Zelos swallowed hard and lowered his head. He took in a series of shaking breaths, before he finally recuperated enough to open his eyes once again. It was a tell; a minor one, but still, he couldn't allow himself to show even a small amount of weakness. He couldn't break down. He had to show Ikenna that he was capable of taking care of his son, that he could handle whatever his choice brought on.
The angel's gaze set on the petite, pale hand held tightly within his own. He squeezed it gently, affectionately. No matter what was to come... he'd hold onto Malba. He'd get him through.