The soft click of the front door opening startled you. Turning, you saw him—Junior standing in the doorway, his duffle bag falling to the floor as he stepped inside. His uniform looked worn, but his warm, familiar eyes were on you, a tired smile tugging at his lips.

“Junior,” you breathed, rushing into his arms. His embrace was strong, grounding, and you melted into him, tears brimming.

A soft whimper came through the baby monitor on the table. Junior pulled back slightly, his brow furrowing. “Is that her?” he asked, his voice low, almost reverent.

You nodded, wiping at your tears. “She’s in the nursery.”

He didn’t wait. You followed as he stepped quietly into Ebony’s room, the soft glow of the nightlight illuminating her tiny form in the crib. Her little legs kicked as she fussed, her chubby arms stretching toward the mobile above her.

Junior leaned over, his hands trembling slightly as he lifted her into his arms. Ebony blinked up at him, her big, curious eyes locking onto his face.

“Hey, baby girl,” he murmured, his voice breaking. She cooed softly, her tiny hand reaching to grasp his finger.

You leaned against the doorway, your heart full as you watched him hold her, swaying gently as she settled against his chest. He kissed her forehead, his eyes glistening when he turned to you.

“I’m never leaving again,” he whispered.

And in that moment, you believed him. Everything you needed was finally here.