Chapter 2
As Tom slowly blinked his eyes open, he felt warm and comfy, but the memories of the preceding hours rushed back, snapping him to full alertness. Glancing out of the window, he beheld a picturesque landscape: stretched fields, forests, and grand houses spread out at considerable intervals. The sun bathed everything in golden light, while fluffy clouds lazily drifted across the azure sky. 'Looks like I'm no longer in London...' Tom mused, absorbing the beauty of his new surroundings.
Their journey came to a halt before imposing marble black gates adorned with a striking triangular symbol. The gates swung open on their own, revealing a controlled dirt path flanked by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and serene ponds. The sight of the magnificent black mansion left Tom breathless, its aura exuding tranquility rather than foreboding. Two statues, one of a hooded figure and the other of a majestic bone horse, adorned the entrance, adding to the mystique. Mr. Peverell cut the engine, signaling their arrival.
"Welcome to Peverell Manor, your new home, Tom," Mr. Peverell announced warmly as he stepped out of the car. Tom followed suit, gaping at the mansion. Accepting his belongings from Mr. Peverell, Tom was led up the steps and through the grand doors into the foyer, mirroring the elegance of the exterior. "Wow," Tom breathed in awe as he took in the opulent surroundings. "It's quite something, isn't it?" Mr. Peverell replied with a smile, his eyes twinkling with pride. "But let's not dawdle. I'll show you to your room."
Following Mr. Peverell's lead, Tom stepped into the foyer, his footsteps echoing softly against the polished marble floors. The grand staircase beckoned, its intricately carved banisters winding gracefully upwards. As they ascended, Tom couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship of the mansion. "So, Tom, what do you think?" Mr. Peverell asked, glancing back at him with a knowing smile. "It's... incredible," Tom replied, unable to suppress his awe. "I never imagined I'd live in a place like this." Mr. Peverell chuckled softly. "Well, get used to it, because this is your new home."
Just then, a small hand tugged at Tom's trouser leg. He looked down to see a toddler with soft brown hair covering his eyes, looking up at him with a wide grin. "This is Teddy, my godson. He also lives here," Mr. Peverell said fondly, patting Teddy's head. "Why don't you take him to his room, Teddy? I need to put these documents away." Teddy nodded eagerly, holding out his hand to Tom. "Come on!" he exclaimed, tugging Tom's hand with all his might. Tom hesitantly took Teddy's hand, feeling a warmth spread through him at the boy's infectious enthusiasm. As they ascended the stairs, Teddy chattered animatedly about his adventures in the mansion, leaving Tom chuckling softly in his wake.
Reaching a door adorned with a snake carving, Teddy pushed it open to reveal a spacious room filled with wonders. Tom's eyes widened in awe at the sight before him, feeling a sense of belonging wash over him. The room was bathed in soft light, the warm glow accentuating the dark walls and rich wooden furnishings. A queen-sized bed stood against one wall, its plush bedding invitingly arranged, while bookshelves lined another, filled with volumes of various shapes and sizes. "It's... amazing," Tom breathed, his voice filled with awe. Teddy smiled at him and hugged his arms around Tom's leg. "We will be going shopping tomorrow, get some rest okay? Or if you want, you can explore your new home. When you're hungry, just head downstairs to the main doors and take a right to the dining room," Teddy said with excitement, bouncing on his toes.
"I'll leave you alone now. If you need any help, just call out 'Tippy!'" With that, Teddy left Tom to get used to his new home, leaving him smiling as he looked around.
This place already felt like home.