Thea observed their exchange, a twinge of unease settling in her heart. She couldn't help but notice the radiant glow in Savannah's eyes when she gazed at Ryder, the gentle tone that infused her voice whenever she addressed him.
Thea stood motionless, a searing sense of rejection and loneliness washing over her as Ryder and Savannah walked on, seemingly oblivious to her existence. She had believed she was a valued companion, but now she felt like a forgotten afterthought.
Ryder's pace came to an abrupt halt, and he spun around, his eyes scanning the distance between them before settling on hers with a look of mild surprise. "Not coming?" he asked, his voice low and inquiring
Thea's uncertainty lingered, a jumble of emotions knotting inside her. "Yeah," she breathed at last, "I'll follow."
Mr. Jack's face lit up with a warm smile as he greeted Ryder. "Welcome back, Young Master." Thea's eyes locked onto Mr. Jack's, it was a joy to see him again. "How are you, Uncle Jack?"
"Good, Miss. It's great to see you again. You look well."
Ryder slid into the back seat, Savannah closely following. She settled beside him, effortlessly claiming the space next to him, leaving Thea no opportunity to sit there.
Thea had been looking forward to sitting beside Ryder, but Savannah's swift movement left her feeling subtly shut out.
As Savannah and Ryder's bodies angled towards each other, their intimate posture formed a silent barrier, excluding Thea from their circle.
A pang of jealousy flickered within Thea. Seeking distance from the cozy atmosphere in the back, she opted for the copilot seat.
Settling into her new vantage point, Thea gazed straight ahead, her eyes fixed on the road unfolding before them.
The car pulled away from the curb, and Thea's gaze drifted out the window. Her mind whirled with a tangled mix of thoughts and emotions.
As the cityscape blurred outside, a soft, wistful smile spread across her face. Ryder's return was the sole focus of her thoughts, filling her with a quiet joy.
Lost in the gentle haze of memories, Thea's eyes remained fixed on the passing landscape, her heart swelling with the simple knowledge that Ryder was back.
Thea's gaze wandered to the rearview mirror, mesmerized by Ryder's striking profile. His closed eyes sparked a tender concern, wondering if fatigue had taken its toll.
Ryder's jawline and sharp nose seemed even more defined, accentuated by the dark hair falling across his forehead. The soft curve of his lips, the sharp definition of his chin – every feature was expertly chiseled, like a masterpiece of art.
Ryder's rested face exuded a quiet strength, and Thea found herself captivated by the very details she had tried to forget. Time had only refined his allure, leaving her breathless and entranced.
The car slowed to a stop outside Savannah's villa.The walls were a soft, creamy stone, adorned with intricate carvings and ornate balconies.
Savannah bid him goodbye and went to her house. The car drove towards the Thompson's residence
After the car stopped at the Thompson's Residence...She opened the door and thanked Uncle Jack.While stepping out of the car, the warm sunshine enveloped her, a stark contrast to the cool interior of the vehicle.
Elizabeth stood outside.She rushed towards Ryder, her arms open wide, and enveloped him in a tight hug. "I've missed you so much, son."
He returned his mother's embrace, his eyes closed in contentment.
Ryder's mother's expression transformed into a vibrant smile as he broke free from her loving clasp. "Welcome home, Ryder." she exclaimed, her voice overflowing with delight.
Ryder and his mother proceeded into the living room, Thea closely following, enveloped in the room's enduring warmth and familiarity.
The interior's comforting character remained steadfast, unchanged by time.
"Go to your room and get freshened up, then come downstairs to eat."
Ryder nodded before heading up the stairs to his room.
Elizabeth then bustled into the kitchen, Thea decided to lend a hand. She followed her into the kitchen, her eyes taking in the delicious aromas of roasting vegetables and baking bread.
"Let me help you.I can set the table or chop some vegetables."