Thea finally regained her senses and shook her head.
A man walked up to them.His face was gentle, lined with the marks of many smiles, and his eyes shone kindly behind thin glasses.
His voice was strong but warm as he greeted them, "Ryder... John... it's been a while."
Ryder returned the smile. "Pleasure to meet you, Uncle Raymond."
"I heard you've returned from abroad—coincidentally, I arrived from Australia just yesterday."
John smiled faintly. "Yes, Uncle Raymond, we came back just a few days ago. Father's been missing you—it's been quite some time since your last visit. You should stop by and see him."
"I will,Sure..." Raymond replied with a laugh. "I'm staying for two weeks anyway—it was on my list."
Then he turned to Thea. "And who is this? I don't believe I've had the pleasure of meeting this charming young woman."
Ryder replied, "She's an old friend from our childhood."
Raymond's smile grew wider. "Ah, it's a pleasure to meet you, Miss…"
