Spoiled by Mr. Russell, Chapter 2025

Dominic roared, and the water in the tub seemed to boil, bubbling and gurgling. Austin pressed on the older man's shoulders, attempting to control his movements. He was startled to see a dramatic change in Dominic's arms. Something resembling worms wriggled beneath the skin, seemingly trying to break free, but failing to find an exit. The skin on his granduncle's arms bulged and receded repeatedly. An ordinary person would have been terrified.

The worm-like forms continued their movements until they reached the silver needles. It was as if they had suddenly found a way out. The area around the needles pulsed twice, and black blood flowed. The sight was horrifying. Dominic's back, already covered in needles, now bled continuously. At first, only a few drops appeared, but gradually, all the needles oozed blood. It seemed the virus was finally escaping, a frantic struggle to break free.

The black blood flowed into the bathtub, mixing with the medicinal water and quickly staining it. The water turned pitch black, a terrifying transformation mirroring the change in Dominic's body. His cries of pain subsided, then ceased entirely. His desperate struggles stopped as if all his strength had been drained. He slid down uncontrollably, lacking the energy to support himself.

Austin quickly adjusted his grip, shifting from restraining Dominic from above to supporting him from below. He caught his granduncle's collapsing body, feeling its weight. Despite this, Dominic's complexion was improving. His dull, gloomy expression brightened considerably. Though still pale, a hint of color returned to his face, and even his lips regained their usual hue.

Overjoyed, Austin suppressed a cheer, whispering, "Uncle Dom, it's working. It's really working." Dominic could only weakly wave a hand in acknowledgement. Austin knew his granduncle was still fragile; such an ordeal was taxing. He wanted to check Dominic's pulse, but his position was awkward, so he waited patiently. After a time, he noticed his legs were numb, and the blood flow from the needles had stopped and dried. The blood on the ground had solidified, except for the portion submerged in the water.

"Uncle Dom, let me carry you out!"

Though thin, Dominic was still heavy. It took considerable effort, and Austin got soaked in the process. After lifting Dominic from the tub, Austin collapsed to the floor, panting heavily. His clothes, stained with the bloody water, made him look dirty and frightening. Yet, he was elated. He looked up and laughed heartily. 'I did it! We finally succeeded! Uncle Dom must be fine now!'

Though he hadn't checked his granduncle's pulse, Austin felt he had healed him. A great wave of relief washed over him; his guilt and self-blame lessened considerably. After a brief laugh, he stood and, perhaps fueled by success and faith, effortlessly lifted Dominic and carried him to the adjacent room where a bed awaited.