Hollander overhears that Angeal Hewley has returned from Banora after a leave of bereavement.
His father has recently passed.
Hollander knows he frequents a particular balcony to meditate after serving his duties to Shinra. It's around the same time the scientist's shift is over. When Hollander clocks out, he lingers, goes to the lounge, grabs a couple of coffees and some pastries and heads for the balcony.
If Angeal isn't there then it's snacks for later.
But Hollander sees the figure of the young man; he is of a strong build, even for his age; but his frame is looser than usual.
He does not hold himself with discipline and pride as per usual; instead, he leans forward as though his heart is weighing him down.
Hollander always found it entertaining how the boy spoke so staunchly of discipline and honor. It'll get stamped out of him one day.
He approaches the boy, only calling him out by his last name: "Hewley".
Angeal's instinct is to bolt to attention, but it's obvious his loss has affected him greatly.
Hollander looks into the mourning face of his child, who has no idea he still has a father.
A biological father, at least.
Hollander sets his purchases on an iron wrought table; offering the coffee to Angeal, who looks at the usually bitter scientist with confusion.
'I lost my dad when I was about your age'.
Hollander lies. His father is old. Still alive.
Angeal takes the coffee and an apple Danish.
'It's not a banora danish; but it's still good.' Hollander says.
As he sits next to Angeal, quickly helping himself to a hearty bite of a pain au chocolat, Hollander hears a wrapper crinkling, and he looks to see Angeal biting into his danish with tears streaming down his face.
Hollander doesn't speak. He's not good with words; he is not a man of empathy.
'Your... your mother is back in Banora? How is she?'
Angeal takes a shuddering breath.
Hollander feels a squirm of jealousy.
'I'm sorry. For you and her.'
Angeal finishes the danish and looks at Hollander.
'What do I do now?' He asks.
Hollander takes another bite of his pastry, looking at the boy.
'You keep going; I suppose. It's all you can do. I know... I know whatever path you take, as long as you keep your head up high and stick to those morals you have, he'll be proud of you either way.'
Angeal looks at Hollander, unsure by this sudden emotion from the man.
'I know so. Anyone would want a son like you.' Hollander smiles before getting up and taking a swig of his coffee. 'Take care of yourself Hewley. Talk to your friends. They're worried about you.'
Angeal watches as the scientist takes his leave.
He looks at the phone in his clenched hand, displaying the multitude of messages from Genesis and Sephiroth.
