Lost Me, Gained Regret (Jane and Bryant Ferguson)

Zoe had just finished preparing a hearty dinner as we walked through the door. It was a feast for the senses, the kind of meal that makes your mouth water the moment you lay eyes on it. Knowing that Ramona was joining us, Zoe went the extra mile and whipped up a special chicken noodle soup, renowned for its restorative powers. It was a delightful meal that we all enjoyed immensely.

However, I couldn't shake off the feeling that Ramona was burdened with worries. She kept serving me more food, as if she was trying to shower me with all the love she could muster.

Later in the evening, Ramona urged my brother, Gregory, to take his shower first, sensing that she wanted a private moment with me. Gregory, perceptive as always, complied without a fuss. "Jane, come with me," Ramona said, as Zoe busied herself with tidying up the dining area.

I followed Ramona into her room, my heart pounding with anticipation. I was sure she had something significant to share. "Ramona, you..." I began, but was cut short.

"Keep this safe," she said, handing me an old leather pouch that she pulled out from her bag.

Panic surged through me. "Ramona, I can't accept this!"

But she just smiled, a look of relief washing over her face. "Guess what it is?"

I hesitated, my lips pressed together. "Pearl and the others asked me if I knew anything about... your will."

"Do you want to know?"

"All I want is for you to be well," I said sincerely.

To me, being a part of the Myers family didn't hold much allure. My connection to them was tenuous at best, except for Ramona. I had no interest in the Myers' wealth; my own career was on a promising trajectory.

Hearing my unwavering response, Ramona looked both relieved and melancholic. "You take after your mother. The Myers family didn't deserve her. Your father was a fool."

I lowered my gaze. "He still is."

Ramona didn't defend him. Instead, she nodded emphatically. "Right, you are. That's why I want to make things right for you and your mother."

She pressed the leather pouch into

my hands, her eyes, heavy with years, shimmered with moisture. "Don't let outsiders take advantage. The Myers' legacy was built by your ancestors, safeguarded by your grandfather. If it falls into the wrong hands, how will I face them in the afterlife?"

Tears pricked my eyes as I clutched the pouch tightly. "I'll keep it... I'll keep it..."

"This isn't a will, it's a deed of gift. It becomes effective the moment you sign it," Ramona explained.

"Ramona..."

"No refusing me," she said, cutting off my protest.

She sighed, revealing her worries. "You know how frail I've been these past years. If your father continues to lead, the Myers legacy will crumble before I'm gone. You need to take over, so I can rest easy."

I was startled. "You knew...?"

"How did I figure out I was poisoned?" Ramona chuckled, pulling me down to sit beside her on the bed. 'm not senile, dear. I could see you and Greg tiptoeing around me. You've gone to great lengths, even bringing Mr. Abdul to treat me. If it's not poisoning, what else could it be?"

I touched my nose, feeling a bit sheepish. "So, you knew all along?"

"Yes."

"It's my fault for not being more open with you. Greg said we should tell you, but I was afraid..."