separate ways

There were some days that he wanted to reach out and shake his children. Every one of them at some point or another had said things that made him sigh and shake his head. And it just so happened to be Athera's turn at that particular crossroads. Athera.... I love you. And the dumbest thing I've heard all week. There was a smile as he said it, reaching to pull her in whether she liked it or not. He held her close, nestling her in. Sweet girl. No one is going to harm me. I would love to see them try. If they somehow managed to get past Cian, which would not happen, then they would actually have to deal with me, and then I truly pity them. You are safe here. No one is going to harm you. I have you. his words were emphasized with a little squeeze. Come and sit and let us actually talk instead of dancing around this.