After preparing for school, Thea headed to the dining table, where her grandmother, Grace, had already set out a delicious breakfast. Despite her concern about burdening Grandma's fragile health, she was touched by the thoughtful gesture.
"Come and have your breakfast before you leave for school.." Grandma Grace said, presenting Thea with a plate.
Thea sat down and savored the fluffy scrambled eggs, toasted whole-grain bread, and fresh fruit, feeling grateful for the perfect start to her day. As she took her first bite, a wave of nostalgia washed over her, reminding her of the countless breakfasts she'd shared with Ryder, the laughter and conversations they'd had over plates of pancakes and waffles
Her heart ached with longing, but she pushed the feelings aside, focusing on the present moment.
"Grandma, your health isn't good.." Thea said softly, her brow furrowed with concern. "Don't strain yourself. I can make my own breakfast sometimes. You don't have to do everything for me."
Grandma Grace's expression turned wistful. "Alright, alright, I'll heed your words. But sometimes I just yearn to pamper you, like I did when you were little. You're my darling, and I adore doing things for you."
Thea nodded compassionately, her heart filled with understanding. "I know, Grandma. And I'm grateful. But please, for my sake, pace yourself. I don't want you to drain your energy. You're aging, and I fret about you."
Grandma Grace's face gentled, her eyes radiating warmth. "Agreed, deal. But occasionally I'll still prepare your breakfast, okay? And you can't dissuade me! I want to ensure you're eating well and caring for yourself."
Thea smiled, feeling reassured. "Okay, deal. But only if you vow to care for yourself too. I don't want you to overtax yourself, Grandma."
Grandma Grace nodded. "I promise, sweetie. Now finish your breakfast and arrive at school on schedule! And don't forget to study diligently and achieve excellent grades."
The pain of her parents' passing still lingered, a wound that time had not yet healed. The harsh words of her uncle, rejecting her and declaring, "You're not our responsibility," continued to echo in Thea's mind. The feeling of being orphaned, alone, and unwanted had left an indelible mark.
But then, like a beacon of hope, she remembered her grandma's loving embrace. Her grandma had taken her in, showering her with love, care, and warmth. Their small, cozy home was filled with laughter and stories, a haven where Thea felt safe.
The pension her grandma received was their lifeline, a reminder that they were not alone. Yet, the memories of countless nights spent crying herself to sleep, feeling like a burden to her relatives who had turned their backs on her, still lingered. The pain of being rejected by her own family had left a scar that would take time to heal.And her grandma who had been her rock, the only one who had truly taken her under her wings and shown her unconditional love.
However, the Thompsons had been different. They had welcomed her with open arms, treating her like one of their own.
Thea gazed at her grandma, noticing the subtle lines and wrinkles that time had gently etched on her face. Grandma Grace, sensing her gaze, looked up.
"What's on your mind, sweetie?" Grandma Grace asked, her voice warm with concern.
Thea's voice trembled with gratitude. "Thank you, Grandma."
Grandma Grace's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Why are you thanking me suddenly?"
Thea's eyes shone with emotion. "Just for being here for me, for taking care of me. I don't say it enough."
Grandma Grace's face softened, her eyes filling with love. "You're my everything, Thea. I'll always be here for you."