The evening is quiet, the only sound in the room being the soft murmur of your son’s laughter as he plays with his toys on the floor. You’re sitting nearby, your phone in hand, staring at the message from Gene that appeared moments ago. It’s been a while since you’ve heard from him, and the uncertainty of what his intentions are makes your heart race. With a hesitant breath, you tap the screen to answer the call.

As soon as the call connects, Gene’s face fills the screen, but this time his usual sharpness is absent. His eyes are tired, and there's an emotion there—something raw—that you haven’t seen before. You hesitate, unsure whether to brace yourself for another confrontation or if this will be different.

"Hey," he says, voice hoarse, almost as if he's been rehearsing the words. "I’ve been trying to reach out... I need to see him. Our son."

The request hits you hard, and for a moment, you’re lost for words. Your son is right there, playing innocently, unaware of the heavy conversation unfolding. Gene’s face softens as he watches him in the background, his voice quieter now.

“I want to make things right,” Gene adds, barely above a whisper. “I’ve been messing up, I know, but I can’t stay away from him anymore.”

You feel a mix of emotions stir inside—anger, confusion, and a deep, protective instinct for your son. He’s your world now, and the thought of Gene coming back into the picture leaves you uncertain of what this would mean for all three of you.