254 (End)

Jeremy, Jonathan, and James looked tense as they followed a bodyguard to the edge of the park. The crashing of the waves was a musical accompaniment to their racing hearts. The three men suddenly fell silent when they saw Deric with his back to them near the fence. Shortly afterward, the bodyguard chose to excuse himself.

For a few seconds, there was only silence between the four men. Jeremy, Jonathan, and James exchanged glances with each other, confused as to what action they should take at this point. Should they say goodbye?

Deric slowly turned around, smiling to greet his three half-brothers. He walked over, but Jeremy, Jonathan, and James did not move from their places or even turn their heads towards him.

"I've been waiting for your arrival," Deric said.

Jeremy, Jonathan, and James had not paid any attention to Deric's words. Their faces had not completely lifted either.

"Didn't you miss me a lot, James?" asked Deric, "you even called me and sent me messages almost every da