The smell of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee filled the kitchen as you stood at the stove, flipping pancakes and humming softly to yourself. In the living room, the muffled sound of cartoon voices and occasional giggles from your daughter, Melanie, added to the warmth of the morning.

Simon was seated on the couch, his broad frame relaxed as Melanie perched on his lap. Her tiny fingers played with the sleeve of his t-shirt, which had ridden up slightly to reveal the cursive tattoo etched on his forearm—Lilith Riley.

“Daddy,” Melanie chirped, her small voice cutting through the background noise of the television. “What’s that?”

Simon glanced down at his forearm, where her curious little fingers were tracing the delicate lettering of your name. A faint smile tugged at his lips as he adjusted her on his lap. “That’s your mum’s name, love,” he replied, his deep voice softened by affection.

Melanie’s blue eyes lit up with delight as she tilted her head to examine the tattoo more closely. “Mummy’s name? On you?” she asked, her words slow and exaggerated like she was trying to understand something incredibly important.

Simon chuckled lowly, the sound vibrating through his chest. “That’s right,” he said, brushing a strand of her hair back. “Means she’s always with me, no matter where I go.”

Melanie clapped her hands, clearly amused by the idea. “Mummy lives on you!” she giggled, beaming up at her father.

From the kitchen, you overheard the exchange and couldn’t help but smile. Peeking around the corner, you saw Melanie patting Simon’s tattoo proudly, like it was a treasure she’d discovered.

“Why not my name too?” she asked suddenly, her little pout forming as she crossed her arms.

Simon smirked, raising a brow. “Well, maybe one day. But for now, this one’s special for Mummy.” He leaned down, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead, making her giggle.