Alexander, without lifting his gaze from the phone in his hand, responded simply, "Alright."

Grace, hearing his agreement, allowed herself to relax.

Grandma Sterling, having been occupied in conversation with the butler and missing most of their exchange, glanced over at them with a pleased smile, delighted at the sight of them sharing words at all.

After dinner, Grandma Sterling directed the staff to bring Grace her prescribed medicine. Alexander, in ...