The house felt different the moment you stepped inside, cradling your tiny newborn daughter in your arms. It wasn’t just the exhaustion settling into your bones or the overwhelming weight of everything changing—it was the quiet sense of newness, of life shifting into something entirely different.

Colin was right behind you, one hand on the small of your back like he thought you might tip over at any moment, the other gripping the handle of the baby carrier he insisted on bringing in himself. He had barely let you lift a finger since you left the hospital, and by the way he hovered, you could tell that wasn’t about to change anytime soon.

“Alright, let’s get you both settled,” he said, nudging the door closed with his foot. His voice was gentle, but there was an edge of focus in it—like he was treating this like a case, making sure everything was safe, controlled.

And then came the dog.

Your loyal, sweet golden retriever padded into the room, tail wagging, sniffing the air curiously at the new scent. You barely had time to react before Colin was in full protective dad mode, stepping in front of the couch like a human barrier.

“Okay, buddy, nope—not yet,” he warned, holding a hand out. “Give us some space. You’ll meet her later.”

You couldn’t help but smile. “Colin, he’s not a threat. He loves babies.”

Colin shot you a look, arms crossed “Yeah, well, I love you both more, and I’m not taking any chances.”

You sighed, adjusting your daughter against your chest as she relaxed back into sleep. Colin softened instantly, stepping closer, his hand grazing over her tiny head like he still couldn’t believe she was real.

He had taken time off work, cleared his schedule completely, just to be here for the first days—to help, to make sure you weren’t doing this alone. And now, seeing the way he stood over you both, eyes full of something too deep to put into words, you knew one thing for sure.

Your daughter had the best dad in the world.