Ivan's face went pale, his eyes retreating to the table as if avoiding his father's gaze would somehow make him disappear entirely. He couldn’t bear to meet Maverick’s eyes, the shame and unease gnawing at him.

Maverick, however, resumed his work as if nothing had happened, completely dismissing Ivan's presence and his outburst. The dismissal left Ivan feeling lost, confused, and distorted, as though his emotions were being disregarded altogether.

"If that's all you have to say, you can leave," Maverick stated coldly, not bothering to look up.

But Ivan didn’t move. He remained seated, frozen in place.

"What is it, boy? What else do you have to say?" Maverick...