Mornings at the Estate

The sun was just beginning to rise over the green meadows of the Hart estate, painting the sky with golden and pink hues. The fresh air carried the sweet scent of freshly cut grass and wildflowers that lined the paths. It was one of those perfect days where everything seemed calm, as if the entire world had decided to take a break and let us enjoy the moment.

Lindsay and I were sitting on a blanket spread out over the meadow, surrounded by a small selection of fruits, freshly baked rolls, and two steaming cups of coffee. We had decided to have breakfast outdoors to take advantage of the tranquility of the morning before the rest of the house woke up. It was one of those rare moments when we could simply be ourselves, without interruptions or distractions.

"You know," Lindsay said as she bit into a slice of melon, "I never thought I'd get so used to this. Waking up early, feeling so… relaxed, even after everything that's happened."

I smiled, watching her delicately wipe her lips with a napkin.

"It's because there's no pressure here. No exams, no families waiting for big decisions. It's just the two of us and this amazing place."

She nodded, her eyes shining with a mix of peace and something deeper that I couldn't quite describe. I leaned toward her, taking her hand in mine.

"You know that whatever comes next, we'll face it together, right?" I said softly, feeling my heart beat a little faster as I spoke those words.

Lindsay returned my smile, squeezing my hand gently.

"I know, Sack. And that's what makes all of this worth it."

We were about to continue our conversation when we heard footsteps approaching. I turned my head and saw Olivia walking toward us with her breakfast tray, loaded to the brim with croissants, exotic fruits, and a pitcher of orange juice that she had probably ordered specially for the occasion. Behind her came Ellie and her younger sister, Charlotte, who was carrying her teddy bear under one arm and wearing a curious expression on her face.

"Good morning, lovebirds!" Olivia exclaimed, dramatically dropping down next to us. "Please tell me I'm not interrupting anything important. You know, like declarations of eternal love or plans to conquer the medical world."

Lindsay rolled her eyes, though she couldn't help but laugh.

"No, Olivia, we were just talking about how peaceful this place is. At least until you arrived."

Olivia pretended to be offended, placing a hand over her chest.

"Peaceful? Please! This place needs some excitement. I was thinking we could organize an epic treasure hunt across the estate. With secret clues, ancient maps, and maybe even a drone to film it all from above. It would be legendary."

Charlotte, who had been watching Olivia with fascination, raised her hand excitedly.

"I want to join! Can we do it today?"

Ellie rolled her eyes, though she was smiling too.

"Charlotte, you just got here. I think you should rest a bit first."

But Olivia was already completely captivated by the little girl's energy.

"Oh, no, Ellie. Charlotte has an adventurous spirit. I can see it in her eyes. Besides, what better way to get to know the estate than by following mysterious clues and finding hidden treasures?"

Charlotte nodded vigorously, hugging her teddy bear even tighter.

"Yes! And we can use the bear as our secret guide!"

Olivia burst out laughing and, without warning, pulled Charlotte into an exaggerated hug.

"Where have you been all my life, little genius? You should've been born into my family. Together we could conquer the world."

Lindsay interjected, trying to contain her laughter.

"I think you already have enough chaos on your own, Olivia. You don't need to involve an innocent child."

"Innocent, but visionary," Olivia corrected, winking at Charlotte. "She understands my ideas much better than you two."

Ellie sat down next to us, shaking her head with amusement.

"I just hope you don't end up building a floating dance floor in the middle of the lake or something like that."

"That's a great idea!" Olivia exclaimed, clearly thrilled. "But we'll have to save that for another day. Today, we'll focus on the treasure hunt."

After finishing our impromptu breakfast, we decided to go horseback riding to explore more of the estate. The stables were full of well-cared-for horses, each with its own unique personality. Olivia chose a white horse named Apollo, who seemed as elegant and theatrical as she was. Lindsay and I opted for two calmer horses, while Ellie and Charlotte shared a friendly pony named Buttercup.

As we rode along trails surrounded by tall trees and wildflowers, the conversation flowed naturally.

"So, Sack," Olivia began, turning to me with a mischievous smile, "what's your biggest dream? Besides becoming the best doctor in the world, of course."

I took a moment to think.

"I guess I want to create something that truly changes lives. Maybe develop a new surgical technique or find an innovative solution to a common medical problem. Something that makes people's lives better, even if only a little."

Lindsay looked at me with pride.

"I'm sure you'll do it. If anyone can achieve it, it's you."

Olivia made a dramatic gesture with her hand.

"Ugh, too noble for my taste. I want to create something extravagant. Something that combines functionality and extreme style."

Ellie laughed.

"You should work with Sack and Lindsay. They can provide the serious medical side, and you can add the extravagant touches."

"Exactly!" Olivia replied, pointing at Ellie enthusiastically. "It would be the perfect team. The three of us leading a revolution in modern medicine."

Charlotte, who had been listening attentively, finally spoke.

"I want to be a doctor when I grow up. So I can help people like you guys."

We all paused for a moment to look at her. There was something so genuine and determined in her voice that it made us smile.

"Welcome to the club, Charlotte," Lindsay said, extending her hand to the little girl. "You'll be a great addition."

Olivia leaned forward, pretending to be serious.

"But remember, Charlotte, being a doctor doesn't mean just saving lives. It also means having style. Never use a boring stethoscope. Make it shine."

Charlotte nodded solemnly.

"Understood. My stethoscope will be golden."

We all burst into laughter, and for the rest of the ride, we kept chatting about our dreams, our goals, and the endless possibilities the future held for us. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of the estate and the company of those we loved most, I felt like anything was possible.