Chapter 69: A Miracle
Aster blocked the tiger’s escape route and stepped forward. His voice cut through the courtyard air.
"OUST! APOLOGIZE, NOW!"
The tiger’s snarl erupted from somewhere deep in his chest, a sound that made the watching crowd step back. Oust’s lips pulled back from his fangs as he spat his response.
"FUCK YOU, RUNT!"
Aster didn’t slow, shouting back as he closed the distance.
"Say what you want about me, but that was wrong, and you know it! Apologize to him! NOW!"
The tiger’s massive frame moved with fluid grace as he advanced, closing the distance until only a few feet separated them. The alcohol on his breath was sharp in the morning air. When he spoke, his voice carried the weight of someone who had given up caring about consequences.
"No, I have no remorse for the stupid beast. It should have just left me alone! Just as you would, if you have any sense!"
The word ’stupid’ hit Aster like a physical blow. He had watched Milky approach the tiger with nothing but kindness, had seen the gentle creature’s face light up when he offered his gift. The whole courtyard had witnessed Oust passed out in the dirt that morning. Word traveled fast in places like this, and Milky, with his simple heart, had decided to help.