"It's a hard thing, to have children and know they will never be truly yours," he said quietly. Though his tone reflected little emotion, there was a quiet sympathy in the vampire's words.
Carrick thought deeply before he spoke again. There were aspects of his human life that he never normally shared with slaves, but Hermes needed his confidence.
"I married when I was mortal - it was as much of a duty to have a family as it was to serve in the military. My wife had twins, a girl and a boy. I don't know what happened to them once they grew up. We divorced just after I was told that I'd been chosen to become a Supernatural; it wouldn't have been allowed for us to stay together, and in any case, I'd never actually lived in the same house with them. The last time I saw her, he asked what service a member of the Krypteia would have of her. I told her to marry again, and bear strong children. To lead a full life, and be happy."
His pale fingertips stroked over the back of Hermes' neck. "It must have been hard for you to give them up; both your child and your Mistress. I understand." He leaned forwards. "But you're strong, Hermes. You'll mourn them, and you'll move on."