rt Nicole for a bit before they all headed out, leaving just her and Chase together Chase was so wrapped up in Nicole that he didn’t even remember the whole thing about my disappearance.  “Nicole, don’t let what Grandma said get to you. She’s just getting on in years,” Chase said softly.  “Yeah, I know, Chase. But Grandma’s pretty set against me, so I doubt she’ll even take my gift, Nicole replied, pulling out a book. “Could you give this to her for me? She’s always been so devout, and this book’s been blessed by a respected priest. It might just bring her some peace and prosperity”  “Nicole, you really have such a good heart. One day, Grandma will see that. Hand it over.”  Chase took the book, feeling a bit uneasy about it at first. But as his fingers brushed the cover, it felt oddly smooth–like a woman’s skin–and it threw him off a bit. He realized where his thoughts were going and quickly shook them off, thinking it was all a bit too Aweird  remember, don’t mention that it’s from me or what kind of book it is. Grandma might not take it otherwise  “Got it” Chase assured her, giving her a reassuring pat on the head. “Don’t ever lose hope like that again, we were all so worried about  you.”  “You’re the best, Chase.”  Their closeness was clear, almost to the point of being too much for some to handle. After they parted, Chase took the book and his own gift into the room. Grandma had just finished her chicken soup, and her mood seemed to be settling.  Hearing footsteps, she instinctively called out, “Is that you, Amanda? Come, let me see…”  But when her eyes landed on Chase, her demeanor turned icy. “Oh, it’s you. What do you want now?”  Chase knew she was still mad, humbled himself, and sat on a small stool by her bed. “Grandma, I really messed up by running away from the wedding. I’ve been with Amanda for years, and she’s the only one I care about. Nicole is just my step–sister From now on, I promise I’ll treat Amanda right and never hurt her again.”  Grandma’s eyes narrowed. ‘Remember, there’s always someone watching. If you’re going to make promises, do it in front of the Virgin Mary. And if you ever betray Amanda, may you face the harshest fate and never have heirs or happiness!”  Chase hesitated, even though he was set on cutting ties with Nicole after what happened that night.  “What? Afraid? Then stop pretending with me. I’m too old for your games!”  Stirred by her words, Chase replied, “Grandma, I’m telling the truth, and I have nothing to hide.”  He walked to the chapel in the house, a special place Grandma had set up for worship. The subtle scent of candle hit him as he entered, and the serene faces of the saints watched over him.  Kneeling on the cushion, Chase’s eyes met the gentle gaze of the Virgin Mary. His heart was inexplicably uneasy. Grandma, leaning on her cane, urged him on. “Go on, swear, Or have you lost your courage?”  Chase raised his hand to swear, “I, Chase, will love Amanda and only Amanda for all my days. I’ll never betray her. Always protect, cherish, and love her. If I break this vow, may I face the worst fate”  Just as he finished, a lightning bolt lit up the sky outside. “Boom!”