Page 5 of Loving Violet
And as my body slimmed down, his criticism turned downright cruel. "Now that you’ve lost the weight, I think you look too skinny. I liked you better fat," he would mock, his words stinging like daggers.
His relentless body shaming left me feeling inadequate and unworthy, as if no amount of effort could ever satisfy his impossible standards. But even with his cruel words, the gym remained the place where I could feel like myself. When I was working out, I discovered a newfound freedom and empowerment that I never thought I could feel again.
Taylor’s control was not only in our house, it was also in every aspect of our lives. He was always meticulous about our image, ensuring that everything appeared perfect from the outside.
But inside, I felt isolated and lonely.
He was a successful man, and from the outside, we looked like the perfect family.
But, the reality was far different. I spent my days alone, maintaining a house that felt more like a museum than a home, while Taylor spent longer and longer hours at the office.
Now, as I breathe in the clean mountain air of Honey Springs, I finally feel free. This town, with its friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, is the perfect place to start over with Adrian. Here, I can rebuild my life and find myself again. I’m determined to make the most of this fresh start, not just for Adrian but for me as well. Here, I can finally do whatever I want. I can wear my workout clothes without having someone criticizing me. I can also come home late after going to the gym. I can do whatever I really want.
As we drive past the charming shops and the vibrant town square, I say to Adrian, "This is our new beginning. We both have exciting times ahead, and I’m so happy we’re here together."
Adrian smiles at me, his eyes sparkling with excitement and hope. "Me too, Mom. I think we’re going to love it here. And it will get better when I can get that puppy." I laugh at my son.
Adrian has always been fast with his words and thoughts, with that playful grin of his winning the hearts of anyone around. He sits in the back seat of the car messing with his blonde shaggy hair—I'll need to find a new hairstylist immediately. He's pretty tall for his age and has always had a way with those blue eyes. The girls at school flock around him, and he couldn’t care less, much less even notice them; I love his spirit and his heart.
One day, we will get that puppy, and I can’t wait to watch him grow up alongside it.
His kind and caring nature is what sets him apart. Despite his popularity, Adrian remains grounded, always willing to lend a hand to those who need it. His teachers often commend him for his helpfulness and maturity, traits that make me immensely proud as a mother.
The GPS alerts me to make our last turn before arriving at Josy’s house.
Josy lives in a grand estate that she inherited from her grandparents when they passed away. Originally, they owned over fifty acres of land when they settled in North Carolina, but over time they sold off half of it. However, the remaining half remained within the family. Josy is an only child, and her mom already owns a house as part of the land the grandparents left behind, so she inherited the title to both the land and the house.
As we pull up to the front gates, I can’t help but admire the stately trees that line the driveway, their branches reaching out like welcoming arms.
The main house is a beautiful two-story colonial that really stands out with its white exterior and tall columns at the entrance. It kind of feels like walking by one of those classic homes in Washington, D.C. The dormer windows along the roof add to its timeless look. Around the house, the gardens are full of colorful flowers and greenery with a cobblestone path winding through to cozy little spots where you can sit and relax.
Next to the house is a large garage with a charming guest house on top. It has its own private entrance on the side, which makes it feel secluded, and the porch with potted plants adds a welcoming touch.
“Wow!” I exclaimed as we pulled up to Josy’s grand estate.
“Mom, is Aunt Josy rich?” Adrian inquires, his eyes wide with curiosity.
“Well, I don’t think she is. She just owns Nana's and Dada’s house, you know, her grandparents,” I reply, trying to downplay the situation.
“But, bruh, this is huge. She has to be rich, and if she is, I don’t think she would mind me having my puppy now, right?” Adrian presses with a lot of excitement.
“Adrian, please don’t say anything to Aunt Josy about the dog. I told you that we will get one when we have our own house, not before. Don’t make me change my mind,” I say firmly, hoping to nip the conversation in the bud.
Gosh, could he be any more like his dad?
I swear I gave birth to a carbon copy of his father. It's not enough that Adrian looks just like him, with his light hair, blue eyes, and the same nose. No, he has to have the same personality as his dad, too. Well, not exactly the same. Adrian is kinder and he cares. But still, sometimes it’s like talking to Taylor all over again. When they want something, they keep persisting until they get it. The desire to have a puppy is a great example of how Adrian inherited his dad's tenacity.
As we approach Josy’s house, I see the door swing open, and there she is, running out to greet us with a big smile on her face. She looks absolutely adorable, dressed in short shorts that show her toned legs, paired with pristine white tennis shoes and a flowery blouse. Her curly, brown hair cascades down to her shoulders in wild abandon, framing her beautiful face, which is illuminated by her radiant smile.
“Violet!” Josy yells. I laugh at her excitement; I love this woman.
As she comes closer, her dark skin seems to glow with vitality, and I cant help but feel excited to see her. It has been too long since we saw each other in person, and the sight of her fills me with a sense of warmth and belonging that I didn’t realize that I’d been missing.
We have regular phone conversations and video calls but nothing compares to the joy of seeing her in person. Moving to Honey Springs is a chance to reconnect with Josy. We have been apart for too long.
As she reaches us, Josy envelops me in a tight hug, her laughter ringing out like music. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of our new surroundings, and Josy’s tight embrace, I know that I am exactly where I am meant to be.
Chapter 4
