Ayala Short Story

Even though she was too young to recall it all, Ayala could vaguely remember the happier times when her Master's eldest son and his six handsome brothers came to visit. There was always food galore and plenty of noise and chatter to go along with it. They were somewhat of a rowdy crew and whenever all seven boys and three girls got together, she'd find herself staying up half the night listening in on their wild and elaborate tales. She was convinced her Master’s daughters were as equally amusing as his sons, the only difference being—they had the task of preparing fine meals for all to enjoy. Literally taking over the food preparation duties from the household maidens ordinarily assigned those chores…the dining area became chaotic whenever
They each came bearing luxurious gifts along with many well-deserved accolades to shower upon her Master. Year after year, notable men from afar made their way to his birthday celebration and would abide in the compound for days. During that time, she got a chance to observe and admire how these important men and their beautiful wives interacted with one another. Dressed in the finest of apparel, she was captivated by the strange yet regal way they spoke and moved among their fellow guests. Watching them ignited a fire so intense inside—she’d never been able to extinguish it. She longed to live a life filled with dignity, wealth, and class someday, just like these fine folk
She made multiple trips… bouncing between the private-secluded areas, listening in on the men—especially when they were well drunken with wine… telling tales even greater than the ones her Master’s sons told. Then back to the women she would go, completely absorbed by their conversation as they spoke of their very personal affairs.
During this time of celebration, every space in the house was taken up by her Master’s guests. Even she and her mother were displaced for a while having to lodge in the other servants’ sleeping quarters so the entourage of important men and women would have somewhere comfortable to reside.
It never bothered her at all being temporarily moved like that. As long as her mother was by her side, she was content. Besides, where ever she went, there were always adventures to be made—conversations to listen to—and things to learn.
~~~
After the shock subsided of her Master’s request to his son, she was drawn back into their conversation.
“I will see you in a few weeks at my home for the great celebration,” the eldest son exclaimed.
She watched as he and his father smiled and warmly embraced.
Before exiting the room, the young man reached over and lightly kissed his mother on the cheek.
Her Mistress gently reached up to stroke his face. It was the last time she recalled ever seeing him