I follow Papa out to the porch, planting a kiss on Zipporah's cheek on my way out. I had a feeling this would happen; having a talk with him. I understand that for him, a lot of what has happened is strange and even disturbing. So I put on a benevolent smile and sit down adjacent to Papa. He sighs, "Well, Basil, how have you been with everything going on?"

"Anything specific?"

"How do you feel about the child you and my daughter are having?" I grin.

"I am very excited about it, Papa! I'm still amazed that it happened so quickly, but I love Zipporah and the baby and can't wait to have a family. I know that Zipporah will be an excellent mother."

"Do you think you'll be a good father?" I inhale and ponder for a few moments.

"I know what kind of parent I refuse to be. I know what I want to be. But... I'm still scared."

He peers into my face, "Why?"

"I'm not close to as good with kids as Zipporah is." He chuckles.

"Likewise, but I learned that it comes with having your own kids. I got really good with them. You'll see. So don't beat yourself up too much. You'll be a great parent, Basil."

"Thank you, sir." He nods and then rests back in his chair.

"I am very proud of you two. I couldn't imagine balancing a new wife and new baby with running a corporation like Rask Industries and fulfilling royal obligations. You appear to be doing splendidly. I have always respected men who work hard and provide for their families."

"Same. I wanted to be that way since I was little. Royal life where you mostly sit and look pretty... is boring and tiresome," I tsk, "Zipporah is like a bee. She enjoys being busy and is an efficient, hard worker. From the time I saw her file on my desk I've been consistently impressed by her work ethic. I value that as much as her beauty and intelligence."

"Yes. That is one of her best traits. You have that too." Silence falls between us. I sigh and watch the sun begin it's amber descent.

"Are you excited to be a grandfather, Papa?" His chest puffs a bit.

"Of course I am, Basil! Mark my words, Misty and I are going to spoil our grandchildren and you won't be able to do anything about it." I laugh heartily.

"I have no doubt about that." He joins me, and once we calm down then he whistles.

"Don't worry about if you'll be a good dad, Basil. But always be a great husband to my Zipporah."

Late, I know, but it's out!

~Uilosris