After going over some business details, As casually asked, “Grady, are you having lunch with the youngdy today?"


    Grady nced at him and grunted in acknowledgment.


    As nodded but then seemed to recall something. "Why not tell her about the Davis family''s history today? She''s an adult now, and a bit of background might help her prepare for what''s ahead."


    Grady paused his signing, stayed silent for a few seconds, then said, "No rush."


    Taking the hint, As changed the subject. "Everything''s set up in Riverdale. When the youngdy goes, she''ll have discreet protection."


    "Hmm, you''ll go with her," Grady said while continuing his work without looking up.


    As, pleased, said, "Thank you, Grady."


    Grady didn''t respond or pay him any further attention.


    **


    At noon, Grady picked up Mirabe from her driving school. They headed to a restaurant owned by the Davis family.


    Shortly after they arrived, the kitchen brought out their meal.


    Grady seemed much more rxedpared to their first meeting. He had been practicing how to be more gentle and approachable. Now, his slight smile didn''t seem forced.


    Of course, this demeanor was reserved only for Mirabe.


    As they were finishing their meal, Mirabe took a napkin, wiped her mouth, and pulled out a white stic bottle from her pocket. "Grady, please give this medication to Chester."


    Grady set down his utensils, looked at the bottlebeled as calcium supplements, and coughed lightly.


    He took the bottle, feeling its substantial weight, but didn''t open it. Although the bottle looked ordinary, he knew its contents were anything but.


    Grady pocketed the medicine, visibly grateful. "Thanks for this, Miss."


    Mirabe nodded. "No problem."


    "Oh, by the way, have you heard of the Pharmacists'' Guild?" Grady asked, suddenly remembering something.


    Mirabe poured herself a cup of coffee, took a sip, and nodded. “I''ve heard a bit about it..."


    Grady, pondering, said, "I know someone in the Pharmacists'' Guild. If you''re interested, I could introduce you."


    Considering Mirabe''s interest in medicine and alchemy, he thought she''d find the Pharmacists'' Guild intriguing.


    "Not interested." Mirabe shook her headzily, thinking it was a trap.


    Grady looked visibly surprised, considering how many people aspired to join the Guild and how it elevated one''s status beyond that of a regr physician.


    "Alright, let me know if you change your mind," Grady said after a moment. "Will do," Mirabe replied sweetly.


    "We didn''t get a chance to talk about itst time, but what major did you choose for college?" Grady asked with a smile.


    "Biological research," Mirabe replied without hesitation.


    Grady''s temples throbbed, and his breathing became slightly heavier. "...Why biological research?"


    Everyone seemed to be diving into research, but with the vast Davis estate, who would manage it?


    "I''m interested in it," Mirabe said, her eyshes fluttering slightly.


    Grady tried to persuade her. "I think research might be too tedious for a youngdy. Would you consider switching your major?"


    Maybe finance, international trade, or even something in the fiscal field, he thought.