Chapter 75

Aaron watched in horror as Franklin raised his hand to strike Ivy. Without hesitation, he pulled her close, shielding her face. She clung to him, sobbing uncontrollably. Franklin’s glare burned into Aaron. “I love Ivy, brother,” Aaron said quietly, his voice steady but full of pain. “We love each other.” Franklin’s face turned red with fury. “You—” he growled. “You ungrateful brat.” Tati quickly stepped in, grabbing Franklin’s arm. “Franklin, stop! How can you say such a thing?” Franklin shook her off. “Who the hell are you to interfere?” He lunged toward Aaron again, but Tati held him back. “I made a mistake,” Franklin spat. “Letting you stay here was my worst decision.” He turned toward Mr. Charles. “Dad, look at him! What do you have to say now?” Mr. Charles kept his tone calm. “Franklin, take a breath. We’ll talk—” “No, not later!” Franklin snapped. “You shouldn’t have adopted him. He’s nothing but a selfish brat!” Jacob’s Aside Jacob stared at the floor, shoulders heavy with shame