Chapter 29
"Oh, don't look so cross, Lucas dear." Auntie Del ran her thumb lightly over the bruise on Lucas's temple, just below the plaster. "I know very well that you're a grown man who can not only take care of himself but the whole of Orchard Downs." She patted his cheek. "But that doesn't mean your young man can't take care of you, as I've no doubt you take care of him." Her eyes turned soft and her hand on Lucas's cheek went gentle. "So much like your father. And you look so much like him--have I ever told you that?"
She had. Lots of times. But hearing it again always made something in Lucas's chest go soft and warm.
Auntie Del gathered herself with a deep breath and a sharp "So." She turned to Alex. "What happened to my nephew?"