Hearing Cheryl’s distressed cries, Alex felt a stab of inexplicable pain in his heart and quickly asked, “What’s wrong? Don’t cry, tell me. I’m here for you, no matter what it is.”

Cheryl sobbed. “Grandpa… got into an accident…”

“What? Is it serious?”

“Yes… the operation is underway, but the doctor just came out and said that the situation is not looking good. He just gave me the critical illness notice for me to sign so that I would be mentally prepared. I’m so afraid… can you come over?”