Chapter 5 LEON PARKER

THE PARKER'S MANSION

Miriam finally emerged from her room, all dressed up in a florescent knee length dress. Her hair freely bounced over her shoulders as she briskly shoved her bag over her shoulder.

Miriam was in her third year in University and due to her father's decision, had to change her previous school to a more advanced one, Oxford University. That was the excuse John had made to get her join Gina at the same school, so to get a chance to meet his younger daughter without suspicions.

"Are you ready now, Leon?... Hurry, we're getting late–time is already far spent." Miriam shouted as she hurried down the stairs.

Following his sister's call, Leon huddled out, hopping on his foot while he laced up his shoe.

"Here, coming... sweetest sis." He announced.

Soon, he had joined Miriam at the hall and they rushed out, biding Jane a goodbye. They hurried into Miriam's car with Leon, throwing his bag over to the back seat of which Miriam snorted.

"Hey, watch it– this isn't your room. Don't mess up" She threw him a glare as she pulled the car through to the main street. Leon chuckled.

"That look could clearly give one a heart attack, you know?" He teased and they both laughed.

The drive continued in silence– half way through, Miriam called, breaking the chill.

Leon, Leon....Leoooon , how many times did I call you.?"

"Three consecutive times dear–Why that?" He asked with creased brow.

"As your elder sister, I've got it just a few advice for you before high school life begins." She went on and Leon listened with the rapt attention.

"I'm all ears...shoot"

"First of all, today being your first time, you ought to knock and wait until you are asked to come in before you do so when you get to the Principal's office. Don't get there and act all naughty like you do when coming to my room" She stated and Leon feigned a smile.

" Secondly, when you enter the office, your hands should be behind your back. Greet with a smile and wait for his response before introducing your self and then the program you want to offer.

I know you have gotten to the next stage in life and academics, your thinking becomes higher. You get to meet and mingle with different people from all sectors of life.But always remember you are a Parker and should always put up a good behavior and outstand where ever you see yourself, okay?" Miriam finally ended her long speech. Leon smiled and nodded.

"Thanks alot sis, I'll do exactly as you've said I won't disappoint the Parker's ."

Miriam chuckled and nodded her head, giving him a smile.They continued their journey with the playing of music until they finally pulled over at the entrance of Leon's school.

"Young Man, we've gotten to your destination.... kindly get off my car and get going." She announced. Leon who had dosed off, stretched with the feel of laziness swept all over his face.

" Wow... so soon" He grumbled and Miriam gave him a stare which gave him the scare.

" Okay.....okay, I'm going" He exuded and Miriam laughed. Just when he got down off, she mumbled.

" I'll call as soon as we close." He stuttered.

" Alright then, hurry and good luck– Come on, give me a hug before leaving."

Leon hugged and kissed his sister's cheeks before finally hurrying off. He headed towards the administration block.

Miriam on the other hand, seeing her brother entering the Principal's office drove off.

*************

Jane was comfortably seated in the soft sofa seated in the living room, positioned at the corner closer to the freezer; relaxing and at the same time refreshing herself with a glass of wine with the thought of her family ringing in her mind. For once, she felt grateful for such a happy family–the joy and all, was to her, a blessing beyond measure. One, no amount of money could buy.

As she was still enjoying the warmness of the atmosphere– footsteps were head like droplets of rain, matching towards her direction of which she swiftly turned. It was John. Jane felt a bit surprised, her voice laced with uncertainty.

"Hey, love...you came early today." She welcomed with a kiss and he smiled, returning her kiss.

"Yes, the office wasn't so busy after the meeting so I opted to return home early enough." He explained. "I was thinking we could have time out this evening to celebrate Leon's process. What do you think ?"

He asked and she tilted her head with a bright smile.

"Sure, why not" She hugged him and John placed a soft kiss on her head. "Here, let me help you."

With that, she took his bag and hand in hand, they sauntered up the stairs towards their room with chats and soft chuckles.