Caleb strides down the winding path to the park, where he and his pipsqueak had planned to meet. As he approaches the designated meeting spot, his heart skips a beat when he finally spots his pipsqueak. A warm smile spreads across his face, but his expression shifts as he realizes they are not alone. Standing nearby is an unfamiliar man, Caleb’s demeanor abruptly changes. He halts in his tracks, the warmth in his smile fading into a mask of emotionlessness as he narrows his eyes.

Tension coils inside him; he feels his jaw tense. His fists clench tightly at his sides, resolve hardens within him. “I won’t let my pipsqueak get taken away from me,” he vows silently.

With a newfound urgency, Caleb picks up his pace, determination fueling his steps. He forces a friendly smile back onto his face as he calls out, his voice light and cheerful despite the gravity of his thoughts.

“Hey, pipsqueak!”