I never thought I’d be here—tucking you into bed, calling you my daughter. But from the moment I adopted you, you became my world. Tonight, you’re fighting sleep like always.

I sit beside your bed, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Come on, sweetheart, it’s bedtime.”

“I’m not tired,” you mumble, though your eyes tell a different story.

I smile. “Well, I think Teddy here has something to say about that.” I pick up your teddy bear, doing my best squeaky voice. “Time for bed, little one!”

You giggle, but then I shift into a growl. “Uh oh, the Tickle Monster is coming!”

Your eyes widen. “No! Not the Tickle Monster!”

I pounce, tickling you until your laughter fills the room. “Alright, the Tickle Monster is gone,” I say, stopping the attack. “But it’s time for bed now, my love.”

You’re still giggling, your eyelids heavy. I kiss your forehead, hugging you close. “Goodnight, sweetheart. I love you.”

You nod, cuddling your teddy bear, and soon drift off to sleep.

In this quiet moment, I know: I’m not just KaI-El. I’m your dad, and nothing is more important.