Christopher eagerly opened the gift box. But his smile instantly vanished when he saw what was inside.

The box contained no precious gift or token of affection but plain white silk.

Christopher raised an eyebrow and asked, "Is this the gift you prepared?"

"What's the matter, Father? Don't you like it?" Gage remained calm and humble.

"Do you like it?" Christopher's expression grew stern. He exclaimed, "Look what you gave me!"

He threw the gift box to the floor, where it cracked open, and t