The Day I Kissed An Older Man

Lucas glanced over and did not seem bothered that Thalia remained at the door of the house. He was holding a small luggage bag filled mostly with Melody's belongings and only about two or three sets of clothes. When Thalia extended her hand to take it, he skillfully avoided her and handed it to the servant who had come to assist him. "It's too heavy. You won't be able to lift it."

Thalia pouted and expressed some sympathy for him. "Why do your grandparents seem more interested in Melody's well-being, rather than yours? They didn't even wait to welcome you. It saddens me a little, actually."

Lucas did not understand why Thalia felt saddened by that. He came home at least once every two days, and his grandparents were likely not that excited to see him around. Besides, there was no point for either of them to stand at the gate and brave the cold wind. His grandparents were old, and Melody had just recovered too.

He considered Thalia to be a bit sensitive, but he chose not to dwell on it.

"You seem to be getting along with Melody. Does this mean you're less busy this time around? Could you take me out for a walk if you have the time?" Thalia harbored hopes of having some alone time with Lucas as the old couple's scrutinizing gaze at home made her suffocate. After all, she knew that they did not want her to have anything to do with Lucas.

to make the old couple understand eventually that

Thalia entered the house, Melody was already savoring her meal. She turned and said excitedly to Lucas, "The clams today are

more reticent tone.

had my fill a few days ago when you weren't at home, and I had regular access

delicacies. Melody did not think too much about that remark, but Beatrice frowned when she

Lucas' inquiry managed to dispel Beatrice's frown. "Only two bowls.

that Beatrice would monitor her food