THIRD PERSON'S POV.
Orion shifted nervously in his seat, the awkward tension palpable as he sat across from Sebastian in a luxurious restaurant in the heart of Canada.
He was very much aware showing up unannounced would be a reckless choice, but his heart had driven the decision.
Orion cringed inwardly as Sebastian's piercing gaze held him in place like a deer caught in the spotlight as he frowned. If Orion wasn't used to getting the same look from his father, this would've nearly scared him away from his purpose of coming here.
Orion couldn't help but chuckle softly at the irony of it all. All the years he'd endured his father's glare is the only reason he's not afraid of Sebastian's right now.
"I know it's a bit reckless of me to just show up here to see you without prior notice.
Regardless, I didn't think my abrupt decision would earn me a glaring contest from you for this long." Orion finally said, forcing a grin that did little to ease the tension.
Sebastian's expression shifted from worry to mild irritation after he'd confirm that his son is indeed doing well.
"Your showing up just out of nowhere scared me half to death, Orion! Does SJ even know you're here?" Sebastian asked, his eyebrows arched in genuine concern.
"Does he need to know that I'm here?" Orion shot back playfully, a smirk tugging at his lips.
Sebastian leaned forward, straightening posture as if readying himself for a serious conversation.
"You tell me…aren't you supposed to tell each other everything?"
Where exactly was Sabastian going with this? Orion pondered, his earlier amusement wavering.
"We do tell each other everything. As far as Harro is concerned, I'm out of town for business." He decided to play along, keeping his answers vague, noting the flicker of reaction that crossed Sebastian's face before fading.
"Is this how you'll be lying to my son after you two get married?" Sebastian's tone was teasing yet serious, and Orion almost laughed.
"Okay, I would never lie to Harro." Orion began and then he paused, "Well, unless… maybe I need to surprise him. Also, this would only count as one of those lies I just spoke about if you would let me marry him." he replied, his smile steady, hoping to convey sincerity.
Sebastian's eyes lit up; he recognized the joyful determination in Orion's words.
"You're here to ask me about that?" he asked, excitement barely contained. Orion nodded vigorously, feeling the adrenaline surge through him.
"Oh, Orion. You didn't have to come all this way; you could have called!"
Sebastian feigned nonchalance, but the sparkle in his eyes betrayed him. It was clear he was thrilled that Orion had made the effort.
"I can't talk about something this important over the phone, Sebastian. Harro means the world to you, and now he's my whole world. I want to spend the rest of my life with him, and I want to do it right!"
When he finished speaking, he saw pools of tears gathering in Sebastian's eyes. It was a moment of pure connection as they shared understanding across the table. Sebastian reached across, his hands enveloping Orion's.
"Thank you for thinking about me, Orion. I hope this goes without saying, but I already think of you as part of the family. Welcome to the family again, son." There was warmth in Sebastian's words, an unspoken bond that solidified their relationship in that moment.
"Thank you, Sebastian. Or should I say…Dad?" Orion ventured, delighted by the twinkle of recognition that sparked in Sebastian's eyes.
"What the heck, I like it!" Sebastian said through laughter, his glee contagious as he threw his head back, the sound ringing like music to Orion's ears. It felt good to laugh together; all tension had evaporated into a pleasant celebratory atmosphere.
"I know it's long overdue but thanks for assisting me last time," Orion said, referring to the help and guidance Sebastian provided during his company's PR crisis.
Sebastian nodded, a shadow of seriousness crossing his features.
"Don't worry about it. Those assholes got what they deserved. No real businessman should ever have to stoop that low," he replied, fierce loyalty in his voice.
Orion couldn't help but agree. In the wild world of business, while the rule may be 'all is fair,' honesty should always guide one's actions. Tearing someone down with falsehoods was never acceptable.
Their lunch turned into an animated discussion, laughter flowing freely as they shared stories and ideas about life.
Orion had come here with a clear plan: ask Sebastian for his blessing to marry Harro and then go back as soon as possible. Yet, as the hours flew by, he found himself being dragged into activities he hadn't planned.
The idea of shopping came up—completely off-script—but somehow, as they wandered through luxury stores filled with all of Harro's favorites things, Orion found joy in the unexpected. Sabastian was adamant about getting souvenirs for his son. Harro would certainly love everything they have gotten for him.
As they walked through the bustling streets, Orion couldn't help but smile. The longer he spent with Sebastian, the more he liked the man, and he never wanted to leave.
At the end of their impromptu shopping spree, Orion checked the time nervously. He was supposed to be heading back to Alderaan soon, hoping to make it in time for the evening that the girls had helped him planned.
"I better get going," he said, more to himself than anyone else.
Sebastian clapped a hand on his shoulder, his face filled with warmth and encouragement.
"You did great today, son. I'm glad you and SJ found each other, I wish you two nothing but happiness."
Orion nodded gratefully, feeling a blend of excitement and anxious anticipation as he headed out. The warmth of the day lingered with him as he returned to the airport. He knew he was carrying not just gifts, but also a promise of love and commitment, and the heartwarming blessing of family.
As he boarded the plane, Orion couldn't help but think about what Harro's face would look like when everything he has planned is finally revealed.