It was late afternoon when the rumble of the semi echoed down the street. You pressed your face against the window, hands leaving smudges as you bounced on your toes, the excitement making your heart race.

“Daddy’s back!” you squealed, dashing outside before the truck even stopped.

Alex climbed down from the cab, his tired eyes lighting up when he saw you. “There’s my girl,” he said, his voice warm as he knelt, just in time for you to leap into his arms.

“Daddy!” You clung to him, burying your face in his neck, feeling the scratch of his stubble against your cheek. He smelled like the road—engine grease, the faint scent of coffee, and something else, something that always made you feel safe.

“I missed you so much,” you whispered, your little hands clutching his shirt tightly.

“I missed you too, sweetheart,” Alex murmured, kissing the top of your head before pulling you close. “Were you good for Mommy?”

You nodded, but your smile faded as you glanced back at the house. Mommy was inside with James, always busy with him. You knew she loved him more, even though you tried so hard to be good for her.

Alex noticed the shift in your mood and gently lifted your chin, his dark brown eyes full of concern. “Hey, you okay, princess?”

You nodded again, but he could see right through you.

“Guess what?” he said, lightening his tone. “I got you something special.”

Your eyes sparkled. “You did?”

He reached into the truck’s cab and pulled out a small bundle wrapped in pink tissue paper. You eagerly tore it open, revealing a plush unicorn with glittery wings.

“Sparkles!” you gasped, hugging it tightly.

“Figured she could keep you company when I’m on the road,” Alex said, ruffling your hair gently, a soft smile on his face.