Dorian and his father's relationship perfectly encapsulates how you can still love someone but still struggle to have a strong relationship with them. Dorian never doubted that his father loved him, but that still wasn't enough to stop the rift that formed over the years. This harkens back to episode 104, in which dorian says, "We're running on love and instinct, and sometimes that isn't enough." Dorian is acutely aware of what it's like to know instinctly that he is loved but still feel lost. Dorian only ever wanted to be trusted and for his father to be proud of him, to have that trust and faith that was given to Cyrus so free to be extended to him also. And it wasn't until he directly challenged his father, demanding to be seen, did he get his trust (to carry the sword of his family and culture) and for his father to be proud of him. Years of emotional distance crossed in a hug, a handshake, and a moment of faith.
im SICK i love everyone so much i love everything im so happy theres tears in my eyes im gonna vomit my chest is tight mutuals i love you id die for you id give you my liver im gonna SCREAM