Bidding the Welbys good night, Thea, her parents and Ruth sat in the carriage to leave for the Greens' home. The night was good, and everyone enjoyed it.
Rees's parents invited Ruth again and told her to visit them whenever she pleased. Ruth was happy to meet them. They both were very different from Thea's parents. But she liked them nonetheless.
Mrs green could not stop talking about the delicious food and how generous the Welby's were to give everyone gifts.
She received a crockery set, Mr Green got nice cufflinks buttons. Thea got a beautiful earring pair. Ruth was yet to open her gift.
She recalled how Rees said that it was a special gift only for her. She knew Mr Welby had his eyes on her the whole time. He did not object, nor he looked displeased when Rees pulled her for a hug.
But what confused her was what he whispered in her ear.
*"Be careful Ruth. I will always protect you!"*