As they continued down the path, Bjorn's frustration began to bubble up once more. "How could Atlas…? He knows how vulnerable Leon is," Bjorn said, his voice strained.
Nathan stopped walking, forcing Bjorn to halt too. "You're worried about the wrong things," he said firmly. "Leon is not a child, and he can make his own choices. If he trusts Atlas enough to let him kiss him, then maybe you should trust Leon's judgment too."
Bjorn's expression faltered. "But if something happens to him—"
"Nothing will," Nathan cut in, his tone leaving no room for argument. He softened his voice as he added, "I know you just want to protect him, but don't you think it's time to let him decide what he wants?"
Bjorn sighed, some of the anger fading from his eyes. He turned to Nathan and took his hand, pressing it gently. "I'm sorry. You're right… I just don't want him to get hurt."
Nathan squeezed his hand back, leaning in to place a gentle kiss on Bjorn's cheek. "And neither do I," he whispered. "But we can't guard him forever."