"You're turning into a real psychopath, Kathryn!" Ashton yelled, then turned to Tiana, carefully cupping her face. "Does it hurt?" He whispered softly. When Tiana nodded, he leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her cheek.
I scoffed, quietly summoning another fireball in my palm. This time, I aimed it at Ashton, letting it burn his clothes.
"Just helping you get undressed for another make-out session with my sister," I mocked.
Now half-naked and seething, Ashton grabbed me and pinned me against the wall. "You dangerous, reckless creature," He snarled. "This is the last time you'll ever lay a hand on Tiana!"
He leaned in, his breath hot, his face close. "And stop threatening to sever the mating bond or using Bryan's fake illness to get my attention."
I swallowed hard, barely able to process his words.
"Bryan isn't faking his illness, Ashton, and I would never use my son to get your attention," I said, holding his gaze firmly. "The real issue here is your lack of concern as his father. You would easily know his real condition if you had spent even a little time with him, or if you had bothered to check his medical records with the healers. But you didn't, because you chose to waste all your time with Tiana instead."
As the words left my mouth, another painful memory surfaced…
Bryan had gently reached for my hand, his small fingers curling around mine. "Mother, my birthday is in three days, and Father still hasn't visited me… If I had one birthday wish, do you think the Moon Goddess would grant it?"
I kissed the back of his hand, trying to give him comfort. "What's your birthday wish, my love?" I asked softly.
"My wish is to ride the Ferris wheel at the Golden Land Amusement Park with you and Father," He murmured.
By that time, the healers had already told me that Bryan didn't have much time left, that this would be his last birthday.
Blinking away my tears, I forced a smile for Bryan. "Alright, love. Get ready. We'll visit the amusement park with your father on your birthday."
Determined to make Bryan's final wish come true, I went to Ashton and begged. I knelt before him, letting go of my pride, not caring how pitiful I looked. "Please, Ashton… do it for Bryan."
When he tried to walk away, I clung to his leg, desperate to keep him from leaving. "This will be the last time I bother you. I promise, after this, you and Tiana can do whatever you want. I'll set you free."