Chapter 111: The Boy She Befriended Decades Ago
Chairman Delaney and Madeline didn’t bring up the traumatizing event that happened to Lariette on the isle, to which she was grateful. They, alongside Ruediger, exchanged mundane chatters as they enjoyed the sea breeze. The bright atmosphere at Chairman Delaney’s villa contrasted with the tense and gloomy one at the Elsher family’s.
After over one hour of staying in the yard, Chairman Delaney began to look drowsy. He usually took a short nap in the afternoon.
"Grandpa, you should head back inside," Lariette gently patted Chairman Delaney’s arm, seeing the sleepy look on the elderly man’s face, "We can chat again later."
"I’ll bring you to your room, Grandpa," Madeline offered herself to escort Chairman Delaney. She rose to her feet, looking at the old man, "We better go now before Lari starts nagging."
Madeline’s last remark earned laughter from Chairman Delaney, followed by Lariette and Ruediger. The merry echoes harmonized with the gentle lapping of the waves nearby.
"Let’s have dinner together later," said Chairman Delaney smilingly at Lariette, the eyes beneath his drooping eyelids exuded warmth for her, "This old man here is glad to see you’re better."
The curve on Lariette’s lips softened. Leaning closer to Chairman Delaney, she wrapped her arms around the elderly man’s shoulders. Her grandfather’s familiar warmth seeped into her heart.
"Rest well, Grandpa," Lariette whispered, her tone hinting at a smile, "And, thank you again."
Chairman Delaney replied by returning Lariette’s hug. His broad and calloused, wrinkly palms which were weathered by the years, gently rubbed his granddaughter’s back.
As Madeline escorted Chairman Delaney away from the yard, Lariette and Ruediger were left alone behind. He moved from his original seat to the one occupied by the elderly man.