Chapter 1574

Lucas hauled the seemingly plastered Mitch up three flights of stairs in the narrow stairwell of their modest townhouse, finding the task more exhausting than he had anticipated. Grace followed closely behind, lending a helping hand. "Lucas, just get the old man onto the bed, that's all," she said. Lucas slowly crouched, gently laying Mitch on the bed. Grace expressed her gratitude with a sheepish smile. "I owe you one for this." "It's no trouble at all, Mom," Lucas replied. "How about I stay here and keep an eye on Dad? You can go down and join Stella and John for the New Year's vigil." Grace shook her head. "You've done enough already. I can't ask you to do more. You go join Stella and John, have yourself a good time. I'll stay here with him." "Are you sure you can handle it?" Lucas asked, concerned. "I've been looking after him for years; it's nothing new," Grace reassured him. Lucas gave it a moment's thought. "Alright, then. I'm heading down." "Okay." Grace watched him le