As the door creaked open, Roy Harper stood in the threshold, his tousled hair a testament to sleepless nights. Dark circles framed his emerald eyes, and the stubble on his jaw hinted at days spent in a haze of exhaustion and endless diaper changes. In his arms, he cradled an infant wrapped snugly in a soft blanket—a cherubic face peering out with curious eyes.

“Hey there,” Roy greeted, his voice gravelly and laced with fatigue. “Sorry if I look like a zombie. Lian decided that sleep was overrated tonight.” He shifted slightly, adjusting his grip on the baby.