Unconventional Love - Chapter 3
Xenia Snyder-Collison@xeniasnydercollison751687
12 days ago
A FAMILY GAME NIGHT
In the cozy living room of their family house, Hailey unfolded the nostalgic treasures of her mother’s old ludo game. The room exuded a peaceful atmosphere.
The rich mahogany furniture and plush cushions also added a feeling of comfort, inviting the family to gather for a delightful evening of laughter and bonding. Hailey brimmed with excitement as she presented the board game, her eyes sparkling like the stars in the night sky.
“Look what I found! It’s grandma’s old Ludo game. Ursula, come, let’s relive some cherished memories!”
Caleb, weakened but content, reclined on the couch, his gaze fixed on his wife and daughter. He marvelled at the simple pleasure of seeing his loved ones together, embracing the magic of the moment.
Ursula, equally thrilled, joined her mother, their hands deftly setting up the board game. The sound of dice rolling and wooden tokens clattering filled the air, intertwining with laughter and gentle teasing.
Hailey couldn’t resist a mischievous taunt. “Oh, Ursula, you’re not doing so well in the game!” she playfully teased. Ursula chuckled, her competitive spirit igniting. “Just wait and see, mum! I’ll catch up and leave you behind.”
As the game unfolded, the room buzzed with excitement and friendly banter. Caleb, unable to resist the infectious energy, rose from his spot on the couch and began pacing around, cheering and offering words of encouragement.
“Go, honey! Go, Ursula!” he cheered with pride and enthusiasm. “You’re both doing great!”
The family’s competitive spirit fuelled their determination, their ranting mingling with the sound of dice rolling across the board. Despite the occasional setbacks and strategic manoeuvres, they reviled in the pure joy of shared moments and friendly rivalry.
As the game progressed, Hailey emerged as the victor. Her victory was celebrated with applause and laughter. Ursula graciously conceded, acknowledging her mother’s skill.
Caleb joined in, trying to console his daughter. “It was an intense game! You both played so well.”
Undeterred by the outcome, they decided to play more rounds, enjoying the connection and joy that emanated from their togetherness. However, after a while, a sense of contentment settled within them, signalling that they had experienced enough excitement for one evening.
Ursula, taking charge, began packing up the game. “That was fun, but I think we’ve had our fill for now.”
Caleb’s gaze softened as he looked at his second daughter. “I’m glad we could all do this together. It’s been so long since we’ve had a family activity like this.”
Ursula’s smile grew wider, radiating with genuine happiness. “You’re right, dad. And I’m so happy you’re feeling better.”
Their intimate moment was interrupted by a gentle knock on the door. Ursula hurriedly made her way to answer it. Opening the door, she was greeted by Rachel, her sister, who was living in Winneba with her husband.
Breathless from the journey, she apologized for her lateness, blaming it on the heavy traffic. Ursula embraced her elder sister tightly, the weight of their bond evident in their heartfelt reunion.
“It’s okay. We’re just glad you made it. Come on in and join us,” Ursula invited, ushering her into the living room.
As Rachel entered, Caleb’s face lit up with sheer delight. “Rachel, my darling, it’s so good to see you.”
“It’s so good to see you too, father.”
“How are you and my granddaughter doing?”
“We’re doing very fine, dad. And the baby, too, is as strong as the doctors say she is”.
“That’s so good to hear”, Hailey chimed in. “You must be starving. Let me go and heat up the soup.”
Rachel gratefully sank into a seat next to Ursula. “Thank you, mum,” she murmured appreciatively, her exhaustion temporarily forgotten.
“So dad, how are you feeling now? Have there been any improvements so far?” “Yes, my dear”, he replied. “With the aid of the painkillers, some herbal medicine Edith brought, plus adequate rest, I believe I am getting better”.
“Wow! That is indeed good to hear”, Rachel remarked. “I missed the game, didn’t I?” “Yes, you did. It’s no big deal – at least you came. That’s all that matters. As for the game, we can always play another time.”
Rachel’s eyes welled with gratitude. “Thanks, Ursula. Thanks for understanding.”
The room filled with animated conversation as the Lamprey family gathered around the dining table, enjoying the warmth of their shared meal. Fufu and palm-nut soup graced their bowls, a traditional delicacy that engulfed the room with mouthwatering aromas.
As they swallowed each morsel, the conversation ebbed and flowed, carrying them through stories of their lives, memories, and aspirations. Laughter punctuated the air, blending harmoniously with the slurping of soup and the chewing of meat.
Caleb’s gaze shifted toward Rachel’s baby bump, a glimmer of excitement shining in his eyes. “We’re so excited that we’re going to have a new addition to our family soon,” he declared.
Hailey’s face mirrored his delight, feeling a wave of maternal warmth. “Yes, it’s a blessing. We can’t wait to welcome the little one into our lives.”
As the hours slipped by, Rachel prepared to leave and bid her family farewell.
“Thank you for the lovely time. I’ll see you all soon,” Rachel expressed nostalgically.
Ursula responded, “It was a beautiful reunion. We’ll cherish this memory.”
They exchanged heartfelt goodbye hugs with Rachel, the lingering embrace of family love and connection serving as a reminder of the bonds that transcended time and distance.
#unconventionallove
#novel
#chapterthree
