When they got back to Serenity Hall, it was not too late yet. Nocturne was still up, teaching Esther how to read. Seeing Agnes and the others return, he asked, “Mom, Dad, you’re back so soon. Was Grandpa Reggie not at home?”
Agnes walked over to Nocturne, shaking her head, “Grandpa Reggie was there, but Mom and Dad had some things to take care of, so we came back early.”
Nocturne, concerned, asked, “Is Grandpa Reggie doing alright? Last time I saw him, he had a bit of a cough.”
Agnes ruffled Nocturne’s hair, “He’s much better now, don’t worry.”
Nocturne sighed, “I miss Grandpa Reggie. I wish I could have gone with you.”
Nocturne and Grandpa Reggie had always been close, perhaps because Grandpa Reggie was the first person to hold Nocturne when he was born. Every year, Nocturne would spend some time at Grandpa Reggie's place. To Nocturne, Grandpa Reggie’s world was a realm of endless marvels. Grandpa Reggie taught him horseback riding and shooting, surrounding him with a vibrant cast of characters. Everyone adored the boy who mostly lived in his dreams but had the mind of a genius. Some even suggested Grandpa Reggie groom Nocturne to take over his legacy, but Grandpa Reggie refused. “This child,” he’d say, “is meant to live in the sunshine. He may see the edge of darkness, but he shall never walk into it.”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Heartstrings on Fire