Redhawk Caldera Reactivity

Slowly, Caracal came free from where he clung to Towhee and then hurried to his sisters, his little whippy tail (which usually blurred behind his body) now curled tightly to his belly. Reyes had done that. Reyes had caused fear and pain in his own son.

Well, he should have had a greater understanding of personal space; he should have had some modicum of respect for his father. Pitiful excuses mentally levied against a child.

Towhee wanted him gone. Reyes tensed as soon as Caracal was free and grew extra cautious as his wife drew closer; while she did not attack him outright, he did not know whether to expect verbal derision, a shouting match, or something else yet.

Because -- because you care about me. Reyes thought this to be true. Then he began to doubt, seeing rage etched in her face where before there had been warmth. 

Because I am their father, and I swore I would stay. You know me, Towhee. This was one moment -- one accident. You would break apart their family over this? Yes, switch the blame. Reyes wanted to stay, to be better, and it was now Towhee that was hell bent on breaking things. This wasn't his fault anymore.

I love you. Please don't do this.