This is the best chapter... My heart is aching too much.

Redemption of a shit parent by actually being a good considerate parent but in a very natural and not forced way....this is a great first!

Endeavor was a sensible parent for once many times over. First thank thin paper walls and quick sensible talk- he recognizes Natsu would be feeling hurt and confused about not being as 'kind' and virtuous as Shoto since he is not in any position to forgive him ever and Endeavor dispels that with proof of why Natsu is kind and that it is ok to not forgive him and that he himself is not worthy of being forgiven. And openly has a talk about their feelings and situation...albeit, too publically.

And in the style of what is possibly the best tale of atonement, he has progressed on the path of atonement by learning humility and also learning to love his family unconditionally and selflessly and letting go.

He stopped being passive and confused about what he could do and finally took a stance and the decision to put in the distance is probably the best one.

I was partly right in assuming why he got cold feet but i assumed it was on seeing Natsuos expression saying why do i have to be saved by you. He instead hesitated when instinctively realized that he'd lose his relationship with his son if he acted as the hero Endeavor. This is the infint-th proof that Horikoshi probably sits and brainstorms all possible fan reactions to scenarios and chooses to write scenario to clarify his intention explicit way and have it be most sensitive to a victim. He gets the various situations, in a way.

I also feel there is between the lines thing that Endeavor knows his relation with Rei is very broken and almost non-existant and he was not looking to coax her back either but more just be there and be a support as her husband and family.

And in some subtle way I think from his saying he never meant to push them away or neglect them but ran away from his duty to them instead, is partial proof that he did want to have a family and be a part of that family over just having wanted a successor of strength even before Kamino or Shoto getting into UA, even though he was too stubborn and crazy in his behaviour.