Page 2 of Loving Violet
Now, as I drive through these familiar mountain roads, I feel a sense of peace. This is my fresh start, a chance to rebuild my life in the place that always felt like home. I know there will be challenges ahead, but I’m ready to face them, one step at a time, surrounded by the beauty and serenity of Honey Springs.
I’ve missed the mountains, the natural beauty that you can see when spending time outdoors. Lucky for me, Josy’s constant chatter about her hometown and its idyllic qualities never fails to capture my attention. She's a true nature enthusiast, an outdoor aficionado through and through. Whether it's embarking on long hikes along the mountain trails, casting her line while fishing, or simply spending serene days by the river or lake, her zest for an adventure is contagious, and it's one of the reasons I'm drawn to the idea of relocating to her hometown instead of returning to mine.
This might raise eyebrows, especially from my mom who often voices her discontent about really any decision I make, but deep down, I know what I want and what Adrian needs. I crave the freedom to live life on my own terms, to raise my son in an environment where we can explore the great outdoors and bask in its wonders, go to a school and create new friends, and feel the safety of the mountains enveloping us day and night. I don’t want my mom, or really anyone, to try to control what I do with my life. I am a grown woman and having this space will be good for us. Josy's hometown offers just that—a haven where I can find solace in nature and carve out a life of happiness and fulfillment for myself and my son.
“Ma! Look! What are those big birds?” Adrian exclaims, pointing out the window and looking up into the skyline.
“Those are hawks, I think,” I explain to him. “Well, some sort of bird of prey at least. See how they are circling in the sky making sure it is safe to dive down? That’s how you know they are hunting.”
“Cool.” He twists to reach for his phone but I playfully smack his arm.
“Nope, keep enjoying the view. See what else is out there.”
At thirty-two years old, I can't help but feel a sense of stagnation in my life, despite the joy and fulfillment I find in being Adrian’s mom. While motherhood is undoubtedly my greatest accomplishment, I yearn for more. I believe—no, Iknow—there’s still time for me to pursue my own dreams and aspirations.
Simultaneously, I want to prioritize Adrian's growth and development. Enrolling him in sports of his choosing is something I eagerly anticipate. I can already envision myself cheering him on from the sidelines, watching with pride as he blossoms in this new, safe place.
Rubbing my hand through my son’s long hair, I tell him, “It won’t be much longer now. Once we get to Josy’s, unpack, eat dinner, you can go back to your phone.”
So, as for my personal life, I'm open to the idea of meeting someone new in the future. However, I recognize that before I can fully open my heart to another person, I need to prioritize my own well-being. I crave love; I miss being loved. I want the soul intertwining kind of love that causes supernovas. I believe I had that for a short time, but it faded too quickly for me to really feel it.
In the meantime, I'm focused on taking proactive steps toward a brighter future for both myself and Adrian. I want my son to be happy. He's been so sad since Taylor and I went our separate ways. Adrian loves his dad; he worships him. That's one of the redeeming qualities that Taylor has—he's an amazing dad. Always attentive to his son and deeply involved in his life. He wants to be present for everything, and I love that for him.
Growing up, I never had a dad who cared much about me. My dad was a traveling salesman. He worked hard, but that meant he was never home, never present for the big things in my life. Adrian deserves better than what I had, so I'm grateful that at least Taylor is a reliable father figure in our son’s life.
Before we left Maryland, Taylor gave Adrian that brand new phone. He wants to stay in touch with him every day and is already planning regular visits. Taylor is determined to spend as much time with Adrian as possible, even considering spending summers, spring breaks, and some Christmases together.
I know it will be tough on Taylor, having to spend time apart from Adrian. I can’t imagine a moment away from my son. After all, he has been my life since the moment he was born eleven years ago. But as I've said before, my priority is Adrian's happiness, and if this arrangement is what's best for him, then I'll do whatever it takes to support it.
Chapter 2
Austin
As I finishup for the day, I clean my desk and roll up the last plan I worked on. Just as I'm about to grab my phone, someone knocks on my door. I look up and see my secretary, Liza, standing at my door.
“I’m heading out. Do you need anything else, Austin?”
“No, I’m good. Have a great weekend. Say hi to the kids for me.”
Liza smiles. “I will. Have fun this weekend.”
“I will,” I reply as she closes the door to my office. Liza has been working for me since I started my business and she is the best personal assistant/secretary. She is always on top of my schedule and without her, this office would be chaos.
Grabbing my phone, I see a text from the guys.
Noah: I'm done cleaning up. What time do you guys wanna meet at the tavern?
Esteban: I'm heading that way now. See you there, fuckers.
Me: Leaving the office now.
Noah: Esteban, how was that shower? Do you look like a civilian again? I have no chance of scoring tonight with you lookin’ the way you did earlier.
Esteban: It took me a while to get the product off my arms and hair, but I’m good now.
Me: What did you do now, Esteban?
Noah: This dumbass tried to show a new employee how to properly finish a wall, and then poured the mud all over himself.
