Chapter 26

"Hardly, Grandpa. You're tough as nails—a little sickness like this can't knock you down. Give it a month tops, and you'll be back on your feet. And when you are, I've got to get some painting and drawing tips from you.

"Your sketching skills I saw on video were killer. It's a rare find to see such talent these days." Walter knew exactly how to butter someone up, especially the older folks.

Cole had taken up sketching as his golden years' hobby.

Walter's compliments had Cole grinning widely, noticeably lifting his spirits. He had been worried about Evangeline being underappreciated in the Gordon family, but it looked like her husband, despite his silver-spoon upbringing, was attentive after all.

Evangeline rolled her eyes at Walter. Since when did he become an art connoisseur? With his knack for sweet talk, he might as well have been a clown.

"You've got a silver tongue, young man, but let's see some action," said Cole. "I'm getting on in years. Evie's mother left us too soon, and