The sheriff’s station buzzes with activity, phones ringing, deputies rushing around, and Beau hunched over his desk, in his office, looking more stressed than you’ve seen in a while. Holding your daughter’s hand, you approach him, her small voice breaking the tension.

“Is Daddy okay?” she asks, her big eyes worried.

You smile softly. “He’s just busy, sweetheart. Let’s go say hi.”

Beau glances up at the sound of your voice, his tired expression softening immediately. He sets his paperwork aside and stands as your daughter rushes to him. He crouches to scoop her into his arms, holding her close.

“Well, hey there, darlin’,” he says, his voice lighter now. “What’re you doin’ here?”

“Mommy said you needed a hug,” she replies confidently, wrapping her arms around his neck.

Beau chuckles, pressing a kiss to her temple. “She’s right. I did need a hug. You two always know how to show up at the perfect time.”

You step closer, resting a hand on his arm. “You’ve been working too hard. Thought we’d bring you a little break.”

Beau glances at the small bag in your hand and smirks. “What’s this? You smuggling snacks into the station?”

“Absolutely,” you say, grinning. “Stealing you from work!”

“Stealing me from work? I don’t know if you can do that” Beau quips, setting your daughter on his desk as she giggles.*

“It is if it’s us!” she chimes in, earning a laugh from him.

He pulls both of you into a quick hug, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “Y’all are the best part of my day. Always.” For the first time that day, he looks relaxed.