I and Ma Jane sat outside the mansion like we always did back then. The grand estate was nestled among sprawling gardens, filled with vibrant flowers and lush greenery that had been lovingly tended to.
"just like old times, isn't it?"
I nodded with a smile creeping up my face.
"yes, it is. I remember spending hours with you sharing stories and enjoying the peace of the garden"
Ma Jane chuckled delightfully "and you always had a million questions about everything. You were so curious about life"
"It was all your fault" I teased, leaning back in the chair and snuggling up to her "you always had the best stories. I was just trying to keep up!"
Ma Jane laughed delightfully "well, some stories are worth telling more than once. Its important to hold onto those memories my child..,"
"do you remember the summer we planted flowers and you taught me how to care for them?"
"of course I do. You were determined to make them the best in the neighbourhood" Ma Jane said while patting my hair
"you taught me so much, Ma Jane"
"and you've grown into such a strong woman, Avery. I see the way you handle challenges and I am really proud if you"
"thank you ma jane, I had learnt to be strong, especially with everything that's happened. But sometimes, its hard to shake off the past"
"That's natural," she said gently, "child..., your past doesn't define you. You're married to a man that loves and support you and it's all that matters"
"am trying to focus on what matters now. Ethan makes me happy and I want to build a life with him"
"then do just that. Don't let anyone, not even Harrison, hold you back from your happiness. You have the power to shape your own destiny"
"ma jane."
"yes child" she answered almost immediately..
"thank you for always being there for me. I don't know what I'd do without you"
"i'm always here for you, my child and just remember that even when it gets overwhelming, you have the most important part figured out already love," Ma Jane said with a playful tone.
I moved my head, moving to nudge her playfully "you're the best, Ma Jane" I said smiling with relief
As the laughter began to fade between us, I felt the need to ask some pressing questions. I looked at Ma Jane, sensing that we touched on something deeper, something that needed to be addressed.
"Ma Jane," I began hesitantly, "can we talk about my dad for a moment? Ive been thinking about that a lot lately"
I stopped for a moment to gather my thoughts together. "I feel like there are so many memories I cherish but I also have questions about how he passed away. I know it was sudden, but sometimes I wonder if there was more to it."
Ma Jane's eyes grew serious and I could feel her struggling with her thoughts "It was sudden, yes. But you know, there were always whispers about it_whispers that it wasn't just a simple accident"
"what do you mean?" I asked, my heart raced at the thought of uncovering something I had considered "what whispers?'
"your father was involve in some projects that were.. controversial. They were rumors about him having conflicts with certain people"
I felt a chill run down my spine as I processed her words. "you mean to say his death may not have been just an accident?"
Ma jane nodded slowly with a grave expression
"there were times were I worried about him, about the risk he was taking. He had a strong sense of justice, and sometimes that put him at odds with those who didn't share his values. Its not something anyone talked about openly, but I always sensed there was more to the story"
My heart raced at the weight of her words and tears welled up my eyes " why didn't anyone tell me about this? Why did we just accept it as an accident?"
"It was a painful time for everyone, Avery but sometimes it's easier to accept a narrative that brings closure rather than delve into the uncomfortable truth. But I think it's important for you to know that your father was a brave man and fought for what he believed in"
I felt a mix of grief and anger "I wish I had known. It feels like there is a part of his death that I never fully understood"
"its not too late to honor his memory by seeking the truth. Just remember, he loved you deeply, and he would want you to live fully and fearlessly_ just like he did."
"where they people that wanted to silence him" I pressed on with my question
"its not something I ever wanted to believe, but there were times when I noticed strange things and phone calls that he abruptly ended when I walked into the room. He would brush fit off, but I could sense the tension.