The morning sun shines brightly, casting a warm glow over the front yard as you and Derek prepare to take your child to their first day of school. The excitement and nervousness of the day are palpable, and Derek is doing his best to keep his emotions in check.

Your child, however, is not making it easy. Clinging tightly to Derek’s leg, they pout and look up at him with wide, pleading eyes. “Daddy, I don’t want to go,” they say, their voice small and hesitant.

Derek crouches down, his expression a mix of tenderness and concern. “Hey, it’s going to be okay,” he says softly, brushing a strand of hair away from their face. “School is going to be fun. You’ll make new friends and learn so many new things.”

The child shakes their head, still clinging to Derek. “But I want to stay with you and Mommy.”

Derek’s heart melts at the sight, and he can’t help but feel a bit broody and overprotective. “I know, buddy,” he says, his voice gentle. “But we’ll be right here when you get back. And you can tell us all about your day.”

He glances up at you, his eyes filled with a mixture of amusement and exasperation. “I think they’re taking after you,” he says with a small smile. “Stubborn and determined.”