Growing Ternsion

Theron's suggestion hung in the air, creating a moment of silent tension. The adults exchanged glances, each contemplating about it.

Lord Caspian narrowed his eyes, assessing the young boy who had spoken with such maturity. He raised an eyebrow and glanced at Tyron. 

"That is a reasonable suggestion. A few visits would allow Elias to make a decision. We would also be able to spend time with him." He said with a ghost smile on his lips. 

How hard would it be to coax Elias to come with them? They just need to put in a little act and persuade him with gifts. They could surely spend and invest on that since getting Elias would mean getting control over the whole household as long as Alden was away. 

Tyron, who was hesitant at it glanced at his wife. Allyza's eyes were soft but resolute. 

"We can arrange for that" she agreed, nodding. "It will give everyone time to adjust and for Elias to carefully decide."

Lady Serese pursed her lips. She was clearly not entirely pleased by it but she couldn't do anything. 

"Very well," she said with a slight nod. A faint smile appeared on her lips when she saw how Elias curiously looked at them. They might have not succeeded with their original plan, but this was already a good start. 

"We will be back in three days since we need some time to prepare. I hope you will allow us," she uttered followed by a high-pitched laugh that was irritating to the ear. 

"We will," Allyza answered kindly. 

Elias smiled widely as he felt a mix of relief and joy. He hadn't met this uncle of his, but he hoped that they were different from his other relatives. It was the first time that someone from his family showed care and interest for him. 

Even though Elias was reluctant because he had already come to love his current home, the desire to be accepted by his real family still lingered in his heart. He believed that his father would be happy to see that everything was getting along with each other when he returned home.

Seeing Elias's hopeful expression and the hidden intention in the eyes of Elias's family, Theron could only sigh silently. He pitied Elias for being this hopeful, when it was already clear that this family of his only came here for their own agendas. 

'It sucks that I can't do anything.' Theron thought as he shook his head. Verbally saying his thoughts would do more harm than good to his family in the current situation. 

The only thing that he could do right now was to expose the real intention of Elias's family. This may affect Elias negatively, but Theron believed that it would also allow Elias to grow. 

Seeing Elias disheartened would be better than seeing him being used. Theron couldn't afford to lose such a friend, as Elias was the first friend he had made in this new life.

"Now that an agreement has been reached," Theron cleared his throat as he speak with much formality. "Let's eat now since the dinner is getting cold." 

Allyza nodded and smiled, quickly agreeing with her husband. She was the only one who could smile genuinely in this situation. Theron truly salutes his mother's attitude. 

"Let's eat everyone!" she exclaimed in a sweet voice, signalling the maids to start serving the food to their plates. 

With Allyza, easing the tension, the dinner started soon after. The dinner continued with conversations drifting into polite small talk. Elias and Charlize were talking to each other, fully enjoying themselves as if nothing happened. 

It was only Theron who remained silent, minimally joining in the conversation to not be left out. He was carefully crafting a plan in his mind while he observed their guests's personality at their dinner time. 

---

The following days passed quickly. The silent tension of the upcoming visit weighed heavily on the whole household. Despite the children acting the same after, Theron could sense Elias's anxiety growing. 

When the day of the visit arrived, Elias stood nervously by the grand entrance of the estate. Theron, Charlize, Allyza, and Tyron were all there to support and guide him throughout.

 As soon as the clock striked at 9 am, Lord Caspian and Lady Serese arrived punctually, their carriage shining in the morning sun. They plan to take Elias out to a picnic. 

"Welcome, Lord Caspian, Lady Serene." Tyron and Allyza greeted the two with formality. The growing tension was still there. 

"Thank you." The two answered plainly before giving their full attention to Elias who was standing in the middle. 

"Ready, Elias?" Lord Caspian asked with a bright smile that still lacked sincerity.

Elias nodded in a hopeful voice. "Yes, Uncle." 

"Remember, it's just for a few hours," Allyza reminded Lord Caspian and Lady Serese gently. "We'll also be in the location, but we won't disturb your time."

Theron and Charlize stepped forward together. They placed a hand on Elias's shoulder and reassuring smile. 

"If anything feels wrong, just let us know. We're here for you!" Charlize exclaimed out loud with a wide and bright smile on her face. 

Elias nodded again, feeling a bit braver with his friend's support. 

"Let's go now, Elias." Lady Serese uttered as she held Elias's hands. She wanted to go already, finding it hard to keep the smile on her face. 

"Okay, Auntie." 

Elias quickly smiled and waved his hands at Theron and Charlize. Afterward he bowed at Allyza and Theron to show his appreciation for letting him take this opportunity before following his auntie and uncle.

The carriage ride started in relative silence, with only the sound of the wheels rolling along the gravel path. Elias looked out the window, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and anxiety. 

Lord Caspian and Lady Serese sat across from him, their expressions a mask of friendliness and warmth.

"So, Elias," Lord Caspian began, breaking the silence. "Tell us about your life here. What do you enjoy doing?"

Elias hesitated for a moment before answering. 

"I love playing with Theron and Charlize. We explore the estate, play games, and sometimes help with the chores. We also started learning swordmanship recently!" 

Lady Serese nodded, though her eyes were distant. 

"It sounds lovely. But have you ever thought about what it would be like to live with us, Elias? Your cousins already missed you so much! Your auntie and uncles are also wondering about you" 

Elias shifted uncomfortably in his seat although he was happy to hear the information. His hands fidgeted as he slightly looked down. 

. "I... I do wonder sometimes.."