8am in the Hunter household.
Rose was putting on her own clothes. after the previous days cooking adventure, they smelled of sweat. But it was fine, as her house wasnt too far away. She would soon change.
She got up, washed her mouth and then prepared to get back home.
As she walked downstairs, she found Julianne Hunter, drinking coffee while peacefully reading a newspaper.
Rose: Good morning, Mrs Hunter.
Julianne: Oh... Morning, Rose. You're up early.
Rose: Ehehehe... yeah.
Julianne: You want some breakfast? I've still got scones from yesterday.
She motioned Rose to a half eaten scone that she'd been eating and then took a small bite and swallowed it.
Julianne: And I've gotta say, they turned out great. I couldn't have done it without you.
The teen flinched.
Rose: M... me?
Julianne: Yep. Your idea to add a hint of lemon really gives them that kick.
The statement of approval made Rose smile to herself. She'd had a really good day with the Hunters. To her, they'd both been so kind.
Rose: (humbly) Thank you, Mrs Hunter. It was no trouble at all, really.
She then gently bowed.
Julianne: (thinking: So this is what all these kids are like, huh. Well.... maybe Max will learn some lessons from them.... errrrrrrr..... Maybe.) So, do you want some?
Rose: Sure!
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She couldn't think of a reason to say no.
This woman, ....
Julianne: You know, Max is probably still sleeping. Knowing him, he'll be out like a light for a little longer.
..... this alien woman,....
Julianne: Oh, you got to speak to him last night? Hmph. Then I guess it's alright.
.... she'd been so kind to her. Rose couldn't believe her own luck. She'd found someone who could understand her troubles.
And so, just as she'd finished her tea and scones with Max's mother, she had something important to say.
Rose: Errrmm... Mrs Hunter?
Julianne: Yes, Rose?
She stood up again and gave a deep bow.
Rose: Thank you so much for all you've done for me today. I'll be sure to take it all to heart, Mrs Hunter.
The sight of the bow and the intensity of the speech struck something in the older woman. Simply put, she was moved.
Julianne: Rose....
Such a remarkably honest and sweet girl. One would wonder how she came to be.
She herself stood up and walked to the bowing girl, softly embracing her in a hug.
Julianne: It's no big deal, Rose. It's no big deal.
This embrace. She was now hugging her like she would someone close to her. Like she would someone she trusted. How the turns had tabled?
Moments later...
Julianne: Ok. Make sure you haven't forgotten anything here.
Rose put her shoes on one by one.
Rose: It's ok, Mrs Hunter. I haven't forgotten anything.
Julianne: Alright then. (thinking: I kinda wish Max could have been awake to see her off atleast.)
After she'd slipped her shoes on, she turned to the door.
Rose: Ok, I'm ready.
Julianne: Alright.
She opened the door for the teen, and Rose walked out.
Rose: Goodbye, Mrs Hunter.
Julianne: Goodbye, Rose. And, stay safe, alright? Come visit any time you'd like, ok? (thinking: Look at me now. Inviting her for another visit. Heh... things can change.)
Rose: Uh huh. I will.
She gleefully walked outside as Julianne watched her from the doorway.
Just as she was about to get to the sidewalk, she heard a loud and familiar voice.
Voice: Hey, Rose!
Rose: Hmm?
She turned to the direction from whence the voice had come. It was at the top of the Hunter household, or rather, its upper windows.
It was Max, much to her shock. He was in his bedroom, looking out the window, waving at her, smiling.
Max: See ya later!
Rose: Yeah, see ya later!
She couldn't stop smiling to herself and giggled as she continued on her way.
Julianne: (thinking: I suppose he did wake up in time. Hmmm.)
Julianne then closed the door to her house.
As for Rose, she couldn't stop thinking about it.
What a great day it had been! Indeed. What a great day it had been for her!
In a worry free manner, she walked all the way back to her own home.