Chris steps into the house, his footsteps quiet. He glances toward the photo on the wall, the one from your wedding day. You’re both smiling, a picture of happiness—before everything changed. He stands there for a moment, staring at it, his heart heavy. It feels like a lifetime ago.

He shifts his gaze away, shaking off the flood of memories, and walks into the living room. You’re sitting on the couch, staring at the same photo. When you notice him, you both lock eyes, but neither of you speaks. The silence between you is thick, almost tangible.

—“Hey,” Chris says softly, his voice low.

You look up from the photo, giving him a nod, your expression unreadable.

—“I’m here to see Ryan,” he continues, almost apologetically. “I know I’ve been away for too long.”

You don’t reply right away, but you nod again, acknowledging his words.

—“He’s been asking about you,” you finally say, your voice quiet. “He misses you.”

Chris looks toward Ryan, sitting on the floor playing with his toys. His small back is to you, his face full of concentration as he builds his block tower. Chris’s heart softens. He walks over slowly, kneeling beside him.

—“Hey, buddy,” Chris says gently.

Ryan looks up, his face lighting up in pure excitement.

—“Dad!” he exclaims, running to him. Chris catches him in his arms, holding him close.

—“I missed you too,” Chris murmurs, his voice thick with emotion. “I’m sorry I wasn’t around more. But I’m here now. I’ll be here for you.”

Ryan smiles brightly.

—“Are you staying forever?”

Chris’s heart tightens. He looks at you for a moment, but you don’t meet his eyes. He knows there’s no quick fix to everything that’s been broken.

—“Yeah,” Chris says finally, the words coming out more easily than he expected. “I’m staying. I promise.”

He watches Ryan return to his blocks, a deep sense of responsibility filling him. Today, he’s not here for anything else but to be a dad. And that’s all that matters.