Page 39 of The Sky in Summer
“Go ahead,” I give permission where none was asked.
The two of them take off for the side yard, where their friends stand assembling something. Aargon is leading the charge. I can’t really see from here. Besides, I’m still taking in the scene. The windows alone are worth talking about. They are the biggest ones I have ever seen and must offer an unparalleled view of the surrounding mountains and river below. I can’t see inside, but I’d bet there aren’t many window coverings. No heavy-handed drapes to hide the treasures offered through the glass. No neighbors to peek inside.
My senses are on alert. With all the visual stimulation, whose wouldn’t be? In the air is the scent of mixed blossoms. It is not something I have smelled before. Not common in any way. It would make a fabulous perfume if you could bottle the mixture. Music streams and sets a great stage for the holiday. Sounds like a Summer Songs playlist. That along with sun on my shoulders feels healing in a way and reminds me of childhood Julys. The ones you thought would never end.
There is a ramp rising from the ground to the porch. Wonder what that’s about? Is someone disabled in the family?
“Layla!”
Nobel stands and takes the steps down to greet me. Every single one of these Lyons are good looking. I know Dove and Nobel look great together. I’ve seen them many times on TMZ.
“Hi!’ he says, offering a cheek.
“Can I say that this is the most beautiful home I have ever seen? My God, it’s fantastic, Nobel.”
“It’s our Valhalla. Dove and I come back to default setting whenever we have been away. Come on, let me show you inside.”
“Hi,” Parish says as we climb the porch.
“Hi. I’m going to get a tour. I can’t hardly wait.”
“I’ll come with you guys,” Scarlett says.
“I’ll be here chewing on a piece of straw, looking over the estate,” Parish adds.
“Only a writer would come up with that.”
Nobel fills me in. “Parish is a novelist. Never piss him off, it may end up in a book.”
“I love to read. What kind of novels do you write?”
“Mostly detective.”
“He’s hiding his light under a bushel. I’ll fill you in later,” Scarlett says.
I leave my questions there. Maybe he doesn’t like to talk about it for some reason. But Scarlett picks up the slack.
“Dove’s fishing already. She’s trying to sell the non-fisherman on the idea. That’s my dad. Not sure he is buying the glory of it. They’re down there though.”
“Sam’s with her for backup. He’s the one that loves it as much as Dove. I’ll take you down when you want to check it out,” Nobel says. “Come on.”
The three of us walk through the massive front door made of carved wood.
“So beautiful,” I say, running a hand over the wood.
The first thing I pass is a tall mirror and I use the chance to make sure I am presentable. The new bra makes it look like I have something more than reality proves. The tennis shoes we’re a must. If I am going to be hiking or climbing an incline, it’ll be doable in these.
The thick loose braid laying over my right shoulder was something I did at the last minute. Van had mentioned he liked women in braids, so I’m giving him what he wants. I picture him tugging it, not like he did in kindergarten though. This time it will be with something else in mind.
This place would be awesome for a tête-à-tête. Outside. Naked in the sun. Or inside on a fur throw in front of a picture window. Minus the crowd assembled today of course.
Stepping into the open space, two dogs pad to our sides. Wagging ensues. A long tail of a Lab and the short stub of a pug.
“Meet Koda and Betty,” Scarlett says, pointing out each one.
“How adorable! Hi babies!”
I love on them for a bit before resuming the castle tour. Oh my God. I did not expect the two-story fireplace. It hits me as soon as I’m three feet inside the open room. It’s big enough to fit three people standing. I have never seen such a grand fireplace. The common rooms share space and can be seen from here. Living/family room, kitchen, dining. I love it.
