CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER FIVE.

JANE'S POV.

It's been two weeks since I moved in with Aunt Kira and her family. Every day, I struggle to adapt to their middle-class lifestyle. Gone are the silk sheets and the sprawling estate. Now, I sleep on a modest bed in a small room, surrounded by the warmth and coziness that only a close-knit family can provide. But it doesn’t feel like home. Not yet.

Each night, after everyone else has fallen asleep, I cry myself to sleep, clutching the pillow that still smells faintly of my mother. The pain of her loss cuts deep, and the memories of her laughter and love are like ghosts haunting my every moment. I blame my father for everything, for the depression that consumed her and for the affair that shattered our family.

Tonight is no different. I lay in bed, tears streaming down my face, as I replay the events of the past months. My father's betrayal, my mother’s decline, and finally, her death. My chest tightens with grief and anger.

Suddenly, there’s a soft knock on my door. Melissa, Aunt Kira’s daughter, steps into the room. She’s a year older than me and has been a pillar of strength since I arrived.

“Hey,” she whispers, sitting on the edge of my bed. “Are you okay?”

I shake my head, unable to speak through the sobs. Melissa wraps her arms around me, offering silent comfort. She doesn’t try to tell me it will get better or that I need to move on. She just holds me, letting me grieve.

“I miss her so much,” I finally manage to say.

“I know,” Melissa replies, her voice gentle. “We all do.”

The next morning, I got up early to help Aunt Kira at her café. It’s a far cry from the luxurious shopping sprees and vacations I used to indulge in. Now, my days are filled with brewing coffee, serving customers, and trying to make myself useful. Aunt Kira is always there to guide me, and her patience is endless.

At the café, we deal with all kinds of customers. Some are kind and polite, but others can be rude and demanding. Today, a particularly obnoxious man starts complaining loudly about his order.

“This coffee tastes like dishwater!” he exclaims, slamming his cup down on the counter.

I feel my temper flare. I’m not used to being spoken to this way, and I’m certainly not going to tolerate it.

“Sir, if you don’t like the coffee, you can take your business elsewhere,” I say, my voice steady but firm.

The man looks taken aback, clearly not expecting me to challenge him.

“What did you say to me?” he asks, surprised.

“You heard me,” I reply, crossing my arms. “We work hard here, and we don’t need customers who can’t appreciate that.” I say firmly.

Before the situation can escalate, Aunt Kira steps in.

“Jane, calm down,” she says, placing a hand on my shoulder. Then, she turns to the customer. “I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy your coffee. Let me make you a new one, on the house.” she says, calmly.

The man grumbles but accepts the offer. As Aunt Kira makes the coffee, she gives me a stern look.

“You can’t challenge everyone, Jane. Some people just need a little patience.” She cautions me.

After the man leaves, Melissa comes over to where I’m standing. “Hey, you handled that pretty well,” she says with a smile. “But Mom’s right. You need to pick your battles.”

“I know,” I sigh. “I just... I can’t stand people being rude.”

“I get it,” she says, putting an arm around my shoulders. “But we’re here to help. If you need a break, just let me know.”

Later that night, we gathered in the living room for a family movie night. Tommy, Aunt Kira’s twelve-year-old son, sits next to me, his eyes glued to the screen. Despite everything, these moments bring a sense of normalcy and comfort that I desperately need.

After the movie, we sit around and talk, laughing and joking. For a little while, I can almost forget the pain and the anger. Almost.

******************************************************

In the mornings, I’ve started dropping Tommy off at school. It’s a simple task, but it gives me a sense of purpose. Tommy is sweet and funny, and his innocence is a balm to my wounded heart. We talk about everything and nothing on our way to school, and I cherish these moments.

Today, as we pull up to the school, Tommy turns to me. “Jane, do you miss your old house?”

I hesitate, then nod. “Yeah, I do. But I think I miss Mom more.”

Tommy reaches over and squeezes my hand. “We miss her too. But we’re glad you’re here with us.” he says. Awwnnn… such a sweet little cutie.

“Thanks, Tommy,” I say, giving him a small smile. “Now go on, you don’t want to be late.”

As I watch him walk into the school, I feel a pang of longing for the family I lost. But being with Aunt Kira and her kids is helping me heal, bit by bit.

That afternoon, Nanny Edith comes to visit. She’s been with my family since I was a baby, and seeing her again brings a rush of emotions.

“Oh, my dear Jane,” she says, pulling me into a tight hug. “I’ve missed you so much.”

“I’ve missed you too, Nanny,” I reply, my voice choked with tears.

We sit down to talk, and Nanny Edith tells me about how things have been at the house. She also gently tries to convince me to come back, but I stand firm. I can’t go back to that place, not while my father is still with his mistress.

“I understand, dear,” Nanny Edith says, patting my hand. “But know that we all love you and miss you.”

“I know,” I say, wiping away a tear. “But I need to be here right now.”

As she leaves, I feel a renewed sense of resolve. I’m going to make this work, no matter how hard it gets.

KIRA'S POV.

Watching Jane struggle to adjust breaks my heart. She’s lost so much, and she’s so young. I can see the pain in her eyes every time she looks at her mother’s picture. I try to be there for her, to comfort her and guide her, but I know it’s a long road ahead.

Every night, I hear her crying in her room, and it takes all my strength not to go in and hold her. She needs to grieve, and I need to give her the space to do that. But it doesn’t make it any easier.

Melissa has been wonderful. She’s taken Jane under her wing, and the two of them have become close. It warms my heart to see them together, finding solace in each other.

Tommy, bless his heart, does his best to cheer Jane up. He’s always making her laugh with his silly jokes and antics. He doesn’t fully understand the depth of her pain, but his innocence and kindness are a light in the darkness.

At the café, I see Jane trying so hard to adapt. She’s never had to work a day in her life, and now she’s thrown into this new reality. Some days are better than others, but she’s learning.

Today, we had a difficult customer. Jane’s fiery temper flared up, and I had to step in to diffuse the situation. After the customer left, I pulled Jane aside.

“You can’t challenge everyone, Jane,” I tell her gently. “Some people just need a little patience.”

She looks at me, her eyes filled with frustration. “I know, Aunt Kira. It’s just... I can’t stand it when people are rude.”

“I understand,” I say, giving her a reassuring smile. “But you need to learn to pick your battles. Not everyone is worth the fight.”

Melissa joins us, and I see the bond between the two girls. “Jane, you handled that pretty well,” she says, her voice full of admiration. “But Mom’s right. You need to pick your battles.”

“I know,” Jane sighs. “I just... I’m trying.”

“And you’re doing great,” I say, placing a hand on her shoulder. “We’re all here to help you.”

That night, we had a family movie night. It’s something we do often, a way to bring some joy and normalcy into our lives. Jane sits with Tommy, and I watch as he makes her laugh, even if just for a moment. These small victories are everything right now.

After the movie, we sit around talking and joking. Jane’s laugh is rare these days, but when it comes, it’s like a ray of sunshine. We talk about old memories, funny stories, anything to keep the sadness at bay.

“Remember that time you tried to bake cookies and almost burned the house down?” Melissa teases, grinning at Jane.

Jane laughs, shaking her head. “Yeah, Mom had to call the fire department. I was grounded for a month.”

“But the cookies were worth it,” Tommy chimes in, making everyone laugh even harder.

These moments are precious. They’re what keep us all going. As I look at my family, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Despite the pain and the loss, we have each other.

The next morning, Jane gets up early to take Tommy to school. It’s become their little routine, and I can see how much it means to both of them. Jane needs this purpose, this connection.

As they head out the door, I call after them. “Drive safe! And don’t forget your lunch Tom!” I yell.

Jane waves, a small smile on her face. “Got it, Aunt Kira.”

After they leave, I head to the café. It’s a lot of work, but it’s ours, and it’s where I feel most at home. Today is going to be busy, and I’m grateful for Jane’s help, even if she still has a lot to learn.

MELISSA'S POV.

Seeing Jane struggle breaks my heart, but I’m so proud of her. She’s been through hell and back, and she’s still standing. That takes strength. I try to be there for her as much as I can, to support her and help her adapt to this new life.

I know it’s hard for her. She’s used to a life of luxury, and now she’s living in our modest home, working at the café. But she’s trying, and that’s what matters.

Today, at the café, we had a particularly rude customer. Jane’s temper flared up, and I had to step in to support her. After Aunt Kira diffused the situation, I pulled Jane aside.

“You did great, but remember what Mom said. Pick your battles,” I tell her, trying to be encouraging.

“I know, I know,” she sighs, rubbing her temples. “It’s just hard.”

“It is,” I agree. “But we’re here to help. And hey, you stood your ground. That’s important too.”

That night, we had our usual family movie night. I see the way Tommy makes Jane laugh, and it warms my heart. He’s such a good kid, and he’s doing his best to cheer her up.

After the movie, we sit around talking, reminiscing about old times. Jane’s laugh is like music to my ears, and I do everything I can to keep her smiling.

“Remember that time you tried to give Tommy a haircut?” I tease her.

Jane laughs, covering her face. “Oh God, that was a disaster. Poor Tommy ended up looking like a shaved poodle.”

Tommy giggles, shaking his head. “I still have nightmares about that haircut.”

We all burst into laughter, the room filled with warmth and love. These moments are what keep us going, what help us heal.

The next morning, Jane takes Tommy to school, and I see the bond growing between them. It’s beautiful to watch. Jane needs this connection, this sense of purpose. And Tommy adores her.

As they leave, I turn to Mom. “Do you think Jane’s going to be okay?”

Mom sighs, looking thoughtful. “I hope so. She’s strong, and she has us. We just need to be patient.”

“We will,” I promise, feeling a deep sense of determination. “We’ll help her through this.”

TOMMY'S POV.

I like having Jane around. She’s fun and always makes time for me. I know she’s sad about her mom, and I try to cheer her up whenever I can. It’s nice to have another big sister.

Every morning, she takes me to school, and we talk about all kinds of things. Today, I asked her if she misses her old house.

“Yeah, I do,” she says, looking out the window. “But I think I miss Mom more.”

I reach over and squeeze her hand. “We miss her too. But we’re glad you’re here with us.”

“Thanks, Tommy,” she says, smiling at me. “Now go on, you don’t want to be late.”

At school, I tell my friends about Jane. They think she’s cool, and I’m proud to have her as my sister. I know she’s having a hard time, but I believe things will get better.

That afternoon, when I got home, I saw Nanny Edith. She’s visiting Jane, and it’s nice to see her again. She’s like family to us.

“Oh, Tommy! You’ve grown so much!” Nanny Edith exclaims, giving me a big hug.

“Hi, Nanny!” I say, grinning up at her. “I missed you.”

“I missed you too, dear,” she says, ruffling my hair.

I watch as Jane and Nanny Edith talk. Jane looks happier, and it makes me feel good. Nanny Edith has a way of making everything better.

Later, we all sit down for dinner, and it feels like old times. We laugh, we talk, and for a little while, everything seems okay.

NANNY'S POV.

Seeing Jane again fills my heart with a mix of joy and sorrow. She’s been through so much, and I worry about her constantly. When she left the house, I begged her to stay, but I understand why she couldn’t.

“Oh, my dear Jane,” I say, pulling her into a tight hug. “I’ve missed you so much.”

“I’ve missed you too, Nanny,” she replies, her voice choked with tears.

We sit down to talk, and I tell her about how things have been at the house. I gently try to convince her to come back, but I see the resolve in her eyes.

“I understand, dear,” I say, patting her hand. “But know that we all love you and miss you.”

“I know,” she says, wiping away a tear. “But I need to be here right now.”

I see the strength in her, the determination to make this new life work. It’s not easy, but she’s doing her best.

Later, I talk with Kira and the kids. I see how much they’ve done to help Jane, and it warms my heart. This is where she needs to be, surrounded by love and support.

As I prepare to leave, I hug Jane tightly. “You’re strong, my dear. You’ll get through this.”

“Thank you, Nanny,” she says, her eyes filled with gratitude. “For everything.”

JANE'S POV.

Nanny Edith's visit leaves me feeling both comforted and sad. It’s a reminder of the life I left behind, but also of the love and support that still surrounds me. I’m grateful for Aunt Kira, Melissa, and Tommy. They’ve become my anchor in this storm.

That night, as I lie in bed, I think about my mother. I miss her so much it hurts, but I know she would want me to be strong. She would want me to live my life and find happiness again.

The next day, I head to the café with renewed determination. I’m going to make this work. I owe it to myself, and to my mother’s memory. As I step into the café, ready to face whatever the day brings, I know I’m not alone. I have my family, and I have my strength. And that’s enough for now.

The morning rush is in full swing, and I’m doing my best to keep up. I’m still learning, but each day gets a little easier. As I serve customers, I remember Aunt Kira’s words: pick your battles. I try to be patient, to smile even when I don’t feel like it.

Melissa is by my side, her presence a constant source of support. We work well together.

“Hey, take a breather,” she says, handing me a bottle of water. “You’re doing great.”

“Thanks,” I reply, taking a sip. “I’m trying.”

“And it shows,” she says with a smile. “Just remember, we’re in this together.”

The afternoon slows down, giving us a chance to catch our breath. I take the opportunity to sit with Aunt Kira and talk about the café. She shares stories from when she first started, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them.

“It’s all about perseverance,” she tells me. “You have to keep pushing, even when it’s hard.”

“I’m learning that,” I say, feeling a sense of admiration for her strength and resilience.

As we talk, a familiar figure walks into the café. It’s my father. My heart skips a beat, a mixture of anger and sadness flooding my chest. He looks around, spotting me, and walks over.

“Jane,” he says, his voice filled with emotion. “Can we talk?”

I take a deep breath, trying to keep my composure. “What do you want?

“I just want to see how you’re doing,” he says, looking genuinely concerned. “I miss you.”

“You miss me?” I reply, my voice rising. “After everything you’ve done? After what you put Mom through?”

“Jane, please,” he says, reaching out to touch my arm. “I’m sorry. I never meant for any of this to happen.”

“Sorry doesn’t bring Mom back,” I say, pulling away. “It doesn’t change what you did.”

“I know,” he says, his voice breaking. “But I’m still your father, and I love you. I just want to make things right.”

I look at him, my emotions swirling. Part of me wants to forgive him, to let go of the anger and pain. But another part of me can’t forget, can’t forgive.

“ Is that bitch you call a mistress still in the house?” I sneer, looking him straight in the eye. He doesn't say a word, he just stares at me with a pleading eyes.

“So you expect me to come live in the same house as your mistress and her daughter?”

“Jane please, they are family now, they are… Nina and I are getting married…” I couldn't even let him finish. The hell! He wants to get married to her? Already? My mom just died and it's because of him and that home wrecker. And they just want to move on like that and so soon. He has the nerve to come in here to tell me he's getting married to his bitchy mistress. The audacity!

“ Get the hell out of here! Now!” I yell, choking on my tears. He tries touching me, but I jerk his hand off. “I said get out!!!” I yell really loud this time.

As he leaves, I feel a mixture of pain and anger. Seeing him stirs up so many emotions, and I don’t know what to do with them.

Melissa comes over, sensing my turmoil. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah,” I say, though my voice wavers. “I just need some air.”

I step outside, the cool breeze a welcome relief. I think about my mother, about the pain of losing her, and the anger I still feel towards my father. But I also think about what Aunt Kira said about perseverance, about pushing through even when it’s hard. I'm just going to let him do whatever he wants, I don't care anymore and I won't let him or any of his actions have any effect on me anymore.

When I go back inside, I feel a little more at peace. I know the road ahead won’t be easy, but I’m determined to keep moving forward.

KIRA'S POV

Seeing Jane confront her father today was heart-wrenching. The pain in her eyes was palpable, and I felt a mix of anger and sympathy for both of them. Charles has made mistakes, but he’s still Jane’s father, and I can see how much he regrets what’s happened, but he still wants to go ahead and marry his mistress.

After he leaves, I see Jane standing outside, trying to compose herself. She’s so strong, yet so vulnerable. I want to go to her, to offer comfort, but I know she needs space to process everything.

When she comes back inside, I give her a reassuring smile. “You handled that well.” I say to her, pulling her into a hug.

“Thanks,” she says, though I can see the turmoil in her eyes.

We get back to work, and I keep a close eye on her, making sure she’s okay. Melissa is a rock, always by Jane’s side, offering support and encouragement. I’m so proud of both of them.

Later, as we close up the café, I pull Jane aside. “You did great today, Jane. It’s not easy facing your past, but you’re doing it with grace and strength.”

“ Thanks, Aunt Kira,” she says, her voice soft. “It’s just... so hard.”

“I know it is,” I say, giving her a hug. “But you’re not alone. We’re all here for you.”

MELISSA'S POV.

Jane’s encounter with her father today was intense. I could see how much it affected her, and I wanted to protect her from the pain. But she handled it with such strength, even if she doesn’t realize it.

As we work through the rest of the day, I stay close to her, offering support where I can. She’s doing an amazing job, adapting to this new life, and I’m so proud of her.

After we close the café, we head home. Tommy is waiting for us, bouncing with excitement. “Can we have another movie night?”

“Sure, Tommy,” I say, ruffling his hair. “Let’s make some popcorn.”

Jane smiles, and it doesn't seem like a real smile, it's more like a mask. “I could use a good movie,” she says. I feel really bad for her.

We gather in the living room, the familiar routine bringing comfort. As the movie starts, I sit next to Jane, and Tommy snuggles in on her other side. These moments, these little pockets of happiness, are what keep us all going.

After the movie, we sit around talking, laughing about the silliest things. Jane’s laugh is like a beacon, lighting up the room.

“Remember that time we all tried to build a treehouse?” Tommy says, grinning.

“Oh God, that was a disaster,” Jane says, laughing. “I think we spent more time falling out of the tree than building the house.”

We all laugh, the memory bringing a sense of togetherness. These moments are precious, and I hold onto them tightly.