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 ...