Ice and Fire novel Chapter 893

At the international airport, Lawrence checked in with only one suitcase. A black Tumi Alpha luggage bag. Usually he didn't like travelling with so much luggage.

Standing not far away from the security checkpoint, Cherry held her son's hand, finding it hard to say goodbye.

Careful not to miss his flight, Lawrence checked time by his wristwatch and turned to his mother. "Mum, I have to go now," he said. "Take care of yourself," he added, finding it hard to say goodbye too.

Then Lawrence turned to his sister Violet who had also come along. But while he fumbled on words, feeling too emotional, Violet stepped forward and hugged him.

Tightly holding her brother, Violet was overcome, tears forming at the corners of her eyes. She leaned against his shoulder and said faintly, "Remember to help Greg."

"Don't worry," Lawrence replied, parting her on the back. "By any means possible, I'll see to it that Greg is safe," he assured his sister and best friend.

After they finally stopped hugging, Violet sat down on the bench with her mother.

Standing by, Jackson took a look at his adorable daughter then at his wife. The two were already feeling the void that Lawrence would leave in their hearts for the time he was away. However, he offered no encouragement, choosing instead to use the few remaining minutes to talk to Lawrence before departure. Jackson asked, "You look anxious Son! Do you have anything emergency to deal with?"

In response, Lawrence called out seriously, "Dad, of course you know the source of my anxiety." Then he raised his head to make eye contact with his father, before continuing, "Hasn't Uncle Derek told you?"

Both the father and son knew why Lawrence was taking this journey. Beside, Jackson fully understood what was on his son's mind right now. But he didn't want to answer abruptly, so he simply let Lawrence continue talking.

"Do you still want to protect her?" Lawrence finally asked.

Careful not jump in again, Jackson took his time to evaluate what would be the best solution for all involved. Briefly, he looked at Cherry and his daughter who had now moved a few meters away and seemed to be talking happily. For the sake of his family's happiness, Jackson decided he wasn't going to take a needless gamble. And he didn't want to keep worrying about other people.

So Jackson finally replied calmly, "You're free to handle it all by yourself, Lawrence. I'll have to trust your judgment on this and let you be your own man. That freedom is priceless both for you and me. It's the only way I can help you be your own man. And boy, as your dad, that will be my greatest badge of honor."

By that, Jackson effectively left Lawrence in charge.

Grateful for the gesture, Lawrence thanked his old man and briefly turned his gaze to his mum and sister who still stood a few meters away. "I know you love my mum and sister deeply," he began with a smile. "But for a long time, you've put their lives on the line by protecting Sally. You may have grown up with that murderous woman, but I don't think she deserves your protection anymore," he added sternly.