In this excerpt from "Drums of Autumn" by Diana Gabaldon, Jamie experiences a sudden surge of jealousy concerning his son's bond with his stepfather. He acknowledges the instinctive feeling of jealousy as an unwelcome intrusion, likening it to a persistent weed. Despite his discomfort, he recognizes the importance of his son's happiness in a loving relationship, which helps him suppress those feelings.

However, the effort to dismiss the jealousy leaves a lingering pain in his heart, symbolizing the emotional complexity of his situation. While he tries to convince himself that he should feel grateful, the struggle reveals an inner conflict that continues to affect him deeply. This moment illustrates the challenges of parental love and the complexities of familial relationships.