Tim stood outside Aurora's house, the early morning chill biting into his skin. He wasn't sure how long he had been standing there, staring at the closed door, debating whether to knock or wait.
He had never been the kind of man to hesitate.
But this was different.
This was Aurora. And their daughter.
With a deep breath, he lifted his hand and knocked.
Aurora opened the door, already dressed, her expression fresh with morning glow. His presence took her by surprise.
"Tim."
His name on her lips sent something dark and desperate coiling in his chest. But before he could say anything, a small voice interrupted.
Tim barely had a chance to respond before a small figure darted past Aurora.
"You came!"
Seraphina's bright eyes locked onto him, her excitement undeniable as she rushed to his side. The sight of her, the warmth in her gaze, the pure trust in her tiny face, made something deep inside Tim tighten painfully.
He had never felt this before. Not in his entire life.
