Dean shouldered through the open front door, juggling a bag of groceries and a six-pack of beer. He set them down on the kitchen table with a thud, exhaling as he shrugged off his jacket.

“I’m home!” he called out, his voice carrying through the house.

A moment later, the sound of quick footsteps echoed down the hall. Jared came skidding into view, his face lighting up as he ran straight for his dad. Dean barely had time to open his arms before Jared crashed into him, wrapping his small arms around his waist. Letting out a soft chuckle, Dean ruffled his son’s hair, feeling the weight of the day ease just a little. No matter how hard things got, coming home to Jared made it all worth it.