CHAPTER NINETY-EIGHT

The living room was quiet, except for the soft sound of Lizzy’s sobs.

She sat on the couch, wearing a plain black gown, her shoulders hunched, fingers twisting round her dress. Her eyes were puffy and red from crying all night.

“I can’t believe Grandpa is gone…” she whispered. “Just like that. No warning, no goodbye. I won’t see him again. He left me all alone.”

Samson sat beside her, one hand gently rubbing her back. His own eyes were dull with grief, but he held it in for her sake.

“You’re not alone,” he said softly. “I’m here. I’m not your grandfather, I know that, but I’ll step into the role. For you… and for Jayden.”

Lizzy looked up, her eyes all red.

“You’ve carried enough on your shoulders, Lizzy. You’ve done more than most women your age would even try to do. It’s time to let someone else help. You need to be strong, but you don’t have to be strong alone.”

She wiped her cheeks and nodded slowly, leaning into his shoulder. “Thank you, Samson.”

They sat there for a long time, su