A DAY WITHOUT WORRY

The next day, Alaric arrived at Cathy's modest home, his presence commanding as ever. He knocked on the door softly, and after a few moments, it creaked open to reveal Cathy, her hair tousled and her eyes heavy with sleep. The early hour had clearly caught her off guard, but the sight of the imposing figure standing on her doorstep startled her fully awake.

"Mr. Knight?" she stammered, her hand instinctively tightening on the edge of the door. "What brings you here so early? Is everything all right?"

Alaric's gaze softened slightly, though his expression remained serious. Instead of answering her directly, his piercing eyes scanned the hallway behind her. "Are the children still asleep?" he asked, his tone firm but not unkind.

"Yes," Cathy nodded, her confusion evident. "They're still in bed."

"Good," Alaric said, his voice carrying a hint of relief. "Get them ready by nine. I'm taking all of you to see Adrianna today."