Jack was the first one to enter the room. He took the car keys off an end table and wiggled them, "I'm going to start the car and get her warmed up." He said
Margaret came in the room and paused, "And just how do you expect to maneuver in that?" She asked pinching her lips together.
Cherish looked down at herself and pulled the scarf down again, "That is definitely the least of my worries." She said.
Margaret laughed a bit before she went over to the car seats and lugged them over to the kids, "Well then, let's get ready to go!" She said happily while lifting Jr. and buckling him in.
Once the children were loaded, the adults packed themselves in tight dressed in their coats and snow suits before they made their way out to the ski hills. Riding up the path that led towards the entrance of the lodge, Cherish stared in awe at the towering villa. Getting out, they were met with valet who took over and rode off once everyone stood outside.
They entered through the large double doors and the first thing they were hit with was the smell of decadent sweets and vanilla. The interior within was rustic, warm, and inviting. Miriam and Jack brought the babies further past the line for rentals while everyone else held back. Cherish kissed both kids on the cheeks while Miriam spoke up with Jasmine in her arms, "We will be right inside if you need us. Or playing in the snow. You all have fun!!" She said before they disappeared further into the lodge.
Cherish watched after them momentarily. With Simon’s voice calling her, she stepped in line with and the others. Blowing out, Simon took off his hat and wiped his brow with the back of his glove. He was dying of the heat and felt bad for Cherish. Though it was warm beneath those clothes, there wasn't a chance she would complain about it. He knew he’d have to keep an eye on her.
Soon enough their time had come to where Simon and his father split the cost of tickets, skis, boots, and helmets rental. As the number hiked up Margaret slowly turned her head away and pointed out of the window, "Look sweetie, it’s starting to snow again." She whispered as the attendant ripped the receipt out for both Simon and his father to sign.
Cherish turned her attention towards the large windows. A Christmas tree, high and majestic, sat beneath a chandelier. A small smile rested beneath her scarf as she and Margaret approached and stood silently side by side. Margaret glanced at her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders with a tight hug. Cherish returned the sentiment before they pulled away and stared ahead at the other patrons playing around the flat surface of the snow-covered ridge. Kids threw snow in the air, couples held each other's hands, and some parents made snow men with their children.
As the cashier went around and pulled their gear out of storage, Simon Sr. nudged against his son, “I heard you got adventurous this morning.” He said with a knowing look.
Simon recognized the perverse glint in his father’s eyes and shook his head, “Not the kind of adventure you’re talking about. So, whatever you’re thinking…” He looked his father in the eyes and paused for dramatic effect to get the point across, “…stop.” He finished.
Simon Sr. laughed at how coy his boy was being, “Alright, okay, whatever you say, but it looks like you’re missing out, big time.” He stated.
Before Simon had a chance to reply, the attendant returned and gave them their tickets as well as a map and instructions. When they were ready, their gear would be waiting for them by the door.
Margaret sighed out softly as she reflected on her last holiday with Emily. Though she felt a slight twinge of heartbreak for a member she’d lost, she wasn't angry when seeing what they’d gained. She was happy.
When she first heard from Miriam that Simon had another woman in his house and bed, she was livid. She cried hysterically because she didn't understand why her son moved in a stranger so quickly. How broken and confused Miriam sounded only spurred her resentment even deeper. But, alike to her son, she felt that Cherish wasn't a bad woman. She was respectable, humbled, young, and scared.
In her short years, she'd endured more devastation than any of them, yet she handled their delicate situation with grace and beauty. Margaret couldn’t imagine life without Cherish or her granddaughter. A baby that she never knew she could love as much as her own grandson. There was no difference, even if they weren't blood.
Margaret inhaled a deep breath as she turned her attention back to the window, "You know..." Cherish pulled the earmuffs off to hear. Margaret crossed her arms together and sighed, "I didn't think God would bless me with another daughter so soon..." Cherish's stomach dropped and her eyes widened. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as Margaret turned and looked to her, "...but he did, and I couldn't be happier. I've been blessed with three beautiful children. Simon, Emily, and you. I love you and Jasmine. Thank you for loving our family just as much as we love you." She whispered as her eyes glittered.
Cherish inhaled a deep breath as silent tears broke from the corner of her eyes and streamed down the sides of her cheek. She swallowed a hard lump in her throat all while Margaret used a gloved knuckle to soak up her own tears. She glanced back at the men who approached them
