Years Of Suppressed Grievances

Steven looked at the haggard face of the old man standing in front of him. He used to consider himself as someone who rarely cared about anything. But looking at the familiar yet unfamiliar face he choked on suppressed tears, almost involuntarily.

The man was sitting on the riverbank. His gaze fixed at something, or maybe nothing really. He was way too engrossed to notice Steven's presence a few feet behind him. Or so he thought.

"Father…" His voice was trembling. 

Steven took a deep breath, almost unable to control his emotions. It was an urgent matter, he couldn't let go of himself at this moment.

His voice was probably too low, as the man was still transfixed. 

"Greetings royal father." He said in a louder voice as he knelt down on the ground. His eyes were still a bit red, but his face had a stoic expression.

The old man finally looked back.