Ava gripped the steering wheel confidently as she navigated the winding driveway leading to the grand mansion. Her mum, seated in the backseat alongside her brother Aiden, couldn't help but express her concern.
"Honey, we would have hired a driver," her mum said worriedly, her voice tinged with a mix of anxiety and protectiveness.
"I'm fine, Mum. It's just driving," Ava replied calmly, her eyes fixed on the road ahead.
As they approached the gate of the mansion, Aiden's eyes widened in awe. "Wow, so big!" he exclaimed, pressing his face against the window to take in the sprawling estate.
The mansion is a stunning blend of traditional and modern architecture, set amidst a sprawling compound that spans approximately 20,000 square feet. The property boasts beautifully manicured gardens, complete with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and tranquil water features.
The mansion's facade combines classic elements like intricately carved wooden doors and ornate stonework with sleek, modern touches such as expansive glass windows and a minimalist roofline.
Ava expertly maneuvered the car through the open gates,
The car came to a gentle stop in front of the mansion's grand entrance, and Ava turned off the engine. As they stepped out of the car, the warm sunlight and sweet scent of blooming flowers enveloped them.
"Dad," Rachel greeted a man at the entrance, who looked like he was in his 70s, with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye. "How are you?" he asked with a smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
"I'm fine, Dad," Rachel replied, handing him a package. "I've brought this for you. It's a tea that helps with relaxation of the brain."
"Grandpa, I've seen that in a store," Emma said, turning to her sister Matilda, her voice barely above a whisper. "How much did they say was the price again?" But before anyone could answer, Grandpa's voice boomed, "That's enough, a gift is a gift!"
Ava and Aiden exchanged a knowing glance, and then both went to meet their grandfather, who enveloped them in a warm hug. "Ava, come to Grandpa," he said, holding her close. "Aiden, you're so grown now!"
As they hugged, Grandpa asked Ava worriedly, "How are you feeling now, dear? I heard you were in the hospital. Hope you're fine now." Ava smiled, "I'm fine, Grandpa. Hope you're taking your health seriously now?"
Grandpa chuckled, "Don't worry about that, I'm as strong as ever!" He turned to Aiden, ruffled his hair, and said, "Take care of your sis and mum, okay?"
"I will," Aiden replied, his face serious.
Then Grandpa said, "Now let's go inside. The food my wife prepared is already getting cold." The aroma of delicious food wafted through the air, making their stomachs growl in anticipation.
As they all went inside, Emma looked at Ava and scoffed, Ava rolled her eyes back at her.
"Come, sit my children, let's eat," Grandma said happily as they all sat down. The table was filled with a delicious spread of food, and the aroma wafting from the dishes made everyone's mouth water.
"I smell something nice," Aiden said, his eyes scanning the table. Grandma chuckled.