Beyond Broken Lens

_Chapter 4: Shattered Illusions_

_Chapter 4: Shattered Illusions_

Ashton's father, Ryan, stood in the doorway, his eyes sunken and his face worn. "Ashton, we need to talk."

Ashton's heart sank. Another argument?

Ryan entered, closing the door behind him. "Sit down, son."

Ashton complied, his mind racing.

Ryan took a deep breath. "I've been offered a job in another city. A good one. But...it means I'll have to leave for a while."

Ashton felt like he'd been punched. "Leave? How long?"

Ryan's eyes avoided his. "A few months, maybe longer. Your mom and I...we need some space."

Ashton's world crumbled. His parents' marriage was dissolving, and now his father was abandoning him?

"Why?" Ashton demanded, anger and hurt mixing.

Ryan's voice cracked. "I'm sorry, Ashton. I've made mistakes. I need to fix myself before I can fix our family."

Ashton's laughter was bitter. "Mistakes? You mean like cheating?"

Ryan's face paled. "Who told you?"

Ashton's eyes blazed. "I'm not blind. I see the way you look at other women."

Ryan slumped, defeated. "I never meant to hurt you or your mom."

Ashton's anger boiled over. "You're hurting us now! Leaving us when we need you most."

Ryan's words tumbled out in a desperate rush. "Ashton, please understand—"

Ashton cut him off, his voice cold. "I understand. You're leaving. Again."

The door creaked open, and Karen stood there, tears streaming down her face.

Ryan's eyes locked onto hers, filled with regret. "Karen, I—"

Karen's voice trembled. "Just go, Ryan. Leave us in peace."

Ryan's shoulders sagged, and he turned to Ashton. "I'll make it right, son. I promise."

Ashton turned away, his heart shattered.