Ryder's response was curt, his eyes still fixed on Savanna. "Yeah."
Thea heart felt heavy as she turned to leave, her mind replaying the scene she had just witnessed. She couldn't shake off the feeling that she had interrupted something special, something that didn't involve her.
Throughout her journey back, her mind drifted back to Ryder and Savanna's relationship, her thoughts consumed by questions. What was the nature of their friendship? How close were they, really? And why did she feel like she was losing her best friend to someone else? The uncertainty gnawed at her, leaving her with a sense of unease that lingered long after she returned to Thompson residence.
"Thea, come here, let's have our lunch. Today, I have prepared your favorite dish, chicken parmesan with garlic bread." Elizabeth called out.
Thea's hunger pangs struck as she approached the feast. Her eyes dilated in awe at the sumptuous spread - tender chicken and a woven basket of golden, crusty bread.
Elizabeth spooned generous helpings onto each plate, her hands moving with the warmth and care of a mother. "You need to take better care of yourself, sweetie.." she admonished, her voice tinged with worry. "You've lost far too much weight."Thea smiled at her words.
Surrounded by the Thompsons' infectious warmth and joyful laughter, Thea felt her heart swell with gratitude. In this nurturing environment, she discovered a profound sense of belonging, recognizing that she had discovered a true second family among them.
After savoring the delicious lunch, Thea and her grandmother prepared to leave. "Thank you so much, Elizabeth for the wonderful meal and warm hospitality.."
Elizabeth stood beside Thea, her eyes shining with warmth, and smiled at Grandma Grace. "Welcome..Take care of yourselves, and don't be strangers. Come back soon."
Thea hugged Elizabeth tightly, her whispered words lost in the embrace. "Thank you, Aunty, for welcoming us with open arms... You've made me feel like I truly belong."
Elizabeth pulled back, her eyes locking onto Thea's. "Sorry, sweetie, I didn't quite catch that.." she said gently.
Thea's voice wavered. "I... I thanked you."
"Thea, being Ryder's closest friend makes you part of our family."
With a final hug, they parted ways. Mr. Jack, the Thompsons' loyal driver, escorted them to the car, his kind smile a comforting presence.
Thea stared out the window as the scenery blurred by, her mind preoccupied. Why was she being constantly reminded of Savannah? The encounter still lingered, refusing to be erased from her memory.
Her grandmother's warm hand enveloped hers, offering a comforting squeeze. "Thea, dear.." she called out softly, "you are truly blessed to have met the Thompsons in your life."
Thea's hands trembled as she clutched the small gift. The wrapping paper, adorned with tiny stars..She had poured her soul into selecting this gift, saving every coin from her pocket money.
She walked towards the Thompson's residence. Taking a deep breath, she rang the doorbell. Elizabeth's warm smile greeted her, "Thea...dear, come in! Ryder's been waiting for you."
As she entered, her eyes met Ryder's grandparents, Rosie and Edward, sitting cozily in the living room. A surge of warmth filled her chest, for they reminded her of her own dear grandparents, and held a treasured spot in her heart.
"Good morning, Grandma and Grandpa." she said, smiling warmly at Rosie and Edward.
Rosie, Ryder's grandmother, a remarkably vibrant woman in her 60s who seemed to defy time with her radiant appearance, beamed at her. With her silver hair styled in loose waves, smooth complexion, and bright eyes that gleamed with warmth,looked effortlessly elegant,made her appear a decade younger.Her warm smile and gentle demeanor only added to her timeless beauty. "Thea... it's so lovely to see you again! We've missed you so much. How have you been, dear?"
"I'm doing well, Grandma. I've missed you both too. It feels like ages since we last met."
Elder Edward, Ryder's grandfather, chuckled softly, his warm,"Thea, you're growing into a beautiful young woman, just as lovely as your spirit."
Thea's cheeks flushed with shyness, her eyes dropping slightly, as she murmured a thank you. Rosie's gentle hand on her arm brought her gaze back up.
"We're so glad you're here. Ryder's been waiting to see you." Rosie said with a wink.
"I'm sure Ryder is eager to see you too." Elder Edward added.