Bassan returned his father’s embrace. The relief in his thoughts extended beyond the knowledge they would survive. His son’s reaction in the medical facility returned to Byron’s thoughts. He’d instilled the need for respect and honor in Bassan, demanding proper behavior from his one and only child. Had he pushed his son too hard? Did Bassan dread retribution so much that he feared his own father?
I will do everything within my power to keep you and your mother safe, he thought, stroking Bassan’s hair. Don’t be afraid.
The chirp of an urgent message interrupted the silence. Byron suspected it would be the first of many this afternoon. Giving his son a final squeeze, he released Bassan and returned the boy’s tablet and cold pack to his hands. Patting his son’s head, Byron’s attention shift
