(Meanwhile, Planet Ixtal, Leo's POV)
Just like Leo expected, Amanda was not thrilled in the slightest when he informed her that he needed to leave for a few days to retrieve an item of grave importance to the Cult, as she immediately reminded him of the quiet promise he had made after the war at The Pit, where he had reassured her that he would try, truly try, to be present as a husband and father rather than vanish whenever ambition called.
"You said things would be different," she told him, her voice calm but edged with the kind of restraint that hurt more than anger, as she stood across from him in the study with folded arms and searching eyes.
"Things ARE different," Leo replied evenly, not defensive but pragmatic, as he met her gaze without flinching.
"I have been here. I have eaten with you. Trained Caleb. Helped with policy instead of disappearing into war. I am still being a family man.
