Chapter 66: I guess the porch is a bad idea.
Fil’s family was wholesome. She got a responsible father who would work himself to the bone to provide for the family. A lovely mother who would tidy the home and make it a place for everyone to rest and a rebellious little brother to add peak and trough to the family dynamic.
Overall, it was heartwarming to see them interact with each other.
When Irene, Fil’s mother, heard about her daughter’s visit, she excitedly rushed out of the kitchen. Just like Simon and Elijah, she was curious about the man with her daughter. When Fil explained the reason for Jackson’s presence, Irene didn’t question it. Instead, she offered Jackson anything she could offer to him.
Over an hour later, Simon already returned from his deliveries and rested from all the tedious morning work. Elijah, on the other hand, stayed with Fil and Jackson, asking random questions out of pure curiosity.
Their day went by just like that.
There was nothing too important that needed immediate fixing. Or anything that could say they did something or achieved a feat. There wasn’t even a sense of urgency to do something, unlike when they were in the city.
It was quiet — menial; everything was moving slowly. It was almost boring, but somehow, this boring atmosphere in the countryside was relaxing.
"Dinner is almost done," Fil announced as soon as she stepped out onto the porch where Jackson was idling.
He was leaning against the railing with his arms bent over. He glanced over his shoulder, following her figure until she was standing beside him.
"Mom said to call you," she added, smiling. "You know, I don’t know if this is a coincidence, but she prepared all of my favorite foods. She said she plans to visit me tomorrow and bring me something to eat."
Jackson just stared at her quietly before he asked, "Why did you take me here?"