Hearing Cyrus' wronged voice, a wave of reluctance swept over Justin Battleson. He pursed his lips and hugged Cyrus tightly.
This child's character echoed his temperament when he was young, always calm and aloof.
Justin Battleson gave Cyrus an intense look, a pang of heartache flashing in his eyes.
Perhaps it was time for him and Charlotte Thompson to find a resolution to their relationship.
"Cyrus, you should go to bed first. Dad will find a solution to his relationship with mommy," he whispered to Cyrus.
Usually astute, Cyrus didn't feel anything else in that moment other than being moved by his father's words. He obediently nodded, seemingly accepting Justin's words.
Charlotte released a sigh of relief upon seeing Cyrus nod. She bent down to lift Cyrus into her arms and carried him to their room.
The lights were dim, she patted Cyrus' quilt, her movements gentle. Cyrus was still wide-eyed, seemingly free from the grasps of sleep.