Chapter 61: It’s Lovely Just Like You
The two friends chatted animatedly as the cab continued on its journey, wonderful evening ahead.
The event was held at the prestigious "Thompson Towers Hotel", a luxurious establishment owned by Thompson’s business empire. Previously, Ryder’s grandparents would celebrate their anniversary in the intimate setting of their home, surrounded by close family and friends. However, as Ryder inherited their business and they marked their 55th anniversary, a milestone that called for grandeur, they decided to make it an occasion to also announce Ryder’s new role as the successor of the family business.
The Thompson Towers Hotel, with its opulent decor and impeccable service, provided the perfect backdrop for this momentous celebration. The hotel’s grand ballroom was transformed into a lavish setting, complete with fine dining, live music, and a guest list that included the who’s who of the business world.
When Thea stepped into the grand ballroom, she was immediately captivated by the breathtaking arrangements that adorned the space. The entire room was transformed into a floral wonderland, with Rosie’s favorite flowers, roses, lavishly displayed in every corner. The soft, velvety petals in shades of pink and red added a touch of warmth and elegance to the atmosphere.
Like always,Edward had taken it upon himself to meticulously plan every detail of the ceremony, determined to make it a truly unforgettable experience for his beloved wife. He wanted to give her everything, to make her feel like the queen of the evening.
From the delicate rose petals scattered across the tables to the majestic floral archways, every element was carefully crafted to reflect Rosie’s refined taste and Edward’s deep love for her. The room was a testament to their enduring bond, a celebration of 55 years of marriage, and a tribute to their unwavering commitment to each other.
Elizabeth, Ryder’s mother, was resplendent in a white evening gown that perfectly complemented her refined features. The gown’s delicate silk fabric cascaded down her slender figure, its subtle sparkle accentuating her elegance as she moved with poise and grace. A delicate diamond necklace adorned her neck, adding a touch of sophistication to her overall ensemble.
Seeing her Thea approached her.Elizabeth was busy ensuring every detail was in place, her eyes scanning the room with a practiced gaze. "Aunty, where is Grandfather and Grandmother?"
Elizabeth turned to face her, her expression softening as she took in Thea’s appearance. "Thea, look at you...You are looking beautiful.."
Thea blushed, feeling a little self-conscious. "Aunty, you are looking more beautiful than me." she replied, trying to deflect the compliment.
Elizabeth laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Don’t fool me, dear." she said, her voice gentle and playful.
"Thea, your Grandfather and Grandmother are upstairs in the main room. Let me take you to them.." Elizabeth offered,
Thea not wanting to disturb her aunt’s busy schedule replied. "Aunty, you don’t have to. You have a lot of work here. I better not disturb you."
"You are not disturbing me, Thea. Okay, then, you go. I’ll join you shortly." She patted her shoulders, her touch warm and comforting, before turning back to her duties.
Thea ascended the grand staircase, her heels clicking on the polished marble steps. The staircase, a masterpiece of elegance, curved upward in a sweeping arc, its balustrade adorned with intricate carvings and delicate floral patterns. The walls surrounding the staircase were adorned with lavish drapes, their soft folds shimmering in the light of the crystal chandelier above.
As she climbed, Thea was careful not to trip, her hands grasping the gift she had brought for Ryder’s grandparents. The staircase was decorated with an array of fresh flowers, their sweet fragrance filling the air, and garlands of greenery that added a touch of warmth and welcome.
Mrs. Thompson had previously told her that Ryder’s grandparents would be in the right Suite, a room easily locatable due to its distinctive decor. She stood in front of the door, took a deep breath, and knocked gently.
"Come in.." a warm voice called from within.
Thea opened the door and found herself in a beautifully appointed room, filled with the soft glow of candlelight and the sweet scent of roses.
Elder Edward and Rosie sat together on the sofa, radiating warmth and love. "You’ve arrived," Elder Edward said, "Have the guests arrived yet?"
Thea shook her head, her long hair swaying gently. "Not yet, Grandfather.." she replied.
Rosie’s gaze fell upon her dress, her eyes lighting up with admiration. "Thea, you are looking so beautiful in this dress."
Elder Edward smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "She is beautiful, and whatever dress she wears would look lovely on her, even if the design isn’t perfect." he said, his voice warm with affection.
Rosie nodded in agreement, her smile radiant. "That’s true; our Thea is lovely and kind."
Thea’s cheeks flushed a deep red as she felt a surge of embarrassment. "You two are making me blush.." she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Elder Edward’s laughter filled the room, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "Happy anniversary, Grandfather and Grandmother."She handed them a beautifully wrapped gift. "This is a small token of love from us."
Rosie accepted the gift, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thea, thank you for the gift," .
"Let’s see what you have prepared for us,"
As Elder Edward said, Thea gently took it from Rosie and began to unwrap the package. Inside, a stunning crystal vase sparkled in the light, its beauty mesmerizing.
Rosie gasped in delight. "It’s so beautiful, Thea. Thank you for this incredible gift,"
Edward feigned disappointment, his eyes twinkling with humor. "Your gift is beautiful, Thea, but where’s my gift?" he asked, his voice laced with mock indignation, a playful smile spreading across his face.
"Your gift?" Thea asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.
"Yes, your grandmother likes vases, but I don’t." Elder Edward replied, a mischievous glint in his eye.
Rosie turned to him, her voice playful. "Edward, why are you saying that? This vase is so beautiful!"
Elder Edward chuckled. "When I said it’s not beautiful, I meant I don’t like vases."
Rosie raised an eyebrow. "You don’t like vases, then why keep the vases from your early days?"
Elder Edward shrugged. "Oh, that’s different."
Rosie smiled knowingly. "Thea , don’t mind him; he likes to tease."
The latter smiled, unfazed. "Grandfather, I have prepared something for you.." she said, handing him a packet.
"There are some Swiss rolls I personally made for you two."
"For me only...The vase is for you,my dear wife." Elder Edward said, his voice laced with humor.Rosie rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "Yeah, yeah..it’s for you..enjoy all of the rolls." she said, smiling at her husband’s antics.
Elder Edward opened the packet and took out a Swiss roll, savoring the sweet aroma before taking a bite. "Hmm, it’s so tasty." he commented, his eyes widening with delight.
In the morning, Thea prepared those Swiss rolls for Ryder’s Grandparents. She knew their favourite, thus she decided to make "Raspberry Swiss Rolls" filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam, wrapped in a soft and fluffy dough, a classic treat that she knew they would love.
Elizabeth arrived to inform them that the guests had started to arrive. "Elizabeth, see the vase Thea gifted us? It’s so beautiful," Rosie said, gesturing to the stunning crystal vase.
Elizabeth noticed the vase and smiled, nodding her head in agreement. "It’s lovely,Just like her." .
Elder Edward, still relishing the Swiss roll, replied to Rosie, "The Swiss roll she made for me is more wonderful than your vase honey." He looked at the two women, who smiled and sighed at his playful teasing.
"I’m not going to share it with you at all.." Elder Edward declared, his eyes twinkling with mischief, as he took another bite of the delicious treat.
"Where is Ryder? Did he come back?" Rosie asked Elizabeth.
"Yes, he will shortly arrive here. He called me before coming out of his office." Elizabeth answered, her expression reassuring.
Elder Edward shook his head, a sigh escaping his lips. "What to do with this boy? Today I asked him not to go to the office, to take a break.." he said, his voice laced with a mix of amusement and exasperation.
Rosie chuckled, her eyes sparkling with understanding. "He’s just like his grandfather, always dedicated to work.." .
Elizabeth smiled, nodding in agreement. "Yes, Ryder is indeed a hard worker, just like father," .
Later Elizabeth descended the stairs to attend to the arriving guests, leaving Edward, Rosie, and Thea were only in the room.
Elder Edward, looking dashing in his suit, asked the two ladies, "How am I looking? I’m wearing this suit after a long time."
Thea smiled. "Perfect, Grandfather." .Rosie’s face lit up with a warm smile. "You look handsome, dear husband.."
