Mayville - Part Five

May's first night with Baker was the first decent night she'd had in a while. He treated her like she was special right away, something May thought she'd never experience again.

The first thing May noticed about her new home was the beautiful garden in the front yard; full of purples and pinks, with greens in between. Climbing out of the car she could smell the sweet blossoms, the scent riding on a light breeze blowing through the countryside home.

She sat in the garden reading a book she'd brought with her for hours, until the sun set and Baker called her inside for their first supper together. He'd met her at the door and handed her a pair of scissors, instructing her to collect any of the flowers from the garden to brighten up her new bedroom. It was his late wife's garden, he'd explained, that he tended committedly since her passing to honor her memory; she'd have wanted May to clip her favorites as well.

That night, May and Baker sat in front of the tv watching her favorite animated series. They shared pizza with all of her favorite toppings, drank her favorite soda, and spent their time trying to get to know each other a little bit more. After all, May thought, they would be stuck together for an unknown amount of time. As sad as she was, she figured she may as well open up a little bit and get to know her temporary dad. So around her sadness she put in the effort to start their relationship off in a positive light, and it was clear that Baker had tried as well.

When he tucked her into bed that night, Baker brushed a piece of May's hair behind her ear and promised her that even though bad things happen there's always goodness around the corner.

For the first time since her parents' death, May felt the smallest hint of something positive. Not quite happiness, but the possibility.

That feeling didn't last long.