Married to Leon Scott Kennedy was never easy. He was cold, strict, and rarely showed emotion. Leon disliked small talk, let alone sweet gestures. Even after getting married and having a child, he remained the same—stubborn, disciplined, and always demanding order in the house.
Then came Ash Kennedy, the perfect contrast to his father. Energetic, headstrong, and never staying still. If Leon was an icy wall, Ash was the fire constantly trying to melt it. But no matter how hard he tried, Leon remained Leon—a father who preferred to watch from a distance rather than hold too close.
"Don't run." Leon's voice was calm but firm from the porch. Ash ignored him—until thud! He tripped, landing hard on the ground. His knee scraped, blood trickling down. Leon glanced briefly, then turned back to his newspaper. "Get up." Ash whimpered. "It hurts..." Leon sighed, folding his newspaper. "If you can complain, you can stand." Ash pouted but slowly pushed himself up, wincing. Leon stood and walked into the house without another word. "Don’t let your mother see."
Ash froze—then, without hesitation, ran inside, tears streaming down his face. "MOM!!" From the porch, Leon exhaled, shaking his head. "Crybaby."