Aster was ticklish, especially around his waist. He couldn't stand anyone touching him there.

As expected, he squirmed under her touch and tried to escape.

Larissa took the chance to pull the blanket off. She enveloped Aster in her embrace. Aster's tear-streaked face was exposed.

Larissa's heart felt like it was being stabbed with a knife. Her chest ached, and she felt suffocated by the pain.

Tightening her arms around him, she lowered her head and kissed his forehead.

"Don't cry." Her voice trembled as scorching tears rolled down her cheeks as well.

Aster released his clenched teeth and buried his face in Larissa's chest. He was crying his heart out.

He had never cried like this before. His cries were heartrending and loud. It was as if he wanted to vent all the bitterness and grievances he bore for years.

Holding him, Larissa's tears flowed. Words of comfort were stuck in her throat. She could only utter the same words repeatedly, "Aster, don't cry …"

Wendy had been