harry's creature inheritance

Beneath the Weight of Sorry

That evening, the four sat around the fireplace, the flickering flames casting soft shadows on their faces. Sev and Luc had been wrestling all day with how to make things right — not just with words, but with actions.

Sev took a deep breath and spoke first, voice raw with sincerity. "Ric, Arthur... we want to say sorry. For the way we treated you, for the anger and pain we caused."

Luc nodded, eyes gentle. "We were stressed and frustrated, but that's no excuse for hurting you, especially not like last night. You deserve so much better from us."

Arthur blinked back tears, his voice trembling. "It really hurt. Not just the slap, but feeling like we weren't enough — like we kept messing up."

Ric reached out, squeezing Arthur's hand. "But hearing you say this means a lot. We just want to feel safe and loved."

Sev's eyes softened, and he moved closer, wrapping an arm around Arthur's shoulders. "You are loved. More than you know. We promise to do better — to listen more, to be patient when things get hard."

Luc pulled Ric into a gentle hug. "We'll be more mindful, more present. You're our family. We want to protect you, not make you feel broken."

For a moment, silence fell, filled only by the crackle of fire and their breathing. Then Arthur leaned into Sev, voice small but steady. "Will you really try? Because it's hard to trust after last night."

Sev kissed the top of Arthur's head. "Every day. We'll show you through every moment."

Luc reached out, brushing Ric's hair away from his face. "And whenever you feel scared or overwhelmed, talk to us. We'll be here. No judgment. No anger."

Ric nodded, tears slipping freely now. "Thank you. I want to believe that."

The group shifted closer, their bodies intertwining in comfort. Sev gently stroked Arthur's hair, whispering calming words. Luc held Ric tightly, their hands entwined as steady anchors.

Aftercare stretched long into the night — warm blankets, soft words, and quiet reassurances. They took time for slow, gentle touches; holding hands, brushing fingers over bruised skin, reminding each other they were safe.

Arthur curled against Sev's chest, breathing even now, heart softening. Ric rested his head on Luc's shoulder, the pounding in his chest finally easing.

In the quiet peace, they knew this was only the beginning of healing — but it was a start. Together.