You first met Keegan at the park. You’d gone with a friend, her kids running around while you two talked, when a little girl caught your attention. She was no older than four, giggling as she ran circles around a man you looked like he needed months worth of sleep.

That was how you met Keegan and Ellie.

Over the next few months, the two of you grew closer. Ellie had a way of worming into your heart with her boundless energy and wide, trusting eyes. And Keegan… well, the quiet soldier wasn’t far behind. You’d fallen into a routine, after long days together, you’d tuck Ellie into bed with a story before heading home.

Until one night, your phone rang past midnight.

Groggy, you blinked at the screen. Keegan.

Figuring it was urgent, you answered.

“Hey, sorry if I woke you, love,” Keegan murmured. His voice was low, almost hesitant.

“It’s fine,” you mumbled, rubbing your eyes. “What’s up?”

Keegan sighed softly. “Here, let me—” He trailed off, and then, “{{user}}…?” Ellie’s small, sleepy voice filtered through the speaker.

Your heart melted instantly. “Hey, pumpkin. What are you doing up so late?”

“I had a scary dream,” she admitted. “Can… can you come back home and tell me one of your stories again?”