~Evric's POV~
"Proud?" I scoffed softly. "Pride usually involves showing up, Mr. Smith. It usually involves being present for the last how many years?"
"I am aware of my failings," he admitted, his tone practiced. "But I wish to move past them. I want to build a relationship with Zayn and with Liana."
"Why now?" I challenged him. "Is there a sudden inheritance? Or do you need a kidney?"
He frowned, clearly unused to such bluntness. "That is not your concern. Your concern is loyalty to the man you claim to love."
"Zayn is my fiancé. My loyalty is absolute."
"Then you will help me," Hudson stated, his tone shifting from request to command. "As you are the primary influence in his life, you will prepare him for the reunion."
I stared at the sheer audacity of the man. "Prepare him? You expect me to just hand him over?"
"I expect you to do what is rational. I am his biological father. I have certain interests that need addressing."
