Meet Me Where the Oak Tree Grows novel Chapter 13

Jonah got right to sketching as soon as he walked in, probably because I'd held him up at work. His long legs were stretched out, one foot resting against the stool.

I whispered, "Hey, can you find me my bag? It’s like one of those woven ones?"

He pointed upward with his pencil, "It's in the sunlit room on the south side. Mom tucked it away for you."

"Really?" I was about to ask more when his mother appeared from the kitchen.

She put an arm around me, saying, "Lana, I just put the soup on to simmer. I've set up a room for you upstairs. Come on, see if you like it."

I quickly waved my hands. "Oh, thank you, Ma’am. But I'll be heading home soon."

"Why? So your father can keep beating you up?" Jonah chimed in without even glancing up.

"Stay until you're better," he insisted. "I don't want folks saying I bully kids."

His mother agreed, "Yeah, stay a couple of days to get your strength back."

I was taken aback, like I'd just hit the jackpot, leaving me a bit dazed. With a gentle nudge, I found myself heading upstairs.

The room was tidy and charming, with its own wardrobe and desk. The bed had fresh floral sheets. A chubby little succulent sat on the windowsill, soaking up the sun. Maybe it was the cozy vibe, but even my mustard yellow bag on the couch seemed to shine.

I didn't want them to think poorly of me too. I busied myself with the remaining rice, pretending to be occupied. I couldn't stop for fear they'd notice my discomfort. I scolded myself for not eating slower just now.

Finally, even the last grain of rice was gone. I slowly placed my chopsticks on the edge of the bowl.

Jonah’s mother looked at me with concern, "Lana, is that all you're eating? It's not much."

I nodded, "I'm full, Ma’am."

"Are you sure?" she asked, worry etched on her face.