Chapter 24 - THE GARDEN OF WILD ROSES
As the afternoon sun continued its slow progression across the sky, a warm breeze swept through the lush garden of blooming wild roses that lined the stone terrace above the beach.
The sweet, floral fragrance mingled with the crisp, clean air of the lake, wrapping the lower lawn in a gentle, refreshing atmosphere. Elena stood up from the wooden bench, her light sundress swaying around her ankles, and walked down the gentle green incline toward the shore. Her soft footsteps left subtle impressions in the emerald grass before transitioning onto the firm, damp sand.
"Is it time to check on the roses, Mom?" Nora asked, leaving the puppy’s side to jog up toward Elena.
"The roses are doing wonderfully, Nora," Elena replied, reaching down to take her daughter's small hand into her own. "But I think our little helper might need a cool glass of lemonade after all that running."
Barnaby let out a wet, happy bark as if agreeing with the proposition, trotting up beside them and shaking his damp fur, sending a harmless spray of clear lake water across the sand.
Adrian stood up to his full height, dusting the sand from his dark trousers with a casual stroke of his hand. He stepped beside Elena, his arm sliding naturally around her waist, pulling her comfortably against his side as they looked out over the vast, sparkling expanse of Lake Michigan.
"The water is calm today," Elena noted softly, resting her head lightly against his broad shoulder.
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"It always is when the wind comes from the west," Adrian said smoothly, his eyes scanning the peaceful horizon. "It keeps the big waves out."
They stood together in quiet harmony, three figures and a golden puppy anchored on the warm sand, surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake and the secure boundaries of their home.
