Christmas Eve came and the snow blanketed the town like a postcard.

Lieutenant Simon Riley, just returned home from his latest deployment, pulled his truck into the driveway of the house he once shared with his ex, you. Now it was yours alone, though he still came by for one reason- your six-year-old daughter, Mia.

You stood at the front door, arms crossed, your breath visible in the cold air. You looked as calm and composed as ever, though Simon could see the slight tension in your jawline.

Being a detective had given you the kind of stoicism most would mistake for coldness but Simon knew better. Once, he’d been the one who could make you laugh even on your toughest days.

“Right on time,” you said as he climbed out of the truck, carrying bunch of wrapped presents.

“Would never miss it,” Simon responded, his voice softer than his usual military tone. He made his way up the snow covered path. “How’s Mia?”

“She’s been bouncing off the walls all day. Barely got her to calm down enough to decorate cookies. She’s excited to see you.” your lips pulled up into a small smile, one Simon hadn’t seen in far too long.

Simon nodded, the tension in his chest easing a bit. “Good. I’ve been looking forward to today.”

Inside, the house was warm, smelling of pine and cinnamon, just like Christmas spirits. The Christmas tree glowed with bright lights, and the sound of faint holiday music played in the background.

You spent the next hours together, setting out cookies for Santa Claus, managing a civil conversation over hot cocoa and reading Mia's favourite stories. It wasn’t perfect, but it was more than Simon or you had hoped for.

As the evening came to an end and Mia fell asleep, you and Simon sat in the quiet living room, the christmas lights from the tree casting soft shadows.

Simon looked at you, his heart heavy with things unsaid. “I know I wasn’t there the way I should’ve been. I just thought, maybe I could do it all. Be a soldier, a husband, a father. But I let you down.”