Chapter 281: A Misunderstanding IV
"Before you go," Old Mr. Thorne interrupted gently, seeing as Athena was about to get up to retire for the night. "I want to ask one more thing. A favor. Could you consider letting Ewan find his way back into your lives, perhaps at your own pace? It would mean the world to him."
Athena opened her mouth, prepared to argue the point, but the sincerity in his expression grounded her. Instead of gratifying her defenses, his request lingered in the air, prompting her heart to consider opening that door just a crack.
If Ewan had changed, could there be room for him in their lives again? He could be a good friend at least, for he demonstrated outstanding character since the truth had come to the surface.
"I will think about it, Old Mr. Thorne," She replied, brushing away any doubt, not up for another round of worrying and mental stress. Everything will fall into place in due time. "I need some time to figure everything out."
Old Mr. Thorne nodded slowly, satisfied with the answer. "The door is always open for you, Athena. You’re part of this family too, no matter what," He reassured her, his voice warm and patient.
After a few moments of shared silence, she straightened up, feeling lighter. "I’ll see you tomorrow," She said, lingering a little longer as she prepared to leave. "And thank you for always being there."
Old Mr. Thorne furrowed his brows. "Tomorrow? Are you coming to visit me?"
Athena chuckled, realizing the latter’s confusion. "I was a bit hasty before in making a certain decision. That wasn’t nice of me. The children and I will be troubling you some more, till this fiasco with Morgan is properly tackled."
Old Mr. Thorne’s lips widened in a smile of happiness. "Thank you, Athena. Have a beautiful night!" He actually hoped that she would have one free from nightmares. Maybe he should ask Florence to make for her the special tea?
"You are wishing me a good night, but there’s a frown on your face, old man?"
Old Mr. Thorne met Athena’s amused gaze and laughed, getting to his feet. "Oh, don’t worry about that, my dear. I was just thinking of asking my wife to make you her special tea... it helps with sleeping..."