From the driver’s seat, Nathan asionally nced at Colby through the rearview mirror, observing his expressions.


    “Kyson has been cleaning the restrooms in thebtely.


    Got any new pranks nned for him? If you feel Like punishing him, just let me know.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    I’m not going to stop you,” Nathan teased.


    Shaking his head, Colby replied, “Let’s take things one at a time.


    He’s making good on his bet to clean the restrooms, so we’ll let him be for a month.


    Besides, I’d rather not see him popping into the ward all the time.


    ”


    Nathan remarked, “I remember he gifted you arge aquarium for your first birthday.


    Since you never visited, he had someone manage it.


    That aquarium hasn’t been opened to the public over the years; it’s only essible when you and Destinee visit.


    He’s been shouldering the losses for four years.


    ”


    Colby gave a dismissive snort and turned his attention coldly to thendscape outside the car window.


    “He wanted to give me the aquarium.


    He brought it on himself.


    ”


    Nathan continued in a rxed tone, “He gave you thergest aquarium in Cadiered, stocked with a variety of rare marine Life.


    The monthly costs for upkeep and management are pretty high.


    ”


    Colby sped his hands together and looked at Nathan with a scowl.


    .


    .


    Library


    “Dad, what are you getting at? Should I feel bad about the money he has lost?”


    Nathan smiled.


    “The Shaws have been wealthy in Cadiered for over a century.


    Trust me, he’s not going bankrupt because of an aquarium.


    What I’m trying to tell you is that the aquarium belongs to you now.


    You’ve spent much of your childhood in theb, and there are many wonderful, unusual creatures you’ve yet to see, right? After your treatment tonight, I’ll take you there.


    How does that sound?”


    Colby lifted his head with a look of scorn.


    “That’s something Destinee would enjoy.


    I’m not interested in animals, jellyfish included.


    ”


    Nathan feigned disappointment.


    “That’s too bad.


    I was nning to pick up Destinee and Lucinda from workter, and then all four of us could have visited the aquarium together.


    I even got you and Destinee each an SLR camera to snap photos of any animals that catch your eye.


    But if you’re not interested, I guess it’ll just be the three of us.


    ”


    Colby’s face froze.


    He had been adamant that the aquarium was just for little kids, but now he hesitated.


    His whole family would be there.


    Were they really going to leave him out?


    Nathan added, “If you decide not toe, I’ll take you back to N&L Fairy Land a bit earlier.


    Just heat up some leftovers for dinner, alright?”


    Colby bit his lip and a wave of discontent washed over him.


    Were Nathan and Lucinda nning to treat Destinee to a fancy meal?


    The thought of munching on leftovers alone felt utterly miserable.


    Catching the uncertainty flickering across Colby’s face, Nathan pressed on, “You know, the aquarium is actually yours, and this trip is all thanks to you.


    It’s a shame that you, as the owner, haven’t even seen the sea creatures yet.


    Did you know the dolphin that belongs to Destinee can now toss a ball back and forth with her?”


    Destinee ying ball with a dolphin?


    Colby was a bit tempted.


    He bent his head and pondered.


    Seizing the moment, Nathan offered a crafty suggestion.


    “You know, since Kyson has been managing the aquarium for you, why not take this chance to have him splurge a bit more? For instance, you could have him bring in some exotic creatures that you fancy.


    It would essentially turn it into your own private marine park.


    Doesn’t that sound appealing? It would be a free gift!”