Chapter 4:Akai's surprise visit
Akai that day she didn't go to school as her Grandma's health was not well so she decided to take her to the hospital.. as she was returning to home from hospital with her grandmother.
Her phone rang ,seeing that Ryder's mom is calling she accept the call.
"Akai can you come and pay a visit today?" "Who is calling Akai?" Her grandma asked. "It's Ryder's mom." "Are you with your grandma?" From the other end asked Ryder's mom. "Yes, I'm with her. We just got back from the hospital."
"Oh, Akai, I'm so sorry to hear that," Ryder's mom said, her voice filled with empathy.
"Grandma, aunty wants to speak with you." Grandma took the phone in her hand and put it to her ears, her eyes filled with a mix of emotions. "Mrs. Thompson, thanks for taking care of Akai so much. I am really grateful to you for giving her love and support."
"Yes, yes, we will do so," Grandma replied, her voice filled with a sense of relief and gratitude.
Akai couldn't understand what they were conversing about on the phone, but she saw a look of comfort on her grandmother's face. After some time, her grandmother handed the phone back to her. "Grandma, what did aunty say?" Akai asked, her curiosity piqued.
"She asked us to go to their residence," Grandma replied, her eyes locked on Akai's.
"Now?" Akai's voice was laced with surprise, her eyes wide with wonder.
Grandma nodded her head, a gentle smile on her face. "Yes, now. Mrs. Thompson wants us to come over."
Akai's heart raced with excitement and a hint of confusion. She didn't understand why the Thompsons wanted them to visit at such a difficult time, but she trusted her grandmother's judgment. She knew that the Thompsons cared for them deeply, and she felt grateful for their unwavering support.
Her grandmother nodded her head, a gentle smile on her face. She caressed Akai's face, her touch warm and comforting. "I feel enlightened, seeing Ryder's family adore you so much. They truly care for you, Akai."
Akai's heart swelled with emotion as she looked at her grandmother, feeling a deep sense of gratitude and love. She knew that the Thompsons had become like a second family to her, and in this moment, she felt grateful for their unwavering support.
As the taxi pulled up to the Thompson residence The grandeur of the mansion took her breath away. The sprawling estate was nestled among lush greenery, with manicured lawns and vibrant flowers that seemed to dance in the gentle breeze. The sun cast a warm glow on the sleek, modern architecture, making the windows sparkle like diamonds.
Akai helped her grandmother out of the taxi. She paid the driver and carefully supported her grandmother's frail frame, feeling a sense of responsibility and love. As they made their way up the winding driveway, the security guard seeing her gave her a smile and greeted her .
The Thompson residence was a testament to elegance and sophistication, with its sleek lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and imposing stone façade. The massive wooden doors, adorned with intricate carvings, swung open with a soft creak, revealing a stunning foyer that seemed to stretch up to the sky.
Akai's eyes adjusted to the warm lighting, and she took in the lavish interior. Marble floors gleamed underfoot, and a majestic chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the room. The air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh flowers, and the soft hum of classical music seemed to envelop them in a warm embrace.
As they entered, Ryder's mom, Mrs. Thompson, rushed to greet them, her face etched with concern and compassion. "Akai, dear, it's so good to see you both. Please, come in, come in." She enveloped Akai and her grandmother in a warm hug, leading them deeper into the mansion.
Akai felt a lump form in her throat as she gazed around at the opulent decorations, her heart filled with gratitude for the Thompsons' unwavering support. She knew that this visit was more than just a social call – it was a reminder that they were not alone in their struggles.
Mrs. Thompson led them to the living room, her eyes shining with warmth as she gestured for them to sit. "I have been longing to meet you, Mrs. Klein. It's been a long time since we've met," she said, her voice filled with genuine affection.
Akai's grandmother smiled weakly, her eyes clouding with memories. "Yes, dear. I hope this granddaughter of mine is not giving you any trouble," she said, her voice laced with concern.
Mrs. Thompson's face lit up with a reassuring smile. "No, no, your granddaughter is so sweet. How can she cause us any trouble?" She patted Akai's hand, her touch warm and comforting.
Just then, a soft voice interrupted from the doorway. "Madam, the young master has left his tiffin here." The housekeeper, stood with a gentle smile, holding out a small lunchbox.
Mrs. Thompson turned to Akai. "Ah, Akai, can you please go with Mr. Jack and give him his tiffin?" She asked, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.
Akai nodded eagerly, feeling a sense of excitement and purpose. "Yes, Aunty!" she agreed, her voice filled with enthusiasm.
As she followed Mr. Jack out of the room, Akai felt a sense of belonging wash over her. She knew that she was loved and cared for, not just by her grandmother, but by the Thompsons as well. The warmth and kindness of this family enveloped her like a cozy blanket, making her feel safe and cherished.
She had heard so much from Ryder about his university, the prestigious Harvard University, renowned for its academic excellence, rich history, and iconic buildings. The mere mention of its name evoked a sense of awe and reverence. But nothing could compare to the thrill of actually seeing him on campus, surrounded by the bustling energy of students and faculty.
As she walked alongside Mr. Jack, her heart raced with excitement, her mind conjuring up images of Ryder in his element, exceling among the best and brightest. She felt a surge of pride, knowing that her friend was a part of this esteemed institution.
The sun cast a warm glow on the historic buildings, their Gothic spires and brick facades exuding a sense of tradition and knowledge. The air was alive with the hum of intellectual curiosity, the chatter of students, and the rustle of leaves from the ancient trees that lined the walkways.
Akai's eyes widened as she took in the breathtaking scenery, her excitement building with every step. She couldn't wait to see Ryder, to share in his world, to experience the magic of Harvard firsthand. Her heart swelled with joy, her smile spreading from ear to ear, as she thought about the adventure that lay ahead.