The weekend at Lakeview Hollow unfolds like a dream. Tucked away amongst the trees, the cabin invites shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and the gentle blooming of affection. In Jake's company, every moment feels whole with formerly missing pieces, now filled, and the ties of friendship growing into a profound and meaningful bond.

In the town's tranquillity, we find solace in both the cabin and the companionship of Jake, Ben, Ellie, and Maggie. Our days filled with endless exploration, strolling tirelessly around town, discovering its most intimate quirks, and delicious, satisfying meals. Engaging in conversations with Jake's friends uncovers common threads that seem to connect us with Lakeview Hollow.

The cabin resonates with Jake's joyful laughter. The amity between him and Aislinn is heartening, and it warms me to see my daughter connecting with someone as genuine and caring as Jake.

Our idyllic weekend fades as Monday morning arrives. A sombre atmosphere settles in the cabin as Aislinn and I prepare to leave, Jake's eyes manifesting the unexpressed emotions we all seem to share. Our parting, filled with a poignant recognition of our strengthened bond, causes my stomach to drop. I'm going to miss this place, this man, this atmosphere, but what can I do?

Every morning, as we trudge through the crowded streets, navigating the concrete jungle to work and school, both Aislinn and I yearn for the serene beauty of Lakeview Hollow. The vibrant colours of the leaves reflecting off the crystal-clear water, the soothing sound of the gentle breeze rustling through the trees, and the friendly smiles of the townspeople all feel like distant memories.

The cityscape offers no solace for our restless souls now; it's lost its charm, cold and impersonal. Even our routine lives that once provided comfort are now empty and repetitive, without meaning or purpose. I'm not even sure what enticed me here. Work? Opportunities? Adventure? I can't honestly recall. But I know my heart aches for something else, something different. The piece of the puzzle that is now back on the shelf.

It was an ordinary Thursday, much the same as the one before it, and the one before that. A registered letter arrives. Curious, I open it to reveal its significance. The information contained within unveils the irrevocable nature of my divorce, representing the finalization of a chapter in my life that unexpectedly concluded with remarkable ease. Finally, it seems, something is going my way. The settlement exposes years of financial manipulation, quietly negotiated by lawyers.

The house, part of his superannuation, and a significant sum concealed in a secret account-these are now mine. Ours; Aislinn and mine. Astonishingly, there's no demand for visitation with his daughter; he relinquishes any claim to Aislinn without a fight. Financial abuse is undeniably evident, and justice prevails, despite the delay.

Relief at our financial security is one thing, but to give up his daughter is an entirely new low, even for him. Although he had failed as a husband, his secret had become common knowledge among the lawyers, or at least a fraction of it (it's unlikely they knew the full extent). Nonetheless, he had never faltered in being a remarkable father to Aislinn. How can he just abandon her like this? I have never asked for sole custody, so why do this? Maybe as revenge to me for his financial loss, perhaps? She's worth more than that, though, and she's most definitely not a pawn in this divorce game he's playing. He must protect Aislinn. Both of us should not manipulated for vengeful retribution. Ugh, he disgusts me.

His clenched fists and rage were not just isolated incidents, rather a recurring pattern of violence that's haunted me for years. The physical scars may have healed, but the memories of his aggression, both verbal and physical, still haunt my thoughts. The bruises now faded, yet the fear he instilled remains. His cutting words, like a constant barrage of emotional bullets, chipped away at my self-worth. They made me question my every decision and left me feeling worthless and powerless. The invisible barrier he created around me still lingers, overshadowing my ability to trust and love again.

And then there was the financial abuse, a form of coercive control that trapped in his web of dependency. He controlled every aspect of our finances, leaving me feeling powerless and incapable of escaping the toxic cycle. But now, in the wake of the divorce settlement, the shroud of control is lifted, exposing the extent of his manipulation, and giving me a glimmer of hope for a new beginning.

The isolation, masterfully constructed through years of severed ties with family and friends, robbed me of my support system. I remember the subtle manipulations, the artistry of control that manifested in decisions masked as concern. His pervasive influence seeped into every corner of my life, dictating my choices, suffocating my autonomy.

As I reflect on the control exerted over my existence, I realise breaking free is not just a legal process-it's a reclamation of self. The town of Lakeview Hollow, I realise, is a metaphor for this journey. Amidst the vastness of possibilities, I stand at the threshold of a new era, a narrative crafted not by the hands that once controlled me but by the choices I make.

Overwhelmed by the weight of this revelation, I seek counsel from Olivia.

The café offers familiarity and comfort. The mingling scents of coffee and conversation shape my newfound reality. Olivia, perceptive and supportive, listens as I divulge the contents of the registered letter. She watches me closely as we discuss the divorce settlement.

"Olivia, it's just ... surreal," I admit, tracing the rim of the coffee cup with my fingertips. "All these years, and now, it's like a slate wiped clean."

She reaches across the table, her touch a silent reassurance. "Audrey, this is your chance at a fresh start. What do you want?"

The question lingers as I sip my coffee.

"Consider selling the house," Olivia suggests, her gaze holding mine. "But make it a beautiful, fresh start. And for Aislinn, set up a college fund-let her dreams take flight. And maybe," she adds with a mischievous glint, "go after that old renovation project you've always dreamed of."

Her words resonate as a roadmap to a new chapter for me. Olivia and I continue our heart-to-heart over steaming cups. I've monopolised our conversation with my divorce drama, and it's time to shift the focus. I turn my attention to Olivia, curious about the developments in her professional life.

"Olivia," I begin, sipping my coffee thoughtfully, "I've been hogging the spotlight. What's happening with the Lake Eldritch mansion? Did your boss green-light the flip?"

Setting her cup down, Olivia leans back, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Well, I presented the proposal, but my boss is more inclined towards smaller, quicker flips. He thinks the mansion might be a bit too much of an investment, considering the time and resources it would require for renovation."

I nod, a wistful smile playing on my lips. "Jake would probably be relieved to hear that. He was hoping to keep the mansion within the local community, you know. But he'll also be disappointed, he wanted to restore a piece of the town's history."

We delve into a discussion about the mansion's fate. Will it continue to decay, becoming a haunting relic of the past? Will the city find a buyer willing to take on the challenge, or will it succumb to the wrecking ball for new developments? The uncertainty surrounding the mansion emerges like a question mark.

Then, as if a lightbulb flickers to life above her head, Olivia's eyes gleam with excitement. "Wait a minute, Audrey. I've got an idea. Why don't you buy it?"

My brows raise with surprise. "Buy the mansion? Me? Are you serious?" Laughing it off, a smile spread across my face. I know I've watched countless renovation shows on TV, but this situation is absurd. I struggle to even change a light bulb, let alone renovate a house.

Olivia leans in, her voice filled with conviction. "Completely. You've got more than enough resources to not only purchase it but also turn it into the dream renovation project you've always talked about. Besides, with me in the real estate business, I can help you secure a fantastic deal. Picture it-a historic mansion, restored to its former glory, and you as the proud owner."

My expression betrays my scepticism, but a flicker of interest lights up my eyes. The allure of owning the mansion I've admired for so long is tempered by the practicalities that I must consider.

"Olivia, that's a huge undertaking. And, well, I'm not exactly an expert in real estate or renovations."

With an encouraging smile, Olivia counters, "Audrey, you've got the passion, and with the right team, anything is possible. Think about it. Your dream could become a reality. And I'll be there every step of the way, ensuring you get the best deal and advice."

I contemplate the idea, my mind dancing with visions of possibilities. The mansion, once a decaying relic, could become my fresh start. While uncertainties remain, I entertain the idea of embracing this new phase in my life.

The aroma of coffee fades, replaced by the tang of the chilly breeze as I leave the cafe. My mind races as Olivia's unexpected proposal twirls the pros and cons of such an undertaking.

As I stroll through the familiar city streets, a wave of introspection engulfs me. The mere thought of owning the magnificent Lake Eldritch mansion feels like an unattainable dream, teasing me relentlessly, whilst Olivia's unwavering belief in my capability to embark on such a venture is both flattering and overwhelming.

Can I really do this? Do I possess the skills and tenacity needed for this colossal project? The mansion, with its history intertwined with the town, seems like a formidable challenge. A spark of enthusiasm ignites within me, fuelled by the idea of transforming it into a masterpiece. The truth is, I've always been drawn to the idea of restoring something forgotten to its former glory. The mansion stands as a testament to a bygone era, and the thought of breathing new life into its weathered walls resonates with me. However, the magnitude of such an undertaking isn't lost on me.

The second layer of my contemplation revolves around Aislinn. How will she react to this audacious plan? Will she hate the idea of uprooting from the familiar city life? Or could she, too, be enchanted by the charm of Lakeview Hollow. She had made those comments once before when searching for the place, and she hasn't really been the same since returning from that trip.

Approaching our home, I weigh the potential conversation ahead. Aislinn is at an age where change can unsettle, and I'm acutely aware of my responsibility as her mother. The dreamy vision of the mansion stands at odds with the pragmatic considerations of my daughter's happiness.

Opening the door, I step into the living room, filled with memories. The decision to share Olivia's idea with Aislinn weighs on me. Will she see it as an opportunity for a fresh start, or will it feel like an upheaval of the life we've built here? Either way, I pray it doesn't erode our relationship. We can't go back to that again.

Aislinn, engrossed in her books, looks up as I enter. The warmth in her eyes, a reflection of our bond, deepens the dilemma I face. She returns to her work as I take a deep breath, mentally bracing myself for the conversation that looms ahead. Olivia's proposition, bold and fanciful, beckons for either acceptance or rejection. The only certainty is the uncertainty unfurling as I grapple with the audacious dream she presents. Weary in both mind and body, I collapse onto the couch, sprawling my limbs over its edges.

Aislinn glances up from her work again. "Rough day, mum?" I nod. It's all it takes for her to grasp the gravity of my worries.

"Anything I can do to help?" she offers.

Shaking my head with a sigh, I confess, "Just a really tough day, Hun."

Seizing the moment, I sit up, realizing it's the perfect opportunity to broach the subject of our future together. "The final divorce papers came today."

She shoots me an empathetic look, closing her books to give me her undivided attention. "Oh, that must be difficult, mum. Are you okay?"

With a faint smile, I reply, "I will be. I'm the lucky one. I still have you."

She moves from her spot on the floor, settling beside me and offering a warm embrace. We share a genuine moment, but beneath the surface lies a pang of guilt-how her father could relinquish her, a truth I shield her from.

As we separate but remain seated together, I confess, "So, I had coffee with Olivia today. Just to process everything." Aislinn nods, encouraging me to continue. "She proposed a new beginning now that the divorce is final. We can sell this place and create something new."

"Something new?" Aislinn echoes. "Like build a house?"

Shaking my head, I elaborate, "No, she suggested, since we love the lake so much, that we consider somewhere in the country, like Lakeview Hollow."

Aislinn's eyebrows raise with curiosity. "Really?" Her mind churns, contemplating the audacious proposal. "I guess we'd have to weigh up the pros and cons of such a big change like that," she muses. Her response isn't quite what I was expecting, but she appears to be open to the suggestion. She hasn't shut down the idea yet, that's good I think.

"Yeah, and I didn't want to really consider it an option until you and I had spoken about it. You're not a little kid anymore, Ais. And a decision like this changes your life just as much as it does mine." My eyes reflect the concern found in my words, sparking a glint of appreciation in hers.

"Thanks, Mum," she says. "It means a lot that you thought of me first. Not just making choices for me. So, let's figure out these pros and cons, huh?" Aislinn grabs her nearby notepad and pen, drawing two columns. "Okay, so pros..."

I begin, "The countryside is beautiful. Oh, and the fresh air-so much better than the city."

"Right. Let's mark those two pros then. And let's add, I'll be closer to Ben and Ellie, so we can hang out all the time," she says, smiling and jotting down her points.

Chiming in with a con, I add, "We'd have to sell this place. We'll probably both be sad to say goodbye." Ais nods and notes that point.

Then she smirks, looking up at me, "Pro-you'd be closer to Jake." A warm rush of blood to my cheeks, and she chuckles perceptively. I'm pretty sure she thinks she's funny, but it catches me on a whole other level of wanting.

I eye her, feigning contempt. "Well, I suppose that would be a benefit. Plus, you forgot the most important pro-a fresh start!"

We add a few more pros and cons, realizing our excitement about the pros outweighs any sadness felt by the cons.

"We should probably sleep on this. Make sure we're not rushing to any decision," I suggest.

Aislinn agrees, but adds inquisitively, "How would we even find a place? Do you think there would be many rentals in a small place like Lakeview Hollow? I don't want to live in the B & B forever. Maggie's great and all, but ... you know."

"Oh, didn't I mention Olivia's other brainstorm?" I say, admitting my oversight. Aislinn shakes her head. "Well, her company isn't using the mansion for their project. Something about it costing too much in money and time. But Olivia said that we could probably get it for a steal."

Aislinn's eyes light up like fireworks. "What? Are you for real, Mum?" I nod, and she considers the idea. "And how would we afford that? Wouldn't something like that cost a million bucks or something?"

I guffaw. "Yeah, if it was new, in working order, and didn't require renovations. Then maybe. But it needs all kinds of work-new electric, probably new plumbing, roof, new paint, and lacquer. And that's just what we could see with our eyes. Who knows how much structural damage there's been over the years?"

As we sit there, our minds buzzing with the possibilities, a newfound excitement pulses through the room. Aislinn's eyes gleam with a mix of adventure and anticipation.

"I can't believe we're even considering this," she says, a grin playing on her lips. "But it sounds ... amazing."

I chuckle, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders. "It does, doesn't it? A fresh start, a new adventure. And imagine living in that mansion. Can you picture it?"

Aislinn's imagination sparks to life, and her eyes light up again. "Big rooms, secret passages, a garden, maybe even a hidden attic filled with old treasures. It's like something out of a novel, or a movie."

The thought warms my heart as I share in her excitement. "Exactly! We could turn it into a place of our own, with stories and memories to fill every inch of that place."

Leaning back on the couch, I consider everything we've discussed.

"We'll sleep on it," I say, breaking the momentary silence. "But Aislinn, whatever we decide, it'll be our decision. A shared adventure."

She nods, a sense of unity and understanding passing between us. "Yeah, Mum. Our adventure."