When the three of them entered the parlor, the king rose from his seat. “Grayson, my boy! It’s great to have you home!” He pulled his son in for a hug.
“It’s good to be home,” Grayson replied, releasing him.
Then the king took Ari’s hand, patting it as he looked into her eyes. “My dear, you look absolutely radiant tonight.” Then he kissed her hand. “Welcome home.”
Ari gave a slight curtsy. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”
“Come. Sit down.” The king motioned toward the sofa and the empty chairs. “Sit and tell me all about your trip. I want to hear every word.” Then he looked at Ari, his eyes filled with concern. “How is your sister, my dear? Did the transplant work?”
“She was very sick at first but was feeling better before we left. However, we won’t know for another few weeks whether the Stem Cell Transplant worked or not.”
The king nodded thoughtfully. “Well, you’ll keep me informed. Won’t you?”