Sallie's POV
Tears flooded my eyes, but I was so stunned I couldn't speak. I managed to stammer, "Grandpa Levi."
Levi placed the documents to one side, removed his reading glasses, and gazed at me with gentle warmth. "Sallie, you've come. Come closer, let me look at you. Were you frightened?"
My nose burned, and the tears I'd been fighting back finally broke free, streaming down my face. I couldn't contain it anymore. I rushed forward and collapsed into Levi's embrace, my voice breaking as I cried, "Grandpa Levi."
Levi softly stroked my hair, his expression radiating tenderness and love. "Don't be afraid, Sallie. I'm still strong and healthy. I haven't witnessed your wedding yet—how could I abandon you?"
The familiar, steady warmth of his hand against my head finally lifted the crushing burden from my chest. I couldn't stop the tears. I pressed my face deeper against Levi's chest, weeping in silence.
