Alina nodded shyly, brushing her fingers over her lap.

"He promised he’d eat anything I made," she murmured, almost like she didn’t believe it herself. "I’m not completely sure… but I’m hoping he won’t go back on his words."

She let out a small laugh, but it sounded unsure and sad.

Grandma Linda looked at her for a long moment. Her heart was full, tears gathering in her eyes. It wasn’t because she was sad, it was because of something else.

This girl… so kind, ...