“You’re right—the wind has been fierce all day,” Savannah agreed as they crossed the threshold.
As they stepped inside, Elissa’s gaze landed on Eric and Joy by the glass door that led to the garden. Her eyebrow lifted in curious surprise. “What exactly are Eric and Joy up to over there?”
“They’re simply enjoying some playtime together,” Hadley explained, her laughter bubbling up naturally.
Earlier that morning, Hadley had discovered Eric already downstairs, absorbed in some mysterious project. She remained completely baffled about where he had managed to locate a compact grill.
“He even procured charcoal and is roasting marshmallows with Joy,” Hadley explained, her smile radiating genuine delight.
Naturally, she adored this spontaneous treat, though Joy’s enthusiasm far exceeded her own.
The sound of approaching voices drew Eric to his feet, and he offered both guests a courteous nod. “Elissa, Mrs. Brown, welcome to our home.” His attention shifted to his daughter. “Joy, please greet our guests.”
“Of course, Daddy.” Joy lifted her face and called out with perfect obedience, “Hello, Elissa…”
She pivoted toward Savannah but paused, uncertainty flickering across her small features as she struggled with the proper greeting.
Savannah’s warm smile preceded her gesture as she extended a carefully wrapped bag toward Joy. “Hello, sweetheart. I’m Elissa’s mother, and my name is Savannah. This little gift is especially for you.”
“Thank you so much, Savannah.” Joy received the present graciously and set it carefully on the sofa, her natural poise reflecting that of a seasoned hostess. Her face brightened with an angelic smile as she addressed their guest. “Savannah, welcome to our home! I’m going to share our special roasted marshmallows with you and Elissa!”
“Thank you, Joy. That sounds delightful.” Elissa’s smile carried genuine warmth, though her gaze lingered on the child with a shadow of wistful longing. Thoughts of Locke invaded her mind unbidden—her precious child, who possessed the same endearing charm as Joy.
Finish reading at ν
Days had stretched into what felt like an eternity since she had last held him close.
“Elissa.” Hadley gently guided her friend toward the comfortable seating and inquired, “Your departure is scheduled for the day after tomorrow?”
“That’s correct.” Elissa confirmed with a solemn nod. “The evening flight.”
“Then I absolutely must see you off at the airport,” Hadley declared with firm resolution.
“You don’t need to trouble yourself…”
“Please don’t deny me this,” Hadley whispered, her voice heavy with emotion. “You’re departing for who knows how long, and our next meeting remains uncertain. Naturally, I must be there to bid you farewell.”
Despite modern travel conveniences, the journey from Srixby to Ontmond demanded twelve to fourteen exhausting hours. Such distance would make future reunions challenging at best.
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