Raiden’s jaw clenched and the flicker of irritation in his eyes didn’t go unnoticed.
Instead, Norella crouched down, her fingers swiftly finding the first aid kit. “Raiden, it’s right here, iodine and cotton swabs, too.”
Reaghan leaned in with a curious gaze and Norella’s eyes sparkled. “Reaghan, you’re growing up fast. Do you think you can help Auntie clean the wound?”
“Of course!”
With a serious nod, Reaghan carefully dabbed iodine on the wound, his little breath gently blowing on it as if it could ease the pain.
Norella’s lips curled into a proud smile. “Our Reaghan is something special. Raiden, he’s learned so much from you.” Her gaze lingered on Raiden, her eyes soft with warmth.
Raiden cleared his throat, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, his ears turning a subtle shade of red.
Reaghan puffed out his chest. “Of course! When I grow up, I’ll protect Dad and Aunt Norella.”
A surge of bitter emotion swirled in Astrella’s chest.
She couldn’t help but let out a hollow laugh, bitterly amused at herself.
The day after she gave birth, she started washing Reaghan’s diapers, which continued until he was three.