit you and bring you my favorite food from the food table downstairs!“
That felt so genuine but somehow insane at the same time. Not in a bad way. Norman was aware that guests weren't allowed upstairs and certainly not in his room- No, Peter wouldn't let that happen. She was very bold. He found it intriguing.
„Well he lied about that, I'm okay even if I'm an easy target for illnesses.“
„...and wheelchairs—“ Emma couldn't help it and covered her mouth rapidly after her smile had dropped.
His soft laughter however consoled and calmed her again and the boy was glad to see that he wasn't the only one who was afraid of messing up. „It's alright, you have a good point.“
His words and how he looked at her caused her to feel funny, it made her want to know more about Norman, talk to him more and hear his voice but they had just met. Would it be alright?
Wasn't it weird?
„That reminds me to ask! You aren't hurt, right?“
„It's all good, don't worry.“
„If that is sooo…~ Here, you can have it now if you want!“
Oh right, the cake he almost forgot about but who could blame him? His eyes were too busy looking at the miracle happening in front of him.
He took the plate with the small fork from her and looked up at her to make sure if she was truly serious. What if it was a dream and he'd wake up as soon as he tasted this carrot cake?
(That's ridiculous.)
„Thank you. Despite living here I never took the time to try it.“ Correction- Norman lived in this room, he practically never left it so he couldn't have tried it even if he wanted and his waiters never brought him cake.
So he tried it. Norman could tell why it was her favorite but to him, the taste was nothing extraordinary but nonetheless good and most importantly different from what he usually had.
It wasn't too sweet, the taste of the carrot was shallow as it should be and the mild white cream balanced the caramelized brown sugar out very well. He could figure out the distinct taste of cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg which added some spice to it.
Overall it didn't even try to hide the flavors of which ingredients were used for the cake, it was very direct and he was getting that same impression from Emma.
(I'm actually comparing her to a cake?) Little did he know that's what she wanted to achieve.
„I can see why you enjoy it, it's exceptionally good!“ Perhaps he was biased by the fact this was her favorite and he was trying to make a good impression.
Norman hoped she couldn't see through his worry to the possibility of him being bad at conversing more casually.
„I'm glad! Your silence had me worried for a moment, hehe~“ Emma's cheerful voice accompanied by her bright smile was welcoming, something he hadn't felt in quite a while, and reassured him that he wasn't a complete letdown at what he was doing.
She took joy in such a simple thing. Her happiness could make greedy people envious if they looked at her. Norman however admired it.
„How old are you? I'm guessing 17.“
Her desire to know more was now bluntly exposed by her quick question. Good- He was curious too.
„Correct, what about yourself?“
„We're the same age actually!”
'So she's probably here with her family.' There was no way she worked here.
„I'm curious, why aren't you wearing shoes?“
Oh precisely, her shoes. What if someone had found them? What would they think? She mentally slapped herself for that. Maybe Ray was right and she was an idiot.
„I, uh- I accidentally left them downstairs to silently sneak past my brother.“
Norman felt a bit moved, why would anyone go that far to find someone ill they knew nothing about? The extent of her curiosity was truly something.
Seeing how she was swinging back and forth with her body, Norman just asked away the next question.
„And your surname? You never told me.“
„I really didn't? It's Grace, my mother Isabella works here!“
Arching his brows in surprise Norman actually recognized that name. One of his father's most hard-working and trusted staff members, she was a supervisor for almost any subject-
„Mhm, I know her.“
“Really!? She never mentioned you when talking about work but speaking of her… Why would Peter Ratri lie about you to my mom?”
„Wait, to her? Hm, I thought he told you about it?“ No response.
(Oh, she overheard their conversation, didn't she?)The thought of his little savior eavesdropping on her mother made him grin a little.
Truth was, Norman was unsure if he would be able to tell, afraid she wouldn't believe him.
The male's expression was on the more serious side again. 'I can't tell her. I shouldn't.' His thoughts didn't add up with what he said.
„He thinks of me as an embarrassment to the name Ratri.“
Emma's eyebrows shifted, a mixture of negative feelings on her freckled face. It didn't suit her.
„It had nothing to do with me not wanting to attend.“ He would have jumped at the opportunity, too bad he couldn't, quite literally.
While analyzing her reaction he was faced with two big green eyes, a clear question mark was left with Emma. She didn't understand, he wanted to clarify but something stopped him. His fear of becoming vulnerable to someone.
„Is it because…“ She didn't even want to say it, not knowing how to approach this topic correctly.
„My wheelchair? Yes, I was honestly surprised it wasn't part of your tiny interview just now.“ It was an icebreaker for some but...
He saw how she was curious about it, how she watched it during their dialogue, so why hadn't she asked about it?
„I just didn't want to pry into it. I'm sorry!“
(Don't apologize!)She had done nothing wrong.
„Don't say that, please. You don't have to act like it's not there, I promise. I'm fine talking about it.“
Lies, he really wasn't. He wanted to pinch himself for even questioning her intentions for not asking but Norman was curious too.
„Alright, if you insist. Um, I still don't get why he thinks about you like that. That's just not a justification.“
„That's just who he is but it's okay if you don't believe me.“ Norman was used to it.
„No, no! I do, it's just hard to acknowledge someone is capable of being so... So mean!“ When looking into Norman's eyes it was clear that he wasn't lying.
Emma had failed to notice how sad they looked when marveling at them which led to her next question.
„So do you want to talk about it?
.
.
He stayed silent, feeling muted.
Norman's grip on his ordinary wheelchair tightened. Yes, he wanted to explain, talk about it to someone because despite him trying to give the impression he was comfortable talking about his wheelchair it reminded him of everything he didn't want to think about.
They met just minutes ago and here he was, wanting to pour his heart out to her kindness so he'd feel better.
He was offered some sympathy he never knew he needed until now and it felt like he was being greedy and selfish.
It only got worse when she wasn't saying anything.
.
.
His ocean blue eyes lost focus as he stared down at his hands, prepared to hear her leave for not saying anything.
Like everyone did, they always did.
Maybe it was his fault for being too worried. She had every right to leave.
„Do you want me to leave?“ She asked, his hand was shaking as he let go of his fierce grip. Her voice broke, indicating how scared she was that he'd say yes.
Looking up, he saw a beautiful sympathetic smile...
No, her smile, Emma's smile.
.
.
Norman had been so afraid of her leaving that he hadn't noticed that she shared a similar fear although he was unaware of the reason.
„No, I don't, I'm sorry- Please stay if you want!“ His left hand made a ridiculous attempt at reaching out to Emma, stopping halfway, an apology written on his face.
The green-eyed girl grabbed his hand, giving it a soft squeeze, not even reconsidering it to see if it would be appropriate.
„Calm down. I promise I'm not leaving. I just found you.“
She was glad that she was able to find him. This came out quickly, Norman clearly wasn't okay.
Her gaze melted and despite most of the encouraging words she wanted to say never leaving her, he could hear them all loud and clear by just looking into those big compassionate green eyes.
He gave in.
„Six years ago.“
Waiting patiently for Norman to get ready to continue, she decided to sit down on the open chair nearby, giving him another subtle indication that she was indeed not going to leave.
„My father, James Ratri who used to be the leading authority of our family fell unconscious one day. That's how Peter took his place.“
Her expression shifted, trying to put herself in Norman's situation to understand it better. She imagined what it would be like if Leslie suddenly fell asleep and wouldn't wake up for years... or ever- Ouch, her poor mother.
„Later, it was discovered that a man named Andrew who worked here back in the day had drugged him several times during a similar event like this one.“
Emma shifted around a little in her seat. Why had Isabella never mentioned this? She was so proud of her position but hardly ever shared any stories, names, or anything from work.
„He was arrested and admitted to his crime. By now he's long out of his cell again, no idea where he went off to but I'm glad I probably never have to see him again.“
Really wanting to point out or ask how this had anything to do with him directly didn't stop Emma from refraining from doing so.
She was there to listen, not question. It could wait but luckily Emma didn't have to wait very long.
„On that very same day, I fell down a large pair of stairs in this building. It was said to have been a pure accident but Peter likes to put it as my own fault.“
Norman bit his lip back. He wasn't clumsy, he wasn't dumb enough to fall down the stairs just like that. He simply refused to believe that no one had a do in this.
„As a result, I ended up like this and with no recalls of the events on that day.“ He moved his legs, his knees but not his feet.
They just hung there when he tried to pull them up. „I was fortunate so I shouldn't complain.“
It was hard to ignore that with the right tools, Norman would have a much easier time moving around. Why was he even getting his hopes up again by thinking of what could have been if James was still here?
His uncle would never spend that much money on him even if it wasn't anything compared to what they already had. Not even this wheelchair was what you'd expect a Ratri to have.
It made him feel so worthless.
But that was exactly what Peter wanted, wasn't it?
He had told him that enough times already, it was slowly influencing Norman's view too.
„But he keeps me hidden from the public eye instead, claiming I'm unavailable when asked about.“
Despite the frustration within his voice, he kept calm on the outside. What was he doing? She clarified that it was okay but was it really?
He was feeling stupidly vulnerable.
„But maybe he's right… maybe I did fall down on my own but am just too prideful to admit to it.“
Why was he so tired? He felt so emotionally drained by just talking about it with her. With a sigh, Norman gave off the impression that he was done getting it out of his system now.
„You're wrong, he's wrong.“
Before he could question her statement he found himself in a tight embrace introduced by Emma, his eyes widening at the sudden contact. Stiffening from how unusual it felt to be hugged and it made him wonder...
When was the last time someone had hugged him like that?
Her fragrance was one of sweet strawberries and Norman had to admit that it felt nice to be held like this. He closed his eyes, too exhausted to keep them open.
Emma hadn't been a stranger the moment she had entered the room.
She stayed near but turned to look at him and normally he'd back away at how close they were but strangely he didn't.
Norman felt embarrassed knowing he didn't want her to let go just yet.
.
.
„So you never told anyone about how you feel about this after all those years?“
„I couldn't. That's no excuse for telling you all of that, I know but you seem… trustworthy?“
Even when he had tried telling Vincent, his teacher, or anyone else, they thought he was bluffing. They cared but not enough to listen to all of it.
Turns out confiding in Emma was easier than admitting his feelings to anyone who Norman had known for years.
„I see, would you want to be friends then?“
The young man tried opening his mouth to answer but he was speechless. That was incredibly straightforward!
„Was that too much?” She wasn't sure what to expect, all Emma knew was Norman needed a person to talk to and she'd be more than happy to fill that space.
„N—No! I'd love that but…“ Norman's firm gaze dropped again and it made Emma wish he would stop doing it. „It's simply impossible.“
Finally, he had found somebody to trust like second nature, and there she was, forced to leave him again already. Great.
„I'm afraid that after today we'll never see each other again.“
.
.
The chances were ridiculously high.
But she wasn't going to give up just now.
„You could come to my school!“ Emma insisted, without thinking about if it even made sense.
„I'm homeschooled, he would never allow that unless I left this family for good.”
On second thought, maybe he should but as long as there was still hope for his father to return he wouldn't even try.
„What if you sneak out to meet me!“
She persisted and it was heartwarming. Was that good, considering it was summer?
„With a wheelchair? The mansion isn't exactly well built for that.“ He practiced every day, moving around to stay fit. Sometimes he woke up and just tried walking.
Hoping he had woken up from a nightmare.
Just like he did before when he had gotten himself into that difficult position Emma had helped him out of.
Normally he'd just fall over but this time he had accidentally ripped his gadget with him to the ground, trapping him like a rat under a trap.
„I'm sorry.“
There was no way he could sneak out. He looked out of the window next to them, the view had become old, he wanted to see something new and the urge was stronger than ever after meeting Emma.
Because she had been something new and he wanted more.
Maybe there was a way for them to see each other again after this and he wasn't thinking hard enough to find the solution.
„I could sneak inside to meet you then!“
She just kept going.
„I don't think that's possible either. The security is better than it was 6 years ago and no offense but I don't think you can pull that off, Emma-“
Her new friend was honestly just concerned about what would happen if they ever got caught. The risk was too high-
If they were going to do this, they weren't going to do this secretly.
„But what can we do then?“
Afraid, she was afraid she might not be able to help him because of their different statuses in society and his uncle.
„Do you have a phone?“ She sounded so hopeful, he felt bad for crushing it so soon.
„Yes, although Peter carries it most of the time including right now.“
His left hand reached out to his forehead when he tried to think this out more thoroughly.
„Seriously? Wait, I know! I can just ask Peter Ratri! I'm pretty convincing!~“
His train of thought abruptly crashed.
(Absolutely not!)
As if Norman was ever going to let him talk to her about them, that wouldn't be good. Not one bit-
The fact that Emma was suggesting it so casually, made him aware of how she still had no idea of how bitter Peter could be.
„I'll ask him.“ He offered.
That was honestly their best shot.
If Emma would do it, there was a chance his uncle found a way to just dismiss her question or find some lame excuse to not agree to it.
Peter wasn't dumb but not as smart as Norman.
„You?“
„Yes, me. Would you help me get downstairs? I think I may have found a way to pardon you from breaking his rules as well. He won't be pleased but let me take care of that.“
The redhead just couldn't say no to that.
This might be the first time he had the strength to stand up to his uncle and she didn't want to ruin that for him.
It was also great to see him this optimistic, he looked confident in himself and his abilities in contrast to before when he adapted to his uncle's opinion about him.
„Like right now? Of course! Just let me…“
Her bun, now fairly messy, still felt restricting and tight, she was incredibly tired of that feeling- So she got rid of it and her hair now rested wildly on her shoulders, falling way back to her shoulder blades.
„There, now let's get you downstairs where you should have been in the first place!“
Blinking at Emma with her hair down, Norman needed a moment to stop staring, during this complete conversation he had neglected what his father had taught him quite a lot.
How to be an honest gentleman.
„Um, I don't think I've said it before but you look lovely, especially with your hair down.“
Emma smiled like it was her birthday and opened the door of his room again.
„Thanks! Don't forget to flatter yourself~“ Her voice was a bit smug and Norman looked down with the slightest hint of red tinting his pale cheeks which hadn't seen the sunlight in a while.
Who needed the sun anyway when you had Emma?
It made him forget to thank her back because suddenly the very straightforward girl was behind him, offering to push his wheelchair around so he didn't have to use his arms.
Norman thanked her and enabled the wheels to roll, giving his new female friend the cue to take off with him. Yes, with him...
He wouldn't be lonely anymore.
.
.
Norman gave her directions for the fastest way to get back to where the festivities were held. Emma didn't leave unnoticed how her white open shoes with the small heel missed but didn't mind telling.
When they had to walk downstairs, they got faced with an issue but settled on letting Emma carry the wheelchair all the way down before she ran up again to help Norman keep his balance to walk but the lost feeling in his feet wouldn't let this technique work so his female savior helped him once again.
By carrying him down, bridal style.
How was she so strong?
Well, maybe he was just very light…
It didn't help that Emma tore the back of her dress when carrying his gadget... His wheelchair was having a death wish, wasn't it? The noise had disturbed both of them but luckily it hadn't reached up high enough to be considered an emergency.
Needless to say, Norman hoped no one had seen them, which was probably the case judging by how the halls and hallways were all deserted and a single obnoxious noise came from the main hall.
His uncle's voice. He was holding another speech.
Emma looked at Norman. First, he thought she was going to be worried but her green eyes shone with anticipation about what was about to come. It was contagious and so he gave her a nod to signal that it was alright. With one last push, they entered the hall and exited the safe shadows of the corridor.
.
.
„Our success-... Hm?“ Peter stopped, his yellow eyes fixated on his nephew as soon as he spotted him. The crowd turned to look, curiosity was all over the place.
Isabella, who'd been running around in circles because of her daughter, almost died of relief when seeing Emma but she was wordless at the sight of Norman beside her.
Oh, this was going to be bad.
Really bad.
The mother was concerned to see her orange hair down, the back of her dress torn and her shoes gone. Leslie squeezed her shoulder as he saw how his wife was suddenly stressed.
.
.
Norman felt all eyes burning into him, he wanted to return to his room, he felt like he had something pressing down on his throat until he remembered that Emma was beside him, she was still there and she promised to stay.
If he could do this...
Whispers started echoing through the silence. Norman's entrance sure left an impact on the guests since most of them couldn't quit the commentary but that was all according to plan.
They commented on his name. Ratri
On his status. Rich.
On his wheelchair. Cheap.
On his appearance. Way too handsome— What?
Just everything but not always they'd get the right answer or even one at all.
Those were good conditions for potential rumors to arise and put Peter under pressure. Norman was more than eager to see how he would look if his precious little reputation got ruined once and for all but he'd only do that if he tried to defy their wish.
He wouldn't dare to say no to Emma getting allowance to enter the building whenever they wanted to meet up if Norman came up with enough convincing arguments.
The kind of where your enemy couldn't find a clever way to respond.
If he'd manage to achieve that with his uncle in front of so many, their success was pretty much guaranteed.
Though Peter's face was priceless, his uncle carefully coughed into the microphone to get the spotlight back on him which worked, for the most part.
„Oh well… I sincerely apologize to everyone but I'll end this one sooner to take care of something as I was already done with the essentials. Feel free to return to your activities from earlier and thank you for your attention.“ Peter didn't want to finish it anymore and his guests certainly shared the same sentiment.
He walked down the small staircase, clearly uncomfortable when almost no one stopped to look at him. They wanted to see a reaction.
Specifically, Ray, her brother grinned to himself. He wished he could have brought his camera with him for this.
.
.
Peter knew trying to ignore Norman now was useless so he walked over, forcing his face to smile as if he was delighted to see him.
Norman didn't return it, pissing him off and declaring that he wasn't here for just a good time, as expected.
„Ah what a nice surprise, you've recovered? How wonderful! I'm glad but isn't it a bit risky to come out just yet?“
Continuing to lie, he turned to Emma with the slightest crack of his friendly expression as the older man basically towered over her, opening his mouth to call the girl out.
Blue eyes darkened disapprovingly.
„Actually— I think not, I couldn't be better!“
People were still listening to them, suddenly viewing his gadget with pity in their eyes- He didn't want it. The air was thick but in the end, it all came in the younger man's favor, he just had to ignore the tension he was putting on himself as well.
„I humbly apologize for rolling in on your speech just now but do you have time for a question?“
There was a hidden warning Norman made sure to get across. He didn't want him to give Emma a stare like that again or else he'd care less about ruining his whole family's stature in an instant.
His passive behavior towards this in the past six years had made him forget what he was capable of.
But that didn't mean he was safe.
If he'd expose his uncle's words, a lot of which he didn't even tell Emma, then the consequences weren't above Norman either.
He still lived under him after all and his father who was still in his coma didn't deserve this. Peter was only keeping him alive because the news still loved to report on that and if they got told he'd have given the command to turn off his life support then he could already see the reporters of Goldy Pond storming the front door with questions.
„Of course, go ahead!“
„Thanks, can Emma come to visit us privately?“
'He could have asked for basically anything and ended up with this?' Emma had befriended his nephew, his best staffer's daughter.
(Interesting...)
„What reason do I have to permit her access to the mansion freely? I don't think she's got any malicious intentions, don't get me wrong but I'd like to hear what you have to say.“
Fair enough, Norman knew he wouldn't agree to it right away without a proper reason since that would make him appear irresponsible and perhaps naive in the stares they received.
„She's Isabella's daughter, what more do I have to say? We met and have concluded that both of us would like to meet as friends in the future.“ He tapped on the metal of the left wheel in a steady rhythm. „Plus, it gets lonely when you're stuck in your room all the time with no company.“
(Watch your mouth!)
„I am aware but a family name or their origin doesn't defy the person itself…“ Wait, those were words Norman had once used in an argument against Peter and he was using them against the wheelchair user- To him, mildly infuriating but not crucial to the outcome of this.
„Isabella would never break the restrictions I gave at the beginning and as far as I'm seeing this she went upstairs which I had kindly asked not to do, Norman.“
Isabella was losing her calm self and wanted to drag her daughter out of here as quickly as possible.
„She had a good reason. Emma heard me call out for assistance when I was trapped under the weight of my wheelchair when no one was there to help me, I call that good and quick judgment.“
Norman crossed his arms.
„You took my phone away, so I couldn't call.“
The crowd was startled by the fact Peter left his nephew on his own like that in a building without an elevator. His reputation took a few cracks from that and the head of the Ratri's wasn't going to risk it any further for a mere girl who'd eventually lose interest.
„I—... Sure, well then I shall allow this. Thank you Emma for taking care of Norman. Have this, and feel free to visit your new friend whenever you'd like.“
The girl was surprised to find Peter Ratri offering her a card, her mother had something similar so she took it.
„I must ask you to only use it to visit him since I'd like to avoid any further misunderstandings. I also owe you an apology for jumping to conclusions like that.“
„I'm glad to help, it's fine.“ She didn't sound as genuine as she would have liked because now her opinion of him wasn't the best. It made Emma wonder if he could ever change.
Even the cheerful smile on her face was more intended for Norman but the young lady wasn't done yet.
„Oh, could I also request that you give his phone back? I want to be able to notify him before I get here or else I could arrive at an inconvenient time.“ Emma just wanted his number so Norman could contact her whenever he needed her but she wasn't free to visit him.
„Please?“
(Getting too comfortable now, aren't we?) These kids got on his nerves, no wonder Peter usually didn't allow them here.
They were nearly adults so it wasn't an excuse he could have used anyway.
„I don't see why not.“
He'll just try to see this as an opportunity to finally get rid of Norman's attitude for good. He knew from Isabella that she was a busy and active student, not to mention sporty and lively. The complete opposite of Norman.
She'd leave eventually and she'd hurt him in ways Peter Ratri couldn't.
(Poor Norman, don't you see that you're digging your own grave?)
The younger Ratro was technically doing his job for him so he could just relax and spectate this going downhill.
.
.
„Emma, we're leaving. Please excuse us, Peter. It was a great experience to come here but I think that's enough for now.“
The man in question bid his farewell to Isabella as the woman in the white attire took her daughter by the hand. Norman flinched at the strict tone of the mother and quickly stuffed a piece of paper where his number was written on into Emma's other hand, holding it for a moment.
Isabella froze.
„Wait for me.“ Emma reassured with a smile before Leslie broke them apart by repeating what his wife had said but in a calmer tone.
The pale boy in the wheelchair mouthed out a quiet thank you before Norman could feel the most judgemental stare on him all of the sudden.
„Yo.“
It was her brother, who appeared behind them. The black-haired male held Emma's white shoes up with one hand for her to take it. When his duty was done he acted all unknowingly, sparing Emma any words at all.
(He knows something!) Emma eyed him suspiciously but Ray just walked away afterward, motioning her to come too, and with a displeased inaudible sound she did but not without turning back to steal one last glimpse of Norman.
Norman waved with his elbow lounging on his wheelchair's armrest before the family was ultimately out of his sight. Green eyes gone- The festivities continued and he was wondering if he could survive much social interaction as a girl with dark green hair approached him with a fierce glare.
(What now?)
.
.
Back at the car, Isabella closed the door when seating inside. Her purple visionaries on the mirror enabled her to view the back seats where her daughter took her place after Ray.
„Emma, what were you thinking?“ The older female asked, trying her best to keep her disappointment in.
„Isa-“ His wife glared at him. „Not now, honey.“ The redhead didn't get why her mother was so mad all of the sudden...
„I was thinking about helping a person who was asking for help! Norman is a nice guy, I don't know why you're making such a big deal out of this, he told me you know him.“
Isabella flinched.
„You should have called an authority.“
„No, Norman needed help, so I provided and in the end, everything turned out just fine. So what's with you?“
Ray simply stared out of the window with a tired aura surrounding his very being. This day had been way too eventful for his liking. Mother and daughter were close to ending up in an argument again even if the younger girl tried her best to avoid it, Isabella's next words threw fuel into a fire within her that she hadn't even known existed.
„You're not visiting Norman, you're too unpredictable. Just look at you, Emma- Your dress is torn, your hair is messy and you're not wearing any shoes!“
„Hey, I am wearing shoes again! Mom, you can't just say that, he's lonely, I promised him to be back!“ Her voice held desperation, seeing Emma in a small struggle made Leslie speak up instead.
„She's right, Isa. You can't just say no to that after they tried so hard to convince your boss. You should be proud of her.“
„What? I—I am proud of her!“ The older woman insisted, seeing the unhappy face on Emma did hurt now that her husband had pointed it out.
(I could have lost my job if this went wrong but…) Her family mattered more, didn't it? Maybe there was more to it but it didn't matter. Isabella started the car with a twist of the keys.
„We'll talk about this at home.“ And with that, she turned on the radio.
For the rest of the fairly small drive, her brother decided to break the family's stillness and get close to Emma's left ear so their parents wouldn't hear.
„Don't tell me you like him?“ Her dark-haired sibling made her want to hold her head out of the window.
„Not like like but yes— You're really childish sometimes you know that, right?“ The female with the ginger hair color whispered over. If her mom would have heard that, hell would break loose.
„Like… Like? Seriously, Emma, you have trouble saying love? I thought I knew you.”
She groaned.
„I suppose I'm a bit childish but at least I don't always act like one, unlike you, Ems.“ He grinned. „Heh, I didn't even receive a thank you from you earlier, how very mature of you.”
The redhead loved him as her brother but at the same time hated him for his sassiness.
„Ugh, fineee. Thank you, high and mighty Ray. I hope you're satisfied now.“
Emma crossed her arms again and turned away from Ray, giving him a silent ‘Leave me alone.‘ to which he, fortunately, operated with.
.
.
They arrived home, it wasn't very late yet. The whole time her parents still kept rambling about her meeting Norman and Isabella had insisted that she'd immediately change out of the torn dress she had lent her.
Emma apologized for tearing the back several times but only for that, she wouldn't say sorry for helping her new friend but in the end, because her mother wouldn't stop… The freckled girl actually gave in and agreed to not meeting Norman again.
That, of course, was a lie. Emma usually did that much but as of late she could be considered quite dishonest. Not fully aware of the possible consequences, the redhead didn't necessarily think of it as a bad thing.
After agreeing, she shut the door behind her for peace. A small headache molesting Emma.
She'd do anything to give Norman company, look into those eyes again and learn more about the young man with the white hair. The curl on the side of his head was one of the most memorable aspects of him, next to his eyes of course. She might have a weird obsession with their color.
Emma would say the wheelchair was what stood out the most but didn't want to think of it as one of his defying features. He obviously hated it but the fact was, it was a part of his life. A part she was thankful for.
His wheelchair was a curse to him when it shouldn't be considered that. To her, it was like a companion, always there to back him up, help him live his life. Why couldn't he see that? He could be dead but here he was, still breathing. It could be better but it could have been a lot worse—
Yes, he was very pale, too much to be considered healthy if you'd ask her but they would change that! Emma would do her best to figure out what Norman needed in order to be happy again.
Maybe some sunshine could warm him from the coldness he received from his uncle.
„He's strong… but he's tired.“
At the reminder of what Norman had to go through all alone, Emma, who was resting on her bed, automatically hugged her pillow. She preferred hugging Norman even if she only got to do it once, so she closed her eyes and recalled the events which occurred earlier today including the small intimate moment they had shared. A hardly noticeable blush crawled up her cheeks.
Maybe she shouldn't have done that without asking first but it had felt so natural. Hugging a stranger— No, that wasn't the right word.
Emma instantly buried her face in the soft cushion, inhaling a deep breath, it smelled like flowers— Norman had a different scent on him and she felt no shame in admitting that she liked it better.
After a while, the pace of her breathing slowed down and she grew drowsy.
Opening her eyes but keeping them half-closed, Emma slowly added his number, fearing she might lose the small paper with it during the night and once that was out of the way, the girl closed her eyes again with a satisfied hum.
She started thinking about meeting up with him tomorrow as promised and what wonderful things she could show him. Emma tried hard not to but the girl felt so relaxed that eventually, she fell asleep with her thoughts spiraling off into a soft dream about them enjoying summer to its fullest.
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