Hiding In The Countryside
Looking at the bunch of excited kids, Arissa was glad that she brought them here.
The initial destination was an old village. However, she suddenly recalled having bought a farmhouse in
the past, so they came here instead.
After all, she was familiar with the area. As long as they had enough food and water, this would be a
safe place for them to hide.
Hm… We need to store some grains. As for vegetables, we can plant some ourselves. I think we can
avoid Benjamin for some time if we are self-sufficient.
The previous owner of the farmhouse was selling the property as they intended to migrate out of the
country. Arissa came across the notice and decided to take the opportunity to purchase it.
The farmhouse was located in a relatively remote area, and there were rarely outsiders. Thus, it would
not be easy for Benjamin to track them down.
Soon, the kids returned from a stroll around the farmhouse. They were beyond satisfied and could not
stop complimenting it.
Jasper said, “Mommy, it’s so beautiful here! There’s a clear stream just behind the house!”
Oliver chimed in, “Mommy, I saw some fishes and shrimp in the stream!”
Jesse cut in, “There are snails too!”
“Mommy, the air is so fresh!” Zachary commented.
Gavin exclaimed, “I love this place so much! Is this where you grew up, Mommy?”
Arissa was relieved that the kids were satisfied with their new place.
“No. I passed by during one of my travels. I thought it was great so I bought it!”
It had been some time since she made the purchase. Five years ago, she got into trouble shortly after
leaving this place. Hence, she had never returned after buying the farmhouse.
However, when she was abroad, she would often hire people to clean the place once every few
months.
Arissa guided the kids into the house. It was rather neat but dusty as it had been vacant for a long time.
The last time it was cleaned was a few weeks ago.
“Let’s get some rest, kids. Mr. Hinton will be back soon with some food, and we’ll clean the place up
once we’ve eaten.”
“Why don’t we clean now, Mommy?” suggested Zachary.
Arissa chuckled. “Aren’t you all tired?”
The kids shook their heads and answered in unison, “No!”
All of them groaned about hunger in the car. Now, they were energized.
“Okay. Let’s do some cleaning!”
Arissa then led the kids to clean the house while waiting for Bradley to return.
An hour later, Arissa and the kids sat on the floor inside the clean, bright house. They were all worn out
after giving the house a much-needed cleanse.
By the time they were done, the sky was already pitch black.
Jesse rubbed her tummy and muttered tiringly, “Mommy, why isn’t Mr. Hinton back yet? I’m so hungry!”
She had been repeating the same question since a while ago.
“Mr. Hinton must be getting us roasted chicken. It takes a longer time to cook. That’s why he’s late!”
Jasper began drooling at the thought of scrumptious roasted chicken.
Upon hearing that, they imagined the smell of the roasted chicken, and their stomachs began growling,
including Arissa.
She had been staring at the gate for some time.
Why isn’t Bradley back yet? Did he get captured by Benjamin?
Still, there was nothing she could do other than wait while coaxing the kids. She dare not contact
Bradley as Benjamin might discover their location.
Her energy replenished after some rest. After that, she went to the kitchen to have a look.
Unfortunately, there was nothing to be found.
“Oh no! There’s absolutely nothing for me to cook!”
She sighed in disappointment. That’s fine. I can still boil some water.
After boiling a kettle of water, Arissa poured each of the kids a glass of water to drink. After that, the six
of them sat in the living room, staring at one another.
The kids were sweaty and dirty after cleaning the entire house, and Arissa could not help noticing.
Hence, she suggested, “Why don’t we take a shower?”
They’re like dirty kittens after playtime. How cute!
“I’m too tired for a shower!” groaned Oliver while laying his face on the dining table.
“Do you want Mommy’s help?”
Arissa could still bear the hunger. Nonetheless, she was worried about the kids. She forgot to bring
food with them due to the rush. The kids must be starving…
Oliver sat up straight and responded, “No!”
Arissa put on a sad expression.
“You must be tired too, Mommy. We can shower after eating. After all, there’s no need to rush now,”
added Oliver in an attempt to console their mother.
Arissa ruffled their hair and urged, “Drink more water, then! It will make you feel better.”
The kids remained indifferent as they already had too much water. Instead, they whined, “Come back
soon, Mr. Hinton…”
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