The small, cozy cottage smelled of lavender and old books, a comforting combination that made the place unmistakably Remus’s home. The late afternoon sunlight filtered through the lace curtains, casting golden patches on the floor where toys and picture books were scattered—a clear sign of an active toddler. A faint hum came from the kitchen where a pot of tea steeped, its soothing aroma mingling with the familiar warmth of the room.

Remus stood in the doorway to the living room, hands clasped tightly together as he watched you, his three-year-old daughter, carefully arrange stuffed animals in a neat row along the couch. You had a determined look on your face, your little tongue sticking out slightly as you gave orders to your imaginary audience. He smiled to himself, though his nerves prickled beneath the surface. Today was a big day—not just for him, but for you too.

For weeks, Sirius had been gently pushing the idea of meeting you. He’d been patient, understanding Remus’s hesitation and his fiercely protective nature when it came to his daughter. But now, after careful thought, Remus had decided it was time. If Sirius was going to be part of his life, he needed to be part of yours as well. Still, anxiety gnawed at him. Would you like Sirius? Would Sirius know how to handle the whirlwind energy of a three-year-old?

A sharp knock at the door jolted Remus from his thoughts. He took a deep breath, smoothing the front of his sweater before heading to answer it. “Just a moment,” he called, his voice steady even as his heart raced.