Angering Moss might cost him the chance to regain his normal voice.
Realizing this, Melon lowered his head.
His lips quivered as tears fell silently.
He recalled his motherâs advice: to defeat an enemy, first show weakness, then gain their sympathy.
As expected, Moss frowned at the sight of Melonâs quiet sobbing.
Something stirred in his chest, making it hard for him to breathe.
âWhy are you crying again? I havenât poisoned you.
Are you so afraid of dying?â Moss snapped, clearly impatient.
A N G E L A âs L I B R A R Y
Melon said nothing, instead using his little hand to dab at his eyes, making them redder.
Soon, Melon lifted his head, gave a hiccup, and stammered to Moss, ââI-I wonât cry anymore⦠Since you donât like seeing me cry, then I wonât.
Iâll be fine⦠Even if I hiccup myself to death.
But⦠In the next life, I still want to⦠Be a part of the Valdez familyâ¦â
Mossâ expression softened at Melonâs words.
âYouâre a handful,â Moss muttered, curling his lips in a smirk before turning back to the workbench.
In no time, Moss had concocted a vile-smelling black potion.
The flask reeked like a stable on a hot summer day.
Holding the noxious brew, Moss approached Melon, who instinctively recoiled to the wall while covering his nose.
Moss and Melon stared at each other from mere feet apart.
Melonâs fear mounted.
He had thought Moss had been preparing an antidote, but what cure could smell so vile? Was this Mossâ way of getting back at him for being so annoying?
Or worse, was Moss planning to end his life?
Melon shook his head desperately, covering his mouth.
Amused by the boyâs terror, Moss grabbed Melonâs collar and placed the bottle of potion in his palm.
âDo you want to die by drinking it yourself or should I help you drink it?â Moss asked, eyebrows raised.
Melon trembled.
Moss was indeed trying to kill him!
Melon felt no relief in his fears being confirmed, only a sinking dread and helplessness.
Faced with such an overpowering foe, Melonâs sobs grew more intense.
He hiccupped and threatened Moss, âIâll⦠Tell my mother about this! She wonât⦠She wonât acknowledge you as her family!â