I believed I would inherit the farm after Grandma passed away. Felicity, my cousin, who only sees monetary signs, received it instead. All I got was an enigmatic letter and the opportunity to remain on the property for the time being. But this is not as simple as it sounds, and I am going to do whatever it takes to find the truth. When he concluded reading the will, the attorney’s voice trailed off. A thick, icy grasp took hold of my chest. Felicity now owned the farm, which was our family’s heart and soul.

Felicity, my cousin, never stayed here for longer than a weekend. How many times did I get up before the sun came up to help Grandma with the plants or animals? How many exhausting days did I have to work in the fields with the heat baking my skin while Felicity just used the farm as a gorgeous backdrop for her social media posts?

“Are you okay, Diana?” the attorney softly said, breaking the ice. My palms trembled as I opened the letter he handed me. “Dearest Diana, This is your chance to make a decision, if you are reading this. I am aware that you adore this farm and that it has always been an integral part of both my life and yours. However, I had to be certain that its real caregiver would show up. Felicity has my will regarding the farm, but you have permission to stay here for however long you like.

It cannot be sold as long as you stay on the property. My love, please be patient. In three months, the second element of my will will become clear. Why did she not give me the farm right away? Did she not believe in me? I cast a quick peek at Felicity, who was already beaming with anticipation. She was whispering to Jack, her spouse. I could hear bits and pieces of their talk, but not all of it. “Developers, sell it… fast profit…”

They were indifferent even. To them, it was all simply numbers. I found it intolerable. “Diana, take the money. And go out of here,” Felicity subsequently extended an offer to me. It is a substantial sum. You may live in a pleasant apartment in the city. “Felicity shrugged, showing no interest at all. This was merely business to her. But this farm was my childhood home, where Grandma instilled in me a love of hard work and perseverance.

I woke up that night with visions of the farm racing through my head. I understood my obligations. I had asked for a leave of absence from my employment in the city by the next morning. To feel the ground beneath my feet, I had to be there. Felicity grinned and gave me the keys. She could not wait to get rid of the obligations.