“It’s quite easy to get the green light from me. As I’ve said before, as long as the girl comes from an upright family and has good character, that’s enough.

“Our family is already extremely wealthy. There’s no need for you lot to enter arranged marriages for benefits. As long as you like the person, it’s fine. I trust your judgment. The children I raised personally would never have poor taste.”

Grandma May said affectionately, “Keep it up, Alex. I’m only getting older, so I’m pretty much gambling for time against the grim reaper and living day by day. My biggest wish is to see all nine of you settle down and start families.

“Whatever your gramps didn’t get to see, I’ll witness it on his behalf. Then, when I go to meet him later, I can face him without shame.”

Alex put his arm around his nana’s shoulders. “Nana, Gramps would definitely want you to see us all become parents on his behalf. You have nothing to be ashamed of before Gramps. It was he who let you down by leaving you and