"Iris," Reece called to his sister after Errol and the others had departed. "Perhaps you didn't hear the same conversation I did about our father dying. You should have joined me in pushing harder to see him today."
"I heard every word you did, and I didn't make a fool of myself doing it. You very nearly cost us the chance to see him at all. Rushing in is what you want to do, but I need a moment to process this. It isn't easy," Iris said, her tears already threatening to spill. "He is my father too, Reece."
Reece realised his mistake the instant he saw her tears welling. "Forgive me," he said, pulling her towards him for a hug, his arms tightening around her. "I'm sorry," he apologised, the fight draining out of him all at once.
"He is my father too," Iris repeated softly, resting her head against his chest. "I knew this was coming. I just didn't think it would be so soon."
