In the car, Jonathan looked at Sophia, understanding the turmoil of thoughts racing through her mind. "How are you, Sophia?" he finally spoke up, breaking the silence.
Hearing him, Sophia turned her head, her eyes locking onto his. She shook her head gently, loss of words. Jonathan's smile was warm and reassuring as he turned to gaze out the window.
He knew Sophia was still reeling from the events at the airport. His brother, King Herod, had explained everything to him about Sophia's refusal to marry and her decision to leave the kingdom. Jonathan understood her need for space and didn't press her to talk.
As the car glided smoothly through the streets, Sophia's gaze drifted outside the window. The skyscrapers and buildings of New York City left her breathless. Everything was on a completely different level compared to her village.
Jonathan glanced at her, a smile playing on his lips. A hint of sadness crept into his eyes, and a small tear rolled down his cheek. His mind wandered to the past, to memories he thought were long buried.
After a while, Sophia noticed the car slowing down, and they turned into a beautiful estate. Her eyes widened as she took in the stunning mansions and lush greenery. "Wow," she muttered under her breath.
Jonathan chuckled, noticing her reaction. "This is one of my estates, Sophia. You're free to do anything you want here."
Sophia's eyes snapped back to his, her voice barely above a whisper. "What? You own this place?"
Jonathan smiled. "I own the estate, but I don't live here. It's for rent."
Sophia's eyes grew wide. "You mean people live here?"
Jonathan nodded. "Yes, we've sold villas to about a thousand families."
Ahh, Sophia's eyes were wide with shock. "A thousand? Does that mean there are more than a thousand houses in this estate?"
Jonathan nodded again, his smile growing. Sophia's mind reeled as she tried to comprehend the sheer scale of her uncle's wealth.
After a moment of hesitation, Sophia spoke up, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Then, where is your own house?" She looked around, noticing they had been driving through the estate for a while now.
Jonathan's smile was gentle. "We're almost there."