Thea's apology was barely audible, a reluctant "Sorry" that was more of a mumble than a sincere expression of regret. She rolled her eyes and ground her teeth.
"Say louder, I couldn't hear it." Charlotte continued to tease her.
Thea's scowl deepened, but she raised her voice and repeated, "I am sorry."
"Hmm, I don't hold grudges, even if you didn't say sorry to me.After all you have not used too much energy to smack me."
"Grandma, did you see... Doesn't she need a nice smack from me?" Thea asked,as she glanced at Charlotte.
Grandma Grace smiled knowingly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "That's between you two, I won't comment."
She then turned her attention to more pressing matters. "Come inside, both of you. I'm going to make dinner for you two. Charlotte, after dinner, only I will let you leave my house." With that, she led the way into the house.
