Chapter 6 06

FLORA

I glanced at the clock on Johnathan’s wall, the colorful numbers showing it was already past seven. We had finished the last of his reading worksheet, and he was yawning dramatically, controller abandoned on the rug from our earlier “one quick level” that turned into three. 

My stomach rumbled quietly, but I ignored it. Home was waiting, and so was whatever mood my father might be in tonight.

“Alright, buddy,” I said, closing his workbook with a soft thud. “That’s it for today. You did great on those math problems. Tomorrow we’ll tackle the science one early,” I said.

Johnathan pouted, grabbing my sleeve as I stood up. “Nooo, Flora. Stay longer. We can... We can watch a movie. Denji never plays with me like you do,” he said.

I ruffled his messy blonde hair, smiling despite the exhaustion pulling at my shoulders. “I wish I could, but I have to get home. Your parents will be here soon, and I don’t want to overstay,” I replied.

He crossed his little arms, stubborn as ever. “You’re no fun. You're always trying to get away everytime like your place is as cool as mine!” he lashed out. I'm already immune to his outbursts so I sighed dramatically.

“Look, I promise I'll be back tomorrow and if we are able to finish up early then we'll play more games and watch the movie,” I replied, leaning down to give him a quick hug. His small body shrugged aggressively against mine, but I just chuckled lightly as I let go. “Now brush your teeth and get ready for bed. I’ll see you tomorrow,” I said.

Johnathan tugged at my sleeve again before I could fully pull away. “But Flora, just one movie? Please? The one with the cars that race really fast. You like that one too, right?” he asked.

I laughed softly, shaking my head. “Buddy, it’s already late. You have to be rested for tomorrow. We can watch all the movies during the weekend and we'll even play games,” I said.

He bounced on his knees, eyes lighting up. “Really? You mean it? With popcorn and everything?” he inquired.

“Of course, with popcorn and everything. What better way to watch a move?” I said. “But only if you brush those teeth right now and hop into bed without complaining.”

Johnathan hooked his pinky with mine, grinning wide. “Deal! You’re the best, Flora. Denji says you’re cool too, you know,” he said.

My cheeks warmed a little at that, but I kept my focus on him. “That’s nice of him. Now go on, off to the bathroom,” I said.

He scampered away, still chattering over his shoulder. “Tell Denji I beat the level today because of your help! He’ll be impressed,” he called out.

“I will, buddy. Goodnight,” I said, watching him disappear down the hall.

I gathered my bag and headed downstairs, my loose t-shirt and leggings feeling like armor after the tight school uniform. The Grayson villa was quiet except for the distant clink of dishes from the kitchen. I was almost at the front door when Mrs. Grayson’s voice called out from the dining area.

“Flora, dear! Is that you? Come here for a moment,” her flowery sunshine voice called out. 

I paused, turning back. Mrs. Grayson stood in the wide archway, elegant in a simple silk blouse and pants, her warm smile lighting up her face. She was the picture of kindness nothing like the cold wealth I’d imagined when I first got this job.

“Yes, ma’am?” I asked, stepping closer but keeping my distance out of respect.

She waved a hand dismissively. “None of that ma’am business tonight. You’ve been working so hard with Johnathan and I am amazed by your progress dear,” 

“Oh it's nothing much he's been doing most of the tolerating.” I said chuckling softly. “Nonsense, I know my son. Join us for dinner? It’s already set,” she invited.

My eyes widened, and I shook my head quickly. “Oh, that’s really kind of you, Mrs. Grayson, but I should really head home. I don’t want to impose,” I replied.

“Nonsense,” she said firmly, already guiding me toward the dining room with a gentle hand on my back. “I won’t take no for an answer. You’re practically family now, helping with my baby boy. One meal won’t hurt. Come on,” she insisted.

I opened my mouth to protest again. “Really, Mrs. Grayson, I appreciate it, but my dad’s probably expecting me soon. I don’t want to cause any trouble,” I said.

She smiled wider, not budging. “Your father can wait a little longer tonight. You’ve earned this, Flora. Johnathan literally talked about you nonstop last night. And then his teacher calls me earlier today and tells me he keeps talking about his new friend, Flora to his classmates. It would mean a lot to us,” she said.

The gentle pressure on my back and her kind eyes made it impossible to refuse without seeming ungrateful. My stomach twisted with nerves. Dinner with the Graysons? With Denji right there? 

But refusing felt rude after everything they’d done for me. I followed her into the grand dining room, the long oak table gleaming under a crystal chandelier. Plates were set for five, silverware polished to perfection.

Mr. Grayson was already seated at the head, scrolling through his phone. Denji sat on one side, looking freshly changed into a casual black t shirt that hugged his shoulders. Johnathan bounced in soon after, claiming the seat next to me. 

I managed to slide into the chair directly opposite Denji, my heart racing so fast I felt out of breath. I kept my eyes glued to the empty plate in front of me, tracing the delicate gold rim with my gaze.

“Flora, you look tired,” Mrs. Grayson said as she took her seat beside her husband. “Long day at school?” she inquired.

I nodded slightly, forcing a small smile. “It was… eventful. But Johnathan was great today,” I said.

Mr. Grayson set his phone down as the maids brought in steaming dishes. Roast chicken, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and fresh bread. The smells made my mouth water, but the nerves kept my appetite locked away.

Mrs. Grayson started serving, her voice bright. “So, tell us, Flora. How has Johnathan been doing with his assignments?” she asked.

Johnathan grinned beside me, kicking his feet under the table. 

“He’s improving a lot,” I said. “We finished all his math today without any arguments, and he read two whole pages fluently. He’s really smart when he puts his mind to it,” I added.

Mrs. Grayson beamed, passing a bowl of mashed potatoes. “That’s wonderful! And the stubborn side? I know he can be a handful,” she said.

I chuckled softly, glancing at Johnathan who was pretending to be innocent. “He has his moments. Like when he wants video games before homework. But we made a deal, and he stuck to it mostly,” I replied honestly.

Johnathan puffed out his chest. “I’m good at it! Flora says I’m getting better every day,” he declared.

Mr. and Mrs. Grayson laughed casually. “That’s our boy,” Mr. Grayson said. “Keep it up, son,” he added.

The conversation flowed for a bit with Mrs. Grayson asking about my classes at Crownsworth, me giving short, careful answers about adjusting to the new environment. 

Denji stayed mostly quiet, but I could feel his blue eyes on me occasionally. I stared harder at my plate, pushing vegetables around with my fork.

“What about sports or clubs? You thinking of joining anything?” Denji asked suddenly. I glanced up briefly. “Maybe. Not sure yet. It’s all still new,” I replied.

Mrs. Grayson reached for the platter of roast chicken. “Here, Flora, let me give you some of this meat. It’s tender and full of protein. Good for energy after a long day,” she said.

She was about to place a piece on my plate when Mr. Grayson blurted out, “She’ll need the veggies more.”

The words hung in the air making the table got silent. I shrank in my seat, my shoulders curling inward as heat rushed to my face.

Mrs. Grayson’s fork clattered slightly as she glared at her husband. “Richard! That was completely uncalled for,” she said sharply.

He leaned back, staring nonchalantly at his own plate. “What? Am I lying? Veggies are healthier for… balance,” he replied.

I forced an awkward laugh, trying to ease the suffocating tension. “Mr. Grayson is right, actually. I do need the veggies more. They’re great for… you know, everything. Thank you,” I said.

Mrs. Grayson shot me a sympathetic look. “Eat what you like, dear. There’s plenty here for everyone,” she said.

“Dad is right! If she eats more meat she might explode”  Johnathan chimed in.

I scooped extra broccoli onto my plate to fill the silence. Denji frowned across the table. 

Mr. Grayson waved it off. “ Pass the potatoes, will you?” he asked.

The rest of the meal passed in stilted conversation. The tension easily faded. 

Finally, the plates were cleared. I stood up quickly, smoothing my leggings. “Thank you so much for dinner. It was lovely, but I really should get going now,” I said.

Denji rose from his seat at the same time, his tall frame moving gracefully around the table toward me. “Flora, wait,” he said.

I paused near the doorway. He stopped a respectful distance away, his expression serious. “Forgive my father’s rudeness back there. It wasn’t right,” he said.

I smiled, the expression not quite reaching my eyes. “It’s fine, Denji. Really. I appreciate the dinner, but I’d like to leave now. Long day and all,” I replied.

He nodded, but his blue eyes searched mine. “Let me give you a ride home. It’s getting dark, and the bus—” he started.

“No,” I said immediately, cutting him off. My voice was firmer than I intended. “Thank you, but I’ll be okay. I need the walk. Goodnight,” I said.

Denji stepped a little closer. “Flora, come on. It’s no trouble. The roads aren’t the safest at this hour—” he said.

“I said I’m fine,” I interrupted, my pulse quickening. “Please, Denji. I need to go on my own,” I added.

He hesitated, jaw tightening. “Alright. But text me when you get home safe, okay? Just so I know,” he inquired.

I nodded quickly. “Sure. Goodnight,” I said, waving awkwardly.

Mrs. Grayson called after me. “Take care, Flora. See you soon,” she said.

I walked briskly down the long driveway, not looking back. The gate opened for me, and soon I was on the main road, the villa lights fading behind. My heart still pounded from the dinner table moment. 

The walk to the bus stop felt heavier than usual, every shadow on the sidewalk making me glance sideways. The bus ride home dragged on, filled with the low hum of engines and distant chatter from other passengers.

I kept replaying the evening, the comments, Denji’s eyes, wondering what tomorrow at school would bring after his defense.

By the time I reached my neighborhood, the streets were dimly lit, shadows stretching long. The familiar cracked sidewalks and flickering streetlights did nothing to ease the knot in my stomach. 

I fumbled for my keys, pushing open the front door.

The house was a mess. Broken glass from a bottle crunched under my shoes in the living room. Empty cans littered the floor, and a chair lay tipped over near the couch. 

Cigarette butts overflowed the ashtray, and the air reeked of stale alcohol and smoke. My pulse quickened. He’s been at it again. I stepped carefully, heart hammering as I moved toward my room, listening for any sound from deeper in the house.

My door handle was broken. 

Again.