Roots

Vanilla

Vanilla

Her polka dot dressing robe trails across the floor as she wanders into my room. Mum leans on the door frame and tugs on a smile. I shove the remainder of my things in the backpack and zip it.

"Where are you going so early in the morning?"

"I've missed sleeping at home, so I've decided to spend the day there."

"Do you think he'd notice if you didn't turn up? I worry about you."

"He needs me to look after the dog."

"What kind of dog does he have?" She frowns.

"One of those crosses with like, brown fluffy fur."

"Hm! Will you be home for dinner?"

"Yes." I nod. "I've missed eating with you two."

"I suppose that's a bonus."

"Don't worry about me, I love the job and I'm making money."

She pinches my cheek and sighs.

"Be safe and I love you."

I squeeze her into a hug and smile.

"You need to shower more, you still smell a little strange."

"Thanks, I'll shower later." I chuckle.

She crosses her arms as I sling the bag over my shoulder.

The sun is rising when I escape outside. I toss my bag into the backseat and slip into the front. As I put the keys into the ignition, I sniff my shirt and sigh.

"Mm, I really do stink."

It's a good thing my mother is innocent and has no clue. Everyone else probably thinks I have a chronic disorder or something.

With the sharp smell of the lavender from the car freshener filling my nose, I drive to work.

* * * * *

Green leaves on the gate jiggle as the gate opens. I park on the driveway and take a deep breath. My heart races and adrenaline courses through my system.

I never anticipated an illegal job or excitement over watching people strip and package product.

Shaking my head, I collect my bag from the backseat and round the corner. The door to the hole slams shut and I jump. I inhale a deep breath and prop the door open.

'You wanted this, you asked for this' swirls around my head.

As I reach the bottom, Austin storms over and glares.

"Where have you been? You can't wander away, these plants need protecting."

"Hang on, let me—"

Austin raises his hand and shakes his head.

"She's not responsible enough to take on a harvest shift."

"Enough," The Boss booms.

"Tikera is taking the harvest shift because you need some sunlight."

"I can handle it." Austin glares at me.

"You're having the day off."