"They're a lot like the gods then." His anger was quietly controlled, balanced by empathy for Jason and years of keeping his temper on a tight leash. There were more important things to think about right now anyway.

He leaned forward precariously and reached for Jason, trying to close his fingers lightly against his arm or the material of his shirt. He didn't know if the touch would be welcome, but he tried anyway, meeting Jason's eyes. "If I'd disobeyed him sooner, my father would have turned away from me and done the exact same thing. I know what it's like." But what he was really trying to say was just You're not alone.