Before long, only one day remained until Ryder had to head off to Sweden, as he had planned. Thea was deeply saddened by the fact that he was leaving.
He was set to spend the next four years there, and to Thea, that felt unbearably long.
She couldn't hide her concern for him. Observing this, her grandmother offered to cook his favorite dishes.
Thea helped out in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and marinating meat, and took it upon herself to prepare his beloved dessert.
"Grandma, is everything ready?"
"Yes, dear. We've made his favorite dishes, and your cake is perfect."
"I'm going to miss him so much, but I'm more worried about you."Grandma Grace's eyes misted over.
Thea hugged her tightly.
"I'll miss him too, Grandma....Four years feels like an eternity. But I'll be strong for him, and for myself." Thea whispered while her grandma stroked her hair.
"That's my brave girl."
