Yes. I had the same feeling, when I decided to find Mother. I didn't know how she would react, or if she would send me away, but my need to discover the truth outweighed everything.

[ he supposes it makes him selfish; stubborn to a fault. always making decisions for others regardless of the consequences. he's been lucky that he's never had to suffer those repercussions just yet, but there will be a time when what he feels is right doesn't align with what is right. he'll cross that bridge when he gets to it.

he's quiet for a moment, securing the end of her braid with the hair tie before coming around to her side. he doesn't know what her parents are like or the circumstances of their parting, but— ]

I understand. [ his expression softens, a small, solemn smile on his face. ] That can't have been easy to carry with you.