After a while, Ashley was allowed to see Nathaniel. Upon seeing the old man, her chest tightened. Nathaniel looked even skinnier than before, his eyes sunken and his skin pallid. "Ash." The old man smiled weakly and beckoned her in a raspy voice. With tears in her eyes, Ashley walked towards the elder and sat next to him. "Grandpa. This is all my fault."
"Don't cry. My dearest granddaughter is not allowed to cry.", he spoke in a strict tone. Although, it came out weak due to the hoarseness in his voice. Ashley couldn't hold back her tears. Soon, her face was stained.
"I'm fine, Ash. Don't worry about me. Your tears hurt me." Her tone softened with his words. "I'm sorry." She wiped her tears. "I won't cry anymore."