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Abram pulled into the driveway to The Lavender House. Ah, it was good to be home.

I got out of the car quietly, as to not disturb anyone. “It’s good to have you back Ms Cade.” Benson grabbed my luggage to take up to my room. Mum greeted me at the door, “My darling! I’m so happy you’re back.” She kissed me on both cheeks. “R and E are asleep and Mary is keeping watch on their floor. I’ve sent Elizabeth up to get some food ready for you, you must be famished, and if you don’t mind I would like to get some sleep.”

“Of course, goodnight!” She floated back upstairs in her silk robe and I walked up to my room that I had missed so much.

The next morning, I woke up early and went for a quick walk. It was before anyone woke up and the maids had strict orders not to let Romey downstairs. I had spent the last week trying to figure out how to surprise Rome. I called my favourite florist and ordered dozens of pink peonies, our favourite croissants, the perfect outfit. Everything was coming together just perfectly.

I had set up the brunch in the garden room, my favourite. Sunlight was pouring in and the whole room sparkled. Mum had gotten dressed and was sitting elegantly at the table. Rome came in and was shocked to find me sitting at the table reading a newspaper.

Saturday was mostly spent just sitting in the garden room, chatting. Rome and I went for a walk later in the afternoon and then Ruben made the whole family a delightful dinner. We had roasted vegetables, potato leek soup, and a decadent chocolate cake to finish. The four of us played games by the fire as night fell and laughed at stories that mum told of when she was our age.

On Sunday, Romey and I ventured into London. We started at the British museum and a couple hours headed to Hyde park for a walk. We hopped in a cab and stopped for tea at the Wolseley (which is our favourite, if you’re in London you should definitely go). We headed back home and Lucas came over for dinner. I got to hear about the ball for the millionth time before heading off to bed.

Monday was my final day in England. I only went for few days which isn’t great, but Romey is coming to visit me in a few weeks so actually, it was fine. Romey and I put on ballet clothes and went to one of her classes (it was more like a pilates class, I could never dance in on one of her formal classes, eeeek). We grabbed cappuccinos at her favourite café and then went home to pack. I kissed mum goodbye, gave Eddy a big hug and promised that I would be back soon. Rome and I jumped in the car and headed back to London. We had a couple hours to spare so walked around and got lunch.

“Alright, I’ll see you in a couple weeks! Don’t miss me too much!” We gave each other a quick hug (neither of us is great at goodbyes) and I walked through security.

Goodbye England, my beloved home.

Xx,

Cade