Chapter 9 - The First Sign
Julian walked down the stairs to the basement. He used the master key to open the heavy metal door.
Leo stood up, his chin raised in defiance, ready for the yelling he couldn't hear.
Instead, his father fell to his knees.
Julian Vance, the billionaire, the man who never apologized to anyone, wrapped his arms around his son and pulled him into a desperate, crushing hug. He buried his face in Leo's shoulder, his chest heaving with silent sobs.
When Julian finally pulled back, he looked Leo in the eyes. He didn't speak. He didn't exaggerate his lips.
He slowly raised a trembling hand, touched his own chest, and patted it twice.
Sorry.
Leo gasped. He looked past his father and saw Maya and Elena standing in the doorway. Maya gave him a tearful, glowing smile and nodded. She had taught Julian the sign in the hallway.
May you like
Leo looked back at his father. He raised his own hands and hooked his index fingers together.
Friend.
