The House of Roses (51 page)

Doctor and Mrs. Colin Thomas cut the ribbon together, surrounded by their family, their friends, Colin's colleagues, and many members of the local media.

Colin smiled at the crowd before speaking.

“
Thank you for coming here today to Casa Rosa, or what we like to call, The House of Roses. It is the second of many. I dedicate this home to Ella Simons, the rose lady. She was a wonderful woman, who has taught many about the power of love. May her legacy live on, and may all who enter here be surrounded by family and by love.”

He smiled, not only for the cameras, but also at the woman at his side. He had a good life, a great life, a life filled with purpose, and meaning, and most importantly, with love.

Ella Tayler Thomas chose that moment to let out a fierce cry and the crowd laughed, as her grandmother looked down into her beautiful blue eyes.

“
It's okay, Ella,” Rita said, as she kissed the little girl's face, before looking up into the beautiful sky.

“
We're okay, Ella,” Rita repeated, speaking to the woman who had found a way to bring them all together. “I know you're here, my friend,” she whispered, turning away from the crowd. “Where else would you be, but here with us, at The House of Roses.......”

The End

© Black Rose Writing

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