Chapter 56: I Miss You More Than Sometimes
The weight of their different social status hung heavy in her mind. Ryder’s family was wealthy and influential, while Thea’s family was more modest. Would Ryder ever be able to see beyond their differences and love her for who she truly was?
Her heart felt heavy with emotion as she thought about the uncertain future ahead. She hoped that both she and Charlotte would find happiness in their respective loves, but the fear of rejection and heartbreak lingered, making her feel vulnerable and exposed.
"Thea, come downstairs. See who came to meet you."her Grandma called out from downstairs.
She quickly set aside her thoughts and made her way downstairs, wondering who could be visiting her. As she entered the living room, she was surprised to see Elizabeth, Ryder’s mother, sitting on the sofa, chatting with Grandma Grace. Elizabeth looked stunning in a long dress, her beauty radiating from within. Her figure was well-maintained, making her appear younger than her age.
"Thea..Elizabeth came to see you." Grandma Grace announced, her eyes sparkling with delight.
Thea shifted her gaze from Grandma Grace to Elizabeth, feeling a mix of emotions. "Hello, Aunty. How have you been?"
"Thea, you haven’t paid us a visit for a long time.." Elizabeth asked, her voice tinged with a hint of playfulness.
Akai felt a pang of guilt. "No, Aunty... Actually I have been busy with my studies and an art competition I’ve entered." she explained, hoping to justify her absence.
Elizabeth smiled warmly. "Then you’re forgiven. But don’t forget to drop by our house whenever you feel like it."
"Yes, Aunty." Thea replied softly.
"Mrs. Thompson, would you like to have some tea or coffee?" Grandma Grace offered, her hospitality evident.
"Oh, you don’t have to worry about it.." Elizabeth replied, waving her hand graciously.
"No, no, you came to our house after a long time. How can we let you leave without anything?" Grandma Grace insisted, her eyes twinkling.
"Grandma ...Aunty liked Earl Grey tea the most. Let me make some for you.." Thea suggested, remembering Elizabeth’s fondness for the flavor.
"Okay.." Elizabeth agreed, a hint of a smile on her lips.Thea headed to the kitchen to prepare the tea, feeling a sense of comfort in the familiar ritual. She served the steaming Earl Grey tea with some homemade cookies that Grace had baked a few days ago. The aroma wafted through the air, creating a cozy atmosphere.
As they sipped their tea and nibbled on the cookies, the conversation flowed effortlessly, filling the room with warmth and laughter.
Thea sat beside her grandma, Grace, as they engaged in a warm conversation with Elizabeth. The atmosphere was filled with love and respect.
"Madam Wynn, my parents-in-law’s 55th anniversary is coming up. We would be delighted if you could attend it.." Elizabeth said, her eyes sparkling with excitement and a hint of nostalgia.
"Elizabeth, we feel truly honored to receive an invitation.Thea would surely attend it." Grandma Grace replied softly.
"What about you, Madam Wynn?"
"I might not be able to attend." Grandma Grace said, her expression turning apologetic.
"Why, Madam Wynn?" Elizabeth asked, her tone gentle and understanding.
"On that day, I have to visit my ancestors’ place."Grandma Grace explained, her voice laced with a hint of reverence and a deep sense of tradition. "It’s a family obligation, and I must attend to it."
"Elizabeth, I’m truly sorry for it. I have to go there for some matter." Grandma Grace added, her eyes cast downward in respect.
"Madam Wynn, please don’t apologize. Thea’s presence would bring us immense joy." Elizabeth said, her face breaking into a warm and genuine smile. "Right, Thea?"
"Yes, Aunty. I’d be delighted to attend the anniversary celebration." she said.
Elizabeth’s smile widened, and she reached out to pat Thea’s hand."Wonderful, dear. We look forward to seeing you there.." she said, her eyes shining with warmth and affection.
At Toronto Pearson International Airport....
A young girl in her early twenties, with an air of enthusiasm, stood waiting. She wore a vibrant yellow dress, cinched at the waist, showcasing her carefree spirit. Her brown eyes sparkled with excitement.Her rich, dark brown hair was tied up in a messy bun, with a few loose strands framing her face, adding to her effortless charm.
As she waited, she swung herself gently back and forth, holding onto the railing for support, her feet tapping out a rhythm on the polished floor. Her eyes darted towards the arrivals gate every few seconds, her anticipation growing with each passing moment. She couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions - excitement, nervousness, and a hint of impatience - as she waited for the person she loved to arrive.
As Charlotte saw Ryan emerge from the arrival gate, she rushed towards him with an uncontainable excitement. "Ryan!" she called out, her voice trembling with joy.
Ryan, tall and handsome, stood before her, his brown eyes twinkling behind his stylish glasses, making him look dashing. He wore a fitted white shirt, dark jeans, and a black leather jacket, which added to his charming persona.
Charlotte flung her arms around him, hugging him tightly. "I have missed you so much." she whispered, her head nestled in his chest, her voice muffled by his shirt.
Ryan chuckled, his deep voice vibrating through his chest. "You haven’t changed at all," he said, his eyes sparkling with warmth, and a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
Charlotte pouted, her chin still buried in his chest. "Would it be good if I have changed myself?" she asked.
Ryan’s expression turned soft, his eyes filled with affection. "Then I would miss the old Charlotte a lot." he replied, his voice filled with emotion.
Charlotte looked up at him, her brown eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Did you miss me?"
Ryan’s smile faltered for a moment before he replied, "Sometimes."
Charlotte’s face fell, her pout deepening. "You’re such a bad guy." she retorted, her voice laced with disappointment.
Ryan laughed, his eyes shining with amusement. "I’m sorry, I’m sorry.." he said, holding up his hands in surrender. "I miss you more than sometimes, okay?"
