A Sense of Belonging

She had heard so much from Ryder about his university, the prestigious New York Lumina 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.

As she walked with Mr. Jack, she felt excited. She imagined Ryder doing well and being among the best. She felt proud knowing her friend was part of a respected institution.

She gazed out at the campus. She was struck by its beauty and energy. Historic buildings stood tall and brick facades exuding a sense of tradition and learning. The warm sun lit up the scene,the old trees gently swayed, their leaves murmuring softly.She was eager to meet him.

En route to Ryder's university, Thea kept her visit a secret, intent on surprising him. When Elizabeth called to arrange lunch, she discreetly omitted Thea's name, merely mentioning that someone would deliver the meal.

Thea waited at the designated spot, Mr. Jack's instructions still fresh in her mind. As she absorbed the campus's lively atmosphere, her gaze wandered, taking in the lush scenery.

Suddenly, a familiar figure emerged in the distance. Her heart skipped a beat as she saw Ryder walking towards her , unaware of the surprise awaiting him.

As Ryder approached, Thea's eyes shone brightly with fondness, and her face blossomed with delight. She felt a rush of exhilaration, her heart brimming with joy. "You're the one Mother mentioned?" Ryder asked, his smile warm and inquiring.

"Hmm... Aren't you happy to see me here?" she asked, feigning puzzlement.

"Well, there isn't..." Ryder started.

Her eyes widened in disbelief, locking onto his face with a 'you-can't-be-serious' stare.

Ryder reached for the tiffin, but Thea playfully withheld it, her eyes teasing.

"Thanks, Thea for bringing it." he said.

She pretended to be offended, her voice dripping with mock hurt. "You're not happy to see me? Well, in that case, I'll just be off!"

"Hmm, then I'll have to settle for canteen lunch." Ryder said, wrinkling his nose in distaste. "Not exactly ideal for someone who's just recovered from a fever."

Thea, poised to turn away in mock departure, halted mid-motion. Her expression softened, and her eyes filled with genuine concern as she turned back to him. "How are you feeling now?" she asked, scanning his face for any telltale signs of fatigue or stress.

"I'm feeling much better.." Ryder said, his eyes glinting with triumph as he swiftly seized the box from Thea's grasp.

"Ryder, that's cheating! You completely tricked me!" she protested.

"Ryder, who is she?" His attention redirected to the speaker and the person now standing beside him.

"My friend." Ryder replied, his smile warm. "Her name is Alethea."

The stranger's eyes lit up with recognition. "Oh, I've heard a lot about you from him."

Thea's eyes widened slightly as Ryder's friend stepped beside him, her presence commanding attention.

"Alethea, I'm Savannah, Ryder's friend.." she said warmly, extending her hand with a bright smile. "Nice to meet you."

Thea's response was a little delayed, her mind processing the unexpected introduction. "Nice to meet you too."

Her eyes narrowed slightly as she regarded Savannah, her thoughts swirling with curiosity and a hint of wariness. Who was this woman, and what was her connection to Ryder? Thea's handshake was polite, but her gaze remained intense, probing for clues about Savannah's presence in Ryder's life.

Despite Savannah's genuine smile, Thea's composure remained slightly rattled. The unexpected encounter had stirred a tumultuous mix of emotions within her - curiosity, surprise, and a lingering thread of unease. Her mind swirled with unspoken questions, as she struggled to reconcile the sudden appearance of this woman in Ryder's life.

Thea gazed at Savannah, her eyes scanning her features with interest. Savannah's slender figure stood out. Her long, dark hair was tied in a single braid, its silky strands framing her round face.

Her skin had a golden glow and her features were delicate yet striking.Savannah's style was effortless, her casual attire exuding a relaxed elegance.

In her eyes, Savannah embodied a sense of grace and poise.She felt a pang of insecurity as she watched Ryder and Savannah's easy interaction, their banter and laughter seeming to exclude her. She felt like an outsider, a feeling that only intensified as Ryder's gaze lingered on Savanna's face. "Ryder, I'm going back."