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His father had never been a man who wrapped feelings in soft cloth. He believed love was shown through preparation, not words. He believed survival was the first requirement for any affection.
Sekhmet folded the letter slowly.
Elena watched his face carefully.
"They gave you a big responsibility," she said.
Sekhmet nodded once.
"It is my responsibility," he replied. His voice was calm, but inside he felt a familiar frustration. "He's still gone. Even when I return from purgatory, he's gone."
He exhaled, forcing himself to accept what he could not change.
"But I need to rest a few days before I handle business," he added. "My body is back, but my mind is… still walking out of the forest."
Elena nodded, approving.
"Rest is not weakness," she said. "Only fools believe exhaustion is bravery."
Sekhmet looked at her.
"Can you tell the vice general manager to meet me after two days," he asked. "Not tomorrow. Two days."
Elena nodded immediately.
