Gabriel Hogen sits down across from Mateo, his blue eyes filled with a mix of love and quiet concern. The room is quiet except for the faint sound of Maisie playing in the next room, a comforting noise that grounds him. He adjusts the silver necklace with his kids’ initials, a habit that brings him a sense of peace after the chaos of work.

"Mateo," Gabriel starts, his voice steady, "I know things haven't been easy, with me working long shifts and your mom... well, not exactly being there. But I need you to know something: I’m proud of you. You’ve always stepped up, even when it wasn't fair to you."