Burned Once, Never Again (Niamh and Castiel)

Macy lowered her head, masking the brief flash of harshness on her face. She spoke in a pitiful tone, "She's your mother. It's only right that I went to see her. I'm sorry."

"You don't need to apologize," Castiel replied, Irritation evident in his voice. When he saw Macy acting so meek, it reminded him of how Niamh used to be.

Once upon a time, Niamh had shown him the same deference. But lately, no matter the scandals. or how much others wanted to tear her apart, she had never lowered herself to him again. Even when facing danger, she'd rather turn to the police than seek his protection. Macy took a deep breath before speaking again, "I know Madam Jamison looks down on me, but I didn't choose to end up like this. My life is ruined...

Her voice broke as she began to cry softly.

Castiel had originally intended to ask about the evidence, but seeing Macy in such a state, he forgot entirely.

Running his hand through his already disheveled hair, he said firmly, "Don't worry, you'll regain your reputation, and you will stand up again."

Each word was spoken with undeniable determination.

Macy kept her head lowered, her voice soft and despondent. "It's not that easy. The doctors have already told me that if they can't find a suitable cornea soon, I might spend the rest of my life in darkness."Exclusive © material by Nô(/v)elDrama.Org.

Castiel's breath hitched. The doctors had mentioned it to him before, which was why he'd been working tirelessly to find a suitable donor.

However, because corneal transplants were such a complex and stringent process, live donors were nearly impossible to find, and posthumous donations were in short supply. Even if he used his means, he had yet to receive any good news. "She's lucky to have you," Macy said sadly before Castial could reply.

Upon hearing this, Castiel felt as though he had been plunged into cold water.

Undoubtedly, the people around still believed that Macy's condition was Niamh's doing, despite the shift in public opinion. Human nature was such that once a belief was firmly established, it was difficult to change.

Castiel's own thoughts aligned with the external narrative. Back then, he had been determined to have Niamh, and now he was just as convinced that Niamh was responsible for this situation.

"I've utterly spoiled her!" His words carried a hint of helplessness toward Niamh.

"All I need is an apology from her. Is that too much to ask for?" Macy asked, her voice filled with a touch of defiance and unwillingness to accept her fate.

Seeing her like this made Castiel pity her even more.

Before he could respond, Macy continued, "I just need to be cleared of any wrongdoing. I ended

up like this, yet I still have to endure the public's harsh condemnation because of her? It's just not fair!"

Her voice began to break at the end.

In that moment, Macy seemed like a vulnerable individual fighting against an overwhelming power, standing in a position that demanded justice.

And that overwhelming power was Niamh, shielded by Castiel's protection.

Castiel stood up, his hands clenched into fists. A cold look flickered in his eyes.

*Rest well," he said. Without waiting for Macy's reaction, he turned and walked toward the door.

Just as he had taken a few steps, Macy asked sadly, "Can I really still see the sunlight? Can I still stand up?"

Castiel paused and turned back.

Macy was looking up at him, her expression filled with despair. At that moment, it felt like he made a significant decision.

He closed his eyes briefly, then spoke with unwavering determination. "You will."

After Niamh and Billie had finished showering and were getting ready for bed, the door was suddenly pounded on with such force that it sounded like it might be torn off its hinges. Without needing to guess, Niamh knew exactly who it was. Billie quickly grabbed a kitchen knife and swore angrily. "That shameless, Seeing this, Niamh felt her heart jump to her throat.