Smiling, I knew he had. At least I would be able to message him over the phone. At least we might have that. I walked over to the couch and took out the note from Grandpa.
Punkin Pie,
I want you to know that you are such an amazing granddaughter. And even though I’m not here, don’t forget to live each minute to the fullest. Don’t be afraid to fall in love, take chances, and live your best life.
I love you, Sydney. You’re an amazing vet. All you need to do is believe you’re ready. You are.
The house is my gift to you. I know you’ve loved that house since you were a little girl.
Go achieve everything you ever wanted.
Life is an adventure. Make the most of it.
Love,
Grandpa
I cried as I held the letter.
Grandpa, I miss you.
I needed Mike.
Me: Instead of going home, can you come here?
Mike: Of course. Is everything okay?
If the Alchemists were reading my texts, I had to be discreet.
Me: Yes, everything is fine. I just miss you.
Mike: I miss you, too.
Mike
The moment Sydney texted me to come to her house right after work, I knew something was wrong. After my shift was over, I made my way to my house so that my car wasn’t parked in her driveaway. Not that it was anyone’s business, but I couldn’t stand the thought of gossip.
It was around two in the morning, and I slipped the key Sydney had given me into the lock.
When I opened the door, I reached down and gave Maggie Maye a quick pat on the head, whispering, “Hey, beautiful, how was your night?”
I looked up to see Sydney sitting on the sofa in her living room.
“Syd?”
“I couldn’t sleep.”
“Why are you sitting in the dark?” I asked, glancing around the dark house.