[Private to Ms. Chavez Fathers or step-fathers can be particularly hard on their children. Niklaus was the one who took the burden of abuse. This is what made him what he is. The rest is a need for self-preservation, which goes back to the same situation. The worlds we grew up in were extremely different. Disobedience was not tolerated, but I didn't mind all those lessons in manners and privilege. It has suited me through the years, but that is just the nice wrapping on the package.
Which friend is that? Is he an acquaintance of ours?