"Aiden, I need to talk to you."
Aiden glanced up from the papers scattered across his desk, his features ragged.
For a moment, Nate hesitated, knowing that whatever he said would not help ease Aiden's pain. However, he still needed to discuss things so he could only go inside.
As he took a seat, Aiden began, "Nate. Thank you. If it hadn't been for you stepping up and taking on the mantle…"
Nate waved a hand dismissively as he settled in. "There's no need for gratitude, Aiden. All these years, you've carried the weight of everything while shielding us from the worst of it. I'm just glad I can finally do something to help you."