Trials and Love

Chapter 7

Previously

     "I'm patient. I would like to be her friend though. Someone she can trust and talk to." Jon smiled and nodded.
     "I know."

----------------------------------------------

      Robert woke up and went downstairs to make breakfast. His parents, younger sister, and younger brother were still asleep. He noticed his older brother, Ace sitting on the couch reading a book. Ace looked up and smiled.
     "Hello Rob. How are you?"
     "Hello Ace. I'm well. How are you?" He smiled.
     "Good." He smiled back and marked his place. "Come sit. We didn't get to talk last night." Rob nodded and sat down next to him.
     "I'm sorry. I was helping Jon and Crys get settled."
     "It's alright. I understand. Are they still asleep?"
     "Yes. How about Juan?"
     "Still asleep. Turns out he and Jon are old friends. Went to school together."
     "That's neat." Rob smiled. "Have you heard their backstory?"
     "Yes. And I have to say that it's saddening. But Mother and Father are in agreement that they can stay here." Ace smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Thank you for contacting me and letting me know."
     "Of course." He smiled back. "I just hope that Crystal can open up over time. I'm patient though. I know it must be very hard for her."
     "Indeed." He nodded and stood up. "Now. Let's get some breakfast going. Can't let our guests go hungry on their first full day." Rob smiled and nodded as he stood up as well.

      Crystal woke up as she smelled something cooking and went down, peeking her head out to see Rob and Ace in the kitchen, talking as they cooked. She debated going into the room until Rob noticed her.
     "Crys?" He called softly and she jumped.
     "I-I'm sorry..."
     "Don't apologize. Come on in." He smiled softly as Ace smiled.
     "Crystal right? I'm Ace. The eldest here."
     "I-It's nice to meet you..." She said softly as she came in and sat down at the table.
     "Are you hungry?" Rob asked.
     "A little..."
     "Would you like to eat now? That way you don't have to wait for my parents and the others. Here. I was going to eat myself so o can tend to the garden." He said softly as he placed a plate of French toast and eggs and a glass of milk in front of her before grabbing his own and sitting across from her. Ace smiled at them and left the room.
     "You have a garden?" Crystal asked as she started eating a bit. Rob smiled and nodded, happy that she didn't stutter or hesitate.
     "Yeah. Would you like to see after you're finished?" Crystal blushed lightly, but smiled a little.
     "Yes. I would love that."