Akai was feeling happy, a warm smile on her face, as some people still remembered her father.
Ryder was standing with Akai at that time, seeing that John walked away to greet some guests he knew. Just then, Julia, Savannah's cousin, appeared out of nowhere.
"Ryder..." before Akai could say anything, Julia tugged on Ryder's shirt to get his attention.
"My cousin is asking for you?" Julia said in her childish voice, looking up at Ryder with big brown eyes.
"Where is she?" Ryder asked, smiling down at Julia.
"Upstairs, I guess," Julia replied, scrunching up her face in thought.
Ryder chuckled and lifted Julia into his arms. "Brother Ryder, who is this lady?" Julia asked, pointing at Akai.
"She is my friend, Akai," Ryder said, giving Akai a reassuring smile.
"Akai, this is Julia, Savannah's cousin," Ryder introduced them.
