Blood and Defiance

“Grandpa?” said Valerie in disbelief. Surprise and glee bubbled up to her face, and she hurried to Gideon to help him.

Unfortunately, he responded by staring as though he were looking at a stranger. He said, “Thank you for rescuing me, young lady, but I don't feel right to further burden you like this.”

Young lady? The smile on Valerie's face stiffened.

“Alright, come on now. I'll go with you, so