By the large counter, the housekeeper stood, supervising the younger staff.
"Grandpa Housekeeper," she called softly.
The old man turned at once, his eyes brightening. "Nnenna," he greeted warmly, walking over so she wouldn't have to move closer. "Welcome home."
"Thank you," she said, her face lighting up with a smile so bright it made Darius stop in his tracks.
For a moment, he just stared, caught off guard. He realized, almost with a sting, that she had never smiled like that at him.
"I was just about to deliver some organic snacks to you," the housekeeper said, his tone half scolding, half gentle. "And maybe use that as an excuse to finally see you myself. Word is, you refused yesterday's lunch, dinner, and even this morning's breakfast. That's not good for a growing girl at all."
"I know, Grandpa Housekeeper," Nnenna replied quietly, listening with the kind of respect only she seemed to give him.
