"Give it all to me." He says and keeps his gaze on Vi though he hadn't missed the alcohol being put away. He's sure he'll learn more about that later. The emotions in Vi make his heart ache with his happiness for her.

"Start from the beginning; I'm all ears."

~ what’s been going on these past few years?”

~ it made me rest easy.”

He couldn’t really explain it but he was sure at least Vi would understand. Speaking of, Vi seems happy and that really made the man just… burst with joy.

He lingers beside Vi but eventually will head to the living area for a seat.

“I know it’s been a while, Kiddo, ~

Vander rubs the back of his neck and takes a step inside. “Please, Vander is just fine.” It seems like both Vi and Caitlyn have a lovely home, even with the territorial dogs and it brings a smile to his lips.

“It was one of the few things I had around. I know I didn’t have to bring anything but ~

~ little gift. May I come in?”

Vander, much like Vi, just stares but he manages to keep his jaw up off the floor. He lifts his free hand awkwardly but the smile is genuine.

“Hey Kiddo…. It’s…. Been a while.”

He pauses and it feels like there’s an awkward air between the two of them. He cleared his throat. “I’ve brought a ~

~ knocking on the door with a resounding pound. He could only hope it wasn’t too much.

Now he waits unsure who exactly would be answering the door.

After a few long, long hours Vander { finally } made it to the manor. He wore just a simple button up and made sure he looked presentable enough.

In his arms he carried a gift bag full of some of his best alcohols as a sort of welcoming gift. He braced himself. Took a few calming breaths before ~

~ After all it’d been how long since he’d seen Vi? The last he can recall was…. Well…. Best not to think about that time.

He’s already planning what he’s going to be bringing as well— like a gift of sorts for everyone to enjoy.

“I… cant wait then. I’ll come with eager ears and open arms.” He took the letter with the directions and placed it in his pocket along with the locket.

“Yeah, yeah, give me a few hours and I’ll be there.” He’s gotta clean up a bit, steel his nerves and make himself look somewhat presentable. ~

~ for reconciliation.”

Vander’s mind is swirling with so many questions but also a little blossoming of fear. He’s let his kids down and he’ll forever hold that guilt and shame.

A brow’s raised skyward but the smile on his face is genuine. He’s glad to hear his little girl made it out, made something of herself and found, what he can hope, is peace.

“An escort isn’t needed just directions to the manor. Even if there isn’t anything worthwhile for dinner it’s a time ~

~ something…. bad happened. I’m sure we can find common ground and I can get his mind off whatever ails him even if it’s for a few hours.”

~ fighting, that these kiddos are the reason I get up in the morning.”

He flexes his hand slowly and pulls it back towards him once it’s dressed up. It should heal nicely after this.

“Name the time and place. I will be there.” He pauses to stare at her, wrinkles in his forehead. “Sounds like ~

Vander reaches into his pocket and produces a locket. It’s gold and circular on a silver chain and when he opens it there’s a photo of Vi and Powder on one side and Claggor and Milo on the other.

“The one and only. I had this made as a reminder to myself on my lowest days that I had to keep ~