Theresia stepped up behind Naomi, quietly taking in the new painting. The excitement inside her burned brighter, hot and restless.
A cool, almost icy smile tugged at her lips.
"Do you think it’s bad luck?"
Naomi had definitely been thinking that, though she didn’t dare say it out loud. There was something about the painting that sent a chill right through her.
Theresia explained, "I made this one as a gift for someone."
That only left Naomi more confused. Who would want a painting that felt so ominous?
She glanced at Theresia, eyebrows raised in pure confusion.
But Theresia didn’t say anything more about it. Instead, she changed the subject. "The fruit is really sweet, and the cake is delicious."
Just like that, Naomi’s mood shifted. Hearing the praise, she lit up, her smile spreading until it was almost too big for her face. "I’m so glad you like it. Oh, by the way, has Farris been busy? He hasn’t come over in a while. If you want, I’ll cook a few extra dishes tonight. You can invite him to dinner."
Theresia’s eyes went wide. For a second, she just stood there, caught off guard.
Did Naomi have the wrong idea?
She rushed to explain. "It’s not what you think with Farris and me. He’s just a classmate, that’s all."
Naomi blinked, a little surprised. "Really? I just thought... you two seem so close."
She couldn’t help feeling a bit disappointed. What parent didn’t want to see their child find someone good, settle down, be happy? Naomi was no different. She’d always hoped Theresia would meet the right person.
But she caught herself. Maybe it was better not to interfere. Right now, making sure Theresia was healthy and happy was enough.
Theresia gave a small smile. "Once I finish things here, I’ll come find you all in Northwood. Tell Moses and Frank I said hi."
Farris knew Theresia always had her own timeline. He shrugged. "Alright, Teresa. See you in Northwood."
"Safe flight," she called, waving as he headed inside.
She watched him disappear through security before turning to leave herself. She hadn’t even made it out of the airport when her phone started ringing.
She picked up, listening closely as the person on the other end gave their report. Slowly, a smile grew across her face.
When the call ended, she looked straight ahead.
Lawrence, you couldn’t wait any longer, could you?

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