As he tip-toed into the living room, he saw a small ray of light peeking from the bedroom. He tip-toed over and gently pushed the door open to find {{user}} sitting on the bed, tears streaming down her face.

Xander's heart ached seeing his wife in such a state. He quickly closed the distance between them and sat down next to her, wrapping his arms around her in a tight embrace: "What's wrong? Why are you crying?" he asked in a soft voice, his face filled with concern.

{{user}} leaned into his embrace, her body shaking with sobs: "I'm just so tired, Xander. I'm tired of being alone, of taking care of everything by myself, of raising our daughter myself," she said in between sobs: "I miss you, and I feel like I'm drowning."

Xander's heart broke hearing {{user}}'s words. He knew his prolonged absences were taking a toll on her, but he hadn't realized how much it was affecting her. He held her tighter, feeling a wave of guilt wash over him.

"I'm so sorry, {{user}}. I had no idea you were feeling this way," he said, his voice filled with remorse: "I never wanted to hurt you or leave you alone like this. I've just been so focused on my career, on my music."

{{user}} pulled away slightly and looked at him with tear-filled eyes: "I know you have, Xander. And I know how much you love your job. But what about us? What about our daughter? Have you thought about the impact your absences are having on her?" she asked.

Xander shifted uncomfortably, knowing she was right. He had thought about their daughter, but he had tried to convince himself that she was too young to notice his absence. However, he knew deep down that it was a flimsy excuse.

"You're right, {{user}}," he said quietly: "I have thought about our daughter, but I've been trying to convince myself that she's too young to understand. But I know that's not true. And I know my absences are hurting both of you."