It had been months since Eryx first stood on shaky legs, months since he took his first few clumsy steps with a therapist at his side. Now, he could walk on his own, still slow at times and relearning the rhythm but his body was catching up.
He didn't need the chair anymore.
And he hadn't looked back since.
The sun filtered gently through the window of their penthouse as Eryx stood by the counter, sipping lukewarm coffee. It was too early for caffeine, but sleep had been restless last night maybe because of the dream, because of the chill he couldn't shake.
Then, the phone rang.
He glanced at the caller ID.
The hospital.
A strange stillness settled over him as he answered.
"Hello?"
"Mr. Eryx Grantham?"
His heart dipped. He knew that tone. It was calm.
"Yes."
There was a pause, and then the voice continued.
"We're calling about Matilda Grantham. Your grandmother."
He didn't move, didn't blink.
"I'm sorry to inform you that she passed not long ago."
