Solana stood frozen, staring at the modest single–story farmhouse.
Even though Averie had seemed awkward during their first meeting, Solana never imagined the family could be this poor.
The cramped kitchen held a wood cookstove–the kind she’d seen on a celebrity reality show–though its hand–painted floral designs softened the rustic vibe.
Learning that Kathryn had painted it herself gave Solana a sliver of comfort. ‘At least Mom has talent,‘ she thought.
The living room also displayed an abstract landscape painting by Kathryn. ‘For some reason, the style felt oddly familiar, but I couldn’t place it,‘ Solana mused.
After exploring further, she estimated the house was barely 500 square feet. Worse, the room she now slept in (originally Averie’s) was the primary bedroom, while Kathryn and Charles’s room was even smaller.
Fortunately, it was summer, and the house had air conditioning.
Though the brand was as off–brand as Kathryn and Charles’s phones, Solana was relieved–and there are three units. One in each bedroom and the living room.
‘Since when did having three ACs become something to brag about?‘ she wondered, recalling the Webb family’s central air system that cooled even the bathrooms and walk–in closets.
Ugh!‘ Solana shook her head violently. ‘Those days are over!‘
From the living room, Charles called her for breakfast. Solana leaned on the windowsill, took a deep breath, and composed herself before heading out.
Watching her parents have a bit of a laugh at the table, Solana took a deep breath. ‘It’s okay. I’ll get into the best university, earn tons of money, and give them a better life,‘ she thought.
“Solana, have a seat.” Charles pulled out a chair and handed her a spoon.
Kathryn winced apologetically: “First time cooking. Sorry, sweetheart.”
Solana stared at the murky liquid in her bowl. Smiling tightly, she said, “It’s fine, Mom!”
“Your mother never learned to cook,” Charles explained.
“Really, it’s not so bad.” Solana took a sip and swallowed hard, maintaining her smile. “How about we buying a microwave? Maybe a gas stove or induction cooktop? It won’t cost much. Didn’t Webbs offer 70,000?”
Charles scowled at the mention of the Webbs. “70,000? They thought they could toss crumbs at us? I threw it right at that secretary’s face!”
Solana swallowed her shock. “So principled! You’re my hero.”
Kathryn asked timidly, “You’re not upset we refused the money, are you?”
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“Of course not!” Solana felt as if their integrity had slapped her.
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She thought to herself, ‘What’s wrong with me? I’m still clinging to my spoiled habits? Averie would laugh me to death if
she knew.
‘No more Webb dependence! I’ll work hard and earn our way up! With a month left before school started, I can find a part- time job.’
After choking down the “breakfast,” Solana rushed out, claiming to meet friends.
Kathryn and Charles waved goodbye warmly. Once the door closed, Kathryn tearfully whispered, “Do you really think she could handle this? Will she secretly go back to the Webbs?”
Charles hugged her. “No way. Our Solana isn’t shallow.”
Kathryn glanced at the wall calendar. “She’s 18 now. We have just over a year left on our agreement with them.”
“One year is nothing, my love.” Charles soothed her.
Outside, Solana faced a jagged gravel road, which was confusing to her.
‘Alright, I can handle this. I’m a fairy enduring mortal trials,‘ she declared dramatically.
After a two–mile walk, Solana caught a bus to downtown-$2 per ride. Thankfully, she had some money left in her PayPal
account.
Three transfers later, she arrived at Embridge City’s largest mall.
‘Go for it!‘ Solana cheered herself on inwardly. ‘I’ll buy them a microwave by the end of summer. Maybe even earn my tuition.‘
Then Solana remembered: She could no longer attend Knight International School and would have to transfer to Averie’s old school.
A pang of disappointment hit–Knight’s faculty was exceptional, and her hard work had earned her top grades. Losing such a platform was a blow.
However, Solana wouldn’t burden Kathryn and Charles. ‘A less prestigious school is fine. But I’ll study harder,‘ she vowed inwardly.
Pretty and articulate, Solana landed a part–time job as a hostess in a mall restaurant by noon.
Thanks to the Webbs‘ fancy steak dinners, she could describe every cut in detail, chatting with customers as they waited.
Soon, her charm made the restaurant a hotspot, with patrons flocking to see the “prettiest hostess” in town.
Within days, it became a viral sensation, with visitors even traveling from neighboring cities to meet her.
The manager was full of praise for her and offered a raise.
“Really? Thank you so much!” Solana exclaimed.
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“You earned it,” he said. “Oh, by the way, deliver this order upstairs. They want to meet our new star employee. Would you mind?”
“Not at all.” Grabbing the takeout bag, Solana headed to the first–floor Hermès store.
As Solana entered, sales associates greeted her warmly. The sight of this fresh–faced teen had them instantly smitten- until she mentioned working part–time to save up for her parents‘ gifts.
“So sweet. I hope my kids can be thoughtful just like you.” someone sighed.
“Enjoy your meal, everyone. I’ll head downstairs now. Welcome to visit our restaurant again soon.” Solana said with a
smile.
Solana turned to leave upon seeing everyone’s satisfied reactions. She had just stepped out of the room when a customer entered. The on–duty sales associate rushed to assist, but Solana froze at the sound of her name:
“Solana?“Averie stood there, smirking. “What a coincidence.”
