There were still untreated wounds on Gem Atkinson's back, with beads of perspiration forming on his forehead from time to time.
It must hurt.
Ultimately, Mr. Atkinson was worried about his son.
Even though this son was not the one he eagerly anticipated, and even more so the one that had ruined his lifelong happiness, years of education and raising him couldn't deny the deep bond formed by flesh and blood. Weren't those two lashes equivalent to whipping himself?
Audrey, of course, didn't know what Mr. Atkinson was thinking. Believing that her father hit Gem because of her, she pouted, gave Gem a kiss on the cheek, and said, "Dad, put me down."
Gem slowly placed Audrey down, kissed her cheek, and said, "Baby, you go find mommy first. Daddy will come and join you later."
"Okay, Daddy."
Then, Audrey gestured for Mr. Atkinson and Mr. Len to squat, gave each a kiss on the cheek, and waved goodbye to them, Gem, and the others.
