Alexander returned home as the sun began to peek over the horizon. Despite his fatigue, he forced a smile as he approached the small house. He could already hear Tori’s cries from inside.
“Andra!” Grandma Lan’s rasping voice carried through the house, followed by a fit of coughing. “That boy’s back. I can hear his footsteps.”
Andra stepped into the main room, hands on her hips. “Alexander Mercer, where have you been?” she called, meeting him at the door.
Alexander hesitated, his eyes flicking toward Tori, who was curled up beside Grandma Lan, her cheeks streaked with tears. She looked up as he entered, her face lighting up in relief.
“You promised you’d stay,” Andra scolded, crossing her arms. “Do you see what you’ve done? She’s been crying for hours, waiting for you to come back...”
