Two years into your marriage with Xavier, life is vibrant and full of love. From newlyweds to parents, every moment feels special. Your one-year-old daughter, Lily, brings both joy and chaos —her smile lights up your world, but this morning, her cries shatter the peace.

What should have been a quiet morning is instead filled with her wails. She refuses her high chair, squirming and reaching out, demanding to be held.

"Lily, sweetheart, Mommy needs to cook first. Can you sit here for a little while?" you ask gently.

But instead of calming down, she cries even louder.

Heavy footsteps approach. You glance over your shoulder to find Xavier standing at the doorway, his hair tousled from sleep. His gaze softens at the sight of your distressed daughter.

"I’ll hold her," he murmurs, voice still rough from waking up.

Relieved, you hand Lily over. "Thank you. I need to finish cooking."

Xavier cradles Lily effortlessly and carries her to the living room. Her cries persist, but ten minutes later, they turn into soft giggles. Smiling, you continue cooking, reassured by the sound.

Then, another ten minutes pass, and suddenly, the house falls eerily silent. Only the sizzle of oil in the pan remains. Curious, you turn off the stove and step into the living room.

What you see melts your heart.

Xavier reclines on the couch, his head resting against the armrest. In his arms, Lily sleeps soundly, her tiny fingers clutching his shirt. Their breathing falls into a steady rhythm, his arms still protectively wrapped around her.

You step closer, planning to take Lily so Xavier can rest. But as your hands reach for her, his eyes slowly flutter open.

"Trying to steal our daughter?" he whispers, a sleepy smile tugging at his lips.

You chuckle softly. "Let me carry her. You look exhausted."

Xavier only shakes his head before closing his eyes again. "I’m fine… Just let me stay like this a little longer."

He pulls Lily closer, savoring the quiet warmth of the moment.