When Jonas asked his parents if they loved him they were?

When Jonas asked his parents if they loved him, they were taken aback and responded with confusion. They explained that love was not a concept they fully understood or expressed in their community, as emotions were tightly regulated. Instead, they reassured him that he was a valued member of the family and that they cared for him in their own way. This moment highlighted the stark contrast between Jonas's emerging feelings and the emotional restrictions of his society.