The Purpose of Love, Part 1

Blake

The wine was rich and velvety, dancing on my tongue as I savored it. My eyes were drawn to the vibrant flowers in the garden, their bloom signaling the arrival of autumn. The air was suddenly filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread as the kitchen staff entered the room, each carrying an assortment of mouthwatering dishes.

Laughter and distant voices filled the air. I acknowledged the staff with a nod as they completed their tasks, and they offered a small smile before exiting the hall. My attention returned to the flowers, admiring the dedication and countless hours Jasmine had spent nurturing them.

The voices grew louder, clearer as they approached. The doors opened once more, and I could hear their steps halting, their anticipation filling the room. “Uncle Blake!” I placed the wine glass on the table and turned around, my heart pounding with excitement. “Uncle Blake! I missed you so much! Where did you go? I have been searching for you everywhere.”

I chuckled, dropping to my knees as Thea dashed into my open arms. I held her tightly, patting her gently as I looked up to meet her father’s gaze. He offered a warm smile before moving to a nearby chair, cradling little Emric in his arms. Jasmine’s face lit up with joy as she hurried over to join us.

“Blake! I missed you so much.” I held Thea in my arms while giving Jasmine a side hug. “And what have you done to your hair?” I chuckled. “Yeah, Uncle Blake. Where is your hair?” Thea placed her hand on my head.

“You look like the kidnapping villain from the movies.” My gaze met her dad’s once again before we both chuckled. “But you don’t look like them. You— Look good.”

***

“How are you doing, my love?” I asked Thea, watching her cheeks turn pink. “I’m good, Uncle Blake. How are you? How was your trip to the mountains?” The excitement was vivid in her eyes. I remember the night she tugged on my sleeve, asking me to call her by a nickname. I was taken aback by the sudden request. I couldn’t come up with anything other than dear or love.

“I’m doing well, too. The trip to the mountains was beautiful. Someday— I hope to take you on a leisure trip.” She beamed in happiness while her parents watched us. I looked at Jasmine. “How are you, Jasmine?”

“Oh, your mister is taking good care of me. I’m happy, but we miss you.” I smiled at her. “And also we are happy for you—the pictures you have sent us. I don’t know how many times I have checked them. Because they were so beautiful.”

My gaze shifted to Mick and Sherry entering. They smiled and kept their distance. They are still scared of me. “Hi, Blake. How are you?” Both asked in unison. “I’m good. How are you two?” I asked, taking a seat. Jasmine wandered to where Theodore was sitting.

Christopher and Talia arrived a bit later, along with sweets and snacks. There were a few men from our intel team. Men who I was close with. Everyone brought their partners as the send-off party started.

Thea was running around with two other girls. Jasmine was speaking with Jasper’s wife. I kept an eye on Thea. My gaze met Jasmine’s friend from her workspace. She smiled, and I nodded before looking away. I have no time to get involved with someone.

Theodore chuckled and handed me the glass. “Are you going to get drunk tonight?” I shook my head. “Some other time.” He scoffed. “You say that every time. You can hit the bed in our home. Jasmine isn’t going to keep you out.”

***

I took my time before shaking my head. “What happened to the previous Theodore?” He looked at Jasmine, Thea, and Emric—who was sleeping peacefully in Christopher’s arms. “Wasted lots of time being calm and silent.”

We clicked the glasses before taking sips. “You know, right, you don’t have to leave. I will miss you. I— I don’t want you to leave.” I sighed. “I know, but I need the break. I cannot follow you to the throne. I don’t see myself adapting to that life. I want to slow down…”

“I want to slow down and settle somewhere for some months. I need the break.” I finished the drink and picked another. “It’s getting harder to stay here for any longer. The new life is not going to help me. The mountains helped me decide. And I decide to quit this routine and job.” I looked at the flowers and the butterflies. “I have saved up enough for the next five years. It isn’t going to be bad.”

Theodore gave a nod. “If that is what you wish to have. I’m no one to stop. If you ever feel like returning— I’m just a call away. And keep in touch. My girls love you, and my boy needs to know you.”

I smiled. “I’m going nowhere. I will always be near… I will be meeting them once in a while.” Theodore hummed as we watched the others. “Have you thought of where you are going?”

“Yes.”

“Where?” I gave him a wink. “I will send you the postcard.” He chuckled before shaking his head.