He looked at me. “Why had you never come to me, to your mother and I, and told us you preferred men? Did you feel you had to run to another place in the world to live how you wanted? Why did you feel you had to hide?”

Fuck.

“It was never anything you or Mama did. It was what surrounded us. I felt it easier to keep it to myself, and in a way, I did not want to burden either of you. I did not feel I could be myself in Russia. I have even found it hard here also. Until I met West.”

“I would have killed anyone who would have said anything back home.”

I sighed and scrubbed a hand over my face. “Even your other sons? Both have made comments about gay men. They have shown their distaste, and I never wanted you or Mama to be put in a position to take sides. I would also like to keep this from them as long as I can.”

“They are idiots sometimes, but they would have supported you in the end. Still, I will not say anything. I never would.”

“Thank you.” I glanced over his shoulder. “Our lives were always different, and I knew coming out would have tarnished the family business.” I met his gaze. “You know this.”

He spat to the side and snarled, “They are all imbeciles to think I would not have fought them all to make sure you had a happy and safe life.”

“I would never want war between you and your people. It was better if I took myself out of the equation. It was hard to leave, but it was the better choice.”

“It has been hard to have you away. We miss you.”

“As I do you and Mama.”

“In spite of you keeping this from us, in a way, I understand your reasoning. I only wanted to make it clear what I said the other day. You have our love, no matter who you love. We will always be here for you.”

My heart clenched.

“Thank you, Papa. I love you both also and always.”

He grunted and slapped me on the shoulder. “I am also proud of you, what you have built here for yourself. You have done well, Adrik.”

“I am happy.”

He scoffed. “I have seen a small glimpse of your happiness where your West is concerned. But before that, nothing. Do not let work run your life. You run it and make sure you grab that happiness you have found to keep it.”

“If he will have me.”

“He would be foolish not to have my son.”

“Only a father would say that.”

“A father who is always right.”

I chuckled.

“If you wish, I could have a talk to this West and see where he stands for you.”