A/N: This it the shortest chapter-fic I've ever written. Most of the time I'm more wordy than this. XD
He stood there stunned, turning the box over in his hands. He forgot there'd been other people in the room witnessing their exchange until he felt a hand on his shoulder.
"Dad, are you alright?" Jeb stood to the right of the ex-Tin Man.
Wyatt nodded. "I'm a jerk. Aren't I?"
When his son didn't answer he looked at him. The look on Jeb's face was one of compassion, mixed with amusement. "Was it so horrible if she found out?" he said kindly.
The elder Cain sighed. "I just don't like a fuss."
"But she's your friend, and that's what friends do." He chuckled, "you should know by now that DG, more than anyone, is going to make a fuss."
Wyatt groaned and rubbed the back of his neck. "I didn't need a party. I went for eight years where no one knew I was even alive. I got out of the habit of celebrating birthdays."
He saw a look of pain pass over his son's face. He kicked himself again for saying something without regard to others. He opened his mouth to apologize but Jeb held up his hand.
"I'm fine." he said softly, having read his father's expression. "But that brings up the point that there are a few of us that would like to make up for that time. Whether in a small way or not." He smiled and patted Wyatt's shoulder before turning to go.
The elder Cain wondered at the wisdom his son had gained in their time apart.
Jeb turned back and pointed to the box in his father's hand. "She worked hard on that. She was really excited to give it to you. Just thought you should know."
Cain looked at the box again. He swore to himself quietly. He was going to have to grovel after this one.
A/N: Still not sure were this is going, but enjoying the ride.