I didn't say it to be cute

As Meg mentioned his deceased wife again, offering her condolences, a mix of emotions flashed through his mind. His jaw tensing as he couldn’t help but picture once again his wife squaring off against a bear. There was a part of him that blamed himself, for not having been there when it happened, but a bigger part that had placed blame on his son, for putting her in that position to begin with, because life without his wife was like a grey existence, no colour, no life, just existing and living up to his obligations.

He was always headstrong, even as a child. Always challenging boundaries, always seeking his own way. Kellam's there was still a mix of emotions to his words. On one hand it was clear that it had exhausted Kellam and put him at odds with his son, but there was also a subtle undertone to his words, perhaps a glint of pride.

Ruth can be difficult, but his drive and determination have always been admirable. Even when it led him to clash with others, he never backed down from what he believed in. Kellam's voice carried a note of reluctant respect. Perhaps it was easier to admit to someone he didn’t know very well that there were indeed qualities about his son that he respected, even if it was difficult. He rubbed the back of his neck, trying to push the darker thoughts away, but struggling to do so.

@Megara Fern