“Daddy, I’m sorry.


    I lied…”


    From the bedside table drawer, Colby retrieved a small ruler he used for drawing lines and handed it to Nathan with both hands.


    “Daddy, punish me.


    I deserve it.


    ”


    Nathan gazed at Colby’s determined expression and outstretched palms, his heart sinking as he watched the blood reverse into the injection tube.


    “Colby…”


    Gently taking the ruler from Colby’s hand, Nathan turned his left palm over and massaged his wrist to facilitate the flow of the injection into the vein.


    Colby pursed his lips, avoiding Nathan’s gaze.


    “I need to write with my right hand.


    Daddy, can you spank me, like you do to Destinee when she messes up…”


    Colby had been fragile since he was born, spending much of his time at theb.


    Nathan couldn’t bring himself to punish him.


    Seeing Colby offer to be punished, Nathan’s resolve softened.


    “I don’t want to punish you.


    I just want you to stay away from Eugene in the future.


    ”


    Blinking back tears, Colby asked, “But… Aren’t you mad that I lied?”


    Knowing lying was wrong, Nathan gently pinched Colby’s face a Little tighter.Còntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    “This is a small punishment, but I’ll let it slide this time.


    If it happens again, I’ll have to punish you much more severely, so you won’t forget it.


    ”


    .


    .


    Library


    Colby’s face turned pale, a hint of fear crossing his features.


    “I understand.


    I won’t do it again.


    ”


    Nathan gently rubbed Colby’s flushed face, unable to bring himself to scold him harshly.


    “It’s my fault for not spending more time with you during your treatments.


    I’ll find a way to be here every day.


    ”


    Colby remained silent, looking displeased as he pouted and said, “Daddy, it’s not your fault.


    I’m old enough now.


    You don’t have to stop your work just to sit with me while I get my drips.


    Otherwise, I’ll feel really guilty.


    ”


    If his dad watched over him every day, he wouldn’t have any freedom to do something mischievous.


    Oh! No way!


    He used toe up with ways to get his mom to leave him alone so he could be by himself, but his dad wasn’t as easy to manipte…


    Nathan couldn’t quite decipher Colby’s thoughts, but he sensed from his thoughtful expression that the boy was plotting something.


    “Son, don’t feel guilty.


    If you have any mischievous thoughts or want to tease someone, you can always talk to me about it.


    I might not approve, but I’ll Listen.


    ”


    It was normal for kids to be mischievous.