"How have you been, my sweetheart?"
Jane hugged Kyra warmly, as if she were her own granddaughter—a greeting even James didn't receive from his grandparents.
Creighton, the iron-willed old man, offered James nothing more than a pat on the back and a curt inquiry about his well-being. Yet, for Kyra, his demeanor softened as he grinned and placed a familial kiss on her cheek.
"Do you have enough pocket money to hang out with your friends? You haven't asked me for any in a while. Tell grandpa, how much do you need?" he said gently, rubbing her head with genuine care.
Creighton and Jane had always doted on Kyra more than their own grandson. Kyra's sweet and caring nature was endearing in their eyes, a stark contrast to James, who had matured faster than his peers and grown distant. While James was often indifferent, Kyra was affectionate—spoiled yet thoughtful.