That hint of anger in Derek's words caught the Alpha off guard for a second, yet instead of saying a thing the old wolf's nod for a second before turning his focus back to the path before them. After collecting his thoughts at last though he finally spoke up once more in an quiet tone. "Apologies, Derek. I meant no offense, nor was it my intention to imply that you...well that you weren't aware of what happened." At the young wolf's words he nodded in agreement once more, knowing all to well that so many here faced there own share of hardships; both prior to arriving here, and dealing with the transition as well.
When Derek looked at him though, and spoke up again that look of surprise, and a touch of sadness was seen across Deucalion's face. "I know you did the best you could, while facing the hardest of circumstances. And I also know that your father loves you immensely. He may be a bit gruff, but his children were always a source of such great pride for Gideon. Even after all these years I have no doubt at all that he still loves his son." The tone of his voice was soft yet quite serious, and even as he glanced back at Derek it was plain as day that the Alpha believed what he said completely.
That expression on the young man's face drew forth a bright grin, and even without hesitation Deucalion fished out his cell phone. A second later the old wolf proudly held it up, displaying the picture of his black kitten. "Indeed I did. She is hell on my sweaters, but the little ball of fur it also remarkably sweet too." As they walked on the Alpha tucked his phone back into his pocket, before lazily drinking in the beautiful scenery of the forest. "I have not had the chance to see much of Preya, but from what little I have so far...well I'd agree with your sentiment completely. It's been ages since I came across any place even remotely as nice as Preya."