--Jamie's POV--
The sun had yet to rise, but my internal alarm rang, signaling that it was time to wake up. As with every morning, I followed my routine of cleansing my face, choosing my attire, and setting my goals for the day. Today, however, held special significance as I was about to commence Ray's training.
After reaffirming my determination, I turned to our bed and a heartwarming smile graced my face as I beheld her. Sylvia, my wife, lay peacefully asleep, her blonde hair cascading over the pillow, adorned in a simple black gown. She exuded a natural beauty that never failed to captivate me.
Gently, I patted and caressed her head, whispering in a warm voice, "Good morning, my sleeping beauty."
She stirred, still half-asleep, and realizing it was me, she smiled and asked, "Is today the day?"
I nodded in affirmation and replied softly, "Yes."
In a hushed tone, she reminded me, "Remember to be gentle with him, Jamie. He is only ten years old."
I assured her, "Yes, I will keep that in mind. Now, go back to the dreamland and play with the fairies."
Content with my response, she snuggled deeper into the blanket, ready to return to her slumber.
After our brief morning conversation, I made my way to wake Ray, contemplating my thoughts. Yesterday marked Ray's 10th birthday, and if I said I wasn't spoiling him, it would be a white lie. However, I had my reasons. I genuinely believed that Ray possessed a pure soul, untainted by the darkness of this world. If I could shape his destiny, I would continue down this path.
Yet, in a world where the strong prey on the weak, it is one's own fault, and no one else's, to be weak or remain weak. Even though I had an extended lifespan compared to the norm, I was not immortal nor blessed with eternal youth. Therefore, it was my duty as a man to protect my family and raise my child to become strong and independent.
But before that, I needed to be strict with both myself and Ray, even if it meant being harsh.
With that resolve in mind, I approached Ray's room and knocked on the door. Shaking my head, I mused, "Of course, he's still sleeping. Why do I bother knocking every time?"
Entering the room, I instinctively made my way to the window and turned around, only to find Ray absent from his bed. Surprised by his absence, I extended my senses, locating him outside.
As I reached the window, I saw him sitting there, seemingly waiting for the sunrise. To my astonishment, Ray turned back and waved his hand at me. Unconsciously, I waved back, taken aback by his early presence and his ability to sense my gaze.
Amused by his actions, I decided to join him in the garden.
To test his abilities, I devised a plan to determine if he was capable of perceiving my aura or not.
Stepping into the garden, I approached Ray and deliberately released a portion of my aura.
His eyes widened, and a shiver ran through his body. It was clear that his awareness had heightened, and there was a newfound strength within his soul.
The test had yielded favorable results, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness, though I maintained my stoic expression.
Intrigued, I walked up to him and advised, "Take deep breaths, Ray." (3)
After our father-son conversation, I felt satisfied. I gently patted his head and said, "Let's go."
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(Author's note:
(1) Strengthening my resolve and going to bed. cries in the corner
(2) - Who's that Vegeta?
(3) - Read the last chapter.
Sayonara)