Echo.

As we journeyed back home, my father's indifference weighed heavily on me. It was a stark contrast to the earlier facade of affection he had displayed, and I couldn't help but scoff at my own naivety.

What had I expected though? That he meant every word he had said about missing me and wanting me back?

I had never been under any illusions about my father's true motives. His sudden change in demeanor had been nothing more than a ploy to convince me to return home with him. Perhaps he hoped that in the comfort of our own territory, I would be more willing to share what I had...