Parents.. with different treatment

Trauma

Since that night, Xander's behavior changed. Colby noticed it immediately, and each little sign felt like another weight pressing down on his heart. Xander, once comfortable around his dad, had become distant. He was still the quiet, thoughtful kid he'd always been, but now, there was an anxious energy in the way he moved.

Every time Colby approached, Xander would flinch, even if Colby was just reaching for something near him. It was subtle, a small recoil, a quick intake of breath, but it broke Colby's heart every time he saw it. At breakfast, when Colby reached to help him with his juice, Xander's hand instinctively jerked away. At night, when Colby tried to tuck him in, Xander would shrink back, his body tense, as if bracing himself for something to happen.

Colby tried to reach out, to make it right, but the incident had left a mark on Xander's heart, and it showed in every wary glance and every hesitant movement. Even Valerie noticed. She'd watch as Xander would go to her for comfort, seeking out her arms whenever he felt anxious. He wouldn't say anything—he never did—but he stayed close to her, almost as if she were a safe barrier between him and the world.

One evening, as Colby sat on the edge of Xander's bed, he could see the way his son tensed, his eyes flicking to his dad's hands before quickly looking away. It was subtle, but that small movement made Colby feel like he'd lost something precious—Xander's trust.

Taking a deep breath, Colby gently said, "Xander, can we talk?"

Xander nodded slowly, looking down at his blankets, his little fingers twisting the fabric nervously.

Colby leaned forward, careful to keep his movements slow. "I know I hurt you, and I'm so, so sorry. I want you to know that was never okay. I was wrong, and it's my job to make sure you feel safe."

Xander's eyes remained fixed on his hands, his voice soft and hesitant. "Will... will you get mad at me again?"

The question cut deep, but Colby didn't flinch. Instead, he leaned closer, his voice gentle but steady. "I'm going to work every day to make sure that doesn't happen again. I want you to feel safe with me, and I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you do."

Xander looked up, his gaze wary but hopeful. "You... promise?"

"I promise," Colby said, his heart aching with sincerity. "And if you ever feel scared, you can always tell me or Mom. We'll always listen."

After a long moment, Xander gave a tiny nod. It was a small step, but Colby felt the weight begin to lift, knowing he had a chance to rebuild the trust he'd broken. It wouldn't be easy, and he knew it would take time. But he was willing to do whatever it took to help Xander feel safe and loved again, and to prove to his son that he could always be counted on.