Jack had never been in a place so grand. Everything looked expensive and luxurious, and he couldn't help but stare in shock and admiration. Is this what true wealth means? he wondered, his mouth slightly open. Victoria noticed his expression and stepped in front of him.
"All right, that's enough staring, Jack," she said gently.
Jack let out a sigh, quickly tearing his gaze away from the stunning surroundings. At the entrance, maids stepped forward to greet Richard and Victoria, and Jack tagged along behind them.
"You'll be staying here for now. Any objections?" Richard's voice broke into Jack's thoughts. "I need to know more about you—your background and your name—so I can figure out what to do. From what you've seen today, you should know the Masons are not a family to mess with. Especially Clara Mason, who has her eyes on you. Why? I'll need to find that out, and soon."
Jack thought back to what he knew—rescued and adopted by Grandma Grace, with only the little bit she had told him about his mother, who died giving birth to him. Stay here? Jack hadn't expected this. He thought they'd talk, but now Richard wanted him to stay. But could he even afford a place like this? he wondered, suddenly nervous.
"Um… can I call you Uncle Richard?" Jack asked.
"Call me whatever you're comfortable with," Richard replied. "And sit down. Victoria's going to get your room ready."
When Victoria left, Jack looked around and chose a simple wooden stool over the luxurious white sofa next to him. Richard noticed but stayed quiet, observing as the maids got the table ready for dinner.
"Uncle Richard… I can't afford to stay here," Jack said, lowering his head, embarrassed.
Richard looked surprised. "What do you mean? You don't like it here?"
"It's not that," Jack said quickly. "I just can't afford the rent. I'm a student. I only went to that bar to find a part-time job so I could get by. I appreciate everything you did for me, but I don't want to feel like I owe you when I can't pay you back."
Richard almost laughed but kept a straight face. "Jack, I didn't bring you here to pay rent. I brought you here for your safety. You're from my hometown and a friend of Victoria's. I wouldn't let you stay in that hostel with Francis around or his mother Clara. Money has nothing to do with it—unless you'd rather stay somewhere else?"
Jack looked surprised. "I… I don't have another option. But I need to talk to my grandma. I don't understand why my name is an issue."
"Good. Then it's settled." Richard gave a firm nod. "Tonight, we'll have your things brought over from the hostel. You'll go to school with Victoria until everything's sorted."
"Thank you, Uncle Richard," Jack said, relieved. "I don't know what I'd have done without you."
"Enough of that," Richard replied with a slight smile. "Now, let's have dinner. Afterward, meet me in the library. We need to talk."
As they sat down to eat, Victoria joined them, and the maids began bringing out an incredible spread: vegetables, fries, chicken, lobster, eggs, pasta, and so much more than Jack had ever seen. He barely knew where to start.
Richard noticed his hesitation. "Jack, I'll have the maids bring some food to your room later, so don't worry about it."
"Thank you, Uncle Richard. Thank you, Victoria." Jack gave a slight bow, then excused himself from the table.
The maid guided him to his room on the fourth floor—a suite with a private bathroom, jacuzzi, living room, kitchen, and balcony with a view of the city. Jack felt like he was dreaming. Setting his backpack down, he took in every detail of the room. This is what he had never dared to dream of in his life.
Finally, he took out his phone and called his grandmother.
"JM, how are you?" her warm voice asked.
"I'm doing well, Grandma. How are things back in Racoon?"
"I'm great, JM! And guess what?" Her tone was excited.
"Tell me," he said, his heart pounding.
"I'm coming to see you tomorrow, for your eighteenth birthday! And I've got a lot to tell you about your mother."
Jack was speechless, the words sinking in slowly. However, he still decided to tell her '' Grandma, I think I'm in trouble.
'' Trouble? JM, What are you talking about? Grandma Grace was disturbed, she knew Jack was a humble and peaceful child why would he be in trouble two months after getting an acceptance letter into school? '' Talk to me JM,
'' Okay, Grandma is not something that should keep you awake but, it has to do with my last name. Jack went ahead and told his Grandmother all that happened between him and Francis, Victoria, and how he is now in Richard's house.
Grace was so heavy-hearted, that she was wondering how perfect was the timing for Rita, for her to decide Jack needed to know his true identity on his eighteenth birthday. Was Rita's spirit still alive, knowing this day will come soon when Jack will be opposed over his last name? Is the Mason Family that difficult? Will Jack be able to face them and claim his mother's fortune and position?
'' Grandma, are you there? Jack felt his Grandma knew more than she was telling him as his voice penetrated Grandma's thoughts.
'' JM I am here, I need you to know one thing is certain you are not a bastard, I knew your biological mother of blessed memory and tomorrow when I come, I will answer every question you ask. I have some things I need to hand over to you''
''Grandma, are you serious? Have they anything to do with my Identity, Jack got excited as he asked, sitting up on the bed properly
'' I am serious JM, tell Richard I will be there tomorrow and we will all sit down and talk during the celebration.
'' Okay Grandma, safe travels, will be expecting you tomorrow. Jack hung up.
Back at Racoon Village, Grace paced back and forth in their old cabin, was this planned by Rita, why was the timing so perfect for Jack to be seen or met by the Mason Family at this time of his life at the university? '' Rita please shine your light on your son and lead him to your fortune and his true Identity.
Back in the city, Jack just finished dressing up, after getting out of the shower when he heard a gentle knock on his door, he opened the door, ''Yes'' the maid was standing by the door; '' Young Sir, Master Richard wants you. Jack turns around, picks up his phone from the bedside table, and follows her behind. She took him to the study room, where two bodyguards stood by the door
Jack walked into the study, Richard was sitting down, alone waiting for him.'' Sit down'' he gestured at Jack, who sat, Richard handed him a traveling bag which Jack quickly recognized as his, inside was Jack's registration form, some school documents, a picture of him and Grandma Grace, and a pair of sandals.
Jack was stunned, ''Is this all that was brought back? he asked.
Richard nods'' Unfortunately yes! This was the first time Richard noticed an unfriendly expression on Jack's face. He looked really upset
'' My clothes are all not here he added,
'' Jack you ought to be happy you lost just your clothes and not your life. Anything in this world can be replaced except for a life. Tomorrow we can go shopping. Richard spoke softly making Jack let go of his anger but deep down he swore to make Francis pay.
Jack, tell me about yourself, I know the woman in that picture, I call her Aunty Grace. Who is she to you?
She's my grandma! I call her Grandma Grace. Richard looked at Jack a few more times, '' I know Aunty Grace has no child, how is she your grandma?
'' Well, she is the only relative I know. She told me she adopted me after my Mum passed while giving birth to me.
''OH! Sorry for your loss.
'' Uncle Richard, it's okay, it's been years. According to her, she was thrown out of her marital home that day because she was unable to give birth to a child for her husband. She had no other option than to take her things to her farm, then get a place to rent and move in, however, it was at that time she bumped into my mum struggling all alone to give birth to me, as an experienced nurse she quickly assisted my Mum but after the delivery, my Mum passed. She had no choice but to adopt me and that was how she raised me and she is the only relative I know.
The room fell deep into silence, Richard sat up and looked at Jack; '' Jack do you know anything about how you got the name, Mason?
'' Well, I guess my Granma gave me the name.
'' Are you related to the Mason in any way?
'' I swear, I have no single information about where I am from or who I am, or about my true Identity. I feel so lost. I guess these are some of the things I also need answers to. Tomorrow is my birthday, Grandma Grace will be around, so we can all talk about this. I also need to know who I am.
Richard and Jack both agreed to wait for Grandma to arrive the next day.'' Jack, you ought to be tired now, get some rest, tomorrow we have an early start for shopping.
Jack stood up and left, indeed he was extremely tired.
The next morning arrived faster than Jack expected. Just as he began to stir awake, he heard a loud knock on his door, followed by the cheerful sound of singing. He sat up, rubbing his eyes, as Victoria, grinning ear-to-ear, pushed open the door. She was leading a small group of maids, one of whom carefully balanced a large cake decorated with blue and silver frosting.
"Happy birthday, sleepyhead!" Victoria laughed as she walked in, gesturing for everyone to join her in a cheerful chorus. Behind her, Richard appeared, holding a wrapped gift under one arm and a balloon in the other.
Jack's surprise turned into a wide smile. He climbed out of bed, feeling more at ease than he had in a long time. "This… this is amazing," he stammered, taking in the decorations and the way everyone seemed genuinely happy to be celebrating with him.
Victoria winked, setting a small party hat on his head. "You didn't think we'd forget, did you? Eighteen is a big deal."
Richard stepped forward, handing Jack the wrapped box. "Open this after breakfast. For now, make a wish and blow out the candles," he said with a smile that was both warm and a little proud.
Jack looked down at the cake, which had "Happy 18th Birthday, Jack!" written in neat, frosted letters. He felt an overwhelming wave of gratitude as he closed his eyes, made a silent wish, and blew out the candles. The room burst into soft applause, and he glanced up, still a little stunned by the kindness they'd shown him.
"Thank you, everyone," Jack said, his voice barely above a whisper. He glanced at Richard and Victoria, realizing that he wasn't just a guest there. For the first time in a long time, he felt like he had a family and wished Grandma Grace had arrived.
'' Hurry up, remember we are going somewhere soon, Richard yelled as he and others left the room so Jack could get ready for his day.
As soon as Jack came out of the room Victoria was waiting by the door, ''Jack it's your birthday let's go out''. Richard and Victoria decided it was time for Jack to get a fresh start. He invited him on a shopping trip, much to Jack's surprise—and excitement. He still didn't know what to expect
As they entered the first high-end store, Jack could hardly believe his eyes. Racks of designer clothes lined the walls, and the air was filled with the subtle scent of luxury colognes.
"Uncle Richard, this is too much," Jack murmured, overwhelmed.
Richard laughed, clapping him on the shoulder. "No more of that 'Uncle Richard' business. Just call me Richard. After all, I've decided you're practically my younger brother now." He gave Jack a warm smile. "From now on, you're family, Jack. I want you to feel like it."
Jack looked at him, speechless. He glanced at Victoria, who was grinning at him, clearly in on the plan.
"He means it, Jack," she said, nudging him forward. "Now come on. First stop—new wardrobe!"
They spent the next hour picking out everything: designer shirts, jeans, suits, and shoes. Jack hesitated over each price tag, his eyes wide.
"Richard, I… I really can't afford this."
Richard shook his head. "You don't need to worry about that. This is my gift to you. Consider it part of your welcome to the family." He handed a sales assistant a pile of clothes to ring up. "Now, next—accessories. You'll need belts, a wristwatch, cologne…"
Victoria picked up a sleek black watch from the case and handed it to Jack. "This would suit you perfectly. Try it on."
Jack slipped it on, admiring the feel of the leather band. "I don't know how to thank you."
"Just say you'll wear it," Richard replied, smiling. "And speaking of upgrades, you'll need a new phone." He led Jack over to a display of the latest models.
"Really? A new phone?" Jack was shocked, glancing down at his old, cracked one.
"Yes, really." Richard grinned. "Pick whichever one you want."
An hour later, they left the store with 120 bags of clothes, 15colognes, 6 brand new watches, and Jack's upgraded phone. Jack was overwhelmed with gratitude, his heart full. They even stopped at a barbershop, where Jack got a sharp new haircut that made him look and feel completely different. For the first time, Victoria noticed that Jack was a handsome young man
Finally, as they walked toward the parking lot, Richard stopped in front of a sleek, black Range Rover Limited Edition car with a big red bow on the hood.
"Richard… is this…?" Jack's jaw dropped. I don't know how to drive a car, how do I move this?
"Yours." Richard tossed him the keys with a wink. "You're eighteen now. It's time you had your wheels That wouldn't be an issue. For now, you will have a driver while you are learning how to drive by the side."
Jack looked at the car, then back at Richard. "I… I don't know what to say."
Richard smiled. "Then don't say anything. Just enjoy it. Besides…" He gave Jack a knowing look. "There's one more surprise coming for you tomorrow."
Victoria shot Richard a curious look, and he smiled at her before turning to Jack. "I've arranged a flight to bring someone special to see you. She'll be here in another 30 minutes."
Jack's eyes widened. "Grandma Grace? thought she would be coming by train?"
Richard nodded. "She's on her way from the airport let's start heading home."
Jack couldn't believe it. His heart swelled with emotion as he realized how much they'd done for him. This wasn't just about clothes or cars. It was a family—something he hadn't truly felt in his life, aside from Grandma Grace.
Turning to Richard, he smiled, his voice thick with gratitude. "Thank you. For everything."
Richard squeezed his shoulder. "Welcome home, Jack."
'' Thank you, Victoria, if we hadn't seen, none of this would have been possible''
No thanks, Jack. It's time you smile for once in your life. Racoon Village should not take a toll on you, Victoria added softly.
They left in Richard's car as the other new car was driven by a bodyguard Richard had assigned to protect Jack. six luxury cars sped off in the direction of Richard's house.
Grandma Grace sat in the luxurious living room when they arrived all happy and chatty
'' Aunty Grace, is that you? Richard was the first to step into the living room, Grace turned to face Richard, and he threw some of the things he had in his hands on the floor as he hugged her warmly.
'' Little Richie as she fondly called him years ago, you have grown so much, she took a few steps back just to have another look at him. It's indeed a small world.
Aunty Grace, Victoria walked over to hug her. Victoria you look great, so good to see you too. '' Same here Aunty Grace, How was your flight?
''My dear you kids won't get me again that way. The last time I was in an airplane was almost twenty-five years ago and so today I had a serious fright just sitting in that plane. All the same time you so much Little Richie. I appreciate All this while Jack stood aside happy and listening to their conversation.
''Grandma'' Jack called out, I'll always know my birthday boy's voice she replied as she turned to face Jack who hugged her and lifted her excitedly.
Grandma, I missed you so much''
'' You do? It's only been 2 months plus, she laughed heartily. Happy JM, and may you have more splendid years ahead.
Jack was so excited he couldn't wait to show Grandma his gift like a little child, he made Grace sit down and began narrating all the shops they visited and the gifts he received. Grace had tears in her eyes, continuously thanking Richard.
Lunch was served as they all cut the birthday cake, took pictures, and sat down for lunch. It was a great afternoon. Soon it was time for the serious part of the day as the four of them went to Richard's study room to talk. They were all seated with drinks served as Aunty Grace broke the silence.
Little Richard, how is the young man you saved years ago, is he still in the city? Richard was surprised Aunty Grace still remembered Jack Taylor.
He's good, but in search of his wife, he said he wouldn't give up until he found her. Aunty Grace was silent; ''I hope he does.
Aunty Grace, can we know about Jack's background? Anything at all you can tell us Richard sat relaxed
'' Today makes it Eighteen years ago, I met her on my farm, it was a scorching afternoon, I was thrown out of my marital home since I was unable to have a child after four years of marriage, so I went to drop my things on my farm hoping to look for a small apartment to rent after dropping my things on the farm, but unfortunately, it wasn't as planned. I met Jack's mum in a life-threatening situation and I had no choice but to put my things aside and help her, as a nurse, our first response is to save the life involved but unfortunately, I could only save one and not both
Jack was born that day but unfortunately, his Mum passed. However, that was before telling me his name and handing some things to me.
.