Roderick's heart sank as the weight of the truth about Alekis's diagnosis finally hit him.
"I've been such a fool, Uncle," he whispered with guilt. "Now I understand why Grandpa kept pushing me to get married… why he barely ate some days. I live in this house, and yet I didn't notice a thing. I feel so useless. I can't bear the thought of something happening to him."
A troubled expression clouded Roderick's face. He lowered his gaze, his voice breaking slightly. "After Dad passed away, Grandpa was the one who stepped up. He became everything to me that time. He was my guide and my support. Losing him… I just can't even think about it."
Lucius placed a firm but comforting hand on his nephew's shoulder. "Don't think like that, Rick. We have to stay hopeful. Dad is strong, he'll pull through. Layla and I have decided to move back into the house. Being close to him is what he needs right now."
