Chapter 164

The man on the hospital bed stirred slightly, as if sensing something. His cloudy eyes opened with effort, and he looked toward the person beside him. “Emily…” “Grandpa!” Alice choked out, her vision blurred with tears. Seeing his finger twitch, she hurried to clasp his hand tightly, voice trembling. “Grandpa, I’m sorry... I should’ve come sooner.” He slowly shook his head, breath rough and raspy, each word coming with difficulty. “I wanted... to see you... worried you weren’t doing well.” “I’m doing fine, really. Mr. Hawthorne and Edward both take good care of me, Grandpa.” At her words, the old man’s gaze seemed to register something. He shifted slightly, catching sight of Edward standing nearby. His dull eyes lit up a bit, and he struggled to lift a hand, beckoning him over. Edward stepped forward, kneeling down by the bed. Just as he reached out, the frail hand with the IV suddenly clenched his tightly. “Please... take care of Emily…” “You have my word,” Edward replied calmly, thou