There was no interruption or hint of offense from Damien in the face of Salvatore's scathing criticism. Perhaps he felt it was justified, or perhaps he was seeking to avoid an argument for Fiorella's sake. "[That's not who I am and sometimes I need to remind myself that. I met your daughter years ago and realised I had little to be proud of and even less reason to be arrogant. I feel that moreso now that we've brought your granddaughter into the world.]" It was quite the answer. Smooth but not rehearsed, born of how Damien felt in that exact moment and spoken to the backdrop of his mind recollecting its every memory leading up to this confrontation. The words themselves were clear in their meaning and were little more than a confession and request for absolution.
Given that this was by no means one of the several choreographed speeches Damien had given in the past his choice of words remained brief and as concise as possible. And having spoken them, having taken the risk of coming here and disarming - he had nothing further to say. Trying to sell his intentions to Salvatore would be disrespectful, although this man was every bit Damien's match in intellect and could easily tell there was a lifetime of personal details that Damien was withholding for now.
And having spoken the words he intended to say, silence returned once again to rule over the vicinity. Though it was hard pressed by gusts of breeze that undermined the stillness of everything. This in turn drew attention to the fact that despite what must have been immense pressure, Damien was practically motionless. Betrayed now and then by slow and calm breathing - deliberately so. Clearly some of Fiorella's mannerisms had been picked up inadvertently, which in turn suggested a genuine bond.
Of course none of that meant anything. Not if this appeal for absolution was refused.
