John Kramer

A warm ray of sunlight filtered through a crack in the thick curtains, caressing my face. I groaned, rolling over. Pregnancy hadn't been easy, and sleep was my only salvation from morning sickness and the nagging pain in my back.

Suddenly, I felt the mattress dip under someone's weight. Opening my eyes, I saw Grandpa John leaning over me. His face, usually stern and impenetrable, seemed soft and concerned today.

“Good morning,” he whispered, his voice quiet and gentle, not at all like what I was used to hearing. “How are you feeling?”

I sat up in bed, holding my rounded belly with my hand.

“Not really,” I admitted. “I feel nauseous and my back hurts.”

John nodded, his gaze full of understanding.

"Amanda's already made your favorite herbal tea. And I ordered a massage chair; it should arrive today."

I looked at him in surprise.

• John, this is too much... I don't want to cause you so much trouble.

He took my hand in his, his touch careful and gentle.

“No,” he answered firmly. “It’s not a hassle. I have to take care of you. And the baby.”

A shadow flickered in his eyes, a painful memory. I knew what he meant. He had never forgiven himself for not protecting his pregnant wife, Jill. Their child… The loss of that child haunted John his entire life.

"Your man entrusted you to me," he continued, as if reading my thoughts. "And I will not let him down. Until he returns, I will be your protector. And your... assistant."

“Thank you, John,” I whispered, feeling tears welling up in my eyes.

He smiled slightly, and a spark of warmth flickered in his eyes.

"You're welcome. Now let's have some tea and think of something to do. Maybe watch a movie? Or read a book?"

And as I slowly rose from the bed, leaning on his arm, he spoke of the importance of taking care of myself and the baby. I knew his concern was genuine, and that he would do everything to protect me from any harm.