Chapter 500

Adrian knew better than to test Vivian's patience this time. He could see the storm brewing in her eyes.

He dropped to his knees immediately, palms outstretched without protest. His small frame remained steady under her furious gaze. "Mommy, hit me if it makes you feel better. Just don't stay angry. I can take the pain."

"Still playing the smart one, aren't you?"

The ruler came down hard across Adrian's tender skin. A bright red mark bloomed instantly. Vivian's voice turned icy. "Do you understand what you did wrong yet?"

Tears pooled in the boy's eyes but didn't fall. He lifted his chin defiantly. "I didn't do anything wrong. Protecting you is never wrong."

"Adrian!" The ruler struck again, harder this time. Vivian's hands trembled with barely contained fury.

Her son was slipping through her fingers lately - too clever for his own good, too reckless with his actions. This lesson needed to stick before he got himself hurt.

Three more sharp cracks echoed through the room. "You stubborn child! I'll keep punishing you until you admit your mistake!"

A sob finally broke free. But even through tears, Adrian remained obstinate. "Hit me all you want, Mommy. I'd rather die than let The Rival hurt you again!"

Vivian froze mid-swing. "What did you just call him?"