What hurts the most

The Warlord's eyes were old and sad as he watched Charlie digest what had happened. He wished Deluge hadn’t stuck her nose in this, as well. He would have rather spared Charlie the full details, but once he knew part of it, he deserved to know the rest. He deserved to know what Deluge had done, and the choice Dread had made. It was strange to see Charlie so worked up and mad, and he raised a paw. ‘Come here Charlie” He said softly, and when Charlie drew closer and hugged him, he wrapped his paw around Charlie. Holding him close to his chest, where his heart was. He leaned his head over his son's shoulder. Holding him close, breathing in the scent of him. Silently, tears began to fall from his cheeks. He did not sob, nor shake, nor make any motion or noise. He just silently soaked his son’s shoulder.

“Oh, Charlie.” He said softly after a moment. “You're young, and don’t see them yet. But I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my life. I forced the issue with Dread, I told him to choose, and so he did. He felt alienated and I didn’t see it, I didn’t help him. But I love you, all of you. For all of my faults, that will always hold true.” He said, not yet ready to release his hold on Charlie, to let him go. He needed this. “I miss her, Charlie.”

"Speech"